2009 Best in Class Awards

2009 Best in Class Awards

Diet & Energy

Xenadrine-RFA-X Hardcore thermogenic marks return of legendary Xenadrine brand When a new supplement is introduced to the industry it doesn't usually take long before it finds its niche in the consumer's arena—fair, moderate or high in customer acceptance. After closely monitoring customer feedback response and sales of Hardcore Strength Xenadrine RFA-X over the last six months we are pleased to report that this all new Cytogenix product very easily became one of the top products in this category. This is not surprising when you take a look at the list of high end fat-loss and energy compounds. But impressive ingredients lists of course can sometimes bear empty promises; results tell the real tale. And based on the results of a recent 10 week study, subjects taking a key ingredient in Hardcore Strength Xenadrine-RFA-X ( Cissus quadrangularis) for 10 weeks dropped 4.2 times the weight than the placebo group (19.4lbs vs. 4.6lbs). These results are quite impressive indeed, but there's much more. RFA-X contains numerous high powered and complex blends consisting of highly bioactive ingredients designed to enhance fat-burning signals, increase thermogenesis, inhibit physiologic mechanisms that block fat-burning, while also increasing mental alertness and training intensity. Based on its cutting-edge science and the recent highly positive customer response, this new version Xenadrine well deserves its continued Best in Class rating. An effective formulation with customer approval—Xenadrine RFA-X truly does great justice to the legendary predecessor to bare the famous Xenadrine name.

Dren Unique energy booster/appetite suppressor MHP's product successes usually arise out of intensive, high level research that goes far beyond simple blends and following the format of previously successful formulations. And their highly advanced Dren is a perfect example of this. A rather sparse formulation, this one-per-day neurotropic none-the-less provides signifi cant focus and energy with an appetite suppression effect that easily compares with some of the best in this category. This is accomplished by Dren's advanced, cutting edge mesolimbic beta agonist complex, which includes a synergistic combination of caffeine, L-5 hydroxytryptophan, yohimbine and other support compounds designed to facilitate energy, plus keep serotonin and norepinephrine levels in balance. According to a considerable amount of ProSource customer feedback, this methodology has a potent and lasting energy effect along with substantial hunger relief. A well-conceived and advanced addition to MHP's leading edge formulations, Dren represents a unique and effective product addition that well deserves its place in Best in Class for 2009.

Mass Building

MyoShock: Comprehensive and novel †�Heat Shock†� mass builder Never ones to rest on their laurels for long, the research and development people at MuscleTech are expanding the parameters (and vocabulary) of mass-building once again with their introduction of the notion of Heat Shock Proteins. MyoShock HSP is designed to increase anabolism by facilitating accelerated protein synthesis and the activation of intracellular growth signals, each in response to the stimulus of elevated body temperatures linked to intense training (hence the †�heat shock†� scientific rationale). We're always intrigued by the novel mechanisms of action that accompany MuscleTech products, though our first inclination is always to scrutinize the ingredients panel. Here we find free-form L-arginine content for NO-triggered vasodilation and enhanced nutrient delivery, as well as L-glutamine-AKG, which is useful for postponing and reducing post-workout catabolism. We also find an unspecified amount of the well-proven cell-volumizing agent creatine monohydrate. Also included is gammaaminobutyric acid (GABA), which is sometimes linked to support of growth hormone levels, plus 400 mg of caffeine anhydrous. This is an enormous wallop of stimulant content and will certainly spur a significant increase in workout intensity. Less common ingredients in MyoShock HSP include the Chinese herbs schisandra chinensis (said to support muscle endurance) and paeonia lactiflora (included to help with reducing muscle cramps). Bilberry extract has been included for its vasodilatory action and for its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. All of the above compounds have been subjected to MuscleTech's proprietary Nano-Diffuse micronization processing, which is said to speed uptake and increase bioavailability. All in all, MyoShock (which will be appearing on retailers' shelves in early 2009), appears to be a well-rounded, comprehensive addition to MuscleTech's mass-building product line. As always, we'll keep you posted on user feedback.

