Sports supplements

Combining a ketogenic diet and sports supplements can be an effective strategy to improve your athletic performance, increase your energy and ensure you are getting the nutrients you need. However, it is critical to approach the inclusion of supplements in an informed and strategic manner to ensure you are making choices that are beneficial to your health and support your goals.

In this session, we will explore how to select and use sports supplements while following a ketogenic diet, ensuring that you are optimizing your wellness and maximizing your athletic potential.

Understanding sports supplements

Sports supplements are products designed to supplement the diet and enhance athletic performance. They can include vitamins, minerals, amino acids, protein powders, creatine and other compounds. In the ketogenic diet, where carbohydrate intake may be limited, proper supplement selection may be particularly important to maintain nutritional balance and optimize performance.

Beneficial supplements for the ketogenic diet.

Electrolytes: Carbohydrate restriction on the ketogenic diet can lead to loss of electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Electrolyte supplements can help maintain electrolyte balance and prevent fatigue and cramping.

Omega-3: Omega-3 fatty acids, such as EPA and DHA, have anti-inflammatory benefits and may support cardiovascular health. Fish oil supplements may be helpful in maintaining a healthy balance of fatty acids.

Vitamin D: Vitamin D is essential for bone health and immune function. Because vitamin D is found in foods that may be limited in a ketogenic diet, a vitamin D supplement may be beneficial.

Creatine: Creatine is a compound that can improve muscle strength and power. Although creatine is found in small amounts in animal foods, a creatine supplement may be helpful in improving performance during intense workouts.

Supplements to consider with caution

Protein Powder: If you are having difficulty meeting your protein needs through whole foods, a protein powder supplement may be an option. However, be sure to choose a protein powder that is low in carbohydrates and has no added sugars.

BCAAs: Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are popular among athletes, but the need for BCAA supp