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Are All Pre-Workout Supplements The Same?
The truth is simple but harsh. If you’re not attacking your workout with absolute maximum intensity, working to failure and keeping intervals between sets as short as possible, you’re wasting your time.You only have forty-five minutes to an hour (at most) to achieve the maxed-out work output required to savagely breakdown muscle tissue so that those fibers can be repaired and regrown bigger and stronger to survive what your body perceives as an incredibly difficult environment.If you’re spending the first ten minutes “getting up to speed” or the middle ten catching your breath, you might as well be sitting in the smoothie bar or shopping for gym shorts in the concession. This is why so many workout warriors looking to add significant muscle mass supplement with a pre-workout performance-optimizing formula. This is why there are also so MANY pre-workout formulas to choose from.Which brings us to the meat of the matter. Are all of these various pre-workout formulas essentially interchangeable? Do they have the same ingredients in varying amounts? Are they the same? Or are there products (or even one product) that represent a dramatic break from the same old thing? Let's take a look.A Brief History of Pre-Workout FormulasBelieve it or not, pre-workout formulations are a fairly recent development in the sports nutrition world. Ten years ago, performance optimization meant a cup of coffee before your workout or maybe, if you were being fancy, a caffeine pill. Workouts themselves could often be lengthy, unstructured affairs that found gymrats wandering the gym floor for up to two hours getting nowhere very slowly.That's all gone now. The swiftly growing canon of exercise research has revealed that short, sharp, high-intensity, high-volume workouts are the key to significant muscle growth. For athletes, it was time to pick up the pace and shock muscle tissue into new growth. Not coincidentally, a new form of sports nutrition supplementation began to appear at this same time.The first pre-workout formulas were a small step up from that 80s-era cup of joe. They contained plenty of raw caffeine (up to 300 mg) or other stimulant compounds; they contained some kind of muscle pump facilitator, often arginine alpha ketoglutarate, meant to dilate blood vessels, providing enhanced nutrition delivery and a good veiny bulge. Creatine monohydrate was a common ingredient as well. Creatine, of course, provides little rapid-onset benefit for athletes, but taken over the long term is an invaluable tool for muscle strength increase.Over time, new ingredients made an appearance. Beta alanine was included for endurance support. BCAAs were provided to spur protein synthesis and muscle recovery. Electrolytes helped with hydration. Some formulas incorporated ingredients for hormonal support such as Mucuna pruriens extract or Rhodiola rosea. Pre-workout science was advancing!The Same Old Same Old: Still Your Dad's WorkoutUntil it stopped in its tracks. Amazingly, little has changed in the pre-workout category in the ensuing ten years. Pre-workout formulas themselves are common sights in gyms everywhere; it seems everyone has one in their workout bag these days. Manufacturers, enjoying record-breaking sales from their existing products, have had little incentive to invest in the research and product development that would advance the power and productivity of their products.To illustrate this state of affairs, one need only look at one of the category's well-entrenched best sellers. We won't name names here, but think in terms of a pairing of one letter of the alphabet with one number.This perennial favorite among gym-goers contains plenty of caffeine, some arginine-AKG, a negligible amount of creatine (one gram), and an undisclosed amount of Mucuna pruriens extract. That's it. Later variations of the formula contain some combinations of common fat-loss co-factors (which may or may not be a goal of yours, but is far afield from performance optimization).The Dawn of a New Science of Pre-Workout Performance OptimizationWhile most manufacturers were content to give the customer what he or she presumably wanted, while keeping research and production costs low, a select few began to explore new avenues of performance maximization and physique enhancement. New areas of investigation involving energy output, muscle cell hydration, and endurance support were beckoning and they heard the siren's call.One such manufacturer was CellDyne. Their new pre-workout technology VyoCore is designed to support the widest array of physiological factors of crucial import for competitive athletes -- including endurance, power, strength, recovery, hydration, energy and focus. And it does so by incorporating the latest cutting-edge science in the fields of sports nutrition and performance enhancement. Most existing pre-workout supplements actually do little or nothing to support strength other than provide a small amount of creatine monohydrate. VyoCore, in sharp contrast, is powered by a patented form of adenosine 5*-triphosphate disodium called Peak ATP®, identical to actual human ATP, that has been linked in clinical studies to a whole host of performance and physique benefits.Naturally synthesized ATP is broken down in the cell, unleashing energy to transport protein and fats into and out of cells, support intercellular communication, and trigger muscular contraction. Unfortunately, your body keeps little of this key energy facilitator in reserve and its availability in the cell declines precipitously during high-intensity exercise. Research devoted to increasing ATP availability outside the cell via precisely timed dosing of ATP before workouts led to the creation of Peak ATP®.The potential for strength increase provided by Peak ATP® has been phenomenal. In a landmark double-blind, placebo-controlled study conducted by researchers at the University of Tampa, test subjects who supplemented with Peak ATP® experienced an average of 147% increase in strength compared to placebo (55.3 kg vs. 22.4 kg), as well as a 30% increase in power (796 vs. 614 watts), a 100% increase in lean body mass (4.0 kg vs. 2.1 kg), and a 96% increase in muscle thickness (4.9 mm vs. 2.5 mm). The researchers speculated that supplemental ATP may provide cumulative benefits in strenuous, repetitive, and exhaustive exercise activities, which could lead to improved strength and lean body mass gains (1 Wilson). VyoCore also addresses endurance with a key active ingredient that supports carnosine levels in muscle tissue. Carnosine availability is a prerequisite for postponement of the onset of fatigue, muscle "burn" under stress, and loss of strength. In a recent clinical study, this carnosine-supporting mechanism has resulted in 80% increases in muscle carnosine over a ten-week period and more than a 16% increase in physical work capacity. Test subjects supplementing with this compound have experienced improved muscle endurance, decreased acidosis, and better performance in high-intensity interval training (2 Baguet).Muscle cell hydration is another key performance factor for athletes. Once hydration collapses within the cell, dehydration, stress, and metabolite accumulation swiftly and negatively impact performance. While most pre-workout formulations address this issue with some generic trace amounts of electrolytes, VyoCore contains an advanced osmolytic agent that helps support cell hydration and volume during intense exercise. In a published College of New Jersey study, athletes supplementing with this agent experienced an increase of 30% in squat repetitions after 7 days of supplementation and 60% after 14 days, as well as significant increases in the quality of repetitions performed. Even the caffeine in VyoCore represents a scientific advance. VyoCore contains a 90% pure organic caffeine derived from green coffee beans and designed to deliver a clean, powerful boost in energy, mental alertness and performance. This compound is non-GMO-sourced and provided in a precision-targeted 225 mg dose intended to provide maximized benefit without over-stimulation. VyoCore then further supports the mind-muscle connection with advanced co-factors that facilitate neurotransmitters in the brain linked to cognitive function and stress relief.Finally, it should be pointed out that VyoCore is guaranteed to be absolutely 100% free of banned or illegal substances, a matter of great importance to competitive athletes.ConclusionThe advent of the era of pre-workout supplementation has been a boon to athletes everywhere seeking to attain maximum performance capacity and the physique enhancement that comes with it. For far too long, however, the actual products that make up this category have failed to live up to those athletes' high standards. By dramatically advancing the parameters of pre-workout science, VyoCore has established itself as the serious athlete's #1 choice for expanding performance potential and training output. Scientific References1 Wilson JM, et al. Effects of oral adenosine-5’-triphosphate supplementation on athletic performance, skeletal muscle hypertrophy and recovery in resistance-trained men. Nutrition and Metabolism. 2013, 10:57. 2 Baguet A. et al., 2009. Carnosine loading and washout in human skeletal muscles. J Appl Physiol, 106: 837-842. And Harris RC, et al., 2006. The absorption of orally supplied beta-alanine and its effect on muscle carnosine synthesis in human vastus lateralis. Amino Acids, 30(3): 279-289. Use as directed with a sensible nutrition and exercise program. Read and follow all product label instructions and warnings thoroughly before use. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.The articles featured herein are for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Specific medical advice should only be obtained from a licensed health care professional. No liability is assumed by ProSource for any information herein.
