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Glossary of supplement terms

A
This vitamin is used for night vision, body tissue repair and maintenance.

Acetylcholine
A chemical found in vertebrate neurons that carries information across the synaptic cleft, the space between two nerve cells. A neurotransmitter

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP)
An important high energy compound, which is present in your muscle fibers. Especially used during the anabolic and anti-catabolic phase of working muscles. 12

Adrenal gland
This gland is found above each kidney and it made up of an outer wall (cortex) that secretes important steroid hormones and an inner portion (medulla) that produces adrenaline (adrenaline) and noradrenaline (noradrenaline). The adrenal glands are triangular shaped and measure about one-half inch in height and 3 inches in length. Each gland consists of a medulla (the center of the gland) which is surrounded by the cortex. The medulla is responsible for producing epinephrine and norepinephrine (adrenaline). The adrenal cortex produces other hormones necessary for fluid and electrolyte (salt) balance in the body such as cortisone and aldosterone

Alpha ketoglutarate (AKG)
Potential increase in ATP. Improves aerobic/anaerobic exercise if combined with vitamin B6. 12

Amino acids
Chemical molecules which combine to form the various proteins. There are 22 common amino acids. The human body can synthesize (manufacture) 14 of them. The other 8 must come from the diet and are therefore called essential. 1

Amylases
Enzymes that break down carbohydrates {starch} into gluclose

Anabolic
Any process involving the building of complex compounds from smaller simpler ones (for example proteins are built from amino acids). This process requires energy.

B1
This vitamin is used for blood building, carbohydrate metabolism, energy, growth, muscle tone, circulation maintenance of intestine, stomach, heart and appetite.

B2 (Riboflavin)
This vitamin is used by the body for antibody and red cell formation, cell respiration, metabolism of protein, fat and carbohydrate.

B3 (Niacin)
This vitamin is used for circulation, growth, sex hormone production, metabolism of protein, fat and carbohydrate, and cholesterol level reduction.

B5 (Pantothenic acid)
This vitamin is used for antibody and steroid formation, conversion of carbohydrate, fat and protein into energy, and growth stimulation.

B6 (Pyridoxine)
This vitamin is used for fat, protein metabolism (particularly Methionine and Tryptophan), antibody formation, and sodium potassium balance.

B12 (Cobalamin)
This vitamin is used for fat, protein and carbohydrate metabolism, blood cell information, and fatty acid synthesis.

Beta carotine
The preferred form of vitamin A. Acts as a natural antioxidant, and nutritionists today feel it is an important part of a balanced nutritional regiment.

Beta-hydroxy
Beta hydroxy acids include salicylic and citric acids. Research has shown that beta hydroxy acids, especially salicylic acid, are effective in exfoliating the lower dermal skin layers which result in increased cell.

Betaine
A derivative of glycine characterised by high water solubility. Can function as an osmotic agent in plant tissues.

Beta sitosterol
A sterol (plant hormone) derived from crude germ oils. Increases growth hormone and natural testosterone levels in the body.

Bioflavonoids
This vitamin is used for a mild stimulant, capillary maintenance.

Biotin
This vitamin is used for fat, protein and carbohydrate metabolism, cell growth, and fatty acid production.

Boron
A mineral that not only aides in calcium absorption but also has been shown to double and triple blood levels of testosterones. Usual daily dosage is 3 mg.

Branched chain amino acids (BCAAs)
Three amino acids (Leucine, Isoleucine, Valine) which are quickly absorbed by muscle tissue and help create a positive nitrogen balance thus promoting muscular growth.

Bromelain
A naturally extracted digestive enzyme that may help accelerate tissue repair.

C (Ascorbic acid)
This vitamin is used for collagen production, bone and tooth formation, healing, digestion, red blood cell formation, infection and shock resistance, iodine conservation, and protection against vitamin oxidation.

Caffeine
Stimulant which helps increase the ability of the body to burn fat by helping liberate fatty acids from bodyfat stores.

