BCAA stands for Branched-Chain Amino Acids. BCAAs are leucine, isoleucine, and valine. They are considered essential amino acids as humans can’t survive without ingesting them through their diet. They can be found in dairy products, red meat and all protein-containing foods. BCAAs are also needed to maintain muscle tissue and help the muscles stores glycogen, which is a form of carbohydrate that can be converted into energy). BCAAs are also taken as supplements as they help prevent muscle protein breakdown when exercising. Athletes who are involved in high-intensity training often take BCAAs to help prevent muscle loss and increase muscle strength.

Benfotiamine B1- Benfotiamine is a form of thiamine that is lipid soluble. In recent studies benfotiamine has been found to help with sciatica, vascular health, general nerve health, improved blood pressure, general cellular protection, anti-aging, fibromyalgia, prevention of lactic acidosis, and treatment for Alzheimer’s disease.  It is being used in neuropathy, retinopathy and nephropathy. It strengthens the nervous system and even improves mental attitude. It is necessary in the treatment of beriberi, neuritis, and alcoholism. It can aide in digestion, fight sea sickness, promote growth, repel biting insects, and helps to regulate the heart.

Beta Carotene is rich in antioxidants and can be converted into vitamin A. Vitamin A is used in for several biological functions including the syntheses of certain glycoprotiens. Vitamin A deficiencies are linked to abnormal bone development, problems in the reproductive system, and exophthalmia. Beta carotene is converted into retinol. Retinol is essential for vision. Retinol is also converted into retinoic acid which is used for growth and cell differentiation. Beta carotene is naturally occurring in fruits, grains, oils, vegetables, carrots, sweet potatoes, squash, spinach, green peppers, and apricots. Beta carotene is produced commercially from palm oil, algae, and fungi.

Beta-Alanine- Non-essential amino acid beta-alanine is the only naturally occurring beta-amino acid. It is classified as a non-proteinogenic amino acid as it is not involved in the process of protein synthesis. Beta-alanine are obtained by ingesting dipeptides (carnosine, anserine and balenine) which are found in protein rich foods like chicken, beef, pork and fish. Most of the beta-alanine we ingest is through didpeptide carnosine since the other two are not found in our typical diets. However apart from the diet, beta-alanine is also synthesized in the liver from the catabolism of pyrimidine nucleotides. Beta-alanine is beneficial for those trying to gain muscle mass and increase strength. It is also useful for athletes who are looking for muscle strength, power and endurance. Since it is so useful for muscle development, several supplements used by athletes have beta alanine as a primary component.

Bioperine- Basically a pure and safe nutritional supplement of piperine, Bioperine can have several positive effects on our body. It contains about ninety five percent of piperine that is known to enhance the bioavailability of nutrients. As a result, bioperine intake helps in rapid absorption of nutrients from the gastrointestinal tract. Owing to its affinity for the fatty tissue, it even interacts with the lipid component of the intestinal cell membrane thereby allowing further nutrient permeability. It is quite popular due to its ability to enhance thermogenesis. This is how it works - the piperine present in bioperine stimulates the release of catecbolamines that trigger thermogenesis in the GI tract thus, making more energy available for digestion. It can be combined with other nutrients too to improve the health of human beings as well as animals.

Biotin is required for the fatty acids and glucose formation so that essential energy is produced. Biotin also assists in the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. Biotin is available in food naturally and the dietary sources of biotin comprise of brewer’s yeast, cauliflower, bananas, egg yolks, salmon, liver, sardines, mushrooms and legumes. The deficiency of biotin is uncommon. The other possibilities for having biotin as deficiency is genetic biotin deficiency, surgical stomach removal, excessive consumption of alcohol and infant dermatitis. Biotin deficiency leads to hair loss, skin rash, heart problems and high cholesterol. Biotin supplements are effective for eczema, acne, diaper rash, brittle nails and hair loss. People having a history of seizures should avoid using biotin. This is a B vitamin that helps in converting food to energy. It is mandatory that minimum 30 mg is taken daily as there are adequate health benefits. Normal biotin intake strengthens fingernails and also controls blood sugar levels.

