Supplements

So, I think I mentioned in a post the other day that I was tired when I got done with my 8 mile run last Sunday and that it was a really rough run for me.  Well, I lost my train of thought before I finished.  My knees were rather achy when I got done with that run.  I’ve been reading blogs of runners and books about people who run and their experiences…also I’ve been reading Runner’s World magazine (and articles on their website as well).  Anyway, during all that reading, I noticed that they talk about taking supplements to help their joints, specifically glucosamine & chondroitin.  So, I got on the internet and did a little research to see what would be the minimum dosage of those each day.  (In case you’re wondering, it’s 750mg glucosamine and 600mg chondroitin.)  In my online research into the supplements, there was also mention that omega-3 is really good for your joints as well.  I went to Walmart and found a double bottle pack (totaling 340 tablets) for only $28.75.  You take 2 tablets a day so that’s 170 days (almost 6 months!!!) of tablets…for less than $30.  Awesome deal if I do say so myself…and I do.  Then, I went to Sam’s Club and found an omega-3, -6 & -9 supplement for $15. 

Anyway, I was reading some beginner question and answer articles on Runner’s World’s website on Friday (the 22^nd) when I realized that my knees were no longer achy or otherwise bothering me.  I did not in any way expect the supplements to work that fast.  But they did!  I’m very impressed.  I will definitely continue taking these supplements.  I do take other supplements.  I take iron because female runners have a tendency to be at least minimally iron deficient.  I take potassium because it’s good for heart health.  I take vitamin D3 because I don’t always get out in the sun and also I’ve noticed that if I go without it, I’m cranky and generally not happy…so it lifts my mood a little.  I take a B-complex because, well, it’s one of the best supplements you can take.  I take vitamin C to help keep me from being sick.  And, finally, I take a heavy dose of acidophilus to promote digestive health and…ahem…regularity. 

I don’t just take a supplement because someone else is taking it or just because it was recommended to me.  I do a little research on the supplement before I start taking it to make sure it’s actually something I need.  I don’t like wasting money and if I just took something for the sake of taking it, that would be wasteful.  I recommend to everyone that they do a little research or even go and ask your doctor before you start taking something.  Also, always take your supplements with food for better absorption; otherwise you’re just making pricey pee.