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.

Beta-Alanine is a beta amino acid that is naturally occurring and that has a name given by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry – IUPAC – sounding as distinctive as 3-aminopropanoic acid. This nonessential amino acid is derived in the body by the degradation of carnosine or dihydrouracil. It is furthermore a part of natural peptides anserine and carnosine and can be found as a component of Vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid. Beta-alanine levels limit the amount of carnosine, which means that it is a rate limiting factor for this dipeptide. When beta-alanine is being supplemented, it has been observed that carnosine levels in muscles are raised, which seems to reduce fatigue in athletes and raise the level of exercises that can be done.

Bioperine is derived from the extract of Piper nigrum L (black pepper) or Piper longum L (long pepper). Bioperine activates the thermogenesis process that generates energy at the cellular level. This process also helps in burning of fats. It also increases the absorption of nutrients and vitamins. It ensures that the body benefits and is able to efficiently use the nutrients from the food. It also boosts the metabolism that makes it effective in weight loss and maintenance. Because of the boost in metabolism, it also provides the body an increased supply of energy. It also aids in the proper digestion.

Biotin is essential to cellular metabolism, as it plays an important coenzyme role in the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins.

Boron is a trace element with several health benefits. It is used for hormone regulation as it increases estrogen levels in post-menopausal women. It improves cognitive function for improved performance of hand-eye coordination, attention, perception, and memory. Boron may also be beneficial for people with joint disorders such as osteoarthritis. Boron helps regulate the use of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus in the body. In one study it was shown to control cell growth. This mineral also plays a role in how the body uses energy from fats and sugars.

Bromelain is a combination of enzymes derived from the pineapple plant. It has anti-inflammatory property that reduces swelling and pain caused by arthritis, rheumatism and injuries caused by athletic activities. Bromelain is also effective in alleviating the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) by inhibiting the prostaglandin hormones. It works by blocking the production of kinnis that causes the inflammation. Bromelain also has blood thinning effect that could prevent blood clotting that may cause heart problems. It also relieves symptoms of indigestion such as flatulence, gas, heartburn, and upset stomach. It also aids in the digestion of carbohydrates and fats. It also helps in distributing the nutrients throughout the body.

Calcium, a mineral vital to the human body, Calcium is necessary for many bodily functions, such as muscle contraction, and proper heart function.

Cetyl Myristoleate is created by a combining a fatty acid called myristoleic acid with cetyl alcohol. Cetyl alcohol was initially derived from whale, and later on, obtained from coconut and palm oils. Myristoleic acid or 9-tetradecenoic acid be found in certain animals and vegetables, it is an unsaturated fatty acid that has anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties. Being derived from fatty acids, Cetyl myristoleate has the same benefits as the naturally found essential fatty acids in the human body. It is known to help in treating or alleviating rheumatisms as it lubricates the joints and muscles and the effects last longer. It also has anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties.

Choline, sometimes called Choline Bitartrate, is an essential nutrient involved in many bodily actions such as the structure and function of cells and metabolic functions.

Chondroitin sulfate is a sulfated glycosaminoglycan (GAG) which consists of a chain of alternating sugars (N-acetylgalactosamine and glucuronic acid). It is found linked to proteins as part of a proteoglycan. A chondroitin chain, as it is commonly referred to, can consist of over 100 different individual sugars. Each of these sugars can be sulfated in varying positions and in different quantities. The science of glycobiology is related to the process of understanding the functions of this diversity in chondroitin sulfate and the glycosaminoglycans related to it. Chondroitin sulfate is one of the important components in the structure of cartilage and it helps in the provision of resistance to compression. Another important medical use of chondroitin sulfate, along with glucosamine, is its usage as a dietary supplement in the treatment of osteoarthritis.

Chromium is an essential mineral that plays an important role with how the body uses glucose. Chromium may be found in brewer’s yeast, grains, cereal and in some beers. It aids in maintaining the ideal blood sugar level which helps diabetic patients. It also helps in the metabolism and storage of fats, proteins and carbohydrates in the body that may help reduce fats. It helps improve muscle tone by burning the fats. It reduces hunger pangs, suppress cravings and appetite. It is help control the blood cholesterol level. It lowers the risks of cardiovascular problems. It also alleviates depression by stimulating the fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis that is important for brain function.