Boron is a trace element required by our body for proper metabolism of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. It has many medicinal uses and helps in preventing arthritis, reduces the severity of rheumatoid arthritis, reduces congestive heart failure, decreases the severity of fungal infections and helps in the production of estrogen. It is also useful for body building, in cancer therapy, improves brain function, helps in bone building, helps in preventing blood clots, used in cancer therapy, ensures proper embryonic development, lowers plasma lipid levels, prevents post menopausal osteoporosis, helps in preventing blood clots, helps to maintain proper cell membrane function and it serves as enzyme inhibitors.

Bromelain ~

Calcium, a mineral vital to the human body, Calcium is necessary for many bodily functions, such as muscle contraction, and proper heart function.

Cetyl Myristoleate is created by a combining a fatty acid called myristoleic acid with cetyl alcohol. Cetyl alcohol was initially derived from whale, and later on, obtained from coconut and palm oils. Myristoleic acid or 9-tetradecenoic acid be found in certain animals and vegetables, it is an unsaturated fatty acid that has anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties. Being derived from fatty acids, Cetyl myristoleate has the same benefits as the naturally found essential fatty acids in the human body. It is known to help in treating or alleviating rheumatisms as it lubricates the joints and muscles and the effects last longer. It also has anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties.

Choline- Grouped with the Vitamin B complex, choline is deemed an essential nutrient. It is a natural amine and an organic compound, which serves several physiological purposes. Choline improves the structural integrity of cell membranes and provides signaling roles, assisting with the system of communication, which controls basic cellular activities and manages cell actions. Deemed a nootropic drug, choline as a dietary supplement is supposed to increase the cognitive behaviour and alertness. As a building block of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, choline certainly seems to be nootropic, but recently the application of choline as a nutritional supplement helping to reduce body fat because of the activity in the lipid metabolism was observed. Infant formulas that are not derived from cow’s milk are ordered by the FDA to supplement choline.

Chondroitin- Chondroitin is a substance which occurs naturally in the body. It is an important ingredient of proteglycans – a protein molecule which provides elasticity to the cartilage. Chondroitin attracts fluid into proteoglycan molecule. Chondroitin is a compound which nourishes the connective tissues and synovial fluid. Synovial fluid lubricates the joint and works like a shock-absorber. It reduces arthritis symptoms but providing the body with needed nutrients which are essential for healthy joints. By providing joint cartilage they repair cells and make them strong and flexible. It stimulates the production of the ingredient collagen – needed for cushioning the structure towards the joint end. As compared to other pain relief medications, chondroitin is affordable and safe. Chondroitin is often combined with glucosamone to produce best results. It is also better to consult a physician as it makes some people agitated and uneasy.

Chromium.

Copper is being considered a mineral with immense medical advantages, copper has been used as a supplement in its gluconate form. Copper is one of the most important constituents of the blood and prevents poly – unsaturated fatty acids from turning rancid. Copper also increases the health of the cell membranes and is actively involved in the formation of hemoglobin. Copper Gluconate is instrumental in treating conditions such as irregular beating of the heart, hypoglycemia, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and in lowering the cholesterol levels of the body. Copper Gluconate is known to have side effects and is toxic if taken excessively. In the case of women who are expecting or mothers who are nursing, it is advisable to consult with your docter before taking any Copper based supplements.

Creatine Monohydrate allows the body to store water and aides in enhancing ATP production.

Curcumin is one of curcuminoid of turmeric, a polyphenol that gives turmeric its yellow color. Curcumin have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, antiviral and antifungal properties. It also fights free radical damages including cataracts, heart diseases, and cancer. Curcumin also proved to be effective in lowering cholesterol level. Research showed that the curcumin inhibits the production of lipozygenase and cyclooxygenase-2, enzymes that promotes inflammation in the body such as arthritis. It also prevents the growth of Helicobacter pylori which causes gastric ulcers and is linked with gastric cancers. Curcumin also protects the brain. Curcumin is a natural detoxifier, protecting the liver from the effects of alcohol and other toxic chemicals.

