This is the personal story of Fitness Informant’s Founder and CEO Ryan Bucki talking about his steroid use. Ryan was diagnosed with Hypogonadism in August 2018 and was prescribed TRT to treat it. Ryan takes you though his life stages where he questioned whether or not his hormone levels were correct, and what lead him to ultimately get to the bottom of his symptoms. If you feel like you have symptoms of hormonal misbalance, please get your blood levels checked by a doctor ASAP.
MuscleTech is at it again. Today, they announced the release of Cell-Tech Next Gen. This will be available in the next two weeks.
[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][image_with_animation image_url=”6436″ alignment=”center” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][vc_column_text]All too often in this “industry” we focus on external appearance versus the more important aspect of our health, our internal organs. We are willing to spend hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars on supplement stacks that target our workouts: pre-workout, protein, amino acids. But when it comes down to our internal organs, we neglect them. Completely. There is a name for people who only care about external appearance: bros. Here’s a tip kids, don’t be a bro. Take care of your internal organs, especially your liver.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
The liver is the largest solid organ in the human body. It is also the largest gland in the human body. The liver has many major functions, most of them extend from the liver’s main function: bile production. Bile production is responsible for so many things including metabolization of fats and proteins. Failure to produce enough bile is a condition known as Cholestasis.
Cholestasis is the medical diagnosis for a disorder of the liver causing a stoppage or block in bile production. While bile production is stopped, the pigment bilirubin escapes into the bloodstream and accumulates.
In a healthy liver, bilirubin joins with the bile in the liver and moves through the digestive tract. Bilirubin is extracted from the body through the stool or urine.
In an unhealthy liver, suffering from cholestasis, bilirubin leads into the blood stream which can cause jaundice. You may have heard of jaundice in babies…this is exactly that. It can also lead intense itching and dark urine.
Being a fitness centric website, we want to focus on two big causes of cholestasis: alcohol and steroid abuse.
First, alcoholics are prone to cholestasis due to alcoholic liver disease. Alcoholic liver disease is a result of overconsuming alcohol that damages the liver, leading to a buildup of fats, inflammation, and scarring. If you’ve been to college, I am sure you have consumed your fair share amounts of alcohol. Yes, you may not have been diagnosed with alcoholic liver disease, but you sure as hell didn’t do yourself, or your liver, any favors. If you consume large amounts of alcohol, you should be concerned about your liver health.
Steroid abuse can also lead to cholestasis. What do we mean by abuse? Well really, if you are on any sort of steroid cycle, you should be concerned about your liver health. A liver supplement should always be taken while on a cycle, even if you think you’re not abusing. The fact is, more people do abuse steroids, taking large amounts in a short period of time. Developing cholestasis, and then jaundice from steroid use, can lead to severe pain, discomfort and weight-loss…seems counter intuitive for someone taking steroids.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
Tauroursodeoxycholic acid, more commonly referred to as TUDCA, is a bile salt that is found naturally occurring in the body. TUDCA is a water-soluble bile salt, which is in contrast to regular bile salts possessing both water soluble and fat soluble ends and conferring a detergent effect. This is good for the bile salt’s biological purpose (emulsifying fats in the intestines to help with absorption) but when bile acids back up in the liver, a clinical state called cholestasis which occurs when the liver is unhealthy, these bile salts can be damaging to cells by destroying the membranes and signalling for cell death. TUDCA and other water soluble bile salts like UDCA compete with this toxicity and thus indirectly protect cells from death [source: Examine.com].
Studies on TUDCA have shown it to prevent cholestasis. This is our go-to supplement for liver health. Even if you’re not on steroids, or you don’t consume alcohol, you should still take care of your liver health, and TUDCA is the ultimate source to do that.
On-top-of preventing cholestasis, TUDCA also has been shown to combat elevated liver enzymes. Those on anabolic steroids can suffer from elevated liver enzymes. This is another reason to take TUDCA for your liver health.
TUDCA is FDA-approved for treatment of liver diseases caused by lack of bile flow (cholestasis). A growing body of evidence is also supporting the use of TUDCA for diseases beyond the liver.