Calcium (Ca)
This mineral is used for bone and tooth formation, muscle growth and contraction, blood clotting, heart rhythm, and nerve transmission and tranquilizing.

Carbohydrate
Any of various neutral compounds of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen (as sugars, starches, cellulose) most of which are formed by green plants and which constitute a major class of animal foods.

Carnitine
An amino acid which encourages the body to burn stored fat for energy rather than carbohydrates.

Choline
This vitamin is used for fat and cholesterol metabolism, nerve transmission, lecithin formation, and liver and gall bladder regulation.

Cholriphate
controlling catalyst used in molecular bonding compounds to withstand the attack of the digestive process

Chromium
A mineral important in the metabolism of sugars and insulin production. Recent studies have shown that this mineral taken in 200 mcg (.2mg) daily will greatly increase lean body mass while decreasing fat.

CLA
Conjugated Linoleic Acid - one of the three fatty acids found in fish oil.

Collagen
The main protein constituent of connective tissue and of the organic substance of bones.

Copper (Cu)
This mineral controls oxidation of vitamin C, collagen, elastin, bone, hemoglobin, and red blood cell formation; and the body's healing processes.

CoQ10 (Coenzyem Q10)
A molecule that controls oxygen flow within cells and acts as a catalyst in the creation of energy.

Creatine/Creatine monohtdrate
A naturally occurring dietary component found exclusively in muscle meats and dairy products. All commercially sold Creatine Monohydrate is from synthetic sources.

Creatine phosphate is a high-energy compound in muscle cells which stores energy and provides the energy for short bursts of activity. Creatine is produced by the human body, and the compound also occurs naturally in meat and fish. Consequently, vegetarians tend to have lower creatine stores than meat eaters. One pound of beef contains 2 grams of creatine. In a supplement form, it is an odorless, virtually tasteless, white powder which looks like sugar and is usually preferable mixed with grape juice. Creatine has been tested on athletes involved in short bursts of activity such as weight lifters, sprinters, cyclers, rowers, and swimmers. Studies show that supplementation with Creatine Monohydrate boosts size and muscle strength, speeds recovery, and increases muscle bioenergetics and lean body mass.

Cytochrome C
A chemical compound composed of amino acids and iron which acts as a carrier of oxygen with the mitochondria. Allows for more oxygen uptake by the cells, thus prolonging endurance.

D
This vitamin is used for metabolism of calcium and phosphorous, maintenance of nervous system, blood clotting, heart action, skin respiration and bone formation.

Desiccate
To dry up, removing all the water, dehydrate.

DHEA
Dehydroepiandrosterone - is a hormone produced by the adrenal gland. Primary function is to produce estrogen ,testosterone and IGF-1.

Two of specific interest are testosterone and IGF-1 (hormones responsible for increased size and hard, lean muscle). Additionally, DHEA can assist protein synthesis, recovery time, muscle strength, and fat loss

Dibencozide
The biologically active coenzyme of vitamin 12, necessary in the metabolism of fat, proteins and carbohydrates. Some studies have shown it to produce results in strength and size comparable to steroids. 1

Dimethyl glycine (DMG)
A substance originally isolated from apricot kernels. Said to increase oxygen uptake and decrease recovery time between workouts. 1

DopamineA catecholamine neurotransmitter and hormone (153 D), formed by decarboxylation of dehydroxyphenylalanine (dopa). A precursor of adrenaline and noradrenaline

E
This vitamin is used as an antioxidant, increases oxygen availability, ageing retardation, blood cholesterol reduction, strengthens capillary walls, lung protection, fertility, and muscle and nerve maintenance. 5

EFA’s
Essential Fatty Acids are the "good fats" needed by your body for good overall health and bodily functions including weight loss. Some of these include EPA, DHA, GLA, CLA, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.

Electrolytes
Important minerals such as potassium, magnesium, sodium and calcium, that help provide continuity in the passage of fluid through your body. 12

Emulsified
A process whereby oil globules are broken down to such tiny size that they are able to disperse and suspend in water without separation. 6

Enzyme
A protein produced by living cells that catalyze chemical reaction in organic matter.