Copper, a trace element that is essential for the human body. Copper is needed to absorb and utilize iron in the body. Copper is a part of enzymes, essentially proteins that assist biochemical reactions in cells.

Creatine Monohydrate- Creatine derives the name from the Greek origin, kreas, which stands in for flesh. It is occurring in vertebrates naturally and is a nitrogenous organic acid. The most common source of creatine is fresh meat, which makes the use of supplements for vegetarians and vegans a must. Humans are able to biosynthesize creatine from other amino acids, like methionine, glycine and arginine, which comprises about the half of the daily needed amounts. Creatine is being stored in skeletal muscles. While creatine is not providing to the athletic endurance, it increases power when doing short but high in intensity work outs. Naturally, creatine supplements thereby provide an ideal aid for muscle building athletes, particularly because they are not considered doping. With creatine, body mass gains of up to 1kg per week are normal.

Curcumin is one of curcuminoid of turmeric, a polyphenol that gives turmeric its yellow color. Curcumin have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, antiviral and antifungal properties. It also fights free radical damages including cataracts, heart diseases, and cancer. Curcumin also proved to be effective in lowering cholesterol level. Research showed that the curcumin inhibits the production of lipozygenase and cyclooxygenase-2, enzymes that promotes inflammation in the body such as arthritis. It also prevents the growth of Helicobacter pylori which causes gastric ulcers and is linked with gastric cancers. Curcumin also protects the brain. Curcumin is a natural detoxifier, protecting the liver from the effects of alcohol and other toxic chemicals.

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.

Glucosamine Sulfate is a form of glucosamine that is artificially prepared mostly from the hard outer shells or “chitin” of various shellfish like crabs, shrimps and oysters. It is popularly being used for the treatment of arthritis, particularly that of osteoarthritis. According to studies, glucosamine sulfate can ease the arthritis-related pain together with the swelling and stiffness that comes with it. Taken as oral supplements that could either be in capsule or tablet type, glucosamine sulphate is also believed to have the properties that can restore broken or damaged cartilages. However, there were really no significant evidence to support this claim.

Inositol is a nutrient that occurs naturally in various forms. The most common form is myo-inositol. Inositol can be produced inside the human body from glucose and it is considered to be very effective. It is direct precursor of phospholipids, a major cellular membrane component. This nutrient helps in maintenance of electrical energy along with the transfer of nutrients across the cell membranes. Inositol also acts as a lipotropic that helps in the changing of fat into useful products. Apart from establishing healthy membranes, Inositol also facilitates the nerve impulses. Experts recommend a low dosage of 500mg capsule of Inositol. You can take several grams at one time only if you have previously tried a lesser amount. Inositol supplements can be beneficial for people with a bipolar disorder, impotence, lung cancer, depression or a panic disorder.

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, which is a mineral used by the body to help maintain muscles, bones, and nerves. Magnesium is also needed for energy metabolism and protein synthesis.

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.

MSM is also known as methylsulfonylmethane. It is known to enhance the effectiveness of antioxidants and other bioflavinoids. It is used for increased alertness and ability to concentrate as well as improved mood. MSM is often used to prevent and treat muscle cramps in the legs and back due to inactivity and strenuous use. It improves hair and cuticle growth as well as reduces wrinkles from aging. This supplement also seems to help in the body's ability to produce insulin choline and speeds up the metabolizing carbohydrates.

Naringin is the major flavonoid glycoside in grapefruit and gives grapefruit juice its bitter taste. It occurs naturally in all citrus fruits so it is also called citrus Naringin. It is used in medicine for its pharmacological effects such as an antioxidant and for blood lipid lowering. Research also shows that Naringin can be used for inhibition of selected drug-metabolizing cytochrome P450 enzymes, including CYP3A4 and CYP1A2. Its anti-cancer effects are also being studied by researchers. Naringin is treated with potassium hydroxide or another strong base, and then catalytically hydrogenated to make naringin dihydrochalcone, which is used as a sugar-free sweetener 300 times sweater then sugar.

