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.

Biotin, also called Vitamin H or Vitamin B7. Biotin is a water-soluble B-Complex Vitamin that is needed for the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins.

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, is a supple gray alkaline earth metal, which is the fifth most abundant element by mass in the Earth's crust. Calcium is also at the fifth most profuse dissolved ion in seawater by both molarities and mass. Calcium is a significant nutrient that we require in our bodies. It has many imperative functions. It helps getting strong teeth and bones and is involved in muscle contractions and blood clotting, The calcium is mainly stored in our teeth and bones. Low calcium level may lead to the bone fractures and in some cases porous bones or osteoporosis, generally in old age. The intake of calcium can drop down the high blood pressure, maintain your heart functions, avert gum disease, prevent colon and rectum cancer, and help blood to clot.

Choline was discovered in 1864 by Andreas Strecker, Choline is a water soluble organic compound. This nutrient is found in the neurotransmitter acetylcholine and lipids which make up cell membranes. Choline is a member of the Vitamin B Complex group and it is generally required for physiological purposes like structuring of cell membranes, as a precursor molecule for neurotransmitter acetylcholine and to protect the livers from accumulation of fat. Besides the infant or fetus brain development, choline can also prevent memory loss caused due to aging. Your homocysteine levels related to cardiovascular diseases and cholesterol can be lowered by it. The recommended intake of choline which is found in peanut butter, beef liver, cauliflower and almonds is 550 mg for men and 425 mg for women.

Chromium.

Copper is a naturally occurring mineral in foods like shell fish, vegetables, avocado fruits, legumes, grains, nuts, and beef. As copper originates from the earth's crust, the surface water and ground water contains small traces of copper. Copper is implicated in many biochemical reactions within the human cells.

Creatine Monohydrate- Creatine is a naturally occurring compound that is formed in the various organs of the body, such as the pancreas, kidneys and the liver. Through the bloodstream it is transported to the muscles in the body. Creatine helps in building lean muscle mass and is extremely important to people who are into body building. Creatine monohydrate is a well known supplement that is used by a large number of athletes. Creatine monohydrate also has the ability to release the reserves of energy stored in the muscular tissues, thereby making it extremely important to athletes. Creatine, however, does have side effects that can cause cramps in the stomach, vomiting and dehydration, due to its ability to draw out water from the cells in the muscular tissue.

Folic Acid produces healthy red blood cells and prevents anemia in both children and adults. It is especially important in pregnancy and infancy and is also believed to help in the prevention of cancer, stroke and heart disease.

Inositol , a type of sugar that differs from glucose in chemical structure. Inositol helps prevent the accumulation of fat in the liver and aids in the detoxification of metabolic wastes.

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 the chemical element found in the periodic table with the atomic number 12. This alkaline earth metal is one of ten most common elements in the known universe and also very prominently present in the human body. It manipulates polyphosphate compounds, most prominently the DNA, RNA and the ATP. Numerous enzymes rely on magnesium ions to function properly. Most common application of magnesium in medicine may be the addition to antacids and laxatives. This metal is not found as a free element naturally on Earth, generally the metal is obtained through electrolysis of magnesium salts. The most common deficiency in the United States with staggering two thirds of the population is the magnesium deficiency. Magnesium can be obtained through vegetables, tea, cocoa, cereals, coffee, nuts and spices.

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.

Pancreatin is a combination of proteins or digestive enzymes that is produced naturally in the body by the exocrine cells of the pancreas when it is functioning properly. The pancreatin supplement that is created outside of the human body is normally derived from the pancreas of cows and pigs, thus it is still considered all natural. Some trade names that pancreatin is known by are Creon, Nutrizym, Pancrease HL and Pancrex. It contains the pancreatic enzymes amylase, lipase and trypsin that improve digestion, specifically of fatty foods. Trypsin works by hydrolyzing proteins into oligopeptides; lipase works by hydrolyzing triglycerides into fatty acids and glycerols; and amylase hydrolyzes starches into oligosaccharides and the disaccharide maltose. This supplement is used to treat conditions that result from deficient pancreatic secretions such as pancreatitis, surgical pancreatectomy, and cystic fibrosis. There are also claims that pancreatin assists with celiac disease, autoimmune disease, cancer, food allergies and weight loss.

Pantothenic Acid is widely used for its effective use to treat acne. It is also used to relieve pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis and to relieve morning stiffness. Deficiency of Pantothenic acid is rare but can cause nausea, fatigue, headache and skin abnormalities. It plays a key role in the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats to release energy. It is also vital in antibody formation which helps in building immune system and preventing infections.

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 is considered good for health if taken in small amounts. It is a trace mineral which when incorporated into protein, makes selenoproteins that helps stop cellular damage due to free radicals. The major source of selenium is plant foods and its content in the food depends on the selenium content in the soil where it was grown. Also known as selenium acid, selenium sulfide and selenium yeast, this mineral is available in seafood and meat products. The main function of selenium is to work with vitamin E in order to maintain the elasticity and preservation of tissues. It not only helps in improving the supply of oxygen and blood to the muscles in the heart but also slows down the aging process by enhancing endurance.