Ephedra
A beta receptor stimulant, and 40% of its stimulation is on the beta-3 sites. Beta-3 receptors are vital in promoting weight loss.

Ephadrine
A crystalline alkaloid C10H15NO extracted from Chinese plants (genus Ephedra of the family Gnetaceae) or synthesized and used as a salt in relieving hay fever, asthma, and nasal congestion.

Folic acid
This vitamin is used for red blood cell formation, protein metabolism, appetite, body growth, and reproduction.

Free form amino acids
Separate and isolate amino acids not bound or linked to any other amino acids.

GABA
An essential fatty acid derivative that your body breaks down to obtain energy. Regulates your cardiovascular system and may lower blood pressure.

Gamma oryzanol
A by-product of rice bran which helps increase lean body mass while decreasing fatty tissue. Also shown to help increase testosterone production.

Garlic extracts
Has properties of being a stimulant, anti spasmodic and antibiotic. Also helps lower your total cholesterol level.

Gingko
Also spelled Ginkgo, this herb is harvested from the leaf of the Gingko Biloba tree, one of the world’s oldest surviving tree species. Gingko helps to provide greater mental alertness and concentration by increasing neurotransmitter activity.

Ginseng
Highly prized Oriental herb reputed to give long life. Increases hormone production, improves heart rate, regulates blood pressure, improves sexual function and increases vitality.

Glandulars
Supplements derived from animal glands which help boost human gland function.

Glucosomine
Used in the relief of arthritis.

Glutamine
One of the 20 amino acids commonly found (and directly coded for) in proteins. It is the amide at the _ carboxyl of the amino acid glutamate. Glutamine can participate in covalent cross linking reactions between proteins, by forming peptide like bonds by a transamidation reaction with lysine residues. This reaction, catalysed by clotting factor XIII stabilises the aggregates of fibrin formed during blood clotting.

Glutathione
A tripeptide of glutamic acid, cysteine, and glycine; fundamentally important in cellular respiration.

Glycemic index
Applies to the amount of sugar in one's blood. The normal range is 70-110mg/100 ml.

Glycine
Of special value as a source of creatine which is essential for muscle function, breaking down glycogen and freeing energy. Produces glycogen which mobilizes glycogens (a stored energy source of glucose) from the liver. Builds up the immune system, producing immunoglobulins and antibodies. Acts as a nitrogen pool for the syntheses of nonessential amino acids. Effective for hyperacidity,(used in many gastric antacid agents).

Golden seal root
A stimulant that increases your body's tonic properties. Stimulates secretion of bile. A key component of the emulsion of your body's fat.

HCA
Hydroxy Citric Acid is a natural acid which is believed to inhibit the production of fatty acids form carbohydrates and which may help to suppress the appetite.

hGHHuman growth hormone. A protein produced in the pituitary gland that stimulates the liver to produce somatomedins, which stimulate growth of bone and muscle.

Hormone
A naturally occuring substance secreted by specialised cells that affects the metabolism or behaviour of other cells possessing functional receptors for the hormone. Hormones may be hydrophilic, like insulin, in which case the receptors are on the cell surface or lipophilic, like the steroids, where the receptor can be intracellular.

Hydroxy citric acid (Citrimax-garcian cambogia)
A natural citric acid which may help curb the appetite according to the studies.

Hydrolized-WPI
Hydrolized Whey Protein Isolate

IGF-1
Insulin Growth Factor = 1

Inosine
A purine nucleotide that promotes oxygen transport and the release of oxygen molecules into the red blood cells. Also promotes production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) which is essential for muscle function.

Inositol
This vitamin is used for cholesterol and fat metabolism, cholesterol reduction, lecithin information, hair growth, and retardation of artery hardening.

Ion exchange
A technique of separating materials by reversible interchange between ions of like charge.

Iron (Fe)
This mineral is used for hemoglobin production, stress and disease resistance.

Lactase
An enzyme which breaks down milk sugar or lactose.

