supplements, nutrition tips and keeping your immune system in check with jordan slotopolsky
Work-life balance is a term that’s tossed around quite a bit these days, and in general everyone is going to have a different definition of what that means. Whether you’re new in your career, starting a family (and adjusting to showing up both in your career as well as for your family), or you’re quite well versed in the professional world, there’s going to be a contrast when it comes to your priorities. One common thread that seems to hold true across the board is the popularity, or elevated awareness, of health and fitness. Making space for oneself, in this case, through workouts and mindful nutrition practices is encouraged in order to show up and perform in all facets of life.
This concept rings true for Jordan Slotopolsky, a full-time technology sales executive based in New York City. Not only can he be found working out on the regular throughout the city, but he’s also conscious of what he’s putting into his body to not only fuel his workouts, but to keep him going for long days at the office. We sat down with Jordan to talk supplements, nutrition tips, and ways to keep your immune system in check. Here’s what he had to say.
How did you first get into nutrition?
It was a natural fit given that I’m into fitness and the overall spectrum of wellness. Whether I’m in the gym or in the office, I want to be functioning at a very high level and you just can’t do that without proper nutrition. Nutrition affects the obvious, how you look and feel but it also plays a big role in longevity and disease prevention, both of which are important to me.
What are your thoughts on supplements? Do we really need them?
I’m actually a big fan of supplements. I think it’s very rare that people are actually getting the optimal amount of nutrients and minerals that they need from their “whole food” diet alone. They’re also another tool that support people in terms of living longer, healthier lives. I’ll note though, it’s really important to research supplements before you take them, as well as the brands you’re looking into. Not all supplements are created equal so research is really key.
If you yourself use any supplements, what are they and why would you recommend them?
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CoQ10: This acts as an antioxidant, helps with metabolism, supports heart health, lowers blood pressure, protects cells from oxidative stress, and plays a role in energy production.
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Probiotic: Promotes gut health.
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Fish Oil: Fish oil supports heart health, helps lower both your cholesterol and blood pressure, supports eye and skin, and also supports health of most organs.
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Collagen: Collagen promotes healthy skin and hair, lowers joint pain, is good for your gut and liver, increases lean muscle mass, improves blood flow, and strengthens bones.
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Turmeric: Turmeric acts as an antioxidant which helps to lower inflammation and even has cancer fighting effects.
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Multi-Vitamin: Fills nutritional gaps that you can’t get from your diet.
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Resveratrol: Resveratrol has antioxidant properties, fights cell aging/decay, promotes heart and brain health, lowers your inflammatory response, inhibits cancer-cell growth, and helps to fight diabetes by helping to prevent insulin resistance.
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Panax Ginseng: Panax Ginseng improves cognitive performance, promotes endurance and stamina to support energy output, and also supports immunity function and cardiovascular health.
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GO Human Optimizer: This one promotes focus, improves cognitive performance, and assists in eliminating brain fog.
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Electrolytes: One of the more straightforward supplements, electrolytes replenish minerals and nutrients that are sweat out during exercise, and promotes hydration, as well muscle recovery.
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Pre-workout: Promotes energy, focus, and recovery.
When you’re not working out or diving into nutrition, what are you most likely doing? Is fitness your full-time job?
I work in sales for Salesforce, specifically in their Healthcare & Life Sciences division. Outside of work, I’m most likely to be doing anything from watching sports, reading, playing hockey, or skiing. I love to travel and am a self-proclaimed “foodie” so I really enjoy exploring new restaurants and trying new wines.
What’s your favorite or go-to pre-workout snack? Post-workout?
In terms of a pre-workout snack, I actually always work out fasted, or on an empty stomach–that’s just what works for me. I do take a pre-workout, C4 ripped (cherry limeade flavor!) to give me that boost. As for post-workout, if it’s during the week, I fast until lunch. On the weekends, I’ll likely grab a PB Split Smoothie from Juice Generation.
What’re your thoughts on smoothies (with protein!)? Do you have a favorite recipe?
It’s all relative. It really depends on what else you’re eating daily and what’s actually going into the smoothie. For the most part, I don’t have a problem with smoothies but personally I try to keep carbs and sugar in check (both of which can be high in certain smoothies).
Are there any foods you swear by in relation to keeping your immune system in check?
Not really–that’s really where supplements come into play for me.
What are your top nutrition hacks to keep you fueled and feeling your best?
If I had to list them out:
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Intermittent fasting
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Avoiding refined carbohydrates and sugar
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Having a high-protein diet
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Hydration! (I drink ~200 ounces of water a day)