A study on TUDCA tested doses of 500 mg, 1000 mg, and 1,500 mg per day over six months, finding that there was little difference between the doses. It is recommended to consumer 500mg to 1,500mg per day. Use your brain here, if you’re on steroids or consume massive amounts of alcohol, lean towards the 1,500mg per day.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]
The biggest issue with TUDCA is sourcing. Most companies look to come out with a TUDCA supplement, but cannot source high quality TUDCA consistently (TUDCA can either come from bear bile or synthetically produced.) The highest quality TUDCA is sourced from live, wild bears. This makes it extremely difficult and, to some, taboo.
The one way to know you’re getting a high quality TUDCA supplement is to ask for a third-party test of their TUDCA product. We did just that with a company called Leviathan Nutrition. They had no problem sending us their third-party testing that shows they have high quality TUDCA.
The testing revealed that their TUDCA was 286.88mg our of 300mg TUDCA. That is 95.6% TUDCA. Honestly, this isn’t bad at all considering how tough this stuff is to source. The purity level was 95.99% pure.
Here’s the best part, it’s affordable. May TUDCA’s you find online are really expensive, but they also do not post their test results. Leviathan Nutrition offers affordable, quality TUDCA that you should take, especially if you’re on “gear” or drink a lot of alcohol.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][image_with_animation image_url=”6432″ alignment=”center” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][image_with_animation image_url=”6433″ alignment=”center” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][image_with_animation image_url=”6434″ alignment=”center” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][image_with_animation image_url=”6435″ alignment=”center” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column centered_text=”true” column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_raw_html]JTNDY2VudGVyJTNFJTNDYSUyMGNsYXNzJTNEJTIybXlCdXR0b24lMjIlMjBocmVmJTNEJTIyaHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZhbXpuLnRvJTJGMlNjR3pWZCUyMiUyMHJlbCUzRCUyMm5vZm9sbG93JTIyJTNFQ0xJQ0slMjBIRVJFJTIwRk9SJTIwTE9XRVNUJTIwUFJJQ0UlMjAlM0UlM0UlM0MlMkZhJTNFJTNDJTJGY2VudGVyJTNF[/vc_raw_html][heading]Click Here for Our Price Comparison Table[/heading][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_custom_heading text=”Overview of Jabra Elite Active 65t Wireless Earbuds” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal”][vc_column_text]The search for the perfect headphones or earbuds seems like it is something we do all too often in the fitness community. Maybe we find a pair of over the ear headphones we like, but the quality sucks. Or maybe they can’t handle impact or sweat like you’d wish.
Others might fit well, but sound awful. Some have wires (what are those!?) that get in the way. Then you have the ones that are perfect…for four months and then they break. We’ve all experienced this before.
This put us on the road to find the perfect set of headphone or earbuds for the gym. That brought us to the company Jabra.
Jabra makes headsets for all sorts of areas. Most notably, they make the phones and headsets for a lot of the businesses in the world. In fact, my office uses Jabra headsets for our phone systems. I knew that Jabra was solid in terms of tech when it came to headsets, so I was not shocked to find out that they made these ear buds that were supposedly great.
We got our hands on a pair of Jabra Elite Active 65t true wireless earbuds. We had reviewed the Jabra Elite Sport wireless earbuds, and they were ranked #1 for us…until we reviewed the Jabra Elite Active 65t. Both sets of headphones are great, with the Elite Active 65t taking the nod as our all-time favorite.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/pLuFluMEH3s”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” bg_color=”#2e2e2e” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”padding-5-percent” column_padding_position=”all” background_color=”#efefef” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_color_hover=”#ffffff” background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”medium_depth” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”2px” column_border_color=”#000000″ column_border_style=”solid”][text-with-icon icon_type=”font_icon” icon=”icon-arrow-right” color=”Accent-Color”]
We then look at functionality. Functionality consists of the different features the earbuds and the app have, as well as the sound quality and battery life.
