This post is part of a sponsorship with CVS. Products were provided to me free of charge, but all opinions are my own.
As you can probably imagine, it’s not always easy being a bodybuilder. Even when I’m not in “competition prep mode” and on a strict diet and training regimen, I have to stay lean and keep packing on muscle to get ready for the next season. I only started bodybuilding two years ago, and I’ve made some huge changes since then. Check out my transformation below!
When you put on all that mass, your muscles are like “YES”, but your tendons, ligaments, and joints are like “DAWG, CHILL”. That is, it takes them a while to adapt to moving all the new muscles around for you.
You also have to make sure you take care of your organs, since they’re doing overtime while you push yourself in the gym and then pulling overnighters to process the high amount of protein you’re consuming.
So, to take care of my body, I take supplements every day. I like the Radiance Platinum line from CVS because I can grab everything I need in one stop. And, as a bonus, they often have two-for-one sales through their ExtraCare savings program. #frugalqueen
And as another bonus, CVS also has the best flavor of sparkling water of all time – pineapple coconut. I can’t find it on their website, but below is what it looks like. Go buy some and thank me later.
I digress. Below I’m sharing a list of the bodybuilding supplements I take every day. Since there are so many, and different combinations of them go with different meals, I take a few minutes on Sunday evenings to prepare everything for the week.
You should talk to your doctor or nutritionist about which supplements are the right ones to take for your goals, but the ones I take are below. Almost all of them are from the CVS Radiance Platinum line, which is 100% preservative free and have a 100% satisfaction guarantee, or your money back.
- Multivitamin for women: Everyone should take one! But like, maybe take a men’s one if you’re a man.
- Digestive enzyme: Supports digestion so you can process and absorb the nutrients from your food. Also helps ya poop better.
- CLA: Supports healthy weight loss (when used in combination with healthy diet and exercise)
- Vitamin C: For immune system health
- DHEA: Regulates hormone levels in the body
- Vitamin E: For heart and blood vessel health
- Vitamin D: For bone health
- CoQ10: An antioxidant; supports cardiovascular and circulatory function
- Alpha Lipoic Acid: An antioxidant; fights free-radicals
I try to make it as easy as possible to maintain my healthy habits, so I’ve figured out some simple tricks like labeling the tops of my bottles (see above) that allow me to minimize my effort. #lazy
If you have any other tips and tricks that make it easier to be healthy, please share below!
Peachy @ The Peach Kitchen says
Wow! You looks really great! I don’t take a lot of supplements only the basic multivtamins
maria s. says
I plan my meals and cook once a week for the whole week. It makes me much less likely to order takeout or grab something fast and unhealthy.
Gabriel says
I’ve never gone as full on into body building as you have, but even I know keeping the right supplements is important, even for every day living.
Tami says
I really need to be taking Siemens for my health,s pecifically my pcos diagnosis. I just cringe at all the choices and the cost.
Kristin says
WOW! You are in incredible shape. I need to stop by CVS and up my supplement game!
Krista says
I wish I had a CVS near me.You look great! I can’t wait to get my body back after the baby is here.
Rebecca Swenor says
You look totally amazing and that alone is indeed inspiring . I envy you determination to stay fit and these supplement I am for sure going to be checking out . Thanks for sharing.
Lalia @ Found Frolicking says
I didn’t know there was such a great range of supplements available at CVS. My brother wouldn’t categorize himself as a bodybuilder, but he is very diligent about his workout regimen and building muscle. I will pass this information along to him!
Lisa Rios says
You just look super gorgeous & fit to the core. CVS usually has some great list of supplements & I have used them in the past. The pineapple coconut sparkling water is something I would really love to give a try for sure.
Stephanie says
What a great transformation. CVS definitely has a great selection of supplements. I use them myself for trying to get ready for a new pregnancy.
Laura funk says
Love the idea of labeling the tops of the bottles and also I will have to snag some of that pineapple water for sure!
Lauren Harmon says
So many supplements, so little time! I love the idea of writing the name of the supp on the top of the bottle, no longer do I have to pick up each bottle to find my CLA pills! 🙂
Fariha N. says
Wow, you look amazing! CVS is our go to for almost everything, lol. I love those sparkling waters, I will look for that flavor next time I stop in the store.