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New Science Supports Physique, Performance and Health Benefits From Whey Protein
We could talk all day about the benefits of protein intake from whole food sources and supplementation. (And believe us, here at ProSource HQ, that's basically what we do.)High-quality protein, obviously, increases muscle mass and strength. It's literally the building block of muscle cells. It will help you burn fat and get lean. Protein has a higher thermic effect than fats or carbs (that is, it requires more energy to digest) and can also reduce food cravings between meals and late at night.Protein will help your body repair itself after injury, which is why hospitals prioritize protein formulas for patients in extended-stay scenarios. It can actually mitigate cardiovascular disease risk (more on this in a bit) and support healthy bone mass. Most importantly, enhanced protein ingestion is a key to a long, healthy life. Scientists are recognizing that one of the key markers of early-onset aging and disease is a loss of muscle mass and strength (also known as sarcopenia). We all lose some muscle as we age, but advanced rates of sarcopenia are the main cause of frailty, bone fractures, reduced quality of life, and the diseases associated with these health statuses.Given all we know about protein's benefits, and the thousands upon thousands of clinical studies performed to acquire this knowledge, you would think that scientists have long ago moved on to more arcane subjects of sports nutrition research.You would be wrong. Scientists are still engaged in ongoing research on the many benefits of protein intake, adding to our already copious stores of knowledge of this precious muscle fuel. Here's a science update on the newest studies in the field of protein research.Meta-Analyses of Protein Intake, Muscle Mass/Strength and Cardiovascular HealthWhile we know that protein intake and muscle mass/strength increases are inextricably linked, systemic reviews of large numbers of relevant studies can put the extent of the value of protein intake into sharp relief. In a systematic review and meta-analysis published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine in 2107, researchers considered the effect of protein supplementation on resistance training-induced gains in muscle mass and strength in healthy adults, derived from 49 recent studies with 1863 participants. They found that dietary protein supplementation significantly enhanced changes in muscle strength and size during prolonged resistance exercise training in healthy adults. Specifically, dietary protein supplementation significantly increased changes in strength in one-repetition-maximum capacity, fat-free mass composition and muscle size/muscle fibre cross-sectional area (1 Robert W Morton, et al). We don't normally associate protein ingestion with heart health, but researchers have long been aware of a connection. In fact, a systematic review of over 40 published clinical studies indicated that increased protein intake lowered systolic blood pressure (the top number of a reading) by 1.76 mm Hg on average and diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number of a reading) by 1.15 mm Hg (2 Wieke Altorf-van der Kuil, et al). Adding to this accumulated evidence, a systemic review and meta-analysis published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition in 2018 found that whey protein supplementation not only improved body composition in overweight patients, it reduced cardiovascular risk as well. The review was conducted on randomized control trials comparing whey protein supplementation to placebo or controls where both changes in body composition and changes in cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors as secondary outcomes were recorded. In the nine research trials included in the meta-analysis, there was a significant reduction of body weight, lean mass, and fat mass favoring the whey protein group. There were also improvements in multiple CVD risk factors including levels of systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, glucose, high-density lipoprotein, and total cholesterol (3 Kamonkiat Wirunsawanya, et al).Whey Protein, Exercise Performance and RecoveryIn a 2017 study published in the journal Nutrients, researchers investigated whether whey protein ingestion enhances whole body net protein balance and recovery of exercise performance during overnight (10 hours) and 24-hour recovery after whole body resistance exercise in trained men. In a double-blind placebo-controlled crossover fashion, participants performed a strenuous bout of whole body resistance exercise in the evening prior to consuming one serving of 25g of whey protein or an energy-matched placebo. They also ingested a similar shake in the morning after exercise.The researchers found that consumption of 25g of whey protein after an evening bout of resistance exercise tended to improve whole body net protein balance over 10 hours of overnight recovery compared to isocaloric carbohydrate supplementation (the control group). Consuming an additional 25g of whey protein in the morning after exercise contributed to the maintenance of a greater whole body protein balance over the 24-hour recovery period. Whey protein supplementation was also associated with enhanced recovery exercise performance after an intense bout of resistance exercise. They concluded that resistance-trained individuals benefit from protein supplementation after an evening bout of resistance exercise as well as the following morning to attenuate overnight fasted-state protein losses and enhance exercise performance recovery (4 Daniel W. D. West, et al).Whey protein offers benefits for weight-training athletes, but can it help endurance athletes? One recent study suggests it can. In a 2017 study published in the International Journal of Medical Sciences, researchers conducted a randomized, double-blind study to compare the effects of consuming whey protein vs. maltodextrin (a placebo) with regard to the exercise performance of male track team athletes. To measure endurance, several clinical biochemical parameters were considered biomarkers for evaluating physiological functions or status after exercise. These included measurements of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), with higher levels of each indicating increased physiological fatigue.At the end of the test, the researchers observed that AST, LDH, CK, and BUN were significantly lower in the whey group compared to the placebo group. Whey protein supplementation demonstrated functional activities in terms of physiological protection and recovery promotion. As to the body composition, whey protein supplementation significantly increased the weight compared to the placebo, via elevating the muscle mass. Thus, it was determined that whey protein supplementation can ameliorate exercise fatigue and promote recovery (5 Wen-Ching Huang, et al). Whey protein supplementation has also been shown to support the recovery of older adults who have experienced extended periods of immobility (such as after surgery or recovery from illness). In a clinical study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2018, researchers aimed to determine if protein supplementation, with proteins of substantially different quality, would alleviate the loss of lean mass by augmenting muscle protein synthesis (MPS) while inactive during a hypoenergetic state. Men and women between the ages of 65 and 80 were subjected to a two-week simulated hospital stay or bout of inactivity and also given either a whey protein formula or a collagen protein shake. When activity returned to normal during the one-week recovery period, muscle protein synthesis and muscle rebuilding was significantly greater in the group consuming whey protein. The collagen group did not see any improvements (6 Sara Y Oikawa). Combining Amino Acid Supplements With Whey Protein ShakesOne question we get asked a lot here at ProSource is, "Why do I need a BCAA product if there are already plenty of aminos in the whey protein shake I drink?" A clinical study published this year (2020) in the Journal of the International Society Of Nutrition sought to answer that question. In the study, test subjects were supplemented with either a combination of an essential amino acid supplement and whey protein formula or whey protein alone.Whole-body rates of protein synthesis, breakdown and net balance, as well as muscle protein fractional synthetic rate (FSR) were measured post-supplementation. Plasma EAA levels increased following consumption of each beverage, with the greatest response in the high-dose EAA/protein combination. Similarly, the increase in net balance between whole-body protein synthesis and breakdown was greatest following consumption of the high-dose EAA/protein combination, compared to whey alone. Indeed, the researchers concluded that there may be an interactive effect between free EAA and whey protein that makes their combination highly anabolic in a dose dependent manner that exceeds the anabolic response to a whey-protein based supplement alone by approximately 3- and 6-fold for the low- and high-doses of free EAA/protein, respectively, when evaluated on a gram-to-gram basis (7 Sanghee Park).Clearly, daily supplementation with a whey protein shake is well-indicated for support of strength and muscle mass increase. But combining that whey protein with an essential amino acid supplement may offer proportionally greater benefits. On this subject, more investigation is needed.ConclusionEvery day, in laboratories around the world, scientists are adding to our stores of knowledge regarding every aspect of sports nutrition and physique/performance enhancement. Here at ProSource, we follow these new developments with great interest and dedication as we strive to incorporate the latest and most innovative science into our respected line of sports supplements. We take pride in being your #1 source for sports science news and information.1 Robert W Morton, Kevin T Murphy, Sean R McKellar, Brad J Schoenfeld, Menno Henselmans, Eric Helms, Alan A Aragon, Michaela C Devries, Laura Banfield, James W Krieger, Stuart M Phillips. A systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression of the effect of protein supplementation on resistance training-induced gains in muscle mass and strength in healthy adults. Brit Journal Sports Med, Vol 52, Issue 62 Wieke Altorf-van der Kuil, Mariëlle F Engberink, Elizabeth J Brink, Marleen A van Baak, Stephan J L Bakker, Gerjan Navis, Pieter van 't Veer, Johanna M Geleijnse. Dietary protein and blood pressure: a systematic review. PLoS One. 2010 Aug 11;5(8):e12102. 3 Kamonkiat Wirunsawanya, Sikarin Upala, Veeravich Jaruvangvanich and Anawin Sanguankeo. Whey Protein Supplementation Improves Body Composition and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Overweight and Obese Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of the American College of Nutrition, Vol 37 2018, Issue pp. 60-70.4 Daniel W. D. West, Sidney Abou Sawan, Michael Mazzulla, Eric Williamson, and Daniel R. Moore. Whey Protein Supplementation Enhances Whole Body Protein Metabolism and Performance Recovery after Resistance Exercise: A Double-Blind Crossover Study. Nutrients. 2017 Jul; 9(7): 735. 5 Wen-Ching Huang, Yung-Cheng Chang, Yi-Ming Chen, Yi-Ju Hsu, Chi-Chang Huang, Nai-Wen Kan, and Sheng-Shih Chen. Whey Protein Improves Marathon-Induced Injury and Exercise Performance in Elite Track Runners. Int J Med Sci. 2017; 14(7): 648–654. 6 Sara Y Oikawa, Chris McGlory, Lisa K D'Souza, Adrienne K Morgan, Nelson I Saddler, Steven K Baker, Gianni Parise, Stuart M Phillips. A randomized controlled trial of the impact of protein supplementation on leg lean mass and integrated muscle protein synthesis during inactivity and energy restriction in older persons. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Volume 108, Issue 5, November 2018, Pages 1060–1068.7 Sanghee Park, David D. Church, Gohar Ahar, Scott E. Schutzler, Amy a. Ferrando, Robert R. Wolfe. Anabolic response to essential amino acid plus whey protein composition is greater than whey protein alone in young healthy adults. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. Vol 17, Article 9, 10 Feb 2020.Use as directed with a sensible nutrition and exercise program. Read and follow all product label instructions and warnings thoroughly before use. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.The articles featured herein are for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Specific medical advice should only be obtained from a licensed health care professional. No liability is assumed by ProSource for any information herein.
