Is taking dietary supplements a factor in a safe fitness plan?

It can be, but doesn't have tobe.

Most people who are able to follow a regular, normal diet will get all the nutrition they need from that. And the way our bodies work is that there's no benefit from eating more than needed.

We can store fat, but we can't store any important amounts of protein or vitamins. Any excess will simply be peed or pooped out.

So unless you have a health issue that merits the taking of supplements - dark-skinned people living far from the equator for instance might need extra vitamin D for instance - the biggest advantage of supplements isn't what they bring, but when you can get them.

There's a time span right after a workout when the body is most receptive. Eating a balanced snack right then will speed up your recovery and maximize the benefits from the workout.

Here, the shakes and bars can come in handy, as they're easier to bring and prepare than a traditional meal.