Millions of people around the world take protein powders, vitamins and supplements to slow down aging, maintain good heath and build muscles. As a result of the current agricultural practices, the soil has lost some of its fertility. This has negatively affected the quality of food grown in such soils. Food processing, preserving and cooking also destroy vital nutrients.

The body has a constant need for nutrients, which has to be replenished. One of the best ways to do so is to take supplements. If you are a gym owner, stocking nutritional products at the counter can give you an additional source of revenue and fulfill a more holistic need for your members. The three popular types of nutritional products to consider having at your gym are protein powders, vitamins and supplements. Here is some brief information on each of them.

Protein powders

Protein powders aid in muscle growth, increase your metabolism causing weight loss, help you reach optimum physical performance, fight aging and boost energy. If your diet is not meeting your protein requirements, you will benefit from taking protein powders. Protein is very crucial for good health and plays a very important role in building and maintaining body tissues. Protein can be derived from animal sources and vegetable sources. Whey is animal protein, while soy is a vegetable protein.

Whey protein is extracted from milk. The protein in milk is made up of 20% whey protein and 80% casein. Whey is the most popular kind of protein powder. It has a good taste, has high quality, and is economically priced. Whey protein is also good for the immune system. It is available in two types- whey concentrate and whey isolate. Whey isolate is nearly fat free and has an even lower level of lactose than whey concentrate. Whey protein powders may contain whey concentrate, whey isolate or a blend of both.

Of the vegetable proteins, soy is the most popular kind. Soy is a very good vegetable protein nutritionally, because it contains all essential amino acids. Soy protein also has some other benefits. It has antioxidant properties and is also good for the heart.

Vitamins

Vitamins are vital to good health. Human beings need thirteen kinds of vitamins to remain healthy- Vitamin A, C, D, E, K and the eight kinds of Vitamin B. Each of them has specific function and a deficiency will cause illness. Vitamin C maintains immunity and keeps the cells healthy; Vitamin A maintains eyesight; Vitamin D regulates calcium and maintains teeth and bones; Vitamin E maintains cell structure.

These vitamins are also available in a pill form. If your diet is lacking in these essential vitamins, it is a good idea to take supplements. Vitamins are also antioxidants. They can destroy free radicals and prevent oxidative damage, to some extent. Note that eating too many vitamins is not good for the health either and it is best to take them on the advice of a registered medical practitioner.

Supplements

There are several kinds of supplements like herbal supplements, elemental supplements like calcium, iron, boron, zinc, selenium and others like Coenzyme Q10, folate and more. Herbal supplements, also called botanicals are not new. Herbal supplements have been around for thousands of years.

The following are examples of popular supplements. Echinacea can help you strengthen the immune system. Ginkgo biloba can improve circulation in the body. It can also improve memory, slow down aging, improve sexual performance and lessen the incidence of eye disorders. Ginseng is used for stress relief and to improve vitality. Calcium is important for strong bones, muscle contraction, healthy teeth and more. Iron helps the blood cells transport oxygen. Boron improves testosterone levels and maintains cognitive function. Zinc strengthens the immune system. Selenium reduces susceptibility to cancer.

Many gyms also stock creatine supplements. It is a nitrogenous compound and is used to boost power and strength.

Discussion Questions:

If you are a gym operator, what are the most popular products at your nutritional counter?

If you are a member at a gym and had a wish list, what products would be important to you to have access too?