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Super-Nutrient CoQ10 and Cardiovascular Health
For years, Coenzyme Q10 has been a popular supplement for serious fitness enthusiasts looking to support overall wellness and defend against the common symptoms of aging. Researchers have long been aware of its numerous benefits, and medical doctors have begun suggesting Coenzyme Q10 supplementation to their patients, particularly those that are taking cholesterol-modulating statins (for reasons we'll get into later).Coenzyme Q10 (or CoQ10) is a crucial enzyme found in every cell of the human body, where it plays a critical role in the most basic and important of intracellular processes -- it helps cells produce energy in the form of ATP. CoQ10 also has potent antioxidant properties and may provide support for cognitive function and general energy levels.In many cases, especially among young people, your body produces most of the CoQ10 it needs. CoQ10 can also be found in small amounts in meat, fish and whole grains. However, after the age of 30, your natural levels of CoQ10 begin to decline. After the age of 50, that rate of decline grows even steeper. Highly active people and those with cardiovascular issues may feel the impact of lowered CoQ10 levels earlier, while the age of 50, not coincidentally, is when most people really begin to feel the effects of age.The connection is clear. Coenzyme Q10 (and its attendant ATP) is literally the energy circuit of every cell in your body, including muscle tissue. Every bicep contraction owes its existence to the presence of ATP-generating CoQ10. Think of your heart: it beats more than 100,000 times per day. CoQ10 also acts as an antioxidant, scavenging free radicals generally and specifically preventing the initiation or propagation of lipid peroxidation in cell membranes, providing key cellular defense against oxidative damage. Antioxidant and Cognitive Benefits Excessive free radical damage caused by oxidative stress can cause mitochondrial dysfunction and impair physical performance. In a randomized, double-blind, cross-over trial published in the journal Muscle Nerve, 30 patients with mitochondrial cytopathy received 1200 mg/day CoQ10 for 60 days while submitting to bouts of cycling exercise. CoQ10 treatment was found to attenuate the rise in lactate after cycle ergometry and resulted in measurable effects on cycle exercise aerobic capacity and post-exercise lactate levels. (1 Elisa I Glover)CoQ10 has also been linked to support of cognitive function and focus. The brain is particularly susceptible to oxidative damage due to its high fatty acid content and prodigious demand for oxygen. Obviously, elevated cell damage in the brain can effect memory, cognition, focus, and even physical functions. As a protector of cell membrane integrity, CoQ10 may help to mitigate these effects. CoQ10 has even been shown to help reduce the frequency of migraine headaches, for what researchers believe is the same reason. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial published in the journal Neurology, researchers supplemented subjects with either CoQ10 or placebo and found that the CoQ10 subjects responded by experiencing lesser attack-frequency, and fewer headache days and days with nausea. (2 P S Sándor) The brain isn't the only organ particularly dependent on CoQ10 levels in the cell. More and more research is emerging to suggest that CoQ10 functions as a crucial lifeline for the heart.Heart Health and CoQ10 SupplementationWe mentioned earlier that some doctors are suggesting that patients medicating with statins to reduce blood cholesterol levels should consider CoQ10 supplementation as well. There is scientific validation for this approach.Although statin therapy can significantly reduce heart attack and stroke risk, up to 25% of patients quit treatment within six months due to side effects such as muscle aches and weakness. In a randomized clinical study published in Medical Science Monitor, 75% of statin users with muscle symptoms reported reduced pain after taking CoQ10 twice a day for 30 days, versus zero improvement in the placebo group. The researchers concluded that combining statin therapy with CoQ10 supplements could lead to higher compliance with treatment. (3 Ajda Skarlovnik)In another randomized clinical trial published in the journal Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, patients who received CoQ10 soon after a heart attack had a much lower rate of subsequent cardiac events over the next year than a control group (24.6% vs 45%). (4 Ram B Singh). CoQ10 supplementation may also lower the levels of inflammatory biomarkers shown to be risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as high-sensitivity C-reactive protein.Finally, CoQ10 supplementation may help people improve cardiovascular symptoms and reduce their risk of major cardiovascular events. In a published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 420 subjects were randomly assigned to a 2-year prospective trial with either CoQ10 (100 mg 3 times daily) or placebo. Long-term CoQ10 treatment of patients with chronic heart failure was determined to improve symptoms and reduce major adverse cardiovascular events. (5 Svend A Mortensen)Benefits of CoQ10 SupplementationClearly, much more research needs to be done to further validate the beneficial effects of CoQ10 supplementation, particularly with regard to heart health. But just in terms of energy production, antioxidant protection, and general anti-aging effects, CoQ10 supplementation shows great potential for positive outcomes.If you are considering adding CoQ10 to your supplementation regimen, recognize that CoQ10 is a fat-soluble nutrient and is best absorbed when taken with food. As always, the highest-quality formulations of this enzyme, processed to ensure maximum potency and benefits, are your best bet, so seek out a reputable supplement manufacturer.Scientific References1 Elisa I Glover, Joan Martin, Amy Maher, Rebecca E Thornhill, Gerald R Moran, Mark A Tarnopolsky. A randomized trial of coenzyme Q10 in mitochondrial disorders. Muscle Nerve, 2010 Nov;42(5):739-48. 2 P S Sándor, L Di Clemente, G Coppola, U Saenger, A Fumal, D Magis, L Seidel, R M Agosti, J Schoenen. Efficacy of coenzyme Q10 in migraine prophylaxis: a randomized controlled trial. Neurology, 2005 Feb 22;64(4):713-5. 3 Ajda Skarlovnik, Miodrag Janić, Mojca Lunder, Martina Turk, Mišo ŠabovičA. Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation Decreases Statin-Related Mild-to-Moderate Muscle Symptoms: A Randomized Clinical Study. Med Sci Monit. 2014; 20: 2183–2188. 4 Ram B Singh, Narankar Singh Neki, Kumar Kartikey, Daniel Pella, Adarsh Kumar, Mohammad Arif Niaz, Amar Singh Thakur. Effect of coenzyme Q10 on risk of atherosclerosis in patients with recent myocardial infarction. Mol Cell Biochem, 2003 Apr;246(1-2):75-82. 5 Svend A Mortensen, Franklin Rosenfeldt, Adarsh Kumar, Peter Dolliner, Krzysztof J Filipiak, Daniel Pella, Urban Alehagen, Günter Steurer, Gian P Littarru, Q-SYMBIO Study Investigators. The effect of coenzyme Q10 on morbidity and mortality in chronic heart failure: results from Q-SYMBIO: a randomized double-blind trial. JACC Heart Fail, 2014 Dec;2(6):641-9. Use as directed with a sensible nutrition and exercise program. Read and follow all product label instructions and warnings thoroughly before use. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.The articles featured herein are for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Specific medical advice should only be obtained from a licensed health care professional. No liability is assumed by ProSource for any information herein.
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Surprising Health Benefits of Vitamin D
When we think about super-nutrients, food sources that have multiple benefits for health and well-being, we tend to think of macro-nutrients like protein or specific compounds that have very noticeable physiological effects, like creatine monohydrate. But today, we ask you to consider a humble vitamin, Vitamin D.Vitamin D, of course, has long been associated with support of bone density and strength. Vitamin D facilitates the absorption of calcium and phosphorus into bone mass, building strength and resilience. As such, supplementation with Vitamin D is particularly important for older people, who experience both decreases in bone density as they age and reduced levels of Vitamin D. (In fact, many researchers believe the two factors are related.)This commonly known fact, however, is only the beginning of the story with Vitamin D. This versatile vitamin has been popping up more and more in the science news lately, most specifically in connection with immune response.Before we get to that, though, let's consider the question of what exactly we know about Vitamin D. First of all, Vitamin D, the “sunshine vitamin,” isn’t actually a vitamin at all but a fat-soluble hormone, and the body produces it mostly by synthesizing it out of exposure to sunlight. (It’s also available through diet from a handful of food sources like oily fish, beef liver, egg yolks and some mushrooms).Herein lies a problem. Most of us spend too much time indoors and even when we do venture out, we slather on plenty of sunblock. That’s good for avoiding skin cancer, but bad for a whole host of reasons in addition to just increased risk of bone fractures.Vitamin D: The Versatile VitaminWhile women can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis after menopause by supplementing with Vitamin D, men also have a unique incentive to keep their Vitamin D blood levels within a healthy range. There is a significant amount of research linking low levels of Vitamin D with decreased testosterone levels in men. In fact, in a 2010 study published in the journal Hormone and Metabolic Research, healthy male subjects given 3332 iu of Vitamin D3 for a year ended up having 25.2% higher T-levels when compared to placebo (1 Sinha). That's a significant difference!Deficits in Vitamin D can also lead to early onset of fatigue. In a study published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, Vitamin D supplementation decreased fatigue after exercise in otherwise healthy, young vitamin D deficient subjects. According to this research (2 Pilz), the mechanism by which vitamin D promotes exercise fatigue resistance is through increasing mitochondrial function in skeletal muscle. Mitochondria are the muscle’s energy powerhouse, where an abundance of ATP (energy) is produced. Without sufficient Vitamin D, the mitochondria in muscle fibers cannot adequately generate the energy needed for efficient muscle contraction.Vitamin D deficiency has also been linked to bouts of depression (especially Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD). Researchers speculate that low levels of Vitamin D may affect the activity of the neurotransmitter serotonin. Finally, and most importantly for our purposes here, decreased Vitamin D blood levels appear to be associated with increased incidents of respiratory infections (cold and flu). Indeed, one review of 25 randomized controlled trials involving about 11,300 people suggests that participants who were vitamin D deficient saw a 12 percent reduced risk for respiratory infections after taking a vitamin D supplement (3 Martineau). A study published in The American Journal Of Nutrition provided evidence that a therapeutic dose of Vitamin D resulted in a statistically significant (42%) decrease in the incidence of influenza infection (4 Urashima). Another study, published in the journal Science found that Vitamin D may play an important part in the innate antimicrobial response (5 Liu).Vitamin D, COVID-19 and Immune FunctionOf course, immune function has been uppermost in many of our minds these days, as America and the world finds itself in the grip of a COVID-19 pandemic. Perhaps inevitably, researchers have been moved to reinvestigate and reconsider the links between Vitamin D blood levels and healthy immune response. Early news on this scientific front has proven to be surprising and maybe even encouraging.In a study conducted at Northwestern University, researchers detected a correlation between Vitamin D deficiency and COVID-19 mortality rates. The research team conducted a statistical analysis of data from hospitals and clinics across China, France, Germany, Italy, Iran, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States and found that patients from countries with high COVID-19 mortality rates, such as Italy, Spain and the UK, had lower levels of vitamin D compared to patients in countries that were not as severely affected. Why would this be? The researchers theorize that Vitamin D may strengthen innate immunity and prevent overactive immune responses (or cytokine storms) that can result in hyperinflammatory conditions that severely damage lungs and lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome and death in patients (6 Ali Daneshkhah). This research is very preliminary of course, and much more investigation is required. However, given the fact that Vitamin D insufficiency affects nearly half of the world's population and more than 40% of the US population, adequate support of Vitamin D blood levels would seem to be well indicated.As mentioned earlier, getting a little exposure to sunlight is a great way to get the Vitamin D you need. In fact, as little as 15 minutes per day of direct (i.e. unsunblocked) exposure may be sufficient to provide a benefit. And then of course, there are food sources of Vitamin D.If you're no big fan of oily fish or beef liver, a high-quality Vitamin D supplement will do the trick as well. A couple of 1000-iu softgels daily can provide satisfactory support of Vitamin D levels, and larger doses may be even better for older people. However you accomplish it, keep your levels of Vitamin D, the versatile sunshine vitamin, high for improved health and well-being!Scientific References1 Sinha A, Hollingsworth KG, Ball S, Cheetham T. Improving the vitamin d status of vitamin d deficient adults is associated with improved mitochondrial oxidative function in skeletal muscle. Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2013 Mar;98(3):E509-13. doi: 10.1210/jc.2012-3592. Epub 2013 Feb 7.2 Pilz S, Frisch S, Koertke H, Kuhn J, Dreier J, Obermayer-Pietsch B, Dehr E, Zittermann A3 Dec 10. Effect of vitamin D supplementation on testosterone levels in men. Hormone and Metabolic Research, 09 Dec 2010, 43(3):223-225.3 Adrian R Martineau, et al. Vitamin D supplementation to prevent acute respiratory tract infections: systematic review and meta-analysis of individual participant data. BMJ 2017; 356.4 Urashima M, et al. Randomized trial of vitamin D supplementation to prevent seasonal influenza A in schoolchildren. Am J Clin Nutr. 2010;91(5):1255–60.5 Liu PT, et al. Toll-like receptor triggering of a vitamin D-mediated human antimicrobial response. Science. 2006;311(5768):1770–3.6 Ali Daneshkhah, Vasundhara Agrawal, Adam Eshein, Hariharan Subramanian, Hemant Kumar Roy, Vadim Backman. The Possible Role of Vitamin D in Suppressing Cytokine Storm and Associated Mortality in COVID-19 Patients. medRxiv, Posted April 30, 2020.Use as directed with a sensible nutrition and exercise program. Read and follow all product label instructions and warnings thoroughly before use. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.The articles featured herein are for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Specific medical advice should only be obtained from a licensed health care professional. No liability is assumed by ProSource for any information herein.