Maureen says
Thank you for this information! You really do look fantastic.
Jessica says
I need to start taking vitamins! You look great!
Ann BAcciaglia says
I love the sounds of pineapple coconut water. Two of my favourite flavours that I need to try. I am going to take a look next time I go to the store.
jamie says
I need vitamins for a beat up brain, lol.
Veronica says
I have totally slacked on taking my vitamins. You look wonderful and I need to follow your example
Nickida says
You look amazing. I know that takes lots of hard work. I know this lady that I went to college with that is also a bodybuilder. She had an amazing body. I need to get in shape.
lena says
That is very interesting to know. I need to start working out again to at least get into some kind of shape
katrina g says
wow what a transformation!!!! you have done an amazing job.
Shell says
You look amazing! I only take a multi.
Paula Schuck says
My friend has just started on this journey. We just took her before photos. She is looking at all the different supplements to try.
Camesha | Mama Motivator says
I need to step it up with taking my vitamins and supplements. I despise taking pills and I end up not taking them al all. Horrible, I know.
Emily says
You look great! It’s great that you’re staying educated on how to support your body while bodybuilding – it’s important to give your body everything in needs during changes like that.
Angela Weight says
Wow! Your body is amazing! Wish I had the discipline. How do you get sponsorships with CVS? I’m new to monetizing and am still learning.
Ay Lin says
Woooo! You’re on a great shape. I hope I can have the motivation to do that because sometimes I keep forgetting drinking my vitamins.
Tess says
Great that you are getting in great shape. I do alot of supplement research for what my body needs.
Lexie Lane says
My ex was a body builder too and I know it takes a lot of discipline for sure. I don’t know any vitamins for that sadly, but you look amazing!
Chanelle says
Haha! I wish there was a vitamin for that!
Digna says
You look amazing! If only I can keep up the motivation. I let stress put exercising on the back burner. My summer was stressful and I got off track.
Christie says
I can definitely see how having the right supplements makes all the difference for body building! Looks like you have the right combo!
Karen W says
I have used a multivitamin in the past, but am not a huge fan of lots of supplements.
LizZ H. says
OK…This caught my attn. I need to look into a couple of these vitamins for myself. Thanks for this post 😀
Jason Young says
I’ve been looking for a new supplement. Been using whey protein but happy to give something new a try.
Dina says
Pineapple coconut water?? Sign me up! YOu look amazing on your journey! I’m all proud of myself when I walk 3 miles. LOL
victoria says
You look great, That is great that CVS has all that you need for vitamins to maintain!
Julie says
Love the idea of labeling the tops of my vitamins! It does make it easier to glance and see what bottle is what.
Jonathan Key says
Lots of great info here on supplements and vitamins. Great post!
Michele D says
Cvs is always a friend of mine when it comes to supplements. I can find mostly anything I need there.
Mama to 5 BLessings says
Wow! You are so nice and tone! You look great! That is great that CVS has all that you need for vitamins to maintain!
Tracey says
These are great tips and I loved that you took the time to explain each supplements benefit. CVS is a great place to get high quality vitamins and supplements at a fraction of the cost!
Megan @ C'mon Get Crafty says
I’ve recently discovered sparkling water, though regular water is no problem for me. I’ve also been procrastinating about starting on vitamins, which I know would be good for me. Thanks for the kick to get moving!
Michele says
It is amazing what you were able to accomplish in two years!! I am not into exercising but I do take ALA and COQ10 every day.
Katie says
Labeling the tops of pill bottles is a great idea!! I am also going to try that sparkling water. I love soda but I am trying to drink sparkling water drinks instead. You Look Great!
Milena says
Great story on your transformation. I love how you used humor in your writing. I take a few of these supplements. I’ll have to check out these out at CVS!
Krystal says
I need to remember to even take my daily vitamin! I should add in some supplments like vitamin c!
Shaney Vijendranath says
I always wondered what was needed. I need to start taking vitamins, I’ve been lacking big time.