After that, we look into durability. This talks about how well the product is built.
We then take a look at the fashion statement. We think about the different wardrobes we could wear this with and more. Also, how do we look in the gym with these things on?!
Finally, we talk about value. Value is the combination of design, functionality, durability and fashion in relation to cost. Another part of value are the competitors and other headphones/earbuds the market.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”1″ divider_color=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]
The Jabra Elite Active 65t earbuds are awesome. I loved their Elite Sport, but with the Elite Sport you had to change out different ear molds and foam/rubber tips for your ear canal. The Jabra Elite Active 65t does have different tips, because let’s face it, we all have different sized ear canals, but it no longer gives us ear molds as it is a one size fit all approach…and it truly works.
The earbuds are small and sleek but fit great in you ear, with no moving around, even when you’re doing a high intensity cardio workout. You can vigorously shake your head and they stay in.
The power button is on the right bud. This is convenient as you can just reach up and hit the button to mute the earbuds to speak to someone at the gym…or more so listen. You just hold this button as well to shut off the earbuds (and to pair your device).
The volume control, as well as the power to the left earbud are on the left one…shocker. You can easily turn up the music, turn it down, and skip songs right from your earbud.
The case is awesome. It is small but protects your earbuds no matter which ear tip you choose. It also give you 15 hours of playback time…solid.
What I love about these is that they are so light and small you almost forget you have them in. Just make sure to keep an eye on them…you could potentially lose them.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][image_with_animation image_url=”6401″ alignment=”center” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”1″ divider_color=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]
First off, the sound quality is amazing. Sometimes you’d think with these little guys that the sound would be faint and the bass non-existent. That is not the case here. I can say that the sound truly does rival the over-the-ear headphones, bass included. These get loud!
The range is great. Your range is about 100 feet of blue tooth connectivity. If you go into another room where the signal needs to travel through walls, this could impact the 100 foot range. Like with the Jabra Elite Sports, there is connectivity issues with these when you are using some cardio equipment with the heart monitors on them through the hand grips. I am not sure why this is, but it kills the signal. This is an area that Jabra needs to fix asap. If you don’t do cardio, then you’re fine.
The best part of these is the 15 hours of charge time the case provides. Every time you put the earbuds back in the case, the case charges the earbuds. How awesome is this? That means you essentially only need to charge your earbud once a week…or longer!
Connecting your earbuds for the first time can be a real pain in the ass. I experienced that with the Elite Sport. Not with these. These you turned on, hit the power button and your phone finds it and pairs. It was super simple and very reassuring.
Overall, solid functionality, the only ask is to fix the connectivity issue that we experienced when on cardio equipment.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”1″ divider_color=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]
Something so small could be so delicate, right? Well, these are not. They are so light weight, and plastic, that if you drop them they just bounce. I’ve dropped mine several times, nothing ever happens.
Now, if you step on them…that could be a different story. However, do you really want to step on any headphones you ever own? That’s what I thought.
The case is very durable. What I mean by this is that not only does it charge your earbuds, it protects them while in your gym bag. I toss mine in a side compartment and it protects them so well against everything else that is in that pocket.
As long as you can avoid stepping on these…which I cannot imagine any reason that would happen, you will have these for a long long time.
If these were invisible, then it would be a 10 out of 10…but they are damn near perfect. I think these do look sleek. They are black with gold or blue buttons that are subtle colors, and not vibrant. They are so small it is almost like no one recognizes you are wearing them. Heck, sometimes you forget you’re even wearing them.
Also, true wireless is the only way to go now days. Your unfashionable if you are still using wires, or even the over the head headphones. Hide it all!