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Is Joint Support Supplementation Necessary?
There are a number of nutritional supplements you can take that have swift and verifiable benefits for your workouts and physique. A good energy catalyst or pre-workout supplement will give you a powerful surge of focus and intensity that will positively impact your exercise output right away. Likewise, the relatively rapid onset of muscle cell volumization facilitated by creatine monohydrate supplementation should have a noticeable effect on strength within weeks or even days. A good mass builder, with its potent combination of BCAAs, fast-action whey hydrolysate, creatine, and high-glycemic carbs for post-workout nutrient utilization, will often produce recognizable physique benefits in as little as two weeks of regular supplementation and high-intensity exercise.These supplements are “high-reward” physique and performance tools. As such, they’re common sights in the gym bags and lockers of gymrats everywhere.But what about supplements that offer less immediate gratification? Indeed, what about supplements that offer the promise of a lack of a life-changing event, such as injury or illness? These supplements are much less flashy and sexy than pre- or post-workouts, but they’re also usually staples of the supplement regimens of truly serious athletes. They are often the difference between short-term failure and long-term progress in attaining physique goals.An Ounce of Prevention Is Worth a Pound of CureJoint support supplements are classic “delayed reward” performance tools. Their most obvious benefit — outside of the possibility of less perceived joint pain after workouts — is the reduced risk of a sudden debilitating injury or long-term chronic discomfort. And that’s important, because a devastating joint injury can set back your workout regimen and pursuit of physique goals for weeks, months, or even years. The most serious injuries can cause a permanent diminishment of function.Unfortunately, the first sign of joint deterioration is often a catastrophic tear or separation. Tendons, ligaments, and joints are narrow bands of dense, fibrous tissue that receive little actual blood flow and, when deprived of adequate nutrition, can grow increasingly brittle, rigid, and fragile. Faced with an injury, surgery is always an option, but protecting those crucial connections in advance with targeted nutrition is by far the wisest option.The Basics of of Joint Support SupplementationFor years, typical joint support supplements contained some combination of the co-factors glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate, and little else. And there’s nothing wrong with that because these two nutrients have a long history of providing support for healthy joints.Glucosamine is an amino monosaccharide that has been shown to inhibit collagen degeneration as well as inflammatory processes that exacerbate cartilage damage. Joint stress results in cartilage metabolism, which entails the breakdown and rebuilding of type II collagen. When cartilage breakdown exceeds rebuilding, individuals become susceptible to joint pain and the integrity of the cartilage is threatened. Research has shown that daily intake of glucosamine may facilitate decreases in type II collagen degradation while maintaining collagen synthesis (1 Yoshimura). Chondroitin sulfate, on the other hand, is a glycosaminoglycan that helps to retain water in cartilage, which aids in pressure resistance, especially during exercise. Chondroitin sulfate has also been shown to increase hyaluronic acid in joint synovial fluid, increasing the viscosity of that fluid, while also helping to minimize the breakdown of collagen (2 Vidyasagar). Research has also shown that chondroitin sulfate may promote collagen and proteoglycan production by stimulating chondrocyte metabolism. Thus, chondroitin sulfate induces cell proliferation, providing anabolic stimulation to cartilage while also inhibiting cartilage destruction (3 Ronca).Of course, the progress of nutrition science never ceases, and newer, more advanced technologies of joint support have appeared since the heyday of glucosamine and chondroitin. These state-of-the-art co-factors have been embraced by a select few supplement manufacturers with a commitment to sports science research and development. One such manufacturer is ProSource and our commitment is reflected in the super-comprehensive wide-spectrum connective-tissue nutritional complex Extra Strength Joint Command.A Synergy of Advanced Joint Support CompoundsUnlike one-dimensional generic joint-support products, Extra Strength Joint Command offers a multi-pathway approach to total connective tissue nutrition. For instance, it contains a novel, patented form of hyaluronic acid called HyaMax™. Hyaluronic acid is a non-sulfated glycosaminoglycan that makes up connective tissue like cartilage and is a major component of synovial fluid that lubricates the joints. Research has demonstrated the highly effective therapeutic effect of hyaluronic acid on individuals, successfully restoring synovial fluid (lubricating joints) and cartilage rebuilding while providing anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain relief) effects (4 Moskowitz). Hyaluronic acid also stimulates the cells in healthy cartilage to produce components of the extracelluar matrix, improving blood flow and nutrient delivery and further promoting joint health (5 Xu X).Extra Strength Joint Command also contains Meriva®, an advanced phytosome technology that enhances the bioavailability and anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin. Research has demonstrated various attributes of curcumin including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. More specifically, it has been associated with decreases in inflammation and pain while improving joint function with noteworthy tolerability of supplementation (6 Belcaro).Another highly promising joint-support technology incorporated into Extra Strength Joint command is 5-LOXIN, an enriched boswellia serrata extract with enhanced anti-inflammatory properties. Indeed, test subjects supplementing with eight weeks of boswellia serrata extract intake have experienced decreased swelling and reported levels of pain with increased range of motion and walking distance capability. Researchers suggest 5-LOXIN may reduce proinflammatory modulators which aid in controlling and/or minimizing inflammatory responses (7 Kimmatkar). Of course, Extra Strength Joint Command also contains the more common ingredients associated with joint support, but in purer, more potent dosages than you’ll find anywhere else. Joint Command provides pure, stabilized, 98% absorbable glucosamine sulfate (at the clinically researched potency), paired in precise ratio with chondroitin sulfate, plus MSM and UC Type II collagen, compounds linked to anti-inflammatory action, flexibility support, and overall joint health.ConclusionSerious athletes know that big muscles and weak connective tissue are a recipe for disaster. Supplementation with validated, precision-target nutrition for support of tendons, ligaments, and joints can keep you injury-free on your pathway to achieving your physique and performance goals.1 Yoshimura M, Sakamoto K, Tsuruta A, Yamamoto T, Ishida K, Yamaguchi H, Nagaoka I. Evaluation of the effect of glucosamine administration on biomarkers for cartilage and bone metabolism in soccer players. Int J Mol Med. 2009. 24(4):487-94. 2 Vidyasagar S, Mukhyaprana P, Shashikiran U, Sachidananda A, Rao S, Bairy L, Adiga S, Jayaprakash B. Efficacy and tolerability of glucosamine chondroitin sulphate-methyl sulfonyl methane (MSM) in osteoarthritis of knee in Indian patients. Iranian Journal of Pharmacology & Therapeutics. 2004. 3:61-65. 3 Ronca F, Palmieri L, Panicucci P, Ronca G. (1998). Anti-inflammatory activity of chondroitin sulfate. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 6(Suppl A):14-21.4 Moskowitz RW. (2000). Hyaluronic acid supplementation. Curr Rheumatol Rep. 2(6):466-71. 5 Xu X, Jha AK, Harrington DA, Farach-Carson MC, Jia X. (2012). Hyaluronic acid-based hydrogels: from a natural polysaccharide to complex networks. Soft Matter. 8(12):3280-3294. 6 Belcaro G1, Cesarone MR, Dugall M, Pellegrini L, Ledda A, Grossi MG, Togni S, Appendino G. Efficacy and safety of Meriva®, a curcumin-phosphatidylcholine complex, during extended administration in osteoarthritis patients. Altern Med Rev. 2010 Dec;15(4):337-44.7 Kimmatkar N, Thawani V, Hingorani L, Khiyani R. (2003). Efficacy and tolerability of Boswellia serrata extract in treatment of osteoarthritis of knee—a randomized double blind placebo controlled trial. Phytomedicine. 10(1):3-7. Use as directed with a sensible nutrition and exercise program. Read and follow all product label instructions and warnings thoroughly before use. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.The articles featured herein are for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Specific medical advice should only be obtained from a licensed health care professional. No liability is assumed by ProSource for any information herein.
