Change starts with yourself, blah-blah, we all know it, but supporting yourself isn't cheating, right? No, they said at Holland & Barrett. Besides the fact that healthy eating is of course number one (check out these recipes for healthy snacks), certain sports supplements can support you during exercise and thus help you lose weight. For example, you can use a Pre-workout take before exercising. That is a powder where, among other things caffeine, creatine, amino acids and various vitamins in it, which can help you with your energy levels, endurance and strength. Such a pre-workout is useful, for example, if you have another workout after a long day at work workout is going to do. We know caffeine, vitamins too, but... creatine… What's that? Creatine is a substance that occurs naturally in our body and is found in our food. It stimulates muscle growth during explosive strength training and is therefore often taken as a separate supplement before a workout by people who exercise intensively. The less avid athlete (read: exercising once a week at a moderate pace) will benefit less from creatine.

Holland & Barrett sells various types of protein shakes, containing proteins from cow's milk (whey protein and casein) but also proteins from non-animal sources. This plant-based protein shakes, where the proteins come from soy, pea, rice, hemp or a mix thereof, are becoming increasingly popular. If you want to lose some Christmas kilos, it is useful to choose a protein shake with as few carbohydrates and fats as possible and as much protein as possible. An additional advantage of proteins is that it makes you feel full, so you are less likely to be tempted to eat snackto loot drawer(s). Which type of protein is most suitable for you depends on your goal, preferences and budget. You can get advice about this in one of the Holland & Barrett stores or schedule an appointment online free telephone or video consultation, where you can ask all your questions.

Oh yes, it can also be useful to make sure there is enough magnesium. This is a mineral that is mainly found in bread, vegetables, dairy products and meat and it can be purchased as magnesium supplement. It plays a role in maintaining flexible and strong muscles and can contribute to less fatigue. It is best to take a magnesium supplement around a meal.