Ourfamilyworld says
I only take calcium and Vitamin C. You did a great job! I wish I could be as disciplined as you when it comes to working out.
Valerie says
Me too. She is quite an inspiration!
Erica (@Erica's Recipes) says
Lovely transformation! I tried my hand at it a couple years ago, and I didn’t have the discipline for the food regimen, so I respect anyone that can stick to it like you did! And that pineapple coconut water sounds delicious! I will definitely try that.
Bismah says
I am sure that my body is missing out on so many vitamins and minerals due to my poor eating habits. The problem with me not that I eat unhealthy or am over weight, I just don’t eat enough. I will have to look into some of these supplements.
Izabela says
Your hard work has paid off. You look amazing.
Eileen says
Wow. Just WOW. Your hard work really paid off! I wish I had the same amount of discipline as you when it comes to exercising!
Dogvills says
You look terrific! Supplements are important because we don’t always get the nutrients we need form the food we eat.
Mykidsguide says
Oh my, you look amazing! I love the transformation. Your hard work really paid off.
Elizabeth O. says
Your figure has improved a lot. It takes a lot of effort to maintain that kind of body, I admire you for it.
rika says
I want to have her body ! So toned and look very healthy ! I love Radiance vitamins.. some of them are plant based too
LauraOinAK says
Awesome list! My eldest son started lifting this past spring and is starting to add supplements to his diet to help build muscle.
Uplifting Families says
I love shopping at CVS. I need to take my vitamins. I usually end up forgetting about them. Good luck on your competitions.
Aubrey says
I really need to be better at vitamins and stuff. I’m in my 30’s now. Things are bound too start falling apart soon.
rochkirstin says
Whoa, you have worked so hard to have that great body. All these vitamins sum up to a long list. How often do you consult with a professional dietician or nutritionist on what supplements to take?
Chanelle says
It is a long list and can be overwhelming. Luckily I have a coach who helps me with my supplementation!
Annie M says
I love CVS! Your transformation is quite impressive, kudos!
Autumn @Mamachallenge says
CVS is a great place to shop! They have a great selection of supplements!
Michelle F. says
Those pictures are amazing! I take a multivitamin and probiotic and it really does help with my weight loss efforts.
Censie says
Your transformation photos are fantastic. Great that you can head to CVS to stock up on everything you need.
Debra says
I really need to look into some of these! I am terrible on my body!
Lorane says
You are so fit .. that’s a lot of supplements for one day but it suits your lifestyle.
Stephanie @CopyKat.com says
You take the mystery out of supplements. I thought I needed to go to one of those vitamin shops. I didn’t realize everything was at my local CVS.
Ashleigh Walls says
I always love learning about supplements and what they do. Looks like a great list!
Maggie says
Dang, you are looking good! Honestly, I’m scared of supplements, I only take a multivitamin and that’s if I remember lol. I love sparkling water so I will be stopping and trying that asap!
Chanelle says
Ohhh you’re going to love it! Tastes just like a pina colada!
Claudia Krusch says
I have been looking for supplements, thank you so much for sharing this info!
eliz frank says
Chanelle, you have a rocking body! I am very impressed that it took you two years to achieve it.
I’m also still reeling over the fact that your Mom, Liz, kept you as her big secret. 🙂
That said, I am delighted that you are now blogging partners. Here’s to many, many success stories and blogging moments together!
BRAVO! 🙂
Chanelle says
Haha! Thank you very much! I’m glad to be here. 🙂
Adriana Martin says
Most definitely what you eat and do reflects on how you look, thanks for the tips!
Sabrina @ Dinner, then Dessert says
What an impressive transformation! That looks like it took a lot of hard work!
Annie {Stowed Stuff} says
Wow, I had no idea all these supplements were available at CVS! You look amazing!
Felicita Moncada says
Love this! I started taking vitamins a few weeks ago and I have to say I do feel a difference. My skin looks healthier I feel energized. I’m going to looking into more specifics like the ones you mentioned.
kristi@ishouldbemoppingthefloor says
What an awesome transformation! I’m on a mission to find that water–It looks delish!
