Fat Loss and Muscle Building Supplements, Workout Gear
Nicole's Product Picks
Muscle Building Supplements
Protein
Casein and whey protein are both derived from milk, however they differ in digestion times. Whey protein digests quickly and casein digests slowly. I usually suggest whey first because of its quick digestibility after workouts. Choosing one over the other won’t necessarily bestow better results in the gym or markedly improve your health, so choose the one that works best for you from a digestive standpoint (many people try whey first and then switch to casein if the whey results in digestive issues).
Plant Based Protein Options:
Creatine
Creatine supplies energy to your muscles and has been shown to increase fat-free muscle mass during training. The International Society of Sports Nutrition recently found no scientific evidence that short- or long-term use of creatine monohydrate causes any harmful effects on otherwise healthy individuals. Nevertheless, always contact your healthcare provider before taking creatine or any supplements.
Glutamine
Glutamine is the most common amino acid found in your muscles - over 61% of skeletal muscle is Glutamine. Glutamine consists of 19% nitrogen, making it the primary transporter of nitrogen into your muscle cells. During intense training, Glutamine levels are greatly depleted in your body, which decreases strength, stamina and recovery. It could take up to 6 days for Glutamine levels to return to normal - and Glutamine plays a key role in protein synthesis.
L-Citrulline
L-citrulline boosts nitric oxide production in the body. Nitric oxide helps your arteries relax and work better, which improves blood flow throughout your body. Taking L-citrulline may benefit your workout by boosting your endurance, exercise performance, blood flow and vascularity.
Fat Loss Supplements
Decaffeinated Green Tea Extract
Dosage: Up to 300 mgs 3 times per day (with meals)
Green tea extract is rich in catechins, and it contains a decent amount of caffeine. Interestingly, it seems that this combination of ingredients is responsible for its weight loss properties. Both catechins and caffeine have been shown to assist in weight loss by regulating the hormones that can enhance thermogenesis.
Aged Odorless Garlic Extract
Dosage: Up to 500 mgs 3 times per day (with meals)
Garlic has shown to boost immunity, relax blood vessels for smooth blood flow and reduce blood pressure, quell inflammation, and helps protect blood vessels from damaging, further lowering the risk of heart disease. As per a study, garlic may hold some promise for weight control too. Its beneficial compounds are responsible for reducing body fat, making you look fitter. This staple ingredient comes loaded with vitamin B6 and C, fiber, manganese, calcium, all of which play a major role in weight management.
General Health Supplements
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Alpha-lipoic acid is found in every cell, where it helps turn glucose into energy.
Bands and Workout Gear
DISCLAIMER: ALWAYS CONTACT YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER BEFORE TAKING ANY SUPPLEMENTS. This information is intended for general informational purposes only, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you. Nicole Cruz Fit LLC is a participant in the Amazon Services Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Amazon offers a small commission on products sold through their affiliate links. Each of your purchases via our Amazon affiliation links supports our program at no additional cost to you.