Aminodrol: Maximum strength anabolic/anti-catabolic mass builder Since the legendary Cytodyne AAC was discontinued, a massive following of bodybuilders have been left insomewhat of an anabolic void, having become attached to its dependable, first class muscle mass support. Thankfully, since new Aminodrol arrived this last summer, bodybuilders across the country have had new reason to celebrate. Aminodrol is a highly potent anabolic/anti-catabolic complex that provides an ultra high powered spectrum of mass-building compounds designed to target multiple pathways of lean muscle growth. Its formula is similar to—but even more potent than—its predecessor. It goes beyond Cytodyne's powerhouse formulation with the addition of a clinical strength dosage of university-tested L-carnitine L-tartrate, which has been shown to stimulate growth of androgen receptors in muscle tissue. This maximum strength, multi-pathway formula includes the most powerful matrix of anabolic/anti-catabolic compounds of any product available today, including a high level of beta alanine, which has been shown to promote dramatic increases in muscle strength, endurance and recovery, making it a must-use supplement for any serious weight-trainer. As far as amino-based anabolic/anti-catabolic formulations go, it's apparent the new champion has arrived.

Premium Proteins

NytroWhey Ultra: The ultimate rapid action hydrolysate protein for extreme anabolism The break-out success of NytroWhey Ultra has been driven in large part by the inclusion of a new class of ultra-hydrolyzed whey protein. This super-grade, ultra-rapid-action protein source is so highly processed that it yields super-low molecular weight di- and tri-peptides capable of bypassing the normal digestion process and being absorbed directly into the bloodstream for immediate transport of amino content to muscle tissue. This quick uptake of protein growth factors is your best bet for the absolute ultimate muscle synthesis for extreme anabolism in that critical time period directly after workout. NytroWhey Ultra also contains the elite CFM whey isolate that made the NytroWhey brand famous. Not only does it provide the perfect amino acid profile and superior biological value but by virtue of its advanced processing it delivers critical growth factors and micro-fractions not found in standard grade whey proteins. This potent formula is further enhanced with critical anabolic support nutrients like L-carnitine L-tartrate, plus BCAAs (including a high dose of leucine), CLA and a potent 300 mg dose of Aminogen, the powerful enzyme clinically proven to further increase amino acid levels and boost nitrogen retention through enhanced digestion. Finally, NytroWhey Ultra is considered by many to be the absolute best tasting protein in existence. Want proof, try new Cake Batter, or any of the delicious flavors.

Monster Milk: High calorie, lower carb performance protein From the makers of the popular Muscle Milk line, the wide-spectrum Monster Milk is an interesting new entry that bridges the gap between typical weight gainers and slower-release nighttime proteins. It contains a 50-gram matrix featuring isolated milk protein, whey isolates, caseinates, lactoferrin, L-glutamine, glutamine peptides and 5 grams of free form BCAAs. At 350 calories per serving, it'll bulk you up. At the same time, it has lower carbohydrates (17-18 grams) than a typical weight-gainer, and is fairly low in sugar, so non-hard-gainers can consider this protein as a solid option for staving off overnight catabolism, too. Monster Milk also packs a calorically dense serving of healthy fats in the form of sunflower and/or safflower oil, medium-chain triglycerides, canola oil, and CLA. Finally, you'll find one gram of creatine from (Kre-Alkalyn) and 500 mg of Aminogen. On the minus side, Monster Milk is fairly high in sodium (430 mg) and some saturated fats. Summing up, however, Monster Milk packs a wide array of fast- and slow-uptake proteins into a respectably high-impact protein.

Protein Bars

Macrobolic Bars: High quality protein, meal replacement bar Products in MHP's high quality line of meal supplements are based around the notion of a preferred ratio of carbohydrates/ proteins/fats calibrated for optimal muscle support, fat utilization, and maintenance of high physical performance. In this case, Macrobolic protein bars follow the same basic formula as the popular meal replacement powders by MHP—a 45/35/20 ratio of carbs, protein and fat that balances good taste with a high quality protein matrix. One important difference in the bars versus the powder though, is the inclusion of milk protein isolate, which actually gives the bars a slight edge in regards to overall protein content. In addition, it contains a good balance of macronutrients and mostly slower-digesting carbohydrates such as polydextrose, which makes for a good pre-workout pick-me-up. On the other hand, the slower-digesting proteins and carbs in this product are not really preferred for a post-workout regimen. With quality macronutrients in preferred ratios aboard, Macrobolic bars are very well suited as a mini-meal for support of mass gains along with more significant protein sources. For a level of quality surpassing most other bars in its league and a thoughtfully designed ratio of carbs, protein and fat, Macrobolic certainly well-earns one of our higher ratings.

Up Your Mass: Big mass gain bar with 45/35/25 ratio The protein bar with the memorable name has been an instant hit with ProSource customers. This big 100-gram Up Your Mass bar provides a 45/35/25 ratio of carbohydrates, proteins and fats, making it a valuable mealreplacement option for athletes and bodybuilders on the go. Indeed, this specific ratio is most often associated with support of lean muscle growth. The Up Your Mass protein bar recipe is anchored by a respectable †�protein matrix†� formulation consisting of soy protein isolate (a slower-uptake protein particularly rich in glutamine and arginine), milk protein isolate, calcium caseinate and whey protein concentrate. Up Your Mass is also highly uncommon in this category in that it is one of the few bars that does not contain significant amounts of useless gelatin as one of its protein sources. The carbohydrates, meanwhile, are of the low-glycemic index variety. MHP's carb complex, dubbed a Slow Carb™ carbohydrate blend, contains tapioca starch, rice flour, and oat flour that won't unnecessarily spike your blood sugar levels and result in an unwanted energy crash later. In a marketplace that contains more than its share of low-quality bars composed of substandard ingredients, Up Your Mass is one of the few that athletes can eat with confidence. It is, simply put, one of the better protein bars on the market today.

Meal Replacements

Macrobolic MRP: High quality formula of 45/35/20 ratio The centerpiece of MHP's highly regarded meal replacement is a 45/35/20 ratio of carbohydrates/proteins/fats that seems sensibly calibrated for optimal muscle support, fat utilization, and maintenance of high physical performance. Indeed, Macrobolic MRP shows a considerable amount of forethought with regard to its quality protein matrix and natural carb complex, both formulated for intended sustained release. On the protein side, it contains a 32-gram blend of soy protein isolate, calcium caseinate, and whey protein concentrate. These proteins are on the slower-absorption end of the spectrum, delivering extended-interval support, while providing significant amounts of critical amino acids. This blend also contains significant levels of the critical amino acids glutamine, arginine and BCAAs. Macrobolic's carb matrix consists of low glycemic carbs derived from oats, barley and oat fiber designed to sustain energy, maintain glycogen replenishment, and create a feeling of satiety. Maltodextrin would normally be considered a deficit to any formula, but the amount here is not significant and Macrobolic's carb matrix is overall more complex and slow-absorbing than is typical for this category. The lipid complex augments the formula nicely with essential fatty acids from superior sources such as borage oil, flaxseeds and evening primrose oil. Macrobolic also provides MCT's (medium chain triglycerides) and CLA, which has been shown to help decrease fat and increase mass. To complete the package, a full spectrum of vitamins and minerals rounds out its rich nutritional profile. Quality products in this category are few and far between. Macrobolic represents a refreshing change and well deserves its place in the top 3 ranking.

Zero Impact: Blend of slower-absorbing proteins and complex carbs As its name suggests, Zero Impact is a meal replacement designed to minimize insulin spikes and rapid-protein breakdown (and subsequent post-spike anti-catabolism) by creating an ideal bodily environment for prolonged protein synthesis. To attain this goal, VPX has mostly avoided typically fast-uptake proteins like whey hydrolysates and whey isolates in favor of slower uptake proteins in the form of undenatured micellar casein, HGF (High Growth Factor) whey protein, and egg albumen, with additional L-glutamine and peptide-bonded glutamine. These slow uptake proteins (or †�insulin-stabilizing proteins,†� as VPX calls them) are meant to work consecutively and synergistically over a period of as long as seven hours to prevent muscle-consuming catabolism. At the same time, Zero Impact contains significant amounts of complex, unrefined carbohydrates, including whole-grain high-protein rice, flax seed meal, oat fiber, oat cereal solids, whole grain barley, oat bran, and rice bran, included specifically to prevent blood sugar spikes. Finally, Zero Impact provides plenty of essential fatty acids and the fat-burning lipids sesamin and CLA. although taste might be an issue for some consumers accustomed to richer, more carb-laden MRPs, fitness-conscious people looking for a dependable, low-glycemic source of essential nutrition will find Zero Impact to be a highly suitable choice.

Testosterone Boosters

AndroTest: Standardized clinically validated super potent T-booster The only competition this T-booster seems to have is its offshoot AndroTest Extreme. That's because the AndroTest franchise dominates the top ranks of the test-boosting market with this independently validated, product-specific clinically tested Tribulus product. In a major placebo-controlled, double-blind study, AndroTest caused (not just one of its ingredients, but the actual AndroTest formula) statistically significant increases in free testosterone levels, up to 218% over baseline, and statistically significant increases in total testosterone levels, as high as 275%. These results represent actual increases over BASELINE (as opposed to figures compared to a placebo), which makes the numbers truly extraordinary. This means that some subjects using AndroTest experienced nearly a three-fold increase in their testosterone levels. Equally impressive is the fact that the increased testosterone levels (after two weeks use) were maintained throughout the duration of the study, which is especially important since sustained increases in testosterone are the key to really enhancing muscle growth. Likewise, AndroTest is the first T-booster ever standardized for a minimum of 40% to 48% protodioscin, the most beneficial compound found in Tribulus and by far the most potent on the market. AndroTest also contains a powerful extract of the only Tongkat Ali (also known as Eurycoma longifolia jack) standardized for active constituents—LJ-100™. One study has found that LJ-100 by itself also significantly increased average testosterone and DHEA levels after just one month's usage. Surprisingly, other manufacturers are still scrambling to meet the test-boosting level that ProSource achieved with this original AndroTest a couple years ago. The only thing more powerful in this category is the like-named Extreme version shown on the adjacent page.

CryoTest: Innovative new formulation with enhanced uptake Until recently, even the best T-boosting products contained anabolically active herbal content and not much else. That's starting to change now, as some supplement manufacturers are beginning to address matters related to testosterone enhancement, including androgen receptor count, DHT conversion, and GH levels. MuscleTech, not surprisingly, is a leader in this area. Its new CryoTest contains the herbal T-boosting factors you'd expect to see, such as Avena sativa extract and Eurycoma longifolia extract. (No Tribulus terrestris extract, the most reliably documented T-boosting herb, however.) MuscleTech then tackles the ingredient uptake issue in a couple of interesting ways. First, it includes L-carnitine fumarate. This is a variation on L-carnitine-L-tartrate, a compound that has been linked to increased androgen receptor levels, which in turn enables higher uptake of testosterone in muscle tissue and consequently greater lean muscle growth. Secondly, CryoTest contains an unspecified amount of N-Acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine (melatonin), which is reputed to have an enhancing effect on the growth hormone/IGF-1 axis during intervals of resistance exercise. CryoTest is also said to contain ingredients, which would inhibit testosterone's conversion to the unwanted metabolite dihydrotestosterone (DHT), though this claim merits more investigation. MuscleTech is famous for its comprehensive multi-pathway supplemental technologies, and CryoTest would appear to be another prime example of this philosophy at work.