Folic Acid or Vitamin B9 is essential as it assists the formation of red blood cells in the body and genetic material within every cell. It helps in metabolism of proteins and prevention of anemia and is vital for cell growth and division. Folic acid is an important nutrient for pregnant women to prevent congenital malformation in the fetus. It reduces the risk of brain and spinal cord defects, heart defects, limb defects, urinary tract abnormalities and cleft palate in the fetus. It is highly beneficial if taken prior to and during the first month after conception. In men, folic acid reduces chromosomal defects in the sperm. Spinach, lettuce, peas, beans, sunflower seeds, asparagus, baker’s yeast, fortified cereal products and liver are rich in folic acid.

Glucosamine Sulfate provides lubrication for healthy joints and helps in arthritic pain. It is helpful in alleviating joint pain and other symptoms. It ensures a natural replacement for aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs. It promotes repair in worn-out joints and assists in maintaining normal joint function and resiliency. Studies have shown that glucosamine plays an important role in assisting to keep the joints in the body lubricated and supple. It stimulates manufacturing of glycosaminoglyúcans, which are important structural components in cartilage that line the joints. It also encourages incorporation of sulfur into cartiúlage. This makes glucosamine sulfate the most effective type. It helps control pain and inflammation of degenerative joint disease like osteoarthritis.

Inositol is a nutrient that occurs naturally in various forms. The most common form is myo-inositol. Inositol can be produced inside the human body from glucose and it is considered to be very effective. It is direct precursor of phospholipids, a major cellular membrane component. This nutrient helps in maintenance of electrical energy along with the transfer of nutrients across the cell membranes. Inositol also acts as a lipotropic that helps in the changing of fat into useful products. Apart from establishing healthy membranes, Inositol also facilitates the nerve impulses. Experts recommend a low dosage of 500mg capsule of Inositol. You can take several grams at one time only if you have previously tried a lesser amount. Inositol supplements can be beneficial for people with a bipolar disorder, impotence, lung cancer, depression or a panic disorder.

Iodine, a necessary element used by the body to make the thyroid hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine. These Thyroid hormones are needed to maintain a healthy metabolic rate and cellular metabolism.

Isoleucine- An important essential amino acid is isoleucine which is also part of the three “branched chain amino acids” along with leucine and valine. Since it is an essential amino acid it cannot be synthesized in the body and thus isoleucine has to be ingested in the diet (almonds, chicken, eggs, cashews, fish, lentils, liver, meat etc.). Isoleucine is required for muscle recovery and also for the formation of haemoglobin. Isoleucine also assists in regulating blood sugar levels and energy levels. It is also involved in blood-clot formation. Isoleucine deficiency is present only in those people who are lacking in protein intake. Deficiency may lead to dizziness, fatigue, depression etc. Excessive amounts of isoleucine doesn’t seem to be a problem though it isn’t recommended for those with kidney or liver disease.

Leucine is an essential amino acid that works together with isoleucine and valine, forming the three branched chain amino acids (BCAA). Leucine is easily converted by to body to glucose, helping to regulate and maintain the blood sugar level. Leucine promotes muscle recovery, muscle repair and provides the body with energy. It also helps in burning fat that are least responsive to exercise and dieting. Leucine helps in toning the body and the muscles. Leucine prevents muscle loss by breaking down and converting to glucose, this prevents the body from breaking down muscle tissues to create energy, particularly during intense workouts and heavy weight lifting.

Magnesium is another mineral which is deemed essential for all biological life. As an essential part of basic nucleic acid, magnesium ions, together with phosphate ions, are also required for over 300 catalytic reactions of enzymes. Any enzymes synthesizing or utilizing adenosine triphosphate require a magnesium ion. Incredulously enough, magnesium deficiency is the most widespread deficiency, affecting a third of the population in the United States only, with third world countries surpassing the count easily. Being also essential, together with calcium and phosphorus, in the skeletal structure, magnesium deficiency is viewed as a main factor in ailments such as osteoporosis. Naturally available through cereals, green leafy vegetables, nuts, spices, tea, cocoa and coffee, magnesium is available as a supplement in magnesium oxide and magnesium citrate form, whereby the latter is viewed as more bioavailable.

Manganese is a mineral that is required in small amounts to manufacture enzymes necessary for the metabolism of proteins and fat. It also aids the immune system and blood sugar balance. Manganese is also involved in the production of cellular energy, reproduction and bone growth.