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 potent vitamin that needs only a little amount of dosage to work efficiently. It is sometime referred to as “cobalamin” because of its cobalt contents. It plays an important role in the production of protein from amino acids, maintenance of nervous system, growth and development, and in the production of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). It helps prevent anemia because it promotes the production and formation of healthy red blood cells. It also protects the myelin in the nervous system that enables them to function properly that promotes mental clarity, and prevent memory loss. It is also important in cell replication, and proper metabolism of energy.

Vitamin B2 , an easily absorbed micronutrient, is also known by the name of Riboflavin. It plays a key role in maintaining the health of animals as well as humans. A wide variety if cellular processes require this vitamin. It plays a key role in energy metabolism, just like other B vitamins. It is the kind of micronutrient which required for the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates, fats and ketone bodies. There are a lot of food products that are a good source of Vitamin B2. Matured soybeans, yeast, mushroom, livers, kidneys, leafy vegetables, milk, cheese, almonds are such products that are rich in this vitamin. But riboflavin does get destroyed if exposed to light. Riboflavin is a non toxic vitamin. Hence, there is no harm in taking it orally.

Vitamin B3, commonly called Niacin, exists in two main forms, niacin and niacinamide. The niacin form produces a flushing and itching of the skin when taken at higher dosages and this feeling is only temporary.

Vitamin B5, is water soluble and is needed by every cell in the body to maintain good health. It helps in breaking down carbohydrates, fats and proteins to provide the body with energy. It assists in the production of red blood cells and hormones and ensures a healthy pregnancy. It is also known to lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels in the body. It helps in reducing stress and treating people with rheumatoid arthritis. Pantothenic acid is found in small quantities in almost all foods but abundantly in meats, fish, poultry, avocados, peas, broccoli and whole grains. A deficiency which is rare, leads to leg cramps, gastrointestinal problems, anemia, insomnia, depression, a burning sensation in the limbs and a weakened immune system.

Vitamin B6, which active form pyridoxal phosphate or otherwise known as PLP and pyridoxal-5’-phosphate, is a prosthetic group of tightly bound cofactors responsible for many reactions within the amino acid metabolism and the manipulation of the enzymatic reaction behind the release of glucose from glycogen. Vitamin B6 generally comprises three organic compounds, pyridoxine, pyridoxal and pyridoxamine, all of them heterocyclic organic compounds that are converted in the human body to the active pyridoxal phosphate form. There are three reactions attributed to PLP, namely transamination, alpha elimination and beta elimination. Over one hundred and forty enzyme activities depend on pyridoxal phosphate, neurotransmitter and histamine synthesis, synthesis and function of hemoglobin, and gene expression. As a cofactor, PLP is active in amino acid metabolism, glucogenesis and lipid metabolism.

Vitamin C is well known for its powerful ability to help boost the immune system as well as fight off damage causing free radicals. As an anti-oxidant, vitamin c binds with free radicals, preventing them from damaging cells. This damage can cause early aging and even has been linked to some cancers. By taking vitamin C supplements, you are helping prevent these free-radicals, as well as giving your immune system a boost as well. Vitamin C is integral to cellular metabolism as well and a lack of vitamin C can cause a myriad of issues, including scurvy.

Vitamin D- The fast soluble vitamin D is perhaps the most underrated nutrient that is produced when sunlight touches the skin. But it is extremely vital for bone health, as without it the body cannot absorb the calcium that you may provide it in the form of supplements. With the advent of beauty products with high sun protection factor, this nutrient is becoming less available to our bodies. Even weaker sunscreens with just SPF-8 prevent the body considerably from producing vitamin D. Diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, certain cancers, multiple sclerosis, and even schizophrenia may stem from deficiency of this vitamin. You can provide vitamin D to your body through supplements and foods like mushrooms, tuna, eggs, dark green leafy vegetables, salmon, sardines, mackerel, fortified dairy products and cereals, yoghurt, and milk.

Vitamin E is the name for a group of tocopherols and tocotrienols that are soluble in fat and display antioxidant properties. The most important vitamin out of this group is alpha tocopherol, which professes the highest bioavailability, and therefore, was the most studied Vitamin E. Found in such foods as nuts, seeds, milk, wheat germ and most vegetable oils, this Vitamin is said to be perhaps the most important antioxidant in human nourishment, although this trait is not deemed the imperative reason why Vitamin E is required to be in every diet. Most clinical studies which were supposed to crown Vitamin E as the prevention from prostate cancer or cardiovascular wonder supplement have been either inconclusive or were discontinued due to poor results. Vitamin E deficiency results in neurological and neuromuscular problems, but also in failure to absorb fat.

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 mineral that is present in every cell in the body. It is good for maintaining a healthy skin. It promotes healing of wounds such as bed sores, skin sore, and canker sores. It may also act as an astringent and aid in the treatment of acne. Zinc improves the immune system by activating white blood cells to fight against infections, virus, and even cancers. Zinc is also beneficial in improving the health of prostate gland and protects it against inflammation and infection. It also helps improve the brain functions such as memory retention. It also helps in the production of testosterone that improves libido, prevents low sperm count. It may also help in the formation and development of muscles.