The Better Body Budget: High Impact, Low Cost Supplements

Article by Chris Shugart

The $6 Supplement Stack

For approximately the cost of a premium coffee beverage, you can enhance your leanness, health, and well - being. Here's the detailed approach.

The average price of a specialty coffee at Starbucks hovers around $6, with slight variations depending on one's preference for the quality of the coffee. Similarly, an energy drink paired with a candy bar from a convenience store typically costs about $5.50. At the Target checkout, a bottle of water and a moderately healthy snack would set you back roughly $6.

Statistically, consumers are generally unfazed by spending five or six dollars on impromptu purchases or small indulgences. However, it is rather peculiar that when I propose a daily protein shake combined with a few health supplements, the same individuals express reluctance. "That stuff is expensive!" they exclaim while sipping on a $7.74 pumpkin spice frappuccino with oatmilk.

To challenge myself, I formulated a fundamental supplement stack that costs less than $6 per day and has the potential to significantly enhance anyone's physical health, body composition, and even mental state.

The $6 Challenge

The initial step was to determine which supplements to incorporate. To achieve this, I relied on statistical averages: What are the common nutritional needs? What nutrients are people frequently deficient in?

Upon analyzing the data, the following deficiencies are prevalent:

• Protein: The majority of people do not consume an adequate amount of protein.

• Magnesium and Zinc: Most individuals are magnesium - deficient, and many also have a zinc insufficiency.

• Omega - 3 Fatty Acids: A large number of people lack sufficient omega - 3 fatty acids.

• Vitamin D: A significant proportion of the population is vitamin D - deficient.

Based on these findings, my supplement stack consists of:

• Chocolate MD Protein: Two servings (two scoops) - [Buy at Amazon]

• Flameout Fish Oil: One serving - [Buy at Amazon]

• Elitepro Minerals: One serving - [Buy at Amazon]

• D Fix Vitamin D3: One serving - [Buy at Amazon]

The total cost amounts to $5.30 per day. It should be noted that prices are subject to change. These figures are based on Amazon's "subscribe & save" plan (which offers a 10% discount) and the new bulk - sized Flameout (180 - count). The cost does not factor in special sales or promotions; incorporating those could potentially bring the cost below five dollars.

Rationale for Those Supplements

Protein Powder

The average individual is overweight. Overeating often occurs because the body triggers cravings to meet its daily protein requirement, a phenomenon known as the protein leverage effect. Studies indicate that the daily protein threshold ranges between 85 and 138 grams. A two - scoop serving of MD Protein shake contributes 44 grams to your daily intake. This not only makes it easier to reach the threshold but also curbs hunger and aids in fat loss.

Moreover, a high protein intake self - regulates the rest of your diet. You will feel more satiated, leading to a natural reduction in excessive carbohydrate and fat consumption. Additionally, protein has thermogenic properties.

Fish Oil

A study published in the Journal of Nutrients estimated that 90% of Americans have omega - 3 levels below the optimal range. Omega - 3s, mainly DHA/EPA, are essential for inflammation regulation, brain health, and heart function. A deficiency can cause or exacerbate numerous diseases and conditions, including psychological disorders such as depression and anxiety.

Flameout, available on Amazon, utilizes pharmaceutical technology to enhance bioavailability, effectively rectifying omega - 3 deficiencies.

Magnesium and Zinc

Deficiencies in magnesium and zinc are widespread and can lead to various avoidable issues, ranging from poor sleep and low testosterone to depression and fatigue. [Here's how to spot a magnesium deficiency and here's how to spot a zinc deficiency.]

Elitepro Vital Minerals, available on Amazon, contains the Albion - chelated form of both magnesium and zinc, ensuring optimal absorption and utilization.

Vitamin D

At least 50% of Americans are vitamin D - deficient, even when using relatively low intake standards. This deficiency can result in poor immunity, weight gain, sexual problems, lethargy, muscle weakness, depression, cognitive impairment, and more.

Even with sufficient sunlight exposure and regular vitamin D supplementation, it can be challenging to raise blood levels to the healthy range (60 - 80 ng/mL). Excess body fat sequesters vitamin D, and as you age, your body becomes less efficient at absorbing and utilizing it.

Microencapsulated D Fix, available on Amazon, addresses these issues by incorporating caprylocaproyl polyoxyl - 8 glycerides (Labrasol) in the formula to enhance bioavailability.

Cost of a Leaner, Healthier Body

Approximately $5.30 per day. Of course, this supplement stack may not precisely align with your specific needs and goals.

For instance, if you have ample time to prepare high - protein meals and do not require a protein shake, but your testosterone level has declined, simply omit the shake and add a testosterone booster like Omega - Man (available on Amazon). This adjustment would bring the cost down to $3.71.

The key is to customize your ideal supplement stack and integrate it into your budget. Perhaps consider making your coffee at home to offset the cost.