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How a Well-Balanced Life And Diet Can Help You Defend Against Disease
“Moderation in all things” is said to be the secret to health and happiness. While we’ve long been in favor of going up to and beyond your limits when it comes to training, we can certainly see the value of moderation — or balance — when it comes to lifestyle and nutrition, especially in these difficult times.Why? Because modern science tells us that robust health, supported by an active lifestyle and varied, high-quality nutrition, supports natural immunity, which is your best defense against disease. In this way, vibrant health is a self-reinforcing virtuous cycle. Good health begets better health.Unfortunately for many of us, our first instinctive response to an emergency like a pandemic is to veer directly off the high road of moderate balance and into the ditch of extremes. Some of these responses, unfortunately, are thrust upon us. We simply can't go everywhere we would like to go. The things that make us interesting, vital people -- travel, school, restaurants, gyms -- are closed to us.So we may be tempted to hole up, as it were. We're inside more and the TV is always on. The gym is closed, so our exercise regimen suffers and we become suddenly sedentary. Food, especially fresh nutritious food, may be in shorter supply and require more effort to acquire. So we stock up on snacks and microwaveable junk because it's easier. This is the path to reduced immunity and increased vulnerability to the very contagion we're holing up and hiding from. We are literally inviting it in the front door.Does it have to be this way? Of course not. What's needed is a little creativity, a little due diligence, and the recognition that good health is its own best reward. Let's take a look at some of the life-affirming measures we can all be taking to shore up our immunity and cope with these uncommon times.Stay Physically ActiveYes, we know, your gym is closed. Believe it or not, our ancestors didn't have access to 24/7 gyms with towel service and smoothie bars, and they still managed to stay in pretty decent shape. There are so many ways to get your heart rate elevated, build up a sweat, and increase muscle mass in even the most confined spaces. In the 60s, the fitness pioneer Jack LaLanne had a popular morning TV show in which he led millions of people onto the road of wellness with little more than a floor mat in what looked like a living room. Push-ups, pull-ups, planks, dips, crunches, leg lifts, and yoga all require no equipment at all, and a small investment in resistance bands and kettlebells will expand the possibilities even more. Type "exercise routine indoors" into your web browser and you'll find literally thousands of options.And then, too, never under-estimate the value of getting outside and going for a walk or a run. In rural areas the great outdoors is pretty great and easily accessible while maintaining social distance. In cities and other urban areas, most parks are open once again as well. Getting outside will do wonders for your peace of mind and the Vitamin D your body synthesizes when exposed to sunlight will help support immunity, bone density, and strength.Eat Fresh Foods in VarietyAdequate and appropriate nutrition is required for all cells to function optimally and this includes the cells in the immune system. Many micronutrients have very specific roles in the development and maintenance of immune function and in reducing chronic inflammation. Vitamin A and zinc, for instance, help regulate cell division essential to successful proliferative response within the immune system. Vitamin C helps support the production of white blood cells (lymphocytes and phagocytes) which protect against infection, and plays a role in helping reduce the effects of colds and flu. Numerous minerals and enzymes provide important antioxidant support for cell membranes.So clearly, sitting in the dark, eating half a family-size bag of snack chips is no way to go through life. Since we're all feeling the absence of one or more hobbies, whether it's travel or racquetball or just going to a concert, here's one you can add to your repertoire: home cooking. Before the implementation of stay-at-home guidelines, we all lamented that we didn't have time to cook. Now we do. So go back to the internet, look up healthy recipes, and then go shopping. (Bring your mask!) Cooking your own meal, whether its for family or just for yourself, offers a surprising sense of satisfaction and it's a terrific way to incorporate high-quality proteins, fruits, vegetables and healthy fats into your diet. It's also a highly efficient way of adding natural fiber to your diet (which aids digestion and supports essential gut flora) while decreasing your intake of sugars, salt and saturated fats which are so prevalent in highly processed microwaveable dinners and snack foods. Making your own dinner offers one more benefit: it makes it easier to control portion sizes. Familiarize yourself with proper portion sizes, create a plan day by day, and stick to it.Finally, stay hydrated and try to avoid alcohol. Alcohol consumption doesn't just increase excess body fat and make the next morning disagreeable; it also undermines proper immune function. Supplement For Optimal HealthOne of the problems with a lot of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare foods is that a lot of it just isn't that good for you. We see plenty of people filling their grocery carts with starchy pasta and sugar-laden spaghetti sauces and we think, well, that stuff may be filling, but that's pretty much its only benefit. Don't even get us started on the crackers and frozen French fries and such.There is one category of easy, long-shelf-life foods that is good for you, however, and that's advanced sports nutrition supplements. Based on the latest scientific research and sourced from the highest-quality ingredients, sports nutrition supplements are created specifically to support high-intensity exercise and ideal physique outcomes such as reduced body fat and increased muscle mass. They're also rich in the micronutrients that boost immune function. Better yet, you can get them delivered directly to your door. Supplements are not a replacement for quality whole foods sources of nutrition, but they're an ideal means of filling in the nutritional gaps in your dietary regimen that are all but inevitable when food shopping is increasingly time-consuming and the unavailability of some items is a fact of life right now. So let's take a look at some basic supplement staples that should definitely be on your pantry shelves right now.Protein, Lots of ProteinEven before recent events unfolded, a lot of us simply didn't consume enough protein. If you're making an effort to get in enough daily exercise as we advised, 30% of your nutritional intake should be made up of protein and that should amount to 1.5 grams of protein per kilogram of bodyweight. That's a lot of protein!And it's important! Proteins are the basic building blocks of muscle tissue, tendons, organs and skin; they provide or interact with enzymes, hormones and neurotransmitters to catalyze countless essential physiological functions. During periods of relative inactivity, protein will help you maintain muscle mass and even decrease fat, as proteins require more thermogenic energy to digest and the muscle mass they're supporting uses fat for fuel. By all means, make beef, chicken, fish, and eggs the centerpiece of your diet, as these are indispensable sources of quality protein. But know also, that the biological value (BV) of a high-quality whey isolate supplement is actually higher than that of all those sources. Whey protein isolate and whey protein hydrolysate contain more than 90% protein, virtually no lactose or fat, and are superior in generating increased protein synthesis and muscle recovery response. Whey protein is easy to prepare (just add water or milk and shake), and has a lengthy shelf life as well. It's also perfect for mixing in a blender with fresh fruits and vegetables for a particularly nutrient-dense meal.A Good Wide-Spectrum Vitamin/Mineral SupplementWe've alluded to the numerous micronutrients -- vitamins, minerals, enzymes -- that perform countless functions related to overall health at the cellular level. Potassium supports blood pressure, cardiovascular health, bone strength, and muscle strength, and yet, medical experts have determined that fewer than two percent of people in the U.S. consume enough potassium. Zinc, magnesium, chromium and iron help facilitate key functions of repair, growth, hormonal function, and recovery. Factors like lycopene, quercetin, alpha lipoic acid, boron, calcium and CoQ10, compounds that exist as minute trace elements in foods, support cellular energy and free-radical protective effect. We could go on for thousands of words and just scratch the surface. And the truth is, even if you're consuming five or six well-balanced meals per day, you're highly unlikely to access every single micronutrient you need to function at optimal levels strictly via diet. And then, too, stress leads to conditional bodily shortfalls of numerous trace elements essential to organ health, tissue support, cognition, recovery, and many other physiological processes. Taking a complete wide-spectrum daily multi that contains individual dosages of nutrients in clinically indicated amounts is one of the best possible things you can do to support optimal health and wellness, especially during a health emergency.GlutamineGlutamine is a nonessential amino acid that, nevertheless, is important for supplying nitrogen and carbon to the cells of the body. It has been linked to gastrointestinal health, and helps to combat muscle breakdown after high-intensity exercise by supporting protein synthesis and nitrogen retention. It also supports muscle hydration, which improves endurance. But can it help support your immune system? As a matter of fact, it can. Glutamine provides an important energy source for many cell types including those involved in immune function. It serves as a precursor for nucleotide synthesis, essential for rapidly dividing cells such as immune cells. And levels of glutamine can drop precipitously during illness. During infection, it has been shown in clinical studies that the rate of glutamine consumption by immune cells is equivalent or greater than that for glucose. Glutamine has also been shown to play a key role in the functions of a number of immune cells including neutrophils, macrophages, and lymphocytes (1 Cruzat V). For a non-essential amino, glutamine can make a big difference!Omega-3 Fish OilsThe more we learn about Omega-3 fish oils, the more we come to appreciate their incredible value in terms of health and well-being. The Omega-3 fatty acids EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) have been associated in ongoing study with cardiovascular health, joint mobility and even healthy cholesterol levels. They have been shown to help reduce post-workout muscle soreness and, like other healthy fats, can function as a readily utilized energy source. But what about their effect on immune function? Here, too, the science is encouraging. Research published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology suggests that DHA-rich fish oil may enhance the activity of white blood cells known as B cells, enhancing B cell activation and select antibody production, which in turn supports immune responses associated with pathogen clearance (2 Gurzell). In another study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, researchers concluded that supplementation with high-DHA-fish oil concentrate was associated with enhancement of plasma B cells that stimulate antibody production (3 Guesdon).Vitamin CWe mentioned earlier that Vitamin C has a rich history of reducing and shortening the effects of colds and flu, while supporting white blood cell function. Vitamin C is also necessary for normal glandular function, particularly the adrenal and thyroid, and its powerful antioxidant capacity helps clean up the free radicals and damaging reactive oxygen that flood your system at the cellular level, causing inflammation. Vitamin C has been linked to the strengthening of bones and connective tissue, quicker healing of wounds, and greater elasticity and health of arterial walls. Some studies have shown that taking Vitamin C may modulate stress hormone concentrations, supporting healthy hormonal function.ZMAThese are stressful times and getting proper restful sleep can be a challenge. Without it, every crucial bodily function is undermined, including immune function. If you're having trouble sleeping, you should consider a high-quality ZMA supplement. ZMA, a precise ratio of zinc, magnesium and vitamin B-6, has long been associated with quality sleep. Research suggests that magnesium may help support the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for helping your body feel calm and relaxed, while supplementing with zinc has been linked to improved sleep quality in both human and animal studies.Vitamin D Under normal conditions, our bodies can synthesize sufficient amounts of Vitamin D from exposure to sunlight. But these aren't normal conditions, are they? During times when we're all spending a lot of time inside, vitamin D levels can decline precipitously. It's estimated that during winter months, 40% to 75% of people are Vitamin D deficient. And Vitamin D is not particularly abundant in food sources, though you can acquire some from fish sources or egg yolks. This is unfortunate because, absent sufficient quantities of Vitamin D, the mitochondria in muscle fibers cannot adequately generate the energy needed for efficient muscle contraction, leading to early onset fatigue. Vitamin D also supports uptake of calcium which supports bone density and lack of it correlates with decreases in testosterone production in men. Most importantly for our discussion here, Vitamin D may also support immune function. Indeed, a study published in The American Journal Of Nutrition provided evidence that a therapeutic dose of vitamin D resulted in a statistically significant (42%) decrease in the incidence of influenza infection (4 Urashima). Another study, published in the journal Science found that Vitamin D may play an important part in the innate antimicrobial response (5 Liu PT). Want to stay healthy? Don't allow yourself to become Vitamin D-ficient! Now more than ever, supporting your immune system with proper diet and exercise is crucial! Aspire to a well-blanced lifestyle and be safe out there!Scientific References1 Cruzat V., Macedo Rogero M., Noel Keane K., Curi R., Newsholme P. Glutamine: Metabolism and Immune Function, Supplementation and Clinical Translation. Nutrients. 2018;10:1654. doi: 10.3390/nu10111564.2 Eric A. Gurzell, Heather Teague, Mitchel Harris, Jonathan Clinthorne, Saame Raza Shaikh, Jenifer I. Fenton. DHA‐enriched fish oil targets B cell lipid microdomains and enhances ex vivo and in vivo B cell function. Journal of Leukocyte Biology, Vol. 93, Issue 4, April 2013, pp. 463-470.3 W. Guesdon et. Al. Effects of fish oil concentrates on ex vivo B cell responses of obese subjects upon BCR/TLR stimulation: A pilot study. The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, March 2018, Volume 53, pp 72-80.4 Urashima M, et al. Randomized trial of vitamin D supplementation to prevent seasonal influenza A in schoolchildren. Am J Clin Nutr. 2010;91(5):1255–60. 5 Liu PT, et al. Toll-like receptor triggering of a vitamin D-mediated human antimicrobial response. Science. 2006;311(5768):1770–3.Use as directed with a sensible nutrition and exercise program. Read and follow all product label instructions and warnings thoroughly before use. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.The articles featured herein are for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Specific medical advice should only be obtained from a licensed health care professional. No liability is assumed by ProSource for any information herein.