Molybdenum is essential in regulating pH balance in the body, enhancing the body’s ability to burn fat. Very small amounts are needed. Molybdenum is necessary for the proper function of certain enzyme-dependent processes, including the metabolism of iron. Molybdenum also promotes normal cell function and helps in the activation of certain enzymes, it is a key component of the metabolic enzyme xanthine oxidase. Molybdenum is found in the liver, bones and kidneys. It supports bone growth and teeth strength. A deficiency may cause impotence in older men. High intakes of sulfur and diets high in refined and processed foods may decrease molybdenum levels.There is no recommended dietary allowance for molybdenum.

MSM is also known as methylsulfonylmethane. It is known to enhance the effectiveness of antioxidants and other bioflavinoids. It is used for increased alertness and ability to concentrate as well as improved mood. MSM is often used to prevent and treat muscle cramps in the legs and back due to inactivity and strenuous use. It improves hair and cuticle growth as well as reduces wrinkles from aging. This supplement also seems to help in the body's ability to produce insulin choline and speeds up the metabolizing carbohydrates.

Naringin is the major flavonoid glycoside in grapefruit and gives grapefruit juice its bitter taste. It occurs naturally in all citrus fruits so it is also called citrus Naringin. It is used in medicine for its pharmacological effects such as an antioxidant and for blood lipid lowering. Research also shows that Naringin can be used for inhibition of selected drug-metabolizing cytochrome P450 enzymes, including CYP3A4 and CYP1A2. Its anti-cancer effects are also being studied by researchers. Naringin is treated with potassium hydroxide or another strong base, and then catalytically hydrogenated to make naringin dihydrochalcone, which is used as a sugar-free sweetener 300 times sweater then sugar.

Pancreatin is an enzyme used to enhance low levels of digestive enzymes. It is often used by people having cystic fibrosis. It heals deficiency of pancreatic secretions. Also known as pancreatic acid, it is beneficial in cases of food allergies, autoimmune disease, celiac disease, cancer, and weight loss. Pancreatin is a mixture of pancreatic enzymes trypsin, amylase, and lipase, and is very similar in nature to another enzyme called pancrelipase. The main thing differentiating the two enzymes is that pancrelipase has more active lipase enzyme than pancreatin. Pancreatin is an efficacious enzyme supplement for replacing missing pancreatic enzymes that are essential in a number of body processes. It also helps eradicate routine cancer.

Pantothenic Acid is thought to reduce lactic acid accumulation in athletes, may improve oxygen utilization efficiency, and is believed to improve the body's ability to heal and possibly help in reducing acne

Papain is a mixture of proteolytic enzymes derived from the fruits of papaya and certain other plants. It helps catalyze several chemical reactions within the cells, particularly digestive enzymes. Papain acts by mildly soothing the stomach and aids in the digestion of protein. It relieves heartburn, indigestion, treat ulcer, and regulates the acidity in the stomach. In fact, Papain is often used tenderizer for meat. It is also an effective anti-inflammatory agent. It is also used to dissolve membranes in diphtheria and reduce fever, swelling and adhesion. Topically, it is used to cure boils, warts and freckes, and to treat burns and sore throat. Papain also has anticarcinogenic properties.

Selenium , an essential mineral that is toxic at high dosages. Selenium plays an important function in the antioxidant enzymes that protect cells against free radicals. Selenium also promotes proper thyroid hormone metabolism.

Valine- One of the several essential amino acids present in the human body is Valine. This is also a nonpolar, branched chain amino acid which is found in high concentrations in the muscles. Since it is an essential amino acid, valine is not synthesised in the body and thus must be ingested as part of the diet. Valine is available through foods like fish, poultry, peanuts, sesame seeds, lentils and cottage cheese. Valine is essential for muscle, growth and repair of tissue and for maintaining the body’s nitrogen balance. Since it has a branched chain, valine can be used as an energy source in the muscles and thus conserves glucose. Hence valine is often used by bodybuilders to support muscle growth and provide energy. A deficiency of valine in the body, caused by the inability of the body to metabolise valine leads to the Maple Syrup Urine Disease in which the person’s urine smells like maple syrup.

