HTLT Pre-Workout Signature Series Blue Lobster

L-Citrulline and L-Arginine are precursors to nitric oxide, when supplemented in combination they have shown greater clinical efficacy in increasing nitric oxide levels in comparison to supplementing with pure L Arginine or L Citrulline on their own [23]. This may increase the perceived ‘pump’ phenomenon noted by athletes, but more importantly, the outcomes of supplementing with these two amino acids have shown a statistically significant improvement in athletic performance [23]. 

In addition to promoting better pumps, L Citrulline is an important rate limiting substrate in the urea cycle, meaning that it contributes to the conversion of ammonia into urea; this is important as hard training increases protein breakdown; thus leading to increased levels of ammonia which is a byproduct that when present in excess may worsen mental fatigue. L Citrulline may help the body increase its natural elimination of nitrogenous waste following a workout [20,21].

Beta Alanine is an incredibly effective oral agent for the purposes of increasing muscle carnosine levels, leading to increased work capacity in prolonged periods of muscular load; being especially noticeable in high rep ranges and bouts of near-maximal cardio [12,13]. 

There has also been a measurable improvement in cognitive performance in athletes supplementing with Beta Alanine, as it directly activates sensory neurons; causing a temporary itch sensation (paresthesia) which many find to be quite enjoyable / stimulating [12,13].

Malic Acid is a Kreb’s cycle intermediate which may increase the availability of energy substrates, being especially useful for generating energy when one is approaching muscular glycogen depletion during a workout.

Caffeine Anhydrous is a central nervous system stimulant found in nature and is also classified as a drug of the methylxanthine class. It promotes wakefulness, enhances physical performance, promotes weight loss and increases feelings of wellbeing if dosed correctly [9].

Individual responses to caffeine may vary significantly amongst individuals as some have greater tolerance or are rapid metabolizers, in which caffeine doesn't affect them as greatly; while some are slow metabolizers or are simply just caffeine naive. It is best to start at one scoop to assess tolerance and not to exceed the maximum 3 scoop serving size.

L-Theanine is a pro-GABAergic amino acid which has shown synergy with caffeine in promoting increased focus and feelings of perceived well-being. This ingredient is a sound way to improve the experience of caffeine in both caffeine tolerant & caffeine naive users.

Huperzine A is the active component in Huperzia Serrata extract. Huperzine A partially inhibits acetylcholinesterase, the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine; this inhibition can lead to greater levels of acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft and has translated into improved cognitive performance in several randomized controlled trials [10,22].

Sodium Nitrate is popular amongst endurance athletes as it has been shown to be a positive ergogenic aid in aerobic and anaerobic exercise. Supplementing with nitrates is an effective way to increase nitric oxide production which leads to increased blood flow to the working tissues. Nitrate consumption may reduce the aerobic cost of exercise to the working muscle (by improving mitochondrial efficiency), thus leading to improved cardiovascular function and improved endurance outcomes during exercise [14].

Salidroside is one of the primary bioactives of the Rhodiola genus, when isolated on its own, it has shown promise in prolonging tine-to-exhaustion in endurance exercise in addition to improving oxygen uptake (VO2 max) compared to placebo [24].

Saffron Extract possesses potent mood boosting properties in the literature. With dozens of RCTs (randomized controlled trials) being conducted on saffron extract on a yearly basis, it is established as a widely safe and effective compound in improving one's mood and cognition [4]. 

There is also robust evidence supporting Saffron extract as a weight loss agent, primarily through suppressing one's appetite and improving glucose tolerance (this effect is more pronounced in those who are overweight and/or obese) [4].

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant which was included in this formula for two primary indications: 

1) Consuming vitamin C prior to a workout may improve performance by reducing exercise induced oxidative stress.

2) Vitamin C may contribute to a greater increase in vasodilation by attenuating free radical damage and synergizing with the sodium nitrate in this pre workout; thus attenuating the phenomenon of nitrate resistance and promoting the healthy metabolism of nitrates (inhibiting their conversion into nitrosamines while promoting their conversion into nitric oxide) [18].