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A basic
multivitamin-mineral is the cornerstone of a solid supplementation
program. Unfortunately, most people misunderstand the role
vitamins and minerals play in human nutrition. If you think you’re
going to get a super-charged energy blast, a decrease in body fat,
or a spurt of muscle growth by simply popping a few pills every
day, you’re in for a big disappointment. Vitamin and mineral
supplements will not burn more fat, build more muscle, increase
energy, or improve athletic performance. However, if you are
deficient in certain nutrients you will most definitely see a
decrease in fitness levels and performance.
Today, most people
rely heavily on processed, enriched, and refined foods. In
addition, high stress levels, strenuous workouts, and missed meals
may all contribute to a less than optimal intake of essential
nutrients. Under these conditions, it is difficult to guarantee
that you are getting everything you need from your food alone.
Taking a vitamin and mineral supplement acts as an "insurance
policy" against deficiencies so that you can function at optimal
levels.
Chromium for
example, is a mineral that has been hyped as a fat burner and
muscle builder. It is true that Chromium plays a role in fat loss
and muscle development as well as in the regulation of blood
sugar. However, if your diet isn’t deficient in Chromium, taking
additional Chromium will probably do very little for you.
According to government statistics, many Americans are not getting
enough of this important nutrient in their regular diets. The
reason for taking the supplement is not because it is a miracle
fat burner and muscle builder, but because it is protecting you
from deficiency.
A good multi-vitamin
mineral formula will contain every essential nutrient you need
(including the recommended daily dose of 200 mcg of Chromium)
There are many good brands on the market. "Nutrition Action
Healthletter," which is published by the Center for Science in the
Public Interest," a nutrition consumer’s group, recommended
Twinlab’s "Dualtabs" as one of the best on the market.
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