8 of the Best Supplements for Bikini Competitors
When you are competing in body building, it is important to take the best care of yourself as you possibly can. Many days, it will feel like you are running on empty and that is most likely because you are! So how can you keep your body functioning at its most optimal level and maintain lean muscle? Obviously hitting your macros are a huge part in seeing the results you want when you step onto stage. From my experience, taking these additional supplements can also help in keeping you as healthy as possible, while also aiding in getting you the results that you are looking for.
1) Vitamin C
This seems like the obvious but taking in a good amount of vitamin C is essential in not only fighting off colds, but also keeps your body running at its most optimal level. While on prep, you will be tired, you may feel run down. Vitamin C is essential in staying healthy and fighting off bacteria
2) BCAA’s
Branch chain amino acids will help you maintain muscle while you are cutting while dieting or carb cycling. BCAA’s also helps to stimulate the rate of protein synthesis and can improve the intensity of your workouts. #WIN
3) Alpha Lipoic Acid
ALA is a naturally occurring compound that's made in the body. It helps the body function at the cellular level and aids in energy production. ALA also helps in reducing stress in the body via powerful antioxidant qualities.
4) Fish Oil
Fish oil is loaded with Omega 3’s which aids the body not only in weight loss but also healthy skin and increase in energy levels. It is also proven to help fight off certain diseases and certain cancers.
5) Selenium
Selenium is great for maintaining a healthy immune system and also helps in maintaining good cognitive function. While on prep and in a caloric deficit, you may experience some “brain farts” and extremely low energy levels. This supplement helps to keep your mind and body right.
6) Green Tea Extract
GTE is also a great supplement for helping to maintain brain function and also aid in fat loss. If you are considering taking fat burners while on prep, you should first consider taking GTE. You will cut all the addictive and unnecessary high amounts of caffeine and keep just the good stuff, which usually consists of GTE. This miracle supplement also is proven to lower risk of cancer and fight off infections in the body.
7) Liquid Vitamin B12 & D3
Ingesting liquid forms of both these vitamins help the body absorb them better. Vitamin d3 helps in maintaining strong bones by helping to absorb calcium. It may also help in prevent osteoporosis and stress fractures. Liquid Vitamin B12 helps in keeping your red blood cells at a optimal level which aids in fighting off infections and colds. It also helps in an increase of energy production and decrease in fatigue.
8) Probiotic
While on prep, you most likely will be eating every 3-4 hours, ingesting a lot of protein and veggies. Probiotics help keep your digestive system running smoothly and helps aid in the “good flora” in the stomach. It also helps in fighting food-borne illnesses and boosts the immune system.
In my experience, taking these supplements have helped both me and my clients stay on track and maintain our health, while prepping for a show. It is important to do everything in your power to keep your body running at its most optimal levels for you not only to look your best when you get on stage but also to feel your best.