Vitamin B12 is a water soluble vitamin and is one of the 8 B vitamins. It has the chemical formula C63H88CoN14O14P. In the absence of Vitamin B12, the brain and the nervous system will not be able to function properly. It also plays a key role in the formation of blood. Vitamin B12 was discovered from its relation to the ailment pernicious anemia. Plants and animals are not capable of synthesizing VitaminB12; the enzymes required for this purpose are found only in bacteria. Vitamin B12 deficiency in human beings is due to its complex human physiology. It is available singly or in combination with other supplements.

Vitamin B2 , also called Riboflavin, is naturally manufactured by the body. Vitamin B2 is needed for the proper use of oxygen and amino acids, carbohydrates and fatty acids. Vitamin B2 is also utilized by Vitamin B6 in the body and is used to manufacture niacin. Vitamin B2 is especially needed when eating large amounts of protein.

Vitamin B3, also called Niacin, is a water-soluble vitamin needed for the conversion of food into energy so that it may be used by the body. Vitamin B3 also helps metabolize protein, sugar and fat.

Vitamin B5, also called Pantothenic acid, which is a water-soluble vitamin required by the human body. Vitamin B5 is needed to form coenzyme-A (CoA), and is vital in the metabolism and synthesis of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

Vitamin B6 allows the metabolism of amino acids, carbohydrates, as well as lipids to take place, also aids in keeping skin vibrant.

Vitamin C- The essential nutrient L-ascorbic acid, or rather Vitamin C, is necessary for a wide plethora of metabolic reactions in almost all living beings. In humans, Vitamin C is vital in the collagen synthesis. While most beings are able to make it internally, apes and humans cannot. Interestingly enough, while widely promoted as the best dietary source of Vitamin C, Oranges are dwarfed by the Kakadu plum, which has sixty times the amount. Prominent are rose hips, blackcurrant, red peppers, parsley, the kiwifruit, broccoli, redcurrant, several berries including strawberries and raspberries, as well as more exotic fruits and vegetables like Camu Camu, acerola, seabuckthorn, Indian gooseberry, jujube, guava and baobab. Tomatoes, while very popular Vitamin C source in the US, are very low on the Vitamin C scale.

Vitamin D is actually a group of prohormones, all fat soluble, whereby ergocalciferol, or Vitamin D2 and cholecalciferol, also known as Vitamin D3 are the most common forms. The Vitamin D3 form is made when human skin is exposed to UV B radiation. The active form of Vitamin D is calcitrol and it is required in the body to manage phosphorus and calcium levels, but, among other functions, to affect anti tumor activity, immunomodulatory functions and much more. Vitamin D, or more accurately calcitrol, is being bound to a carrier protein, which allows it to be transported throughout the body to the various destinations. The Vitamin D receptors, steroid and thyroid hormone receptors, can be found in most organs, including the brain, skin, heart, breast, prostate and gonads.

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin and is an antioxidant. Vitamin E helps to gradually break down blood clots in the circulatory system and helps prevent more from forming. Involved in red blood cell formation.

Vitamin K- The lipophillic, hydrophobic vitamins needed for the posttranslational modification of certain proteins is denoted by the Vitamin K. It is required mostly for blood coagulation. K3, K4 and K5 are the three types of synthetic Vitamin K that are used in many areas. Pet food industry makes use of Vitamin K3 whereas Vitmanin K5 is used to inhibit fungal growth. The main sources of vitamin K are spinach, cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage and a few fruits like kiwifruit and avocado. Recent research shows that vitamin K helps in increasing bone mass. Research also shows that the consumption of vitamin K helps in promoting osteotrophic processes while at the same time slowing the osteoclastic processes. This process is done by achieving the calcium bonding in the bones.

Zinc is a metallic chemical element and an essential trace element, whereby only two to four grams of Zinc are found in the human body. There are several biological roles that Zinc plays in humans, including the metabolism of RNA and DNA, gene expression and the regulation of apoptosis. It is deemed vital for proper brain activity and essential in the learning process. It is also critical for the central nervous system, but is also found in muscle, bones, liver, kidneys, eyes and most prominently in the prostate. It is supplied to the body by the ingestion of red meats, particularly beef and lamb, but can also be found in seeds, including sesame and mustard, wheat, beans, whole grains, sunflower seeds and nuts, including almonds.