Claudette P. Esterine says
Really great information on what is seemingly a good product judging by the bodies’ featured! 🙂
Elizabeth Lampman says
You look so amazing. I think supplements are a fantastic idea. I will have to label the lids of mine.
Tammy Roy says
Taking supplements is important to help support my diet. I know i do not always eat the way i should. I feel better knowing i take vitamins.
Stephanie Harriel says
Yowza!! Great job!! I love that CVS carries all of that!
Ann Bacciaglia says
Labeling the tops of the bottles is a great tip. I like to use a daily pill case. It helps me know if i have taken all the ones i am supposed to.
Elizabeth O. says
Your body looks really nice, it was a huge improvement. It takes a lot of effort to maintain a body like that, kudos to you!
Helena says
My friend also decided to go the competition route. She is killing it as well. I agree that nutrition is a huge part of the whole process! Good luck to you and congrats on the amazing transformation!
Janell @ Saving You Dinero says
That’s an amazing transformation. Thanks for sharing your tips!
Marcie W. says
I am nowhere near an actual bodybuilder, but I do enjoy exercise and fitness. I too take a lot of supplements and had no idea that DHEA works to control hormone levels. I will be adding that one to my shopping list immediately!
maria @closetohome says
I am totally impressed with those muscles on her and the transformation with the supplements
Shauna says
I had no idea there were so many vitamins to take. But that pineapple sparkling water sounds amazing… I will totally be trying that. Thanks for sharing…
Amber NElson says
I can’t even imagine training to be a body builder. Kudos to those who do!
Patrice says
I need to be taken these vitamins after seeing the transformation a better and healthy build.
Seattle Travel Blogger says
Wow! What a transformation! I never realized how many supplements are needed for bodybuilding; it is great that CVS has them – so convenient.
Jeanine says
Wow this is awesome. I know quite a few people that are into supplements and that sort of thing, so I will have to share. I don’t do much to stay healthy but I always take my vitamins!
Amber Edwards says
Wow, what an amazing transformation! My husband wants to do something like this too, I’ll need to have him come learn from you.
Lisa @Those2Girls says
That is quite the transformation! Thanks for all info about it
Valerie says
Your transformation is incredible. You should be so proud of how far you have come. Thanks for the info on the supplements!
Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
I agree! She has a lot of reason to be proud of all of her accomplishments.
Debbie Denny says
Looking good. I like the idea to lable the top
Crystal says
Wow! I’m seriously underwhelming in my vitamin consumption. It all seems like it’s paying off!
Catherine S says
I also need to take more vitamins. I need to go check them out at CVS. You look fantastic.
Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
You have accomplished so much in such little time! Keep up the great wokr!
Kelly Hutchinson says
Well, I certainly cannot share any tips you probably don’t already know! I do love CVS for their prices and selection of supplements.
Julie Green and Keen says
I love the pictures! Congrats Channel, it is really helpful. I can’t wait to try that flavored sparkling water! I’m always trying to eat healthy and this made me think about adding a couple more supplements to my diet.
Sarah Bailey says
I should really try and take more vitamins, bodybuilders really can be so healthy!
Sicorra@NotNowMomsBusy says
I totally believe in vitamins, and love taking mine everyday.
Nikki @ Tikkido says
Wow, I didn’t realize you were a competition bodybuilder! How cool! And your post totally just reminded me to take my vitamins. 😉
rika says
i take that CVS brand Radiance vitamins! They’re good! Some of them even plant based vitamins!
Jesica H says
Pineapple and coconut water sounds amazing!!! Now if I could drink it and fabulous that would be great 🙂
Christine - The Choosy Mommy says
Pineapple and coconut water!?!? Two of my favorite things mixed together! I can’t wait to give it a try. I really hope I like it because it will def. be my new go-to beverage! <3 Christine, The Choosy Mommy, www.choosykids.blogspot.com
Chanelle says
It is soooo good! And no calories!
Isabella Grey says
And I though taking my single multivitamin everyday was a chore. You take so many!
Ora Lee Gurr says
Explaining the purpose of each nutrient you take is a good idea. You’ve done great achieving your goal and staying motivated to keep up the process.
