Protein is one of the body's main building blocks for muscle, bone, skin, and other tissues. Used often by athletes, protein shakes come in many combinations of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. They can range from 100% protein to mostly carbohydrates with a little added protein and fat

Whether you're performing weight training or aerobic exercise, muscles are torn down and need to be adequately repaired for future workouts. Besides eating a healthy diet and getting enough sleep, taking specific supplements can enhance muscle repair and recovery.

Lifestyle is a big part. It's important to start by losing weight if you're obese. Regular exercise will help strengthen muscles that support joints and keep joints flexible. The anti-inflammatory diet is also extremely important -- those wonderful omega-3 fatty acids."