Caffeine

Information

Caffeine (1,3,7-trimethylxanthine, 1-methylotheobromine) is a purine alkaloid occurring in the natural state in plants (Coffea arabica, Camelia sinensis, Paulinia cupana, Ilex paraguariensis), which acts as a natural pesticide, acting toxic to insects. Peculiar smell and taste also deters herbivores. Caffeine in the body inhibits the adenosine receptors in the brain, fighting fatigue and allowing for action activation. It has a beneficial effect on the metabolism of oxygen, which increases the exercise capacity (strength and endurance) and rapid post-workout recovery. In the sports supplementation, caffeine is used as a stimulant nervous system. It has the thermogenic potential and in combination with other substances (e.g. Polyphenols, both occurring in coffee beans, such as cocoa beans, tea leaves and mate) can effectively participate in the reduction of body fat. It is included in many dietary stimulants (creatine stacks, no-boosters, beverages). It is a component of fat burners. It is also in the form of mono-preparation supplements.
Dosage: 100-600 mg per day. Due to the long release of activity should not be used in the evening, before sleep.

Bacopa monnieri

Information

Bacopa monnieri (bacopa cordata) - a plant of the family Scropfulariacea rich in a number of active ingredients, such as bacosides (A and B), monnierasides, hersaponin, alkaloids (herpestine, brahmin), mannitol, phytosterols and flavonoids. It has stimulant properties that affect memory and concentration. It is an antioxidant and has a beneficial effect on the biological renewal of an organism. Accelerates protein synthesis and has adaptogenic effect. Willingly used by students during preparation for end-of-term examinations, in sports supplementation is recommended in the period of intensified training, during sporting competitions (rarely before an short-term exercise). Part of the creatine stacks, no-boosters and herbal preparations for increase of concentration and mood.

Fucoxanthin

Information

Fucoxanthin is an organic chemical compound which belongs to a group of xanthophylls. It has been found in some marine organisms, including the algae Undaria pinnatifida and Laminaria japonica and the microalgae Phaeodactylum tricornutum and Cylindrotheca closterium. Due to its unique, chiral chemical structure, which is different from the structure of most carotenoids, fucoxanthin has special properties and pharmacological effects. 

Fucoxanthin is a potent antioxidant. In addition, it is believed to have antioxidant, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective and slimming properties. Studies have shown that it may affect the expression of genes associated with lipid metabolism, stimulates the activity of uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) and regulates leptin levels. It may also enhance tissue sensitivity to insulin.

In supplementation, fucoxanthin is used most frequently as a natural and safe aid to weight loss. It is used less often for health promotion purposes. Single-ingredient formulations with fucoxanthin derived from seaweed are available on the market. It is also frequently added to multi-ingredient slimming supplements.

Dosage: No official guidelines.

Potassium

Information

Potassium and sodium regulate the body's water resources, ensuring normal heart rhythm. Maintaining the proper level of potassium provides the proper oxidation of the brain, lowers blood pressure, increases the permeability of cell membranes (as an antagonist of calcium). It is a base-forming element. It is widely used in sports diet before and after training in the form of supplements, nutrients, vitamin-mineral preparations and minerals, concentrates and ready, isotonic and hypertonic beverages. Natural sources of acquisition of potassium are: vegetable products (bananas, citrus fruits, melons, mint leaves, green vegetables, potatoes) and animal products (sea fish, meat). Potassium is present in the form of organic compounds: citric acids, and fumarates gluconates and inorganic (chlorides, sulfates, oxides and carbonates).
Potassium deficiency (hypokalemia): excessive tiredness, headaches and irritability, problems with sleeping, muscle cramps, constipation. Potassium levels may drop sharply in the event of a reduction in blood sugar levels, prolonged starvation, severe diarrhea. They can occur when too much of strong coffee is consumed, with alcohol abuse and when eating too much sweets.
The excess of potassium (hyperkalemia) is often the cause of depression, hypotension, tingling in the extremities.