In my new article, I discuss why many supplements (mass gainers, BCAAs, etc.) are more often than not a waste of money, and that even the supplements that are useful (creatine and protein powder) should still be just a supplement to an already balanced diet and life style. In addition, I list several “off-market” supplements that I have used to good effect (no, they’re not steroids.)

I could go on and on about the myriad of dubious supplements there are on the market, but I think you got the idea (plus I have better things to do with my time). Instead, let me suggest some “off market supplements” I use, and feel that they have helped me.

As mentioned on the first page, there exists a cheaper way to supplement calcium levels than the pills purchased in stores: consumption of eggshells, which have been shown in studies to be just as effective as the pills (which are largely made of bonemeal, and/or ground up seasells). You can grind them up if you want, but if you desire to train your mental fortitude, just hork the shells into your mouth, chew them up, and eat them. Do the same for fish and chicken bones.

 Speaking of bones, the marrow found inside is one of the most nutritious things you can eat, when compared to the effort it takes to get it (ie: almost none). Prehistoric hominids (AKA the ancestors of you and I) evidently cracked long bones open for marrow. And why? Because marrow is loaded with calories, but also with fatty acids. And fatty acids insulate the axons of nervous cells-in layman’s terms, they’re good for the brain. And last time I checked, the brain is kind of important.

And of course, my two main supplements that I apply in the gym: chalk to my hands, and the Russian Army Choir in my ears. Those have done more for me than any ingestible.

Click here to read it, and be sure to read my weekly column on all things related to fitness and nutrition on Return of Kings every Sunday, which will be linked here the same day. In addition to this, any of my articles that do not pertain to fitness will be posted exclusively on this website.