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Health Science Update: Remarkable Immune Support Properties of Whey Protein
Is there anything whey protein can't do? This most versatile and powerful of nutrients has a complete amino profile especially rich in essential amino acids (EAA) like leucine and more biological value (BV) than whole food sources of protein like beef, chicken or fish. It is prized by fitness-minded people for its easy digestibility and swift uptake into muscle tissue, resulting in a rapid increase in plasma amino acids, which in turn stimulates muscle protein synthesis in response to resistance training. Protein more generally (unlike fats and carbs) contains nitrogen, which the body uses to synthesize various amino acids and facilitate enzymatic processes. Normal growth, cell replacement and tissue repair all require nitrogen for production of new cells. And whey protein's benefits go far behind its obvious and substantial support of muscle-building repair and recovery. It has been associated with numerous additional benefits -- some of them quite surprising -- in published, peer-reviewed clinical studies conducted by researchers worldwide. Increased consumption of whey protein has long been a well-indicated strategy for fat loss, as it suppresses appetite, boosts metabolism, and helps maintain muscle mass that burns fat for fuel. Whey Protein and Enhanced Antioxidant ActivityFree radical damage caused by high-intensity exercise, toxins or infection can decrease the body's ability to fend off disease and recover efficiently. Whey protein has been associated with potent antioxidant activity due to its component amino acids cysteine and methionine. A high concentration of these two aminos, integrated with other antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E, supports intracellular conversion to glutathione (GSH), which plays a key role in the body's antioxidant defense system, protecting cells against free radical damage. Supplementation with whey protein can be an effective means of delivering cysteine and methionine in immune deficiency states. (Vijaylaxmi Grey 1) The glycomacropeptides (GMP) in whey have also shown promise in reducing inflammation caused by anti-oxidative stress. In a recent macro-review of studies related to this area of investigation, published in 2019 in the journal Nutrients, the authors concluded that GMP retains many biological properties and therapeutic effects that may offer beneficial effects for several inflammatory disorders. (Córdova-Dávalos 2) GMP may also enhance immunomodulatory activities by inhibiting immune cell proliferation and lowering indexes of inflammation, and has been shown to exert prebiotic and antibacterial effects from in vitro and in vivo studies. Immune Support and Whey Protein IntakeMedical experts have long known that decreased protein intake is associated with loss of muscle mass during periods of inactivity (such as a hospital stay), slower recovery from illness, and weaker immune function. This is why doctors will often administer protein-enhanced dietary regimens to patients in hospitals, particularly older or immune-compromised patients. (Munk 3) Increased protein intake is also strongly advised for sedentary older people in general, as the decreased muscle mass associated with aging increases both the incidence of falls and the severity of injury subsequent to those falls.But how and why does whey protein support immune response? Clues are beginning to emerge via recent research. In a study published in the Journal of Medical Microbiology, researchers determined that orally administered lactoferrin and lactoperoxidase (two glycoprotein micro-fractions found in whey protein) in influenza-virus-infected mice attenuated pneumonia by suppressing the infiltration of inflammatory cells in the lung. Lactoperoxidase was further shown to reduce body weight loss and reduce the production of a pro-inflammatory cytokine. (Kouichirou Shin 4) Administration of whey protein has also been shown to improve the maturation of immune systems in suckling rats. (Pérez-Cano 5)Administration of alpha-Lactalbumin has also shown promise. In a study with rodents, alpha-lactalbumin improved antibody response to infection, and had a perceived direct effect on B-lymphocyte function, as well as suppressing T cell-dependent and independent responses. (Wong 6) Whey also contains immunoglobulins and is rich in the amino acid glutamine; decreases in either have been shown to compromise a healthy immune system.Seek Immune Support in the Highest-Quality Super-Premium Whey Protein FormulasAs you might imagine, low-quality budget proteins containing incomplete or damaged protein fractions will be of limited help in your pursuit of maximized health and immune function. Typical supermarket-shelf whey concentrate formulas can have anywhere from 50% to 89% actual protein content (manufacturers aren't required to specify) and can be rife with impurities, fillers and gelatins. More importantly, they are often formulated via a crude ion-exchange chemical process that damages the biological activity of many important fractions found in the protein, including beta-lactoglobulin, alpha-lactalbumin, serum albumin, and a host of illness-preventing immunoglobulins. Here's where a super-premium protein formula like ProSource's NytroWhey Ultra Elite can offer you a real advantage. NytroWhey Ultra Elite contains the highest-potency whey isolate formulated via an advanced Cross-Flow Microfiltration (CFM) process that yields a product with greater overall protein content (90% and above) than ion-exchange whey concentrate, higher amounts of essential amino acids like leucine, and does not damage any of the natural biological fractions found within whey protein. For example, CFM whey protein has high concentrations of the amino acid cysteine, which is closely linked to antioxidant activity, making the cells stronger and more resistant to damaging free radicals. (Phillips 7) And of course, CFM whey protein isolate contains much higher levels of undamaged beta-lactoglobulin, alpha-lactalbumin, and serum albumin. Collectively, these microfractions convey several additional health-promoting attributes, most importantly an ability to strengthen the immune system. And there's more to NytroWhey Ultra Elite than simply the world's purest, most potent whey isolate. Our legendary protein formula also contains a cutting-edge whey hydrolysate that is micro-processed to yield extremely low-molecular-weight di- and tri-peptides for immediate amino absorption and assimilation by the body, plus a state-of-the-art leucine peptide technology designed to maximize protein synthesis in the muscle cell. Together these three protein sources, all proudly manufactured in the USA, combine in a state-of-the-art protein blend justifiably celebrated for its light, clean taste and smooth, luscious texture.We know that a well-balanced diet is crucial to immune support. Emerging science suggests that whey protein -- and specifically high-quality CFM whey protein rich in the glycoprotein micro-fractions known to play a key role in immune function -- can be a powerful nutritional tool in enhancing our bodies' capacity to fend off disease and recover faster. So prioritize whey intake and be safe out there!Scientific References1 Vijaylaxmi Grey, Shawn R. Mohammed, Argyrios A. Smountas, Rasha Bahlool, Larry C. Lands. Improved glutathione status in young adult patients with cystic fibrosis supplemented with whey protein. Journal of Cystic Fibrosis. 2003: 195-1982 Laura Elena Córdova-Dávalos, Mariela Jiménez, Eva Salinas. Glycomacropeptide Bioactivity and Health: A Review Highlighting Action Mechanisms and Signaling Pathways. Department of Microbiology, Basic Science Center, Autonomous University of Aguascalientes, Aguascalientes 20131, Mexico. Nutrients 2019, 11(3), 598. 3 Munk T1, Beck AM, Holst M, Rosenbom E, Rasmussen HH, Nielsen MA, Thomsen T. Positive effect of protein-supplemented hospital food on protein intake in patients at nutritional risk: a randomised controlled trial. J Hum Nutr Diet. 2014 Apr;27(2):122-32. Epub 2014 Jan 31.4 Kouichirou Shin, Hiroyuki Wakabayashi, Koji Yamauchi, Susumu Teraguchi, Yoshitaka Tamura, Masahiko Kurokawa, Kimiyasu Shiraki. Effects of orally administered bovine lactoferrin and lactoperoxidase on influenza virus infection in mice. Journal of Medical Microbiology, Volume 54, Issue 8, 01 August 2005.5 Francisco J Pérez-Cano, Silvia Marin-Gallen, Margarida Castell, María Rodríguez-Palmero. Bovine whey protein concentrate supplementation modulates maturation of immune system in suckling rats. British Journal Of Nutrition 98 Suppl 1(S1):S80-4, November 2007.6 Wong CW, Dennis L. Watson. Immuno-modulatory effects of dietary whey proteins in mice. Journal of Dairy Research. 1995: 62 359-368.7 Phillips, S.M., J.E. Tang, and D.R. Moore, The role of milk- and soy-based protein in support of muscle protein synthesis and muscle protein accretion in young and elderly persons. J Am Coll Nutr, 2009. 28(4): p. 343-54.Use as directed with a sensible nutrition and exercise program. Read and follow all product label instructions and warnings thoroughly before use. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.The articles featured herein are for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Specific medical advice should only be obtained from a licensed health care professional. No liability is assumed by ProSource for any information herein.