L-Alanine
Used as body fuel by tissues of the brain, nervous system and muscles. Important in converting energy to stored energy in the body's Kreb's energy cycle. Important nitrogen quality for post-injury states. Builds up the immune system producing immunoglobulins and antibodies. Metabolizes sugars and organic acids.

L-Arginine
Indispensable of optimum growth. Stimulates the release of growth hormone, important to muscle metabolism; acts as a vehicle for transport, storage and excretion of nitrogen. Increases muscle mass while decreasing the amount of body fat. Plays an important role in post-injury problems such as weight changes, nitrogen balance and tissue healing. Increases collagen, the main supportive fibrous protein found in bone, cartilage and other connective tissue. Stimulates the immune system. Combats physical and mental fatigue. Increases spermatogenesis. Used in the treatment of hepatic (liver) disorders. Transforms to L-Ornithine and Urea. Promotes the detoxification of ammonia which is poisonous to living cells.

L-Aspartic acid
Increases resistance to fatigue. Involved in the formation of RNA and DNA, the chemical base of hereditary and carries of genetic information. Salts of Aspartic acid increase stamina and endurance. Protects the liver and promotes normal cell function. Builds up the immune system producing immunoglobulin and antiglobulin.

L-Citulline
Helps recovery from fatigue. Stimulates the immune system, therefore, is beneficial in the presence of any illness, disease, traumatic injury or wound. Metabolizes to L-Arginine. Detoxifies ammonia which is poisonous to living cells.

L-Cysteine
Found to increase hair growth by as much as 100%, effective in preventing not only hangovers, but also brain and liver damage from alcohol. Helps prevent damage from the ill effects of cigarette smoke. Detoxifies many harmful chemicals. Helpful in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Promotes healing and the immune system.

L-Cystine
Essential for the formation for skin and hair. Promotes recovery from surgical operations and burns. Used in the treatment of respiratory disorders such as chronic bronchitis. Stimulates white blood cell activity in the immune systems necessary for the resistance to disease.

Lecithin
A phospholipid containing glycerol, fatty acids, phosphoric acid and choline. Serves as a structural material to every cell in the body. Important to the brain and nerves.

L-Glutamic acid
Especially important in brain metabolism. Function as a brain fuel, serving as an excitatory neurotransmitter. Transports potassium across the blood brain barrier. Combines to form L-Glutamine and in the process picks up ammonia radicals. This is the only method the brain has of detoxifying ammonia. Instrumental in the metabolism of other amino acids. Metabolizes sugars and fats. Increases the blood sugar level; used in the treatment of hypoglycemia.

L-Glutamine
Sustains mental ability involved with brain metabolism. Along with L-Glutamic acid is used as a brain fuel. Used in the treatment of alcoholism, can protect against alcohol poisoning. Has been used in the treatment of schizophrenia and senility.

L-Histidine
Used in the treatment of allergic diseases. Also used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Effective in the treatment of ulcers of the digestive organs. Important in the production of red and white blood cells; i.e. treatment of anemia.

Lipotropic
Applies to substances essential for fat metabolism, promoting the physiologic utilization of fat.

L-Isoleucine
Primarily metabolized in muscle tissue. Essential to the formation of hemoglobin. Should always be in well balanced proportion with L-Leucine and L-Valine.

L-Leucine
Metabolized in muscle tissue. Promotes healing of skin and broken bones. Lowers elevated blood sugar levels. Should always be in well balanced proportion with L-Valine and Isoleucine.

L-Lycine
Inhibits the growth of viruses. Used in the treatment of Herpes Simplex virus. Produces L-Carnitine which improves stress tolerance and fat metabolism and has an antifatigue effect. Promotes bone growth by helping to form collagen, the fibrous protein which makes up bone, cartilage and other connective tissue.

L-Methionine
Lipotropic (preventing excessive fat buildup in the liver). Helps prevent premature hair loss. Interacts with other body substances to detoxify harmful compounds. Is included in nutritional supplementation as an antifatigue agent.