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See Store for Price
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” centered_text=”true” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/4″ column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_raw_html]JTNDY2VudGVyJTNFJTNDYSUyMGNsYXNzJTNEJTIybXlCdXR0b24lMjIlMjBocmVmJTNEJTIyaHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZhbXpuLnRvJTJGMlNjR3pWZCUyMiUyMHJlbCUzRCUyMm5vZm9sbG93JTIyJTNFR08lMjBUTyUyMFNUT1JFJTIwJTNFJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRSUzQyUyRmNlbnRlciUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” top_padding=”10″ overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column centered_text=”true” column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMGhyZWYlM0QlMjJodHRwcyUzQSUyRiUyRmZpdG5lc3NpbmZvcm1hbnQuY29tJTJGcmVjb21tZW5kcyUyRmh5cGUtc3VwcHolMkYlMjIlMjByZWwlM0QlMjJub2ZvbGxvdyUyMiUyMGNsYXNzJTNEJTIybXlCdXR0b24lMjIlM0VDTElDSyUyMEhFUkUlMEElMjBGT1IlMjBMT1dFU1QlMjBQUklDRSUyMCUzRSUzRSUzQyUyRmElM0U=[/vc_raw_html][vc_custom_heading text=”See Our Retailer Price Comparison Table” font_container=”tag:p|font_size:22px|text_align:center|color:%23f96566″ google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” link=”url:%23table|||”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_custom_heading text=”Overview of Blackstone Labs Hype” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal”][vc_column_text]Blackstone Labs known for their hardcore supplements was once one of the fastest rising companies in all of sports nutrition. To this day, Blackstone still prides itself on their hardcore roots coming out with products that even embed the feeling of hardcore in the name.
Hype was PJ Braun’s creation, while Hype Extreme was the Guerilla Chemist version. Full transparency, we liked Hype Extreme more a lot more. Hype was lacking enough ingredient to give the full on pump we would want, especially after using Hype Extreme. The ingredient selection is there, it’s safe, but it is nothing new-age and some are going to be underdosed to provide an acceptable pump. We realize this may be meant to stack with Blackstone’s pre-workout, but we’ve come to expect more from a pump powder.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/bDVEqrgb1Gc”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” bg_color=”#2e2e2e” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”padding-5-percent” column_padding_position=”all” background_color=”#efefef” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_color_hover=”#ffffff” background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”medium_depth” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”2px” column_border_color=”#000000″ column_border_style=”solid”][text-with-icon icon_type=”font_icon” icon=”icon-arrow-right” color=”Accent-Color”]
[thrive_leads id=’4207′] [/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Testing Results and Ratings” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”][vc_column_text]We reviewed Blackstone Labs Hype on five categories. We first start by looking at it’s ingredient profile. This portion of the review looks at the different ingredients used in the pump supplement, what their intention is and how effectively dosed are each ingredient.
We then look at effectiveness. An effective pre-workout will use high quality, proven ingredients, at clinically backed dosages. This is generally an extension of the profile section. The higher quality ingredients used at proper dosages, the more effective that product will be.
Then we move into the taste of the different flavors we’ve tried. We grade each flavor separately and average the scores for their overall taste rating. We were able to test out the following flavors: Orange.
Mixability refers to how well the powder mixes in 12oz of water. We use the shaker bottle test. This would be your typical Blender Bottle with the spiral chrome ball.
Finally, we talk about value. Value is the combination of profile, effectiveness, taste and mixability in relation to cost. Another part of value are the competitors and other versions of pump products on the market.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”1″ divider_color=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]
With Hype, we get 2g of Citrulline Malate 2:1, helps move blood into your muscles. To get the optimal pump from Citrulline, you need at least 4.5g giving you 3g of Citrulline and 1.5g of Malic Acid. Ideally we’d like to see this at 6g to 8g. We are underdosed here.
Then we get 1g of Glycerol powder. Glycerol treats your muscles like a sponge and allows them to soak up the water in your body. Hype Extreme gives 2g and uses HydroMax. We’d like to see this at least at 2g, preferably 3-5g.
Agmatine Sulfate, which allows our body to regulate higher levels of NO, is dosed at 750mg. We’d like to see this at 1g.
We then get 150mg of Icariin Horny Goat Weed. This works by relaxing the smooth walls of the arteries, allowing more blood flow to exist. This was standardized to 20% Icariin. The lowest dose recommended for any benefit was 60mg of Icariin. At 20%, we are only getting 30mg. This is going to be underdosed.