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Omega-3 Fish Oils: Heart Healthy Immune Support
There’s nothing quite like a contagious disease emergency to make us all feel a little vulnerable and helpless. Faced with dire events, we hunker down, we shelter in place, and we hope for the best.Social distancing is imperative, of course, and we’re all going to have to get used to some isolation. Believe it or not, though, there are things we can be doing that will make us not just feel a little better, but also strengthen our immune system and potentially our ability to withstand contagion and reduce its terrible effects on us.Here’s something we should probably be doing a lot less of: sitting in the dark in our homes, binging on bad food and even worse cable TV news or Netflix content. Stress is bad for you. We all know this. Good mental health has a long and consistent association with good medical outcomes, and has even been shown to equal or surpass the efficacy of drugs or therapy in some clinical trials. So maybe turn off the bad news for a while and head for the kitchen to make yourself a bowl of oatmeal or some stir-fry vegetables and chicken. Really, it will do you a world of good. The Health Benefits of Exercise, Sunshine and Fresh Air Here’s something else you can do: go outside and get some exercise. Exercise, sunshine, and fresh air all have terrific benefits for your immune system. And yes, you can go outside and still easily maintain social distancing. Just sunshine alone is enormously beneficial. Our bodies need sunshine to synthesize Vitamin D. This essential vitamin is not readily available from dietary sources and a lack of it strongly correlates with increased susceptibility to respiratory diseases. (Hughes, 1)And then there's exercise. If you're a regular visitor to our ProSource website, you already know that regular exercise is literally a life-saver. Clinical research supports a clear inverse relationship between moderate exercise and illness risk. Regular exercise improves immune regulation, has an anti-inflammatory influence, and helps improve metabolic health. (Niemana, 2) You can also put down that quarantine comfort food and start supplementing to help support muscle mass, cardiovascular health, and immune response. All three of these markers of good health play key roles in both preventing the onset of disease and reducing the severity and duration of symptoms. We've already mentioned Vitamin D, the sunshine vitamin, and Vitamin C may literally be a lifesaver. Long associated with its role in helping reduce the effects of colds and flu, Vitamin C helps support the production of white blood cells (lymphocytes and phagocytes) which protect against infection. People with pneumonia tend to have reduced Vitamin C levels, and Vitamin C supplementation may shorten recovery time. Omega-3 Fish Oils: Versatile Super-Nutrient From the SeaAnd finally, that brings us to Omega-3 fish oils. There are decades' worth of scientific investigation into the heart-health benefits of essential fatty acids (EFAs) and a lot of it is very encouraging. In fact, a review paper published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition summarizing published research articles supported the premise that consuming fish oils rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and its important precursors, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), may positively impact cardiovascular health.(Breslow, 3)Researchers have found that supplementing with Omega-3's may increase levels of "good" HDL cholesterol and may reduce blood pressure in people with elevated levels, even when taken in small doses.(Minihane, 4) The American Heart Association currently recommends that everyone eat oily fish, particularly the deep-sea cold-water fish that are the best source of this invaluable nutrient, two times per week. The World Health Organization recommends a daily intake of 0.2–0.5 grams (200–500 mg) of combined EPA and DHA. Omega-3's have also been linked to anti-inflammatory properties, diet support and even cognitive support. But what about support of immune function? Here, too, the science is very promising. Researchers have long known that supplementation with Omega-3s can have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help prevent disease. They just didn't know why. Recent science is uncovering how this process might work. Research published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology suggests that DHA-rich fish oil may enhance the activity of white blood cells known as B cells, enhancing B cell activation and select antibody production, which in turn supports immune responses associated with pathogen clearance.(Gurzell, 5)In a more recent pilot study published in 2018 in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, researchers recruited 34 obese men and women and had them supplement with olive oil or high-DHA fish oil concentrate, then measured their circulating plasma B cells (or white blood cells). The researchers concluded that supplementation with high-DHA-fish oil concentrate was associated with enhancement of plasma B cells that stimulate antibody production.(Guesdon, 6) Choose a Superior Fish Oil SupplementWhile it makes sense to increase the amount of Omega-3s in your diet, doing so isn't always easy, especially if you're not particularly fond of sardines, mackerel, and herring. Supplementation makes things easier, but commercially available Omega-3 formulas vary widely in terms of actual EPA/DHA content, purity and potency. Indeed, most common supermarket-shelf Omega-3 products are made from inferior sources and usually offer lower potencies.Fortunately, ProSource has you covered. ProSource Omega-1250 is molecularly distilled from deep sea, cold water fish sources. Both the process and the source serve to ensure the purest, most potent fish oil possible. As a result, Omega-1250 contains an ultra-potent 750 mg of Omega-3 fatty acids, standardized at a highly bioavailable 450 mg of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and 300 mg of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) per single softgel capsule. These values are significantly higher than the WHO-recommended daily values for EFAs. You simply cannot find a better health-reinforcing Omega-3 product in softgel format than the potent and best selling Omega-1250.In these trying times, enhancing every aspect of your health and well-being is of paramount importance. Get outside, get some exercise, and take your Omega-3s. And, as always, be safe out there!Scientific References1 D A Hughes and R Norton. Vitamin D and respiratory health. Clin Exp Immunol. 2009 Oct; 158(1): 20–25. 2 David C.NiemanaLaurel M.Wentzb. The compelling link between physical activity and the body's defense system. Journal of Sport and Health ScienceVolume 8, Issue 3, May 2019, Pages 201-217.3 Breslow, JL. n-3 fatty acids and cardiovascular disease. Am J Clin Nutr, 2006. 83(6 Suppl): p. 1477S-1482S.4 Minihane AM1, Armah CK2, Miles EA3, Madden JM3, Clark AB4, Caslake MJ5, Packard CJ5, Kofler BM2, Lietz G6, Curtis PJ4, Mathers JC6, Williams CM2, Calder PC7. Consumption of Fish Oil Providing Amounts of Eicosapentaenoic Acid and Docosahexaenoic Acid That Can Be Obtained from the Diet Reduces Blood Pressure in Adults with Systolic Hypertension: A Retrospective Analysis. J Nutr. 2016 Mar;146(3):516-23. doi: 10.3945/jn.115.220475. Epub 2016 Jan 27.5 Eric A. Gurzell, Heather Teague, Mitchel Harris, Jonathan Clinthorne, Saame Raza Shaikh, Jenifer I. Fenton. DHA‐enriched fish oil targets B cell lipid microdomains and enhances ex vivo and in vivo B cell function. Journal of Leukocyte Biology, Vol. 93, Issue 4, April 2013, pp. 463-470.6 W. Guesdon et. Al. Effects of fish oil concentrates on ex vivo B cell responses of obese subjects upon BCR/TLR stimulation: A pilot study. The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, March 2018, Volume 53, pp 72-80.Use as directed with a sensible nutrition and exercise program. Read and follow all product label instructions and warnings thoroughly before use. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.The articles featured herein are for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Specific medical advice should only be obtained from a licensed health care professional. No liability is assumed by ProSource for any information herein.
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Looking And Feeling Better Than Ever at Age 50!
