okay, a serious one now!

[Susp's_Babe]

Tell me your opinions about all of the supplements out there. I have been using protein shakes, bars, etc. in my diet because without them it is very difficult for me to get my protein in during the day. I get protein from food sources too, it is probably about 75% food and 25% protein from supplements.

However, I have been re-thinking eating/drinking supplements because I'm kind of a natural gal (personal choice - I don't look down on any method of improving fitness. ) but anyway, there are a lot of chemicals, etc. in supplements. Do you think is is possible to still make good gains with just food sources? It takes me an incredible amount of effort to build muscle so I am kinda undecided over this one.

What do you all think??

 

[SteelWeaver]

Food is best - more filling, with all the little tiny things you can't see with the naked eye that are good for you (lol, not in a very scientific mood today). BUT, protein shakes can be good too, like whey post-workout - that's the only time I have a shake. Bars mostly have lots of junk in them, like sugar and other junk. Some really big guys use lots of shakes simply because they can't eat enough to get all the calories they need when bulking. When cutting, food is better because it digests slower and makes you feel less hungry.

You probably need to take other supplements, like vitamins, and calcium and iron, since getting enough of those from food isn't guaranteed.

 

[Sassy69]

Spatts knows!

If you recall the big hoohaw about protein bars being relabeled with the _real_ carb totals --- the problem w/ lots of artificial food & supps is there's other stuff in 'em. The challenge with dieting on a tight schedule or away from a kitchen is to plan ahead. I usually spend the night before putting together my meals in tupperware and pack them in a softside cooler. Beause it is hard to carry 5 meals of big food, one or two protien mixes won't kill ya -- I measure out the protein mix into plastic baggies & bring a tupperware bottle that I can mix water in with.

 

[Susp's_Babe]

I've been busy this week, not able to keep up with posts . . .

Thanks for the info. I am gonna try it this week - all food with one whey shake post work out.