Whether we are getting all the nutrition we need from the food we eat is highly debateable. In an ideal world where everyone ate right in the right amounts and exercised routinely I suppose there would be little need for supplementation. Evidence suggests that much of the “good” food we eat is lacking in nutritional value. They don’t grow em like they used to. We are now seeing large numbers of the mainstream medical profession admitting it wouldn’t hurt for most people to be taking a multiple vitamin daily just to be sure. Beyond that, you won’t find much nutritional counseling from your doctor.
Nutritional needs of the athlete or the very active are different than the average individual. Those who push their bodies to their limits require some compounds in great amounts due to the faster turnover of connective tissues. There is a much faster breakdown and rebuilding of muscle tissue, tendon and supportive tissues. Amino acids, the building blocks of protein, are needed in greater amounts to increase muscle size and health. We’re not talking steriods here, but even they have their place in the promotion of healing tissues if done under proper medical conditons.
Nutrition for the athlete can be confusing. There are hundreds of supplements on the market with questionable value. How do you sort it all out? One of the best sources I have found for sound nutritional advice is Active Nutrition in Pleasanton. They are a wealth of sound nutritional information and quality products. Phil Rennick is the general manager and knows intimately every product he sells. Their philosophy is to “Treat our customers like friends and provide the best products possible.” This has been my experience. I can recommend Active Nutrition to anyone looking for anything from multiple vitamins to protein powders.
The products and information they provide compliments the treatment we offer as chiropractors and I am happy to refer not only my patient/athletes to them, but anyone looking to improve their health through good, sensible nutrition.