L-Ornithine
Stimulates the release of growth hormone which increases muscle mass while decreasing the amount of body fat. Helps build up the immune system. Promotes liver function and regeneration. Important in the formation of Urea, detoxifying ammonia which is poisonous to living cells. Promotes healing.

L-Phenylalanine
Produces and maintains an elevated and positive mood, alertness and ambition. Enhances learning and memory, produces neurotransmitters which control impulse transmission between nerve cells. Is involved in dopamine transmission. Used in the treatment of certain types of depression. Suppresses appetite.

L-Proline
Extremely important for the proper function of joints and tendons, as well as good heart muscles. Glycogenic (energy storage source of glucose by the liver and muscles) a major constituent of collagen, the main fibrous protein found in bone, cartilage and other tissues.

L-Serine
Glycogenic (energy storage source of glucose by the liver and muscles). Builds up the immune system, producing immunoglobulins and antibodies.

L-Threonine
Lipotropic (preventing fatty buildup in the liver). Glycogenic (energy storage source of glucose by the liver and muscles) essential to normal growth. Generally low in vegetarian diets. Builds up the immune system producing immunoglobulin and antibodies. Is an important constitute of collagen and elastin proteins. 3

L-Tryptophan
Used by the brain to produce the neurotransmitter Serotin which results in a calming effect. Used in the treatment of insomnia, stress, anxiety and depression. Stimulates the release of growth hormone which burns body fat and acts as an aid in weight control. Used in the treatment of migraines.

L-Tyrosine
Plays an important role in the function of the adrenal, pituitary and thyroid glands. Generates red and white blood cells. Elevates mood. Is used in the treatment of anxiety, depression and insomnia. Produces melanin, the skin and hair pigment. Produces Norepinephrine, an appetite inhibitory neurotransmitter that suppresses appetite. Stimulates the release of growth hormone which causes muscle growth and reduces body fat.

L-Valine
Glycogenic (energy storage source of glucose by the liver and the muscles) metabolized in muscle. Should always be in well balanced proportion with L-Leucine and L-Isoleucine.

Lycopene caritinoid
Found in natural fruits and vegetables.

MCT
Medium Chain Triglycerides, caprylic acid source. Provides twice the energy power of proteins and carbohydrates and reduces muscle protein breakdown during recovery and healing.

Metabolism
The sum of all the physical and chemical processes by which living organised substance is produced and maintained (anabolism) and also the transformation by which energy is made available for the uses of the organism (catabolism).

Metabolite
Any substance produced by metabolism or by a metabolic process.

Methionine
A lipotropic. It acts as a catalyst for choline and inositol, opening up their function.Along with choline it aids in reducing liver fat and protects the kidneys.

Magnesium (Mg)
This mineral is used for muscle relaxation, acid and alkaline balance, enzyme activation, blood sugar, calcium and vitamin C metabolism.

Manganese (Mn)
This mineral is used for carbohydrate metabolism, enzyme activation, reproduction and sex hormone production.

Melatonin
A natural hormone available in synthetic form for supplementation. Used extensively as a sleep aid.

Nandrolone
An anabolic steroid. The highly anabolic properties of nandrolone are undisputed. Nandrolone easily binds to the body's steroid receptors and remains attached even longer than testosterone. Nandrolones are preferable to testosterones because of poor conversion to undesirable estrogenic compounds, and because the androgenic side effects like acne, increased body-hair growth and acceleration of male pattern baldness are not as prevalent.

Octacosanol
A naturally derived wheat germ oil concentrate which has been clinically proven to increase oxygen utilization when exercising.

Para-amino benzoic acid (PABA)
This vitamin is used for protein metabolism, intestinal bacteria, absorption of ultraviolet rays, hair color restoration and blood cell formation.

Peptide bonded amino acids
Amino acids which are only partially separated from other amino acids. Usually found in chains and joined by peptide bound d.

Phosphates
Have been shown to increase resting metabolic rate. Also studies suggest that phosphates may increase the ability of the blood to move oxyen to working muscles. May also help neutralize the production of lactic acid which produces the burning sensation felt in the muscles during an intense workout.