Pre-Workout

Dark Rage: Specialized nutrient transport & stimulant blend Dark Rage is MHP's innovative new pre-workout, pump-inducing technology that's previously only been used by professional bodybuilders. This formulation contains compounds that are specifically intended to stimulate the release of EPO, which sequentially increases red blood cell production and blood volume to the muscles, which, in turn, helps to enhance oxygen transportation and the delivery of anabolic nutrients to muscle tissue for performance and mass growth. Featuring the traditional pre-workout compounds nitric oxide and BCAA's, Dark Rage also includes a complex array of proven and purported ingredients for red blood cell production such as arachidonic acid, echinacea, cobalt, albumin, and iron. To enhance pre-workout intensity, Dark Rage also includes unspecified dosages of stimulants: beta-methoxy PEA, caffeine, glucuronolactone, and yohimbine. Although new to the market, the combination of a top quality brand like MHP and their comprehensive formulation of key ingredients, has more than earned Dark Rage a Best in Class standing in this important bodybuilding category.

Super Pump 250: Pioneering product in the category Super Pump 250 is one of the pioneering products in this category and has become a leading product in this preworkout genre for its effective and synergistic use of a wide range of high-grade compounds. This powerhouse from Gaspari targets crucial aspects of weight training and mass growth such as antioxidant protection, energy enhancement, nitric oxide facilitation, nutrient delivery, mental focus and blood sugar utilization support. They've even included a secretagogue blend and test-booster among this †�all-in-one†� product. Super Pump's powerful pre-workout formula starts with a tried-and-true matrix of L-Arginine-AKG and L-Arginine Ketoisocaproate (A-KIC) designed to enhance NO production and subsequent increased nutrient delivery and muscle pump. Then it links this technology to a number of additional complexes. The creatine component of Super Pump 250 is a combination of creatine monohydrate and dicreatine malate. Some of the more notable compounds include BCAAs to support anti-catabolism, a glucose polymer blend with added alpha lipoic acid, L-tyrosine, ginseng, and vinpocetine. A glucose polymer blend (plus alpha lipoic acid) is present to facilitate insulin activation. A thoughtfully formulated product of quality ingredients places Super Pump 250 among the best in the pre-workout category.

Post-Workout/Recovery

Anator-P70: Three-tiered high performance blend Perhaps no product in the vaunted MuscleTech line has impressed our product testers as much as Anator P70. Anator P70 represents MuscleTech's version of the powerful H/L/C (hydrolysate/leucine/carb) stack, and let us say a very good version. This powerful post-workout formula provides what appears to be a high-quality whey hydrolysate protein based on the fact that it delivers some level of low molecular weight di- and tri-peptides (perhaps the most important indicator of a good quality hydrolysate). These short chain peptides are obviously the key to any good post-workout formula because they are rapidly absorbed and highly efficient. In fact, many researchers believe they are absolutely essential to spurring anabolism within the very short one-to-two-hour growth window after intense exercise. MuscleTech has also included leucine (although at an undisclosed level) for its activity as a facilitator of protein synthesis, along with 57 grams of high glycemic carbs (which is more than sufficient to trigger a substantial insulin spike to jump start amino transport). These three aspects of this formula alone set it apart from most competitive post-workout products but MuscleTech has taken it a step further with the addition of creatine monohydrate for cell volumization, NADH, and some additional amino acids. Even as fast-acting proteins have evolved into ultra-rapid-action proteins, MuscleTech's Anator P70 has managed to stay at the forefront of the category. Feedback from users of this product has been very positive and this is yet another indicator of the importance of high performance fast-acting post workout nutrition.

Dark Matter: New post-workout technology Dark Matter represents a fresh and impressive approach to creatine transport and subsequent size and strength increases. It employs a sophisticated new technology that combines an effective fast-acting protein source and a multi-phase creatine with an insulinogenic complex that causes insulin levels to peak simultaneously with amino acid, creatine, and glycogen transport. The protein source is cutting edge as well, with an amino acid matrix fine-tuned for ultra-fast intestinal uptake. At the same time, Dark Matter triggers a spike in insulin levels via a tri-polymer carbohydrate matrix comprised of a low-viscosity, high-molecular-weight, osmotic waxy maize starch. Finally, Dark Matter incorporates a multi-source creatine/glycerol complex that provides an optimal amount of creatine for transport to muscle cells. Introduced last year at this time, Dark Matter has swiftly accrued a solid fanbase of athletes impressed by its remarkable cell-volumizing power. This is a tribute to the high quality of the ingredients used here, as well as to the remarkable synergistic potential of Dark Matter's nutrient-transport technology. All this leading-edge science certainly represents a significant leap forward for creatine supplementation. MHP has a commitment to success through diligent research, as shown with Dark Matter, which still earns our praises and another solid position in the Best of Class.