Lastly, we get 100mg of Norvaline. This tells the body it can keep producing nitric oxide instead of putting a limit on it. Best doses are between 100mg and 300mg.
Overall the ingredient selection is there, but we need more of them. That would be a better product in terms of effectiveness, which we will speak about next.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][image_with_animation image_url=”6406″ alignment=”center” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”1″ divider_color=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]
A 5g serving should have been 10g, in our opinion, to provide a better pump. Essentially this: not much of a pump existed with 1 scoop, but at 2 scoops you could achieve one.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”1″ divider_color=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]
Orange: [/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”20″][vc_column_text]It was nice to see another flavor from Blackstone Labs other than Cotton Candy or Pineapple. I enjoyed Orange. I like Orange flavored pre-workouts, BCAAs and pump powders. It does taste like any orange drink you’d expect. At 5g you can even mix with other citrus flavored powders and it doesn’t do a lot to affect other tastes.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”1″ divider_color=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]
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$32.99
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” centered_text=”true” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/4″ column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]Save 5% on your entire order with coupon code INFORMANT
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner column_margin=”default” top_padding=”10″ bottom_padding=”10″ text_align=”left” css=”.vc_custom_1509116724210{background-color: #2e2e2e !important;}”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text] PRICE COMPARISON:[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/tab][/tabbed_section][vc_row_inner equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” column_margin=”default” text_align=”left”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” centered_text=”true” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/4″ column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” centered_text=”true” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/4″ column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]
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$32.99
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$32.99
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Their Genius Test is actually extremely well done. With solid, proven ingredients at great dosages, Genius Test should be a consideration for your testosterone boosting needs (if you actually have low T).
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Dust X is the second-coming of Dust Extreme featuring DMHA instead of DMAA. Although it does not hit as hard, it still provides a pretty solid pre-workout option for those looking for a higher octane pre-workout that has “other” ingredients to help contribute to the other pillars of the pre-workout.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/4FHkuotR5bg” align=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” bg_color=”#2e2e2e” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”padding-5-percent” column_padding_position=”all” background_color=”#efefef” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_color_hover=”#ffffff” background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”medium_depth” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”2px” column_border_color=”#000000″ column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][text-with-icon icon_type=”font_icon” icon=”icon-arrow-right” color=”Accent-Color”]
We then look at effectiveness. An effective pre-workout will use high quality, proven ingredients, at clinically backed dosages. This is generally an extension of the profile section. The higher quality ingredients used at proper dosages, the more effective that product will be.
Then we move into the taste of the different flavors we’ve tried. We grade each flavor separately and average the scores for their overall taste rating. We were able to test out the following flavors: Pineapple.
Mixability refers to how well the powder mixes in 12oz of water. We use the shaker bottle test. This would be your typical Blender Bottle with the spiral chrome ball.
Finally, we talk about value. Value is the combination of profile, effectiveness, taste and mixability in relation to cost. Another part of value are the competitors and other versions of pre-workout products on the market.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”1″ divider_color=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/2″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]
We first start out with 4g of Citrulline Malate 2:1. This means it is 2 parts Citrulline to 1 part Malic Acid. You want Citrulline to be at least 3g to 5g ideal. This means we are actually going to be getting less than 3g of Citrulline, which it not ideal. Anytime you get 2:1 on Citrulline Malate, you want at least 6g, preferably 8g. Citrulline Malate is for the pump and increases blood flow to your muscles.
Next, we get 2.5g Beta Alanine. Another ingredient slightly underdosed. Beta Alanine should be at 3.2g. Now this can vary from person to person, so we are seeing 2.5g common, but here at FI, we want the 3.2g clinically accepted dosage. Beta Alanine can help with endurance.
Agmatine Sulfate at 1g is an acceptable dosage. Agmatine Sulfate inhibits nitric oxide synthase enzymes – this allowing our body to regulate higher levels of NO. This helps with the overall pump as well.