Phosphorous (P)
This mineral is used for bone and tooth formation, cell growth and repair, heart muscle contractions, energy production, calcium and sugar metabolism, and kidney function.

Phenylalanine
One of the amino acids which the body cannot manufacture itself, but must acquire from food. It is abundant in meats and cheese. Phenylalanine is a precursor of tyrosine and together they lead to the formation of thyroxine or thyroid hormone and of adrenaline and noradrenaline which is converted into a neurotransmitter, a brain chemical which transmits nerve impulses. This neurotransmitter is used by the brain to manufacture noradrenaline which promotes mental alertness, memory, elevates mood and suppresses the appetite very effectively."

Pollen
Substance found in flowers and harvested by bees. Contains all 22 amino acids and 96 other nutrients. Helps boost energy and endurance and speeds up recovery time.

Potassium (K)
This mineral is used for muscle contraction and relaxation, enzyme activation, heart beat, and growth.

Precursor
A substance which is converted to another; i.e. Beta Carotene to Vitamin A as it is assimilated by the body.

Protein
Any of numerous naturally occurring extremely complex combinations of amino acids that contain the elements carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, usu. sulfur, occas. phosphorus, iron, and/or other elements that are essential constituents of all living cells and are synthesized from raw materials by plants but assimilated as separate amino acids.

Pycnogenol
A natural extract from pine tress. Pycnogenol is a powerful antioxidant and the most readily absorbed and bio-available member of the bioflavonoid family.

Riboflavin
See vitamin B2

Selenium (Se)
Prevents or slows aging caused by antioxidants. Keeps youthful elasticity in tissues.

Shark cartilage
Contains mucopolysaccharides which may cause anti-angiogenic action that has been shown to be effective in preventing the formation of some solid tumors after extended use. May stimulate immune system functioning.

St John’s wort
Increases the levels of specific neurotransmitters in the brain. Observed to relieve depression.

Smilax
A chemical substance derived from the Sarsaparilla plant said to boost natural testosterone levels in the body.

Sodium (Na)
This mineral is used for cellular fluid balance, and muscle retractions.

Sterols
Plant hormones usually isolated from crude germ oils which aid the body in hormone production in fat metabolism.

Stearic acid
Any number of saturated aliphatic monocarboxylic acids. A metabolic byproduct from the breakdown of fats.

Succinates
Vital nutrients that are important metabolic activators, especially in the production of ATP, an energy compound.

Sulfur (S)
This mineral is used for body tissue formation and collagen synthesis.

Supplement
A compound that supplies a want or makes an addition: something that completes, adds a finishing touch or brings closer to completion or a desired state.

Synergism
The joint action of agents so that the combined effect is greater than the sum of their individual effects.

Taurine
Found in high concentrations in the tissues of the heart, skeletal muscle and central nervous system. Used to treat some forms of epilepsy by controlling seizures.

Termogenesis
Relating to heat, or to the production of heat; producing heat; thermogenous; as, the thermogenic tissues. Usualy in reference to the burning of calories.

Testosterone
Hormone produced by both men and women which controls masculinization in the body and is the key hormone in muscle building.

Vanadyl sulfate
Trace mineral which works like insulin to increase the amount of glucose and amino acids driven into the muscle.

Whey
The fluid portion of milk that separates from curd. The liquid that remains after milk has coagulated.

Whey protein
Protein from whey which has been processed to remove the water, fat, and other substances to produce a substance that is about 90% protein and 1% fat. The protein is then hydrolyzed which is very important because it breaks the large proteins up into smaller "peptides" (short chains of amino acids), which your body can easily absorb and use. The best protein supplements on the market today are composed of whey protein.

Yohimbe bark
A chemical substance derived from the Yohimbe said to boost natural testosterone levels in the body.

Zinc (Zn)
This mineral is used for protein metabolism, enzyme activation, burn and wound healing, sex organ growth, and maturity, prostate gland function, reproductive organ growth and development.

 

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