Joint Support

Joint Command: Industry's most complete joint support complex The secret to Joint Command's long reign in the Best in Class of the Joint Support category is actually no secret at all. Competing manufacturers are simply unable—or unwilling—to match Joint Command's extraordinary matrix of seven different joint-supportive active compounds. Instead, they are content to make due with the most common ingredients—glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate, often in inferior extracts or substandard potencies. When it comes to ingredient quality, this is the category's gold standard. Joint Command's dosage (1500 mg) of pure, stabilized, 98% absorbable glucosamine sulfate is exactly calibrated to match the potencies that have generated noticeable improvements in joint health and flexibility in clinical research. Joint Command also contains a highpotency dosage of chondroitin sulfate, known for its ability to prevent cartilage breakdown, plus methyl-sulfonylmethane (MSM), an organic sulfate, which may help decrease joint degeneration and inflammation. In addition to this †�Big 3†�, Joint Command also contains UC Type II collagen, which is a key component of connective tissue, and is essential for promoting strength, mobility, and flexibility. Lyprinol, a lipid oil extracted from greenlipped sea mussels, is included for its anti-inflammatory properties. Nexrutine is a powerful COX 2 inhibitor and finally, Fruitex, an organic boron oxy-compound, plays a critical role in keeping bones and joints healthy. Joint Command has been a runaway top-selling supplement in this category since shortly after it was introduced, while customer feedback has been unanimously positive, a state of affairs we expect to remain unchanged for some time to come.

ElastiJoint: Potent and popular powder form Labrada employs a simple criteria for success: offer straightforward formulas with effective, pure ingredients. This method has received exceptional public acceptance in their meal replacements as well as their top shelf ElastiJoint formula, which follows the †�simple and pure†� criteria to the letter. This potent joint support product starts with a generous 5000 mg dose of hydrolyzed gelatin, a material needed for collagen, which in turn can be utilized to support connective tissue and cartilage. Next on the proprietary list is MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), a compound rich in sulfur, used by the body as raw material for connective tissue. Next up is glucosamine sulfate, which is one of the few compounds known to build and repair cartilage. Chondroitin sulfate is added, and needed, for structural strength and to create a porous structure in connective tissue for other nutrients to move through. Finally, the joint synthesis-support of 990 mg of vitamin C is added in a flavored powder form for maximum absorption. Simple, straightforward and pure, sometimes that's all it takes to make an effective and popular formula, and given their exceptional track record, Labrada seems to know this method very well. Complete and potent, ElastiJoint garners our Best in Class rating once again for its top notch performance and continued customer approval.

Weight Gainers

Cyto Gainer: Well rounded, quality blend of weight gain essentials Like other products in this category, CytoGainer is all about budging hard-gainers off their stubborn massbuilding plateaus with massive infusions of carbs and protein content. This popular CytoSport product uses a patented mix of branched and long chained maltodextrin molecules with low dextrose equivalence (a more complex, slower-absorbed carbohydrate). This interesting blend of carbohydrates places CytoGainer in the top tier of gainers as most of the others in this category rely on hefty amounts of plain maltodextrin (derived from corn starch), and other less desirable carb sources, which may cause unwanted effects such as excessive fat-storage. The 54-gram protein blend is of slightly above average quality with a fairly decent mix of ultrafi ltered non-denatured whey concentrate and pre-digested ion-exchanged whey hydrolysate. A few other premiums are added as well, like creatine monohydrate, chromium nicotinate and an extensive list of vitamins and minerals, including high potencies of antioxidants, B vitamins, copper gluconate and zinc oxide. The 3.25-lb jug contains 10 servings, the 6-lb jug contains 18. We've seen many products in this category that rely on large amounts of inferior carbs and low-grade proteins for their formulas. That's why quality products like CytoGainer will always receive higher rankings in our weight-gainer line up.