L-Tyrosine at 1g is another fair dosage of an ingredient that helps contribute to memory and cognitive enhancement. This is the typical dosage we see. Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE) reduces build-up of the age pigmentation that causes memory loss. We can see this dosed from 300-2,000mg per day to help with exercise, per WebMD. We get DMAE dosed at 750mg. This is another typical dosage. Phenylethylamine (PEA) releases what we call the “happy hormones” in the body. This will help with relaxation and focus. We are dosed at 500mg, and the typical dosage is 500mg to 1,000mg for exercise. We are in this range. The one area of concern with PEA is the short half life, meaning it wears of quickly.
For the energy portion of the pre-workout, we start with 350mg of Caffeine. This a lot. Simply put. We also combine that with 150mg of DMHA (2-amino). At 150mg DMHA, this is close to about 75mg of DMAA. This is a great combination that can provide really solid energy. Adding fuel to the energy fire is 75mg of Higenamine. This is a fat burning ingredient that produces energy in the body. We recommend 20-30mg 2-3x daily, meaning no less than 40mg but no more than 90mg. We are dosed correctly here.
Huperzine A is used at 300mcg. This is another cognitive enhancing ingredient at a great dosage.
Overall, the profile is decent. Energy and focus are the top 2 features of this pre-workout. It does lack on pump, endurance and strength output. For pump and endurance, a couple of the ingredients used are underdosed. The only two areas we fell are well rounded are the energy and the focus components.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/2″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][image_with_animation image_url=”6400″ alignment=”center” animation=”None” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”1″ divider_color=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]
I miss Noopept, but they did a good job of focusing on the focus component of Dust X. PEA is solid, but it wears off in the first 20-30 minutes as the half life isn’t long. Thankfully they added 300mcg of Huperzine-A, a great ingredient that works well for me. The combination of the stims with the cognitive enhancing ingredients really gets you focused on the task at-hand. It also helps keep you going since we are lacking endurance and power ingredients.
The one ares that is underwhelming is the pump. We would like to see more Citrulline, but we feel this is a way for BSL to encourage you to buy one of their pump supplements, like our highly rated Hype Extreme. With that said, I would still like to see Citrulline properly dosed, and thus you lack on pump. Same can be said with strength output and endurance. Beta-Alanine is borderline fine, but still underdosed per clinical studies. You don’t necessarily loss gas quickly, but you also do not have more than enough gas to keep going for longer periods of time.
Overall, this pre-workout does energy and focus well. Two areas that are musts, in my opinion.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”1″ divider_color=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]
Pineapple: [/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”20″][vc_column_text]If you’ve ever tried Blackstone Labs pineapple flavoring system in Dust Extreme or other products one thing is for certain: it is consistent. This tastes just like the other products with the same flavoring system. I like the flavor OK, it isn’t the best tasting flavor, but it is far from the worst. You can expect it to taste very similar to pineapple anything. It does mix well with other powders – not affecting taste too much.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”1″ divider_color=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]
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$44.95
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” centered_text=”true” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” width=”1/4″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]Save 5% on your entire order with coupon code INFORMANT
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$44.95
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[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” top_padding=”10″ overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column centered_text=”true” column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMGhyZWYlM0QlMjJodHRwcyUzQSUyRiUyRmFtem4udG8lMkYyRDY1eDRkJTIyJTIwcmVsJTNEJTIybm9mb2xsb3clMjIlMjBjbGFzcyUzRCUyMm15QnV0dG9uJTIyJTNFQ0xJQ0slMjBIRVJFJTBBJTIwRk9SJTIwTE9XRVNUJTIwUFJJQ0UlMjAlM0UlM0UlM0MlMkZhJTNF[/vc_raw_html][vc_custom_heading text=”See Our Retailer Price Comparison Table” font_container=”tag:p|font_size:22px|text_align:center|color:%23f96566″ google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal” link=”url:%23table|||”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_custom_heading text=”Overview of REAAL Muscle EAA” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:900%20bold%20regular%3A900%3Anormal”][vc_column_text]We had a representative on our “Be Informed. Live Fit.” podcast from REAAL to debate another representative on BCAAs. Why? REAAL claims BCAAs don’t work. I do not believe this to be true, and after the podcast, it caused me to question REAAL’s studies even more.
