Intra Workout EAA

Of the 20 amino acids necessary for protein synthesis in humans, nine are nutritionally “essential” since the body cannot make them on its own. Hence, we must consume these nine amino acids in the diet for proper health, recovery, and performance. 

The nine EAAs in our intra-workout supplement include:

• Histidine
• Isoleucine (BCAA)
• Leucine (BCAA)
• Lysine
• Methionine
• Phenylalanine
• Threonine
• Tryptophan
• Valine (BCAA)

Taking essential amino acids before, during, and/or after exercise can help rapidly increase muscle protein synthesis with minimal digestive assistance since the amino acids are not bonded together like they are in protein [1]. In fact, one study found that a bolus of leucine-enriched EAAs after a workout stimulated protein synthesis as effectively as intact whey protein despite each supplement providing the same proportions of essential amino acids [2].

L-citrulline is an amino acid naturally found in watermelon that plays an important role in kidney function and nitric oxide production (which mediates blood flow)[3, 4]. 

By increasing nitric oxide production, L-citrulline enhances blood flow to muscle tissue during exercise, allowing nutrients (e.g. amino acids) and oxygen to replenish muscle tissue more efficiently. Ultimately, this translates to greater muscle pumps and heightened energy levels.

Taurine is a non-proteinogenic amino acid often considered essential to pre-workout supplementation due to its diverse benefits for athletes and gym-goers. For one, taurine is a potent nootropic that promotes focus and attenuates brain cell inflammation and oxidative stress [5, 6].

Taurine can also enhance physical performance via increased blood flow to skeletal muscle tissue [7, 8]. 

Greater blood flow to muscle tissue encourages a favorable milieu for muscle function and recovery during training. Additionally, taurine supplementation has been shown to improve performance in endurance athletes [9].

Betaine, also referred to as trimethylglycine, is a derivative of endogenous choline metabolism, and it naturally occurs in plant species (especially sugar beets). In recent years, betaine has become a common ingredient in pre-workout supplements due to its promise of enhancing athletic performance through diverse mechanisms [10, 11].

For one, betaine is an osmolytic compound that promotes cellular hydration, maintaining cellular volume and water balance during exercise. Betaine is also a crucial methyl donor for several biologically important molecules and a regulator of homocysteine levels, the latter of which is postulated to boost blood flow during training [12].

L-tyrosine is a conditionally essential amino acid and precursor to dopamine and norepinephrine, two neurotransmitters that govern motivation and reward. Research shows that supplementing with L-tyrosine can significantly enhance cognitive performance and increase alertness, especially under acute stress (such as intense training) [13].

 L-tyrosine has also been shown to improve “cognitive flexibility,” suggesting it can help us adapt to dynamic cognitive demands without letting extraneous thoughts undermine our focus [14].

Coconut (Cocos nucifera) water is one of the best natural sources of electrolytes and trace minerals, making it an excellent source of hydration. Coconut has been shown to provide a wealth of general health benefits, including, but not limited to [15]: 

• Rehydrating the body
• Fighting inflammation
• Balancing blood glucose and insulin levels
• Promoting immune function
• Enhancing eye and skin health
• Supporting kidney function

Transparent Labs Intra EAA is rounded out with essential electrolytes for hydration and workout performance, including chelated magnesium and calcium, along with sodium and potassium (from Himalayan rock salt and potassium chloride, respectively).

Electrolytes are lost through sweat during exercise, so replenishing them is a must for maintaining fluid balance in the body [16]. These minerals are also integral for muscle contraction, reducing muscle cramps, and the transmission of nerve impulses [17].

ElevATP® is a clinically researched combination of “ancient peat” (fossilized plants) and apple skin extracts. Using innovative biotechnology, elevATP® stimulates your body’s endogenous production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the veritable energetic currency of cells.

By boosting ATP production, ElevATP® can help promote athletic performance (e.g. max strength) and improve body composition [18, 19]. ElevATP® is also a fast-acting ATP booster that starts working from the very first dose [20].

Astragin™ is a water-soluble extract of Panax notoginseng and Astragalus membranaceus, two promising adaptogenic herbs with longstanding medicinal use [21]. The constituents in these plants are suggested to selectively increase the absorption of molecules, such as amino acids, by enhancing intestinal permeability [22]. 

In other words, Astragin™ helps your body absorb the other ingredients in this intra-workout supplement, making the overall formula more effective.