When it come to supplements one should keep in mind that they are not needed to gain muscle. Supplements are just additions to an already good nutrition and training program. Nutrition and training are the most important components of a bodybuilding program, with rest and recovery next to them. Once all of those aspects of your program are maximized, then you can start thinking of adding supplements to your program. With that in mind, a good bodybuilding supplement can definitely help build muscle faster.

In the past I have wasted plenty of hard earned dollars on the newest and latest supplements. All of which probably provided little if any benefit. Now I just stick to the basics, the ones my body always needs. Due to my training my body has a greater demand for vitamins and minerals. Without certain supplements I am at risk of suffering a deficiency. Even a slight nutrient deficiency could sabotage muscle growth. Below are the basic supplements that I stick with year round.

Protein Protein is the essential building blocks for muscle. I always use Protein powder immediately after exercising as it has a much faster digestion rate than whole foods. This is important as it provides my muscles with the nutrients when they need them most. I may also use a protein powder to supplement or repalce a meal. Having sufficient protein intake allows for efficient growth and repair of muscle tissue.

Glutamine Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid found in human muscle. The bodies Glutamine levels are depleted during anaerobic exercise. I supplement with glutamine to prevent a deficiency which may lead to a weakened immune system and wasting of muscle tissue.

Branched Chain Amino Acids Amino acids are the building blocks of protein; the body breaks consumed protein into amino acids in the stomach and intestines. There are three branched chain amino acids (BCAAs): leucine, isoleucine, and valine. Each has numerous benefits on various biological processes in the body. Unlike other amino acids, BCAAs are metabolised in the muscle and have an anabolic/anti-catabolic effect on it. I have effectively used BCAA’s before, during and after training.

Creatine Creatine supplies energy to muscle cells for short bursts of energy, which is great for lifting weights. Using creatine helps me to increase strength, energy, muscle mass, and reduce recovery time.

Multivitamin In order to perform at a maximum potential, our bodies need a vast and complex array of vital nutrients. Becoming deficient in just one of these essential vitamins or minerals declines performance. Daily I consume a high-potency multivitamin/multimineral formula, to ensure the presence of essential vitamins and minerals.

Omega 3 They are vital to human health, despite the body's inability to manufacture its own supply. For this reason, they must be obtained through the diet or supplementation. Omega 3’s supplements are a source of Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs). Which are vital for preserving your nervous system and brain health. Fish oils play a major part in heart functions, joint flexibility and weight loss. These are a staple in my diet.