Darrin Hills Shares the Secrets of His Amazing Transformation In an Exclusive InterviewWhat happens if you set an extremely ambitious goal and then you achieve that goal? If you're Darrin Hills, you just move the goalposts and keep on striving. Darrin Hills is a living testament to the notion that it's not necessarily the specific goals in life that matter, but the journey. Approaching his 50th birthday, Darrin achieved a transformation that has inspired the admiration of so many members of the extended ProSource family. Utilizing a comprehensive program of clean eating, high-intensity resistance exercise and targeted supplementation, Darrin gained an amazing amount of rock-hard muscle mass and trimmed his bodyfat considerably. When we first met him, shortly after his 50th birthday, he had already achieved physique and performance improvements that would have been amazing in a man half his age. You can read all about that transformation here. But Darrin wasn't content to rest on his laurels. He knew that fitness is a lifestyle, not an arbitrary goal. So he simply kept going. Today he weighs 224 pounds and the vast majority of that new mass is rock-hard muscle. It's an amazing story and we sat down with him recently to talk about it. ProSource: Darrin, we've been following your inspiring story for a little while now, and we're aware that you've made even more progress in recent months. Can you catch us up on how your workout regimen and physique have evolved in recent months? Darrin Hills: That’s a tough question. I guess I never see myself looking all that great. ProSource is such a well-known supplement company that has customers all over the United States that, in my opinion, look so much better than myself and that I feel work much harder than I do. So to be picked by ProSource for a feature has really lit a fire under me. I’ve become much more focused than I ever have because of the recognition ProSource has given me. To see the article on the website and the mailer arrive was a surreal moment. I never really felt like I was giving a full 100% seven days per week, but with the recognition it has driven me to give 100% all of the time to see where my limit is. The changes to my program have been very minor; I added an extra NytroWhey protein shake per day, did a two-month cycle of AndroTest, and make sure that every set counts fully. If I don’t feel productive on a set I add another one until I feel like there is nothing left for that exercise. I read a lot of articles about the mental side of training and the one that sticks with me the most is that your final rep needs to be like your life depends on it and then add one more. You've mentioned that you've had a cold (or two) recently. How has that affected your workouts? How do you manage to motivate yourself when you're feeling less than 100%? Every day that I miss for a cold drives me crazy. I feel down, cranky, and feel like I’m losing muscle. Eating and sleeping quality declines, it’s tough. I’m usually okay with taking a couple days off for a cold but I take the downtime seriously. I prioritize rest and fluids, and try really hard to eat as normal as possible. But after a couple of days I go out there and feel myself out by lifting light and working up in weight. Generally I won't be able to go 100% but I still get as much of a workout in as I can, same routine just lighter weight, say maybe 80% of normal and then straight to bed after my MyoZene and a meal. Sometimes this backfires and a wake up a day or two later feeling bad again but then I just go through the routine again. My mentality is that I am in control of my body and I’m going to win. I actually tell myself that, sometimes with some anger behind it, “I win, you’re not going to beat me! This is my body and my life and I’m doing this!” It may sound strange but I find I need to talk out loud and be a little angry in the weight training world. Adversity has a tendency to tick me off and motivate me. It is so hard to gain and I refuse to go backwards. This may not be true when I have a cold but I do believe that your best days are had when feeling your worst; I’ve won the mental battle. The last time we talked to you, we were very intrigued by your morning supplementation. You've got a lot going on there. (And you're up very early!) Can you explain how your supplement regimen in the morning sets you up for a perfect mass-building day? Yes, up early and to bed early, I’m just a morning guy plus my job requires a lot out of me. Even on the weekends I will get up at 3:30, take my supplements, eat and go back to bed. If I don’t do that for a week or two I actually lose strength and weight. I’m asleep, not taking anything in for 7-8 hours and the body needs nutrients, it’s depleted, especially when you work 50+ hours per week and have a very intense weight training routine. I have two shot glasses in my cupboard, one for night supplements and one for morning supplements. I’ll load them up when I get home while I’m putting my pre-workout together. One of the things that makes ProSource so unique is that you have so many different amino acids and single ingredient supplements in general. This allows me to load up on what works best for me instead of predetermined mixes that have mostly fillers with less than desired amounts of the aminos, nutrients, and vitamins I truly need. There are articles all over out there that say just eat and you will get what you need. I’ve tried that and had less than desired results. If you are truly taxing your body day in and out then you will need more than most people can eat in a day. I say why not load up on the purest nutrients, in the simplest, almost predigested form. This gives my muscles the nutrients and energy they need without having to put on excess bulk through eating a ton per day. It helps me build and stay relatively lean year around. Only ProSource allows me this option. Let's talk post-workout. We know you're a big fan of MyoZene. Can you explain what specifically about MyoZene's combination of ingredients helps you steadily maintain growth the way you have? I’m a huge fan of MyoZene. MyoZene’s formula is based on a rare and highly specialized whey hydrolysate technology, which is a direct result of extensive hydrolysis, yielding extremely low di- and tri-peptides that are absorbed directly into the bloodstream, and are more directly utilized for muscle synthesis. In the bodybuilding world you can read all about the insulin injections and abuse in the sport. I think messing around with these drugs can have adverse side effects that are potentially life altering. This is where MyoZene shines the most in my opinion. In addition to its unmatched whey hydrolysate, BioQuest MyoZene also contains potent amounts of Creapure® creatine monohydrate, a highly bioavailable N-acetyl-L-glutamine, and L-Carnitine L-Tartrate, which upregulates androgen receptor content and helps augment luteinizing hormone secretion. MyoZene also contains an advanced carbohydrate matrix crucial to extreme muscle growth. Carbohydrates raise blood glucose levels, potentiating insulin release, which in turn plays a key role in skeletal muscle protein synthesis by activating ribosomal activity and growth initiation factors within skeletal muscle. Elevated insulin levels also appear to prevent muscle protein breakdown, which contributes to the overall anabolic effect of not only insulin but insulin-like growth factors as well. Higher insulin levels will help keep skeletal muscle in a state of positive protein balance before and after a training session if carbohydrates are ingested. If I were to be limited to one supplement, MyoZene would be the one I would I chose. We read your Instagram posts, so we know you're a serious student of supplementation science. A lot of workout warriors will take a protein formula and maybe a pre- or post-workout, too. Can you name one or two lesser known types of supplements that have had a big impact on your physique and tell us why? One or two lesser? Everything I use I feel is equally important and/or compliments the other but up until my introduction to ProSource and studying each compound, I can say I was a workout warrior that liked fancy labels with pro bodybuilders on them. What I have learned is the pre-made or pre-loaded post- this or pre- that have a bunch of fillers and lesser-quality primary ingredients. Lets take ProSource Leucine for example. In clinical testing, leucine has demonstrated a remarkable capacity to decrease protein degradation and improve protein synthesis, especially after intense exercise. In fact, leucine is an essential component to building muscle as well as preserving gains by also providing anti-catabolic recovery. ProSource L-Leucine is one of the few leucine supplements available in a 100% pure, high-potency form. Taurine is another favorite of mine; This conditionally essential amino acid is the second most abundant amino in muscle tissue and has a number of important benefits to bodybuilders. Taurine has demonstrated profound muscle cell volumizing effects, which can help to enhance protein synthesis. Taurine also provides support as an insulin mimicker, which can help enhance glucose and amino acid metabolism. These are two of many “lesser” known supplements I take that can only be bought at ProSource. My question is this; do you want a company to decide your dosage because of the many other useless ingredients in their formula or do you want to decide how much of each compound is best for you and your goals? The question is very easily answered in my mind. ProSource has allowed me to set my intake to what works best for my weight and strength gains while also keeping relatively lean. You're working out in your non-temperature-regulated garage in February! Which is a greater challenge for you -- the cold of winter or the heat of summer -- and why? Believe it or not the greater challenge is on a nice moderate day. I’m not sure why but the extremes drive me harder. I think it’s the mind state I get in when the temps are really low or high. I generally get all amped up knowing it's going to be a tough one. I don’t know if you saw one of my videos describing my setup but I do like to think of myself as Clubber Lang in Rocky III, sweating it out in a wet basement with substandard equipment while Rocky had this state of the art facility with all these fans and beautiful women wandering around watching him. You know what happened? Rocky got his butt kicked and went back to the basement to train for the rematch. Once again it comes back to the mental battle. Use whatever it takes to go beyond your body’s current capacity. My main reason for working out at home is due to my location. I live 30 minutes from the nearest gym. My second reason is my job, I work a lot of hours and its easier for me, prep wise, being at home, plus I can focus, no distractions. Let's face it, you're 50 years old and your physique is astounding. We know you've had great results with the natural testosterone support product AndroTest. What was its impact on you in the beginning and how is it helping you sustain such unusual growth and physical performance right to this day? Let me start by saying Wow! I like to do a bottle or two of AndroTest every three months or so generally but it had been about 6 months since my last cycle ( I do believe with all supplements you should take a break because the body adapts/adjusts and they lose effectiveness.) I did a bottle in November and a bottle in January and I had forgotten about the potency of this stuff. Strength increases weekly and my weight has gone up 14lbs since September with a minor increase in bodyfat, about 2%! Unbelievable. I have tried other T boosters in the past and I can literally feel the difference with AndroTest. Stamina, strength, love life, ambition, you name it, it is very noticeable. I’m not sure what effect AndroTest can have on guys under 40 but I think every man over 40 should cycle this 5-6 times per year, if nothing else for overall well-being, not even for weight training, just for quality of life. We know you're currently in a bulking phase. Do you anticipate a cutting phase this spring? What changes would you anticipate in your supplement and workout regimen to cut fat? Yes I’m stepping out of my comfort zone and adding a little fat, I’m around 8% right now. I’m always so fearful of not being able to lose the fat so I try to stay lean year round, but I want to hit my goal of 225 at 5% by my 51st birthday. The only thing I changed for this bulk up was more consistent AndroTest usage and one extra NytroWhey Elite protein shake per day. This has boosted me to 224 at 8% currently, so I think it is definitely going to happen. Five years ago, I was watching the Patriots play some other team and I saw Julian Edelman playing and thought that he looked amazing. So I looked him up, saw he was 5’10” and around 220-225. That’s when I made up my mind on how I wanted to look. I do plan on cutting this spring for sure. I actually will start somewhere toward the end of March. Supplement-wise I want to add Vectron and not change anything else in my supplement routine. My body still needs everything I am taking now and probably some more if I hit my targets, especially at lower bodyfat percentage. Training wise I will probably change my rest times to a strict 60 seconds between sets and add a few more supersets and drop sets, that should do it. So many people out there reach the age of 50, they encounter some physical adversity and they just give up. What keeps you going? What single bit of advice or motivation can you offer our readers who are tempted to give up? Twenty years ago, I was diagnosed with a herniated disc from water sports activities and was told by my chiropractor that it was a good thing I wasn't into weightlifting because I would never be able to perform any types of squats or overhead lifting. What I learned from that is after being aligned, build your core muscles which stabilizes your back. Today I squat 450 and military press 160 weekly. Five years ago when I started to become very serious about this, I tore 50% of my biceps tendon, opted out of surgery, and can lift just as much on either side. Only missed two workouts, by the way. I don’t think that was very smart but I just couldn’t stop. Granted when I flex I only have half a bicep on that side, but I still overcame it because nothing is going to stop me from progressing. I just want it I guess, it is something I want. I constantly compare myself to all of these younger guys and believe I can have that too. I never stop believing, I also never see what I want in the mirror. Advice? Do you really want to change? Do you see this guy or that guy and say, man, I wish I could look like that? I don’t have the genetics, I know that, to be a Ronnie Coleman or Dorian Yates, but I do have the desire to create the best me possible with the means that I have. Don’t stop, even if you aren’t seeing results. Change something, just something little and give it a chance to work. Things don’t happen next day in this world, it may be next week or month, but don’t stop. If you have a minor strength increase or see a line you didn’t see before, it is progress. Use these minor changes to motivate yourself to give 110% in the gym. When you realize the changes are happening, no matter how minor it will propel you to work harder and motivate you even more. When you reach this place, make sure to take the time to rest. I’ve done it so many times; I’m gaining, lines are coming in, I’m jacked and excited and then I over train. Be sure to listen to your body when you know you have been wide open for a month or two. Over training will ruin motivation and gains faster than anything. Thanks, Darrin! We'll be checking in with you again. Thank you so much ProSource for allowing me to share my experiences. There is no way that I could be where I am today without your products, articles, and support. You have a dedicated customer for life. Endorsers used products in conjunction with diet and exercise and may have been compensated for their appearance. Endorser's results are not typical. The articles featured herein are for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Specific medical advice should only be obtained from a licensed health care professional. No liability is assumed by ProSource for any information herein.
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