Breaking Down the Supplement Aisle: What You Need to Know
From protein powders and collagen drinks to hydration supplements and creatine, the supplement aisle can feel overwhelming. With so many products claiming to boost energy, support recovery, improve skin health or enhance performance, it can be hard to know what’s worth adding to your routine.
We’re answering some of the most common questions we hear in-store and breaking down the facts behind four of today’s most talked-about supplements.
What Is Protein and Why Does Everyone Need It?
Protein is one of the essential building blocks of the body. It plays a vital role in building and repairing muscle, supporting immune function, producing hormones and enzymes, and maintaining healthy skin, hair and nails.
While many people associate protein with athletes and gym enthusiasts, the reality is that everyone needs adequate protein intake to support everyday health. Protein requirements can become even more important as we age, helping to maintain muscle mass, strength and mobility.
Most people can meet their protein needs through a balanced diet that includes foods such as lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy, legumes, nuts and seeds. However, protein supplements can be a convenient option for busy individuals, older adults, active people or those struggling to meet their daily requirements through food alone.
Myth Buster: Protein isn’t just for people who work out. It’s essential for every stage of life and supports much more than muscle growth.
What Are the Benefits of Creatine and Why Isn’t It Just for Bodybuilders?
Creatine is one of the most researched supplements available and has long been popular among athletes looking to enhance performance and recovery. However, its benefits extend well beyond the gym.
Creatine helps produce energy within our muscles, making it particularly useful during short bursts of high-intensity activity. Research has shown it can support strength, exercise performance and recovery, but growing interest is also focusing on its role in healthy ageing and maintaining muscle mass as we get older.
Many people avoid creatine because they believe it’s only for bodybuilders or worry it will make them “bulk up.” In reality, creatine can be beneficial for a range of individuals, including active adults, recreational exercisers and older adults looking to support muscle health.
Myth Buster: Creatine isn’t just for bodybuilders. It’s a well-studied supplement that may help support strength, performance and healthy ageing.
When Is Water Enough and When Can Hydration Supplements Help?
Staying hydrated is essential for overall health, supporting everything from energy levels and concentration to exercise performance and recovery.
For most people, drinking enough water throughout the day is all that’s needed to stay properly hydrated. However, there are certain situations where hydration supplements containing electrolytes may be beneficial.
Electrolytes, including sodium, potassium and magnesium, help regulate fluid balance and support normal muscle and nerve function. During intense exercise, hot weather, excessive sweating, illness or periods of increased fluid loss, electrolyte supplementation may help replace what the body has lost.
The key is understanding your individual needs. While hydration supplements are useful in certain circumstances, they aren’t necessarily required as part of an everyday routine for everyone.
Myth Buster: Not everyone needs electrolytes every day. For many people, water remains the best and simplest hydration solution.
Collagen: Does the Type Matter?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, supporting skin, joints, bones and connective tissue. Our natural production declines with age, which is why collagen supplements have become so popular. But not all collagen is the same:
Type 1 is linked to skin, hair, nails and bones, and is common in beauty-focused formulas.
Type 2 is found in cartilage and is popular for joint support.
Type 3 is found in skin, muscles and blood vessels, and is often paired with Type 1.
Myth Buster: Not all collagen supplements are the same. Understanding the different collagen types can help you select a product that’s right for your needs.
The Bottom Line
Supplements can be a valuable addition to a healthy lifestyle, but they’re not one-size-fits-all solutions. Understanding what these products do, who they’re designed for and the science behind them can help you make more informed decisions.
Whether you’re considering a protein powder, exploring creatine, curious about hydration supplements or looking into collagen, the best place to start is by understanding your health goals and seeking trusted advice.
Because when it comes to supplements, knowledge is just as important as what’s on the label.
