T432 Plus fat burner is a product formulated to fill a gap in the supplement market – A fat burner that actually works. At first glance, it might not even look like a fat burner. Where are the intense stimulants? How about Garcinia and raspberry ketones? There’s none of those in T432 Plus either, so how can it help me lose fat? ATP Science T432 Plus is a capsule that is taken with meals to create an ideal hormonal profile to boost your basal metabolic rate. Our hormonal profiles contribute greatