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NEW Complete Pre Workouts Flavours! - Peach Rings - Apple Blackcurrant - Juicy Blue Raspberry

Amino Z Complete Pre-Workout combines five high-quality researched ingredients to help you achieve insane energy levels, razor-sharp focus, and ridiculous muscular endurance during your workouts. Amino Z Complete Pre-Workout is free of excessive fillers and stimulants, making it the perfect pre-workout for beginners or elite level athletes.

If your goal is to kill your next set, get that last rep or be at the top of your game, the Amino Z Complete Pre-Workout is your go-to pre-workout supplement.

What you can expect from the Amino Z Complete Pre-Workout

• Explosive energy
• Increased motivation to train
• Better muscle endurance/stamina
• Greater muscle pumps
• Enhanced focus

Shop now at www.aminoz.com.au or click the link in our bio! Use code A-TPC for 20-22% off your supps!

What is it?

L-Glutamine is an amino acid, which is a building block of protein. It is naturally produced in the body and is found in many foods such as meat, fish, and dairy products. 

L-Glutamine is also available as a dietary supplement, which people use for a variety of reasons, such as to improve their gut health, enhance athletic performance, and support their immune system.

Why would someone take L-Glutamine?

• Individuals that want to gain muscle or improve their recovery but do not consume enough protein with high glutamine content may consider supplementing with L-Glutamine.
• People who suffer from specific gut health or digestion issues. L-Glutamine can improve the health of your gut, which is essential for proper digestion and nutrient absorption. L-Glutamine facilitates the cells in your gut lining, promoting growth and repair, resulting in improved gut health and easier digestion.
• People who’re searching for natural ways of improving their immune function. L-Glutamine has the potential to enhance immune function by fighting against things that can damage it, such as inflammation and oxidative stress.

Who’s L-Glutamine not for?

While L-Glutamine is generally safe for most people, certain groups of individuals should reconsider supplementing L-Glutamine or consult with a healthcare professional before doing so. 

These groups include:

1. Individuals with certain medical conditions: If you have liver or kidney disease, you should avoid taking L-Glutamine, as your body may not be able to process it effectively. Additionally, individuals with epilepsy or bipolar disorder should consult with a healthcare professional before taking L-Glutamine, as it may interact with certain medications used to treat these conditions.
2. Pregnant or breastfeeding women: It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women to take L-Glutamine, as there is not enough research to confirm its safety for these groups.
3. Allergies: If you are allergic to monosodium glutamate (MSG), you may also be allergic to L-Glutamine, as they have similar structures. In this case, it's important to avoid supplementing with L-Glutamine.

What to look for in L-Glutamine?

Thankfully, L-Glutamine is a simple supplement that doesn't require a bunch of complex considerations.

1. Quality: Look for a supplement that is high quality and from a reputable brand. You can check the company's website, reviews, and certifications to ensure that the product is safe and effective.
2. Purity: Look for a pure supplement free of additives, fillers, or contaminants. 
3. Form: L-Glutamine is available in different forms, such as powder, capsules, and tablets. Choose the form that is most convenient for you and fits your lifestyle.
4. Dosage: Look for a supplement that provides an adequate dosage of L-Glutamine per serving. The recommended dosage may vary depending on your age, weight, and health status, so consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement.
5. Price: Look for a supplement that fits your budget and offers good value for money. However, don't compromise on quality or purity for a lower price.

How to take L-Glutamine?

The recommended usage will vary based on the intended purpose.

For the amino acid supplementation purpose: To take L-Glutamine for protein synthesis, it is typically recommended to consume 5-10 grams of L-Glutamine per day. This can be taken as a single dose or divided into smaller doses throughout the day. It's often recommended to take L-Glutamine immediately after exercise to help with muscle recovery, but it can also be taken at other times of the day as well. 

For gut health purposes: 

If you are taking L-Glutamine for gut health, it's best to take it on an empty stomach so that it can be absorbed directly into the bloodstream and reach the cells of the intestinal lining. It's also important to drink plenty of water to help with absorption. The typical recommended dose ranges from 5 to 10 grams per day. 

For immune health: 

There is no specific recommended dosage of glutamine for immune health, but a general guideline is to take 2-5 grams of glutamine per day. 

When to take L-Glutamine?

Please refer to the section outlining the recommended usage for further guidance.

How long should I expect to see results?

The time it takes to see results with L-Glutamine can vary depending on the individual and the purpose for which it is being used. Some people may experience results within a few days, while others may need to use L-Glutamine for several weeks or even months before seeing any noticeable benefits. 

For example, individuals using L-Glutamine to support gut health may need to use it consistently for several weeks to see improvements in digestion and nutrient absorption. It's important to note that L-Glutamine is not a quick fix and that results may take time to manifest. As with any supplement or health-related change, it's important to be patient and consistent in your use to see the best results.

Can L-Glutamine be used with other supplements?

Yes, L-glutamine can be used with other supplements. However, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional or a qualified nutritionist before combining supplements. Some supplements may have interactions with L-glutamine or may affect its absorption, so it's important to make sure that the combination is safe and effective. It's also important to follow recommended dosages and not exceed the maximum daily dose.

What differs from product to product?

So long as the product is pure L-Glutamine, free from additives like colours and fillers, and is manufactured by a reputable company, it is recommended that you choose a product that fits your budget or aligns with a brand that you trust.

References:

1. Gao, Z., Tseng, C. H., Strober, B. E., Pei, Z., & Blaser, M. J. (2018). Substantial alterations of the gut microbial ecology and function after antibiotic treatment. ISME Journal, 12(11), 2833-2843. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41396-018-0160-7
2. Varnier, M., Leese, G. P., Thompson, J., Rennie, M. J., & Pacy, P. J. (1995). Stimulatory effect of glutamine on glycogen accumulation in human skeletal muscle. American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism, 269(2), E309-E315. https://doi.org/10.1152/ajpendo.1995.269.2.E309
3. Windmueller, H. G., & Spaeth, A. E. (1974). Intestinal metabolism of glutamine and glutamate from the lumen as compared to glutamine from blood. Archives of Biochemistry and Biophysics, 165(1), 1-14. https://doi.org/10.1016/0003-9861(74)90280-7
4. Castell, L. M., Poortmans, J. R., & Newsholme, E. A. (1996). Does glutamine have a role in reducing infections in athletes? European Journal of Applied Physiology and Occupational Physiology, 73(5), 488-490. https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02425410
5. Cury-Boaventura, M. F., Levada-Pires, A. C., Folador, A., Gorjão, R., Alba-Loureiro, T. C., Hirabara, S. M., & Pithon-Curi, T. C. (2008). Effects of exercise on leukocyte death: prevention by hydrolyzed whey protein enriched with glutamine dipeptide. European Journal of Applied Physiology, 103(3), 289-294. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-008-0719-9

Ingredients Explained: L-Arginine

What is L-arginine

L-arginine, a semi-essential amino acid, is both produced by the body and available as a supplement. It plays a crucial role in various bodily processes, such as the creation of nitric oxide, which boosts blood flow and circulation and therefore in theory, improves your workouts.

Why would someone take L-arginine

From a training perspective, L-arginine has been shown to enhance exercise performance by increasing blood flow, dilating blood vessels, and promoting the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to muscles (Journal of Sports Science and Medicine 2005; Current Sports Medicine Reports 2009). Some research also indicates that L-arginine stimulates the production of growth hormone and insulin, which can aid in muscle growth and recovery (Nitric Oxide 2008). L-arginine may also reduce muscle fatigue and improve endurance.

Additionally, some people take L-arginine for its potential health benefits, including improving heart health, enhancing sexual function, aiding in wound healing, and reducing symptoms of conditions such as angina and erectile dysfunction. 

Who’s L-arginine not for

Whilst a body of research supports L-arginine benefits in exercise performance, there are some things to consider.

If the goal of supplementing with L-arginine is to improve nitric oxide production and exercise performance, a cheaper alternative like L-citrulline may be a better option. This is because L-citrulline is absorbed more efficiently through the intestines than L-arginine (Khalaf et al., 2019). If you have experienced gastrointestinal discomfort or bloating after taking a pre-workout, it may be due to a high dose of L-arginine mixed with caffeine.

L-arginine may interact with some medications, such as blood pressure medications, and may cause side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort and bloating. People with liver or kidney problems should consult their physician before taking L-arginine supplements.

What to look for in an L-arginine supplement

When choosing an L-arginine supplement, look for one that is as pure as possible, with the highest concentration of the amino acid. L-arginine malate 2:1 is a widely available alternative to pure L-arginine, while L-arginine malate 1:1 is less ideal. Note: Some companies may not specify the type of L-arginine on their label - don't be afraid to ask!

How to take L-arginine

L-arginine supplements can be taken orally. The recommended dosage can vary based on the individual's needs. Typically you’ll find that the dosages range from 1g-10g

When to take L-arginine

The suggestion around when to take L-arginine will vary based on the individual's needs, as well as the purpose behind its use. 

Can L-arginine be used with other supplements

We previously mentioned that L-arginine is a common ingredient in pre-workout supplements as a nitric oxide enhancer. However, we prefer other compounds, such as L-citrulline, over L-arginine for pre-workouts.

Some research suggests that it may not pair well with medications, such as Viagra, so it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before combining supplements with medication, especially if you have an existing condition.

What differs from product to product

As previously mentioned, L-arginine comes in a variety of grades. Our suggestion? Go for the good stuff, aka 100% pure L-arginine. With that in mind, choosing between products is easy peasy - simply pick the one that fits your budget and/or aligns with your preferred brand.

References:

Ali A, Al-Sohaibani M, Al-Daghri N. (2005). "Effects of oral administration of L-arginine on athletic performance of young soccer players," Journal of Sports Science and Medicine, 4, pp. 112-116.

Nosaka N, Suzuki K. (2008). "The role of nitric oxide in exercise performance and adaptations," Nitric Oxide, 19(2), pp. 149-156.

Madar Z, Chen J, Lipsitz LA. (2009). "The effects of L-arginine supplementation on athletic performance," Current Sports Medicine Reports, 8(6), pp. 305-311.

Khalaf, D., Krüger, M., Wehland, M., Infanger, M., & Grimm, D. (2019). The Effects of Oral l-Arginine and l-Citrulline Supplementation on Blood Pressure. Nutrients, 11(7), 1679.

When it comes to maximizing fat loss, diet and exercise reign supreme.

The largest determinant of long-term fat loss is the ability to expend more energy than you consume over a prolonged period of time. Put simply, if you burn more calories than you eat, you will lose weight.

Exercise affects the “energy out” part of this equation by increasing the amount of energy you burn. Conversely, changes in diet affect the “energy in” part of this equation by helping you consume less energy throughout the day.

However, while these two factors are unquestionably the most important when it comes to fat loss, that doesn't mean you shouldn't pursue a little help along the way. 

Help in the form of supplements.

With that in mind, we wanted to give you the rundown on the best (as well as legal and scientifically supported) fat loss supplements available on the market at the moment, and the how and why behind them.

Best Fat Loss Supplements

When it comes to fat loss, the supplement industry is rife with options -- however, like most things, some are much better than others.

And here are the good ones:

• Casein Protein Powder

First up we have casein powder.

While it is not often advertised as a fat loss supplement, that doesn't mean it won't have a profound effect on your fat loss journey (if you use it correctly, that is).

Much like whey protein powder, casein is a refined protein source derived from dairy, where it is produced as a by-product when people make cheese. But casein is markedly different from whey in the sense that it is a slow digesting protein source (whereas whey is digested rapidly after eating).

It is for this reason that casein is often used as a source of protein before sleep -- because it provides a steady stream of amino acids into the blood overnight, maximizing muscle protein synthesis (and by extension, muscle growth).

However, this has an additional benefit pertaining to fat loss.

Because it takes so long to digest, casein also blunts hunger and reduces the desire for snacking throughout the day [1]. With this in mind, it can be used in between meals as a way to lower sensations of hunger and reduce your daily energy intake during fat loss phases.

We may be a little biased, but we firmly believe the best option on the market is the Amino Z casein powder.

• Thermogenic supplements (a.k.a fat burners)

Thermogenics are a family of supplements that typically combine a number of ingredients that act to increase your metabolic rate, increase energy levels throughout the day, and blunt hunger.

Some of the more common evidence-based compounds found in thermogenic supplements include caffeine, Acetyl L Carnitine, L-Tyrosine, Theobromine, Green Tea Extract, synephrine, gamma butyrobetaine, pepper extract(s)...the list goes on.

Now, one thing to note is that some of the effects of thermogenic supplements are a little overstated -- especially those that relate to increasing metabolism and fat burning.

While many of thermogenic supplements contain ingredients that facilitate both of these factors, the effect is often quite small, and unlikely to have any meaningful impact on long-term fat loss. 

But that doesn't make them useless.

Firstly, many of the compounds in thermogenics do increase alertness, energy, and exercise performance. As a result, they can increase the amount you move throughout the day, and the amount of exercise you burn in your gym sessions [2, 3, 4, 5].

This can lead to markedly greater energy expenditure on a daily basis.

Secondly, many of these same compounds actually blunt hunger [6, 7]. This can lead to less snacking throughout the day, which can help with the “energy in” side of the fat loss equation, much like the casein discussed above.

With this in mind, there may be merit to taking your thermogenic supplements earlier in the day to get the largest effect on daily energy and hunger, rather than right before your workout.

If you are after a high quality thermogenic supplement that contains nothing but evidence based ingredients, it's hard to look past our Amino Z thermogenic supplement. 

• Fiber Supplements

Last but not least, we have fiber.

Most people know that fiber is good for their overall health -- but did you know that it can also promote fat loss?

The term “fiber” describes a specific family of carbohydrates that cannot be digested by the human gut. Breaking it down further, fiber can be classified as soluble or insoluble, depending on how it interacts with water.

Insoluble fibers do not dissolve in the presence of water, and tend to act as a bulking agent in your digestive system, increasing the content of your gut. Conversely, soluble fiber does dissolve in water, which is why most insoluble fibers increase the speed at which food is digested.

However, there are certain types of insoluble fibers -- namely psyllium and glucomannan -- that get extremely thick in the presence of water, and end up becoming a thick gel-like substance that fills your digestive system.

As a result, these types of fiber can slow the rate at which your stomach empties, making you feel fuller for longer, and seriously reducing your appetite in the process [8, 9].  Like many of the other appetite suppressing supplements discussed earlier in this article, this can lead to reduced caloric consumption and associated weight loss. 

So, if you want to get some of the fat loss benefits of fiber, start your day with something like a psyllium supplement, or even a bowl of rolled oats (which is full of fiber).

Do you need fat loss supplements?

As discussed above, real fat loss is derived from sustaining a moderate energy deficit for a prolonged period of time (i.e., often multiple months). And this is largely driven by maintaining a high quality diet and a solid exercise regime.

But there is a kicker here.

Anyone who has been on a fat loss journey knows that losing weight is hard. The more weight you lose, and the longer you spend eating fewer and fewer calories, the harder it gets. Hunger increases, energy decreases, and it becomes extremely difficult to find motivation to continue.

Which is where supplements can help.

By increasing energy and blunting hunger they can make your weight loss journey less difficult and more enjoyable. In turn, this can help you maintain your fat loss phase for longer, making it more effective.

Take Home Message

Most fat loss supplements are over blown -- but there are a select few that can have a significant impact on your fat loss journey, ultimately making it more successful in the long run.

So if you are looking to start a cutting phase, give a few of the supplements listed in this article a go and see what you think. They could just be the thing that takes your training results to the next level.

References

1. Alfenas, Rita de Cássia Gonçalves, Josefina Bressan, and Aline Cardoso de Paiva. "Effects of protein quality on appetite and energy metabolism in normal weight subjects." Arquivos Brasileiros de Endocrinologia & Metabologia 54 (2010): 45-51.
2. Grgic, Jozo, et al. "Wake up and smell the coffee: caffeine supplementation and exercise performance—an umbrella review of 21 published meta-analyses." British journal of sports medicine 54.11 (2020): 681-688.
3. Eichenberger, Philipp, Paolo C. Colombani, and Samuel Mettler. "Effects of 3-week consumption of green tea extracts on whole-body metabolism during cycling exercise in endurance-trained men." Int J Vitam Nutr Res 79.1 (2009): 24-33.
4. Koozehchian, Majid S., et al. "Effects of nine weeks L-Carnitine supplementation on exercise performance, anaerobic power, and exercise-induced oxidative stress in resistance-trained males." Journal of exercise nutrition & biochemistry 22.4 (2018): 7.
5. Sohail, Anas Anas, et al. "The Cognitive-Enhancing Outcomes of Caffeine and L-theanine: A Systematic Review." Cureus 13.12 (2021).
6. Schubert, Matthew M., et al. "Caffeine, coffee, and appetite control: a review." International journal of food sciences and nutrition 68.8 (2017): 901-912.
7. Carter, Brett E., and Adam Drewnowski. "Beverages containing soluble fiber, caffeine, and green tea catechins suppress hunger and lead to less energy consumption at the next meal." Appetite 59.3 (2012): 755-761.
8. Clark, Michelle J., and Joanne L. Slavin. "The effect of fiber on satiety and food intake: a systematic review." Journal of the American College of Nutrition 32.3 (2013): 200-211.
9. Rebello, Candida J., Carol E. O’Neil, and Frank L. Greenway. "Dietary fiber and satiety: the effects of oats on satiety." Nutrition reviews 74.2 (2016): 131-147.

Over the last decade caffeine has become known as the most effective pre-workout and thermogenic ingredient on the planet -- a reputation that is well supported by the research.

However, we have seen numerous other compounds emerge as suitable alternatives for those that are intolerant to caffeine, or that work synergistically with caffeine to improve results.

And theobromine is one of these.

Step 1: What is it?

Theobromine is a unique compound found naturally occurring in highest concentrations in the cacao plant (latin name theobroma cacao) and tea leaves.

This particular compound was commonly used by ancient Mayan and Aztec civilizations during weddings and various other religious ceremonies due to the euphoric effect it can cause. It is also what gives dark chocolate its bitter taste.

Theobromine is a type of compound known as an “xanthine alkaloid,” and it has a very similar structure to caffeine., which is where it derives most of its benefits.

Step 2: What does it do?

When ingested, theobromine works by blocking adenosine receptors in the body.

Adenosine is a neurotransmitter that is produced by the human body. Broadly speaking, neurotransmitters are what your body uses to transmit information to cells, with adenosine being responsible for creating feelings of fatigue and tiredness, preparing your body for sleep.

However, by blocking your body’s adenosine receptors, theobromine stops adenosine from acting on your body. This leads to increased sensations of wakefulness and alertness, improved mood, and heightened energy levels.

Taking this into consideration, the supplementation of theobromine can have some unique benefits.

Firstly, it has been shown to improve mental performance and cognitive function, while simultaneously reducing mental fatigue and lethargy [1]. Secondly, it has been shown to improve sensations of alertness, and enhance the ability to perform demanding tasks [2]. 

Collectively these two factors highlight why it has become increasingly common as a pre-workout ingredient. Additionally, some of this research [2] has indicated that it provides these effects via slightly different means than caffeine, suggesting they could complement one another nicely.

Thirdly, there is also some evidence indicating that theobromine can reduce blood pressure [3]. While this is unlikely to affect your exercise performance in the gym, it may improve long term health -- which is never a bad thing.

Lastly, it has also been shown to increase blood flow and the secretion of key hormones epinephrine and norepinephrine. As these hormones increase both heart and metabolic rate [4], theobromine may make maintaining an energy deficit (and long term weight loss) easier.

This is why theobromine is often found in thermogenic supplements, as well as pre-workouts.

Step 3: How do I take it?

The most common recommendations for theobromine supplementation is between 80 and 500 milligrams per day. This seems to be the sweet spot where you can maximize the positive benefits without any notable side effects.

It is important to note that some research has explored higher dosages (up to 1000 milligrams per day), but this has shown negative effects on sensations of wellbeing, and has even caused decreases in alertness (similar to what occurs when you have too much coffee).

With this in mind, we would suggest starting on the lower end of these recommendations to assess tolerance. You can then increase slightly over time as needed.

Step 4: What are the top products?

As we have already discussed, Theobromine is rarely sold in isolation, largely due to the synergistic effect it has with other compounds like caffeine. As such, you are most likely to find it in either pre-workout or thermogenic supplements.

And this is what you need to look out for when you buy it.

Firstly, make sure the ingredient list is clear.

Because theobromine is sold in a mix of larger compounds, it is often underdosed. As a result you should try and find something that clearly describes how much theobromine contains, and it should be close to 100 milligrams. 

Secondly, check the quality.

If you are purchasing online, you want to make sure that the theobromine is at least 95% purity. Any decent company will provide regular lab tests on their website, so you should be able to check these for clarification.

Lastly, don't pay too much. 

Most pre-workouts and thermogenics are overpriced. Look for those that have minimal marketing, simple packaging, and a small amount of select, evidence-based, ingredients. And if they have a proprietary blend, ignore it.

And that is how you find the best Theobromine containing supplement today.

References:

1. Scholey, Andrew B., et al. "Consumption of cocoa flavanols results in acute improvements in mood and cognitive performance during sustained mental effort." Journal of Psychopharmacology 24.10 (2010): 1505-1514.
2. Cova, Ilaria, et al. "Exploring cocoa properties: is theobromine a cognitive modulator?." Psychopharmacology 236.2 (2019): 561-572.
3. Mitchell, E. S., et al. "Differential contributions of theobromine and caffeine on mood, psychomotor performance and blood pressure." Physiology & behavior 104.5 (2011): 816-822.
4. Baggott, Matthew J., et al. "Psychopharmacology of theobromine in healthy volunteers." Psychopharmacology 228.1 (2013): 109-118.