Muscle & Recovery

178 products covering magnesium, protein, electrolytes, vitamin D, tart cherry and topical products, in capsules, tablets, powders, sachets, liquids, sprays and bath flakes. Brands include Viridian, Mag365, Humantra, REPOWR, BetterYou, Hunter and Gather and New Leaf.

Which nutrients have approved claims?

Magnesium contributes to normal muscle function, to normal protein synthesis, to electrolyte balance and to a reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Protein contributes to a growth in and the maintenance of muscle mass. Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal muscle function. Calcium and potassium also contribute to normal muscle function.

Protein timing, honestly

Total daily protein matters considerably more than the half-hour after training. If you are hitting your daily target from food, a shake afterwards adds convenience rather than an effect. If you are not, it is a straightforward way to close the gap. See protein for the full range.

Magnesium, baths and sprays

Magnesium is the most-bought product in this collection and comes in more formats here than anywhere else in the shop - capsules, powders, oils, sprays and bath flakes. The topical and bathing products are applied to the skin rather than swallowed, and the approved claims above relate to dietary intake rather than to bathing.

The unglamorous part

Sleep and total food intake do more for recovery than any supplement here, and no product compensates for training harder than you are recovering from. Persistent muscle pain, dark urine after exercise, or weakness that does not resolve needs a doctor rather than a bigger scoop.

Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.