Lindsay says
Interesting. I’m not into body building but that can still help with my fitness jouney
Heather lawrence says
K, baby steps here but I would LOVE to look like you do on the left.
With summer vacation winding down I won’t have to compete with the kids for the xbox.
Can not wait to get back in shape.
Jennifer Pierce says
Wow amazing before and after photos. I love the labeling of the bottles, not sure why I never thought of it. This will definitely help in that morning rush with all the items on my bathroom vanity.
Jasmine says
Sound slike a lot of hard work but its worth it, you look amazing!
Pam says
Wow, you have certainly come a long way in body building! I usually buy my supplements at CVS, but I take less of them than you, lol!
Catherine S says
You look amazing and your hard work has paid off. I will have to try the pineapple and coconut sparkling water.
lisa @bitesforbabies says
Wow! I’ve just started a more intense workout regime an although I don’t feel the need to get super ripped I can tell a huge difference in body! I KNOW how much work it would take to look like this!!!
Crystal says
I am just so impressed, aren’t you? I think it’s motivating to see what the human body can accomplish.
Jennifer says
This is all great info. I knew you had to eat right and work out super hard to get a body like that, but I had no idea there was so much supplementation involved, as well.
jo says
Wow! That’s a lot of supplements! Can’t you just have one with all of them in a capsule? LOL. Anyway, that must be pure hardwork to have a body like that! 😀 That’s a huge transformation! I admire your dedication and good luck to your diet! 🙂
Debbie Champagne says
I think this post is one I should have my husband read. He is trying to get back in shape and his body had been pretty beat up from the past. He played football in school and he was a wrestler for 4 years until his back popped out of place. I found this interesting and I think my husband will too.
lisa says
You look amazing. I know how intense body building is, but I had no idea the amount of supplements you need to fuel and replenish your body.
Shann Eva says
Wow! You look fantastic! I love how you labeled everything on top…makes it so much easier. Thanks for the great product information too.
Michelle Liew says
Thanks for the tips about these supplements. Always unaware of which to buy!
Yona Williams says
WOW – you’ve had awesome progress since you’ve started! My brother isn’t a bodybuilder, but he lifts weights and is into fitness…so I am familiar with all of the protein-related supplements, pills, and giant orange containers of powders.
Chubskulit Rose says
Wow, your transformation is amazing. Body building is something that my husband was passionate about but ever since he became a Dad, he slowed down.
Stacie says
Great idea to label the tops of the supplements, they all look so similar! You have put in a lot of work and it definitely shows, you look amazing, can’t wait to see your Ms. Figure Olympia photos 😉
Chanelle says
AHHHH thank you for saying that! Ms. O is my goal!
Jessica Harlow says
You definitely look amazing. I’m not quite as ambitious, but could certainly benefit from checking out the CVS supplement line of products! Besides, that pineapple coconut sparkling water sounds fantastic!
Rebecca Bryant says
With menopause hitting me hard i am looking for a good way to regulate hormones and help maintain eight. thanks for this list. Off to check out CVS nutrient line.
Alli says
That water sounds amazing and I have to say that you have an awesome bod! Thanks for breaking down the need for supplements and making it easier to understand.
Joyce Brewer (@MommyTalkShow) says
I’ve been working on adding more supplements to my intake especially since my hair/nails have suffered. CVS is my go-to spot for buying my supplements especially when they’re on sale.
Jeanette says
Believe it or not in Phoenix where I live there are a lot of people with Vit D deficiently. These are some great tips! You look great!
Laura says
Love this! In the UK, around 50% of us are Vit D deficient. An alarming number of kids have rickets too, so it’s so important to be getting the right vitamins daily.
debra daigle says
You look great! You had me on the whole post except for the Coconut Water. That is one thing I cant stand!
Ashley @irishred02 says
I love flavored water- naturally flavored. It helps quench thirsts and suppress appetite when you don’t really need that cookie!
Sinziana says
You are giving great advices here. I love that pineapple sparkling water…I am a fan of sparkling water :D.
carissa garabedian says
I have been looking for a new vitamin and will check this out. As for that water it sounds delicious!
Rachel says
You look amazing!!! Thanks for the tips about which vitamins to take and marking the top on the caps.