Evidence-Based Reviews

Supplement Stack Guide

No hype. No proprietary blends. Every supplement reviewed against the peer-reviewed literature — with exact doses, timing, and the best products at every price point.

Strong Evidence — multiple RCTs, meta-analysesModerate Evidence — some RCTs, mixed resultsLimited Evidence — mostly observational or animal studies
Creatine Monohydrate

The most researched supplement in sports nutrition

Strong Evidence

Dosage

3–5g daily. No loading phase needed — saturation occurs within 28 days at 3g/day.

Timing

Timing is irrelevant. Post-workout with carbs may marginally improve uptake.

Whey Protein

Fast-digesting complete protein for muscle protein synthesis

Strong Evidence

Dosage

25–50g per serving. Total daily protein target: 1.6–2.2g per kg bodyweight.

Timing

Post-workout is optimal but total daily protein intake matters more than timing.

Pre-Workout (Caffeine + Citrulline)

Clinically dosed stimulants and pump compounds for peak performance

Moderate Evidence

Dosage

Follow label — look for 6g+ citrulline, 200mg+ caffeine, 3.2g beta-alanine.

Timing

30–45 minutes before training.

Omega-3 Fish Oil

Anti-inflammatory essential fatty acids for recovery and heart health

Strong Evidence

Dosage

2–3g EPA+DHA daily. Check the label — a 1g fish oil capsule often contains only 300mg EPA+DHA.

Timing

With meals to reduce GI discomfort and improve absorption.

Vitamin D3 + K2

The most common deficiency in gym-goers — and the easiest to fix

Strong Evidence

Dosage

2,000–5,000 IU D3 daily with 100–200mcg K2 (MK-7). Get blood levels tested to dial in your dose.

Timing

With a fat-containing meal for best absorption.

Magnesium Glycinate

The recovery mineral most athletes are chronically deficient in

Moderate Evidence

Dosage

200–400mg elemental magnesium as glycinate daily.

Timing

30–60 minutes before bed for sleep benefits.

Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.