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 actually a part of the Vitamin B complex, namely Vitamin B5 and is deemed an essential nutrient. It has a critical function in the synthesis and metabolism of core nutrients, such as fats, proteins and carbohydrates, and it forms the coenzyme – A, also called CoA, most notable for the role in oxidation and synthesis of fatty acids and pyruvate. The Greek origin of the name Pantothenic Acid already states that this Vitamin is found nearly everywhere, with prominent amounts in eggs, meat, legumes and whole grain cereals. In health and fitness circles the dietary supplement is very popular for its energy producing role, but also for the ATP process and for the maintenance of cholesterol and triglycerides levels in the body.

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 a trace mineral that plays an important role in several metabolic pathways such as glutathione-peroxidise pathway. Selenium works with Vitamin E which gives its strong antioxidant effects and improves the immune system. It protects the body from prematurely aging. It also help prevent free radical damages that may cause heart diseases and cancer. It is essential in the proper function of the thyroid hormones, and promotes efficient metabolism. It is also beneficial in the reproductive health particularly of men because it facilitates in the sperm production, and prevents infertility. Selenium also helps reduce inflammation which is beneficial to those with rheumatism to reduce pain.

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, or rather the Vitamin B complex, is a group of vitamins that are all soluble in water and very often coexist in food sources. While every single Vitamin from the B complex group has a name, they are very often referred to by the number added to the Vitamin B group name, like Vitamin B1, which is thiamine, or Vitamin B2, which is riboflavin. Some other compounds have been added to the Vitamin B group at some time, but were later dropped, like adenine, orotic acid or adenosine monophosphate, where later research found that they are either synthesized by the human body or simply no Vitamins. Vitamin B complex supports the metabolism rate, maintains muscle tone and skin, raises functions of the nervous system and the immune system, promotes red blood cells and cell growth and division and much more.

Vitamin B2 is a water-soluble vitamin with no known toxic effects. Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) is necessary in the oxidative process of metabolism. It is also sometimes used to correct certain enzyme deficiencies and improve mental processes.

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, also called Pantothenic acid, which is a water-soluble vitamin required by the human body. Vitamin B5 is needed to form coenzyme-A (CoA), and is vital in the metabolism and synthesis of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

Vitamin B6, also known as Pyridoxine, plays an important role in the breakdown of protein, fats and carbohydrates. It helps in the production of antibodies that keeps the immune system strong. It promotes red blood cell (RBC) production. It alleviates the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome or PMS such as headaches, bloating, depression, mood swings, and abdominal pains. Vitamin B6 also prevents the development of kidney stones. It also helps reduce the build-up of homocystein in the vessels that may cause hearth attack. Vitamin B6 is also beneficial in the overall nerve health. It also prevents or decreases the susceptibility to develop carpal tunnel syndrome.

Vitamin C, also known as Ascorbic (a-SKOR-bik) acid, is needed for many functions in the body, including helping the body use carbohydrates, protein, and fats. Vitamin C is found in most citrus fruits and green vegetables and is a strong antioxidant.

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 consists of eight related vitamins that are all fat soluble and have antioxidant properties. The alpha-, beta-, gamma- and delta-tocopherols with the corresponding tocotrienols all belong to the Vitamin E group, whereby the alpha-tocopherol has been found to be the most bioavailable form. Vitamin E is commonly found in food sources like eggs, milk, nuts, seeds, vegetable oil like olive oil, wholegrain foods, wheat germ, red palm oil, but also in asparagus and avocado fruits. While Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant, several other properties have been noted as well, such as prevention of damage to neurons, cholesterol reduction and cancer prevention. Vitamin E has been also identified as a vital signaling molecule, whereby the primary necessity of Vitamin E to human survival is still not clear.

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 found in most cells in the human body. It plays an important role in stimulating enzyme functions. It improves the immune system that protects against bacterial and viral infections. It also promotes healing of wound. Zinc helps in maintaining a normal growth and development during pregnancy, childhood and adolescence. It also has antioxidant properties that prevent cell damage caused by free radicals that may lead to premature aging, heart problems and even cancer. It aids in cell growth, renewal, and repair. Zinc increases muscle growth and improves endurance. It also helps cleanse and get rid of toxins that accumulated in the body.