Understanding Supplements: Do You Really Need Them?

Do you really need supplements? Learn when they help, when they don’t, and why whole foods should always come first.

Ruben Crawford
Ruben Crawford
3
 min read
May 27, 2025
Ruben Crawford
Ruben Crawford
3
Minuten Lesezeit
May 27, 2025
Do you really need supplements? Learn when they help, when they don’t, and why whole foods should always come first.

"Eat better, not less." – Anonymous

The supplement industry is booming, but it's easy to get confused about what you actually need. Let’s break it down:

Are Supplements Necessary?

Most people can meet their nutritional needs through a balanced diet. Supplements are meant to fill gaps, not replace real food.

When Supplements Can Help:

  • Vitamin D: If you don’t get much sun.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Helpful if you eat little or no fish.
  • Protein: Useful if your diet lacks protein—especially for recovery.

What the Science Says:

The Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition says supplements can support health and performance, but warns not to rely on them instead of a nutritious diet (Kerksick et al., 2018).

Simple Advice:

Whole foods first. Load your plate with fresh veggies, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains. Use supplements only if needed, and for a clear purpose.

Reference:

Kerksick, C. M., et al. (2018). ISSN exercise & sports nutrition review update. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 15(1), 38.

Ruben Crawford

IMPACT Mitbegründer & MMA Cheftrainer, Ex-Bellator-Kämpfer, #1 in Deutschland, BSc Psychologie, MSc Executive Coaching.

Ruben Crawford

IMPACT Co-founder & MMA Head Coach, Former MMA fighter with Bellator & #1 in Germany BSc Psychology, MSc Executive Coaching.