REAAL is a proprietary blended EAA product claiming to be 3x more effective than whey protein isolate and 32x more effective than BCAAs. This is all based off their study. Well, if you look into their study, the minimally accepted dosage used was 15g of EAAs vs. the 3.6g serving size REAAL offers. I think it is nice to have an EAA product, there is a place for it, but to create one based off a study on elderly and still not giving an adequate amount of EAAs is shocking to me. The product at 5x the serving size would happen to work well, but the way it sits today, with the research behind it, I would avoid and pass.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/uK6xXrq90mE”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” bg_color=”#2e2e2e” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”padding-5-percent” column_padding_position=”all” background_color=”#efefef” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_color_hover=”#ffffff” background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”medium_depth” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”2px” column_border_color=”#000000″ column_border_style=”solid”][text-with-icon icon_type=”font_icon” icon=”icon-arrow-right” color=”Accent-Color”]
We then look at effectiveness. A high EAA product will be effective. This is generally an extension of the profile section. The higher quality ingredients used at proper dosages, the more effective that product will be.
Then we move into the taste of the different flavors we’ve tried. We grade each flavor separately and average the scores for their overall taste rating. We were able to test out the following flavors: Fuji Grape, Brazilian Berry and Kona Dragon Fruit.
Mixability refers to how well the powder mixes in 12oz of water. We use the shaker bottle test. This would be your typical Blender Bottle with the spiral chrome ball.
Finally, we talk about value. Value is the combination of profile, effectiveness, taste and mixability in relation to cost. Another part of value are the competitors and other versions of EAA products on the market; both with and without caffeine.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”1″ divider_color=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]
This is a proprietary blend that they claim is patent information licensed, REAAL9 technology – the 9 EAAs. Listen, they are all listed there, with Leucine first. You can feel good about that. But at 3.6g I cannot feel comfortable, and it is not believable that this would be 3x more effective than whey protein isolate.
Their secret formula was derived from studies on the elderly who do not exercise and were fasted. Does this sound like you? Or do you eat and workout. I cannot get on-board with an ingredient profile based on studies in people who are not like you and me.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][image_with_animation image_url=”6423″ alignment=”center” animation=”None” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”1″ divider_color=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]
I want a study conducted on people like me. If that shows me great end results, then I am more believable. I do not see any other studies on this other than Dr. Robert Wolfe’s study on BCAAs Myth or Reality – essentially claiming BCAAs useless.
I think EAAs are beneficial when fasted. But you need adequate amounts to be beneficial. This could be it, but because their study was not using an actual consumer like you are me, I cannot in my right mind give this a high score.
Do your research on how products were created…it will make you think.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”1″ divider_color=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]
Brazilian Berry: Fuji Grape: Kona Dragon Fruit: [/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”20″][vc_column_text]REAAL will receive an OK score in terms of taste. These three all tasted good, refreshing. They are fruity in flavor, as you’d expect. They do have interesting names that match well with the flavor profile. Kudos to their team on flavor masking. That can be hard with EAAs.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”1″ divider_color=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]
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See Store for Price
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BCAAs or EAAs, which do you prefer? REAAL Muscle launched an EAA product using marketing claims backed by a 2017 study by Dr. Wolfe (Branched-chain amino acids and muscle protein synthesis in humans: myth or reality?), some claims in which people took offense too. We welcome in REAAL National Sales Director Ian Bell and one of those critical of the claims, Kenton Engle, the CMO of Core Nutritionals to debate the topic of BCAAs vs. EAAs and the 2017 Wolfe study. You don’t want to miss this! Subscribe now!
Glanbia, one of the largest global nutrition companies in the world, has agreed to pay $350 million to Kainos Capital for SlimFast, a US based company in Florida. SlimFast is an iconic brand in the nutrition space, commonly seen lining store shelves in the weight management section.
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