True Mass: Quality sustained-absorption formula To reach the level of Best in Class in this category a product must offer highly anabolic yet sustained absorption protein, quality complex carbohydrates, good amounts of fiber and superior growth support nutrients. And True Mass by BSN covers these four criteria with flying colors. This sustained-release formula's primary protein source is whey concentrate, providing anabolic alpha-lactalalbumins. It also includes some microfiltered whey isolate with peptide fractions for more immediate protein uptake. The protein blend continues with caseinates and some micellar casein that provide extended uptake, topping off the total protein content at 46 grams. Adding to that are the support compounds glutamine, glutamine peptides and BCAAs. Next, True Mass contains maltodextrin and polydextrose, a long chain sugar molecule providing 6 grams of fiber and a slow uptake carb source. In addition, aminogen, for enhanced amino acid utilization, and papain, to further assist digestion are included. To round out this quality list are 17 grams of healthy fats, mostly from MCT and sunflower oil to assist energy and protein synthesis. When compared to other choices in this densely packed category, True Mass deservedly receives our Best in Class rating.

Multi-Vitamins & Minerals

Anabolic VitaKic: New daily multiple plus anabolics MuscleTech's recent nano-particulation products have given new life to a well-established line with users reporting even better performance, greater mass increases and even quicker results than before. Now, this same technology is applied to their new VitaKic, a scientifically researched vitamin/mineral multiple, plus anabolic support formula with 100 micronutrients to enhance growth and performance. With VitaKic, MuscleTech takes the unusual step of adding anabolic compounds like creatine monohydrate, alpha lipoic acid, glutamine, beta alanine and arginine, normally found in mass and performance enhancement products. Actually, they've taken this new dual formula concept to the utmost as the label reads like a †�who's who†� in performance, growth, immune boosting and antioxidant compounds. A considerable list of botanicals including Ginkgo biloba, echinacea, bilberry, shiitake mushroom and epimedium (horny goat weed) are added, to name a few. The long list continues with CoQ10, L-leucine, taurine, L-carnosine, methionine and BCAAs. Of course, this comprehensive vitamin/mineral formula contains many of the standards you would expect including a decent amount of B vitamins, C, E and A, antioxidants, plus selenium, calcium, magnesium, iron and 150 mcg of chromium to assist blood sugar. Although some potencies are not noted, MuscleTech's long- standing reputation for research backed, comprehensive formulations is represented well in the new Best in Class VitaKic.

Activite Sport: Popular muscle support, antioxidant complex MHP's Activite Sport is no stranger to higher ratings. Regular readers of the Buyer's Guide will notice that it's been one of our top choices for some time now. And for good reason. This consistent customer favorite continues to maintain its popularity for effective use of †�food optimizing†� matrixes, combining this with bioavailable vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. The food enzyme system, trade-named Anabolase™, is a complex of digestive enzymes, including Aminogen, Lipolase and Carbogen (a supposed carb utilizer) designed to help enhance the nutritional bioactivity of the full spectrum vitamin and mineral content. Activite Sport also provides an infusion of †�activated' vitamins (including Vitamin C mineral ascorbates, B co-enzymes and natural E), amino acid chelated minerals, and a high ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) muscle recovery and antioxidant blend—all in a purported time-release mechanism. The high level ORAC is partly due to pomegranate, grape skin and bilberry with standardized green tea as well as the inclusion of alpha lipoic acid—an impressive list of free radical fighters. Activite Sport—potent, effective and customer approved—exactly what we'd expect from MHP.

Ready-To-Drink

Muscle Milk: Popular, high quality nutritional drink Muscle Milk more than makes the grade when it comes to providing great taste—as legions of customers will attest. Of course, it's not the only quality Muscle Milk's RTD brings to the table. Along with its delicious flavor, Muscle Milk provides high-grade nutrition with its EvoPro Protein Complex (containing micellar alpha and beta caseins and caseinates, whey concentrates rich in alpha-lactalbumin, whey peptides, L-glutamine and taurine), and a vitamin and mineral blend that covers vitamins A, C, D, E and all the essential B vitamins, along with 200 mg calcium, iron, phosphorous, iodine, 100 mg magnesium, 30 mg zinc, copper, 120 mcg chromium, sodium and potassium. This popular ready-to-drink is additionally fortified with healthy fats, among them canola oil, sunflower oil and polyunsaturated longchain vegetable oils, which have been shown through scientific study to provide antioxidant protection as well as support muscle recovery and enhance energy. Rounding out the list is an amino acid blend (L-leucine, glutamine and BCAAs) plus phyto-nutrients including green tea and grape seed extract with a digestive enzyme blend. A comprehensive and anabolic formulation with great taste too, Muscle Milk RTD provides high quality in all aspects. *Actual Shipping Charges Apply.

Lean Body: High quality/protein RTD with BCAAs In the ready-to-drink category, taste counts for a lot, but its crucial to have premium high-grade nutrition behind it. Labrada founder and former bodybuilder Lee Labrada took both points to task when creating this award winning high-protein RTD. For starters, the ultra-fi ltered milk protein isolate in Lean Body yields high amounts of important muscle building protein peptides, BCAAs, glutamine peptides and casein peptides. Add to this a 40 gram blend of whey concentrate and calcium caseinate protein with a moderate 9 grams of carbohydrates, 8 grams of fi ber, 9 grams of fat (primarily from healthy MCT, borage and fl ax oil), completely lactose and sugar free and you have a solid foundation for meal replacement. Furthermore, while many RTD protein shakes are cooked at high temperatures for prolonged periods during processing, Lean Body is fl ash pasteurized for mere seconds, resulting in a higher quality, undenatured protein. *Actual Shipping Charges Apply.

Herbs/Specialty

DopaTech-HGH: Optimum potency standardized L-Dopa Long a best seller in the specialty supplement category, DopaTech HGH has built a sizeable fan base over the years. Of course, athletes' keen interest in growth hormone (GH) production should come as no surprise. Human Growth Hormone or HGH (also known as somatropin) is produced by the pituitary gland and is essential for growth and regeneration of cells and tissues. Bodily production of HGH is very high during childhood and adolescence, but drops off considerably in the decades thereafter. The amount of published science devoted to the field of GH production is quite considerable. Currently, perhaps the most promising fields of this endeavor involves the powerful neurotransmitter, L-Dopa. In fact, in a major clinical study, a 500 mg dose of L-Dopa dramatically increased growth hormone levels from 1 nanogram to a remarkable 21 nanograms in just 90 minutes. An increase of this magnitude is truly extraordinary and this study serves as a compelling testament to the amazing power of this neurotransmitter. Of the several products on the market in this category, each 500 mg capsule of DopaTech-HGH delivers the highestquality and most potent extract of the vaunted Mucuna pruriens, standardized for 15% L-Dopa. DopaTech is a highly pure product that delivers the most potent GH secretagogue compound available at a maximum strength potency for truly meaningful effectiveness. As a result, this blockbuster best-seller continues as the optimum choice for anyone interested in peak performance and vitality.

Secretagogue Gold: The †�Gold†� standard in GH support This time-tested GH support innovation has gained a loyal following of users over the years, which is the mark of a truly effective product. Contrary to what some younger guys might think, Secretagogue Gold is not only for the older crowd, because starting at age 25 (or even younger), growth hormone can begin its gradual decline in the body. This well-established †�bio-reality†� should make it clear how very important GH support is for optimum performance at almost any adult age. Based on Dr. Vincent Giampapa's research on hormone replacement therapy, the Gold starts with a proprietary matrix of pituitary support compounds (including amino acids glycine, tyrosine, arginine, and glutamine, plus GABA and, of course, the gold standard L-Dopa). Then it adds co-factors that help promote the suppression of somatostatin, a growth hormone antagonist. In addition, Secretagogue Gold includes choline and milk thistle for liver support, ALA and chromium for glycation regulation and a glucose polymer nutrient delivery system. This is a long-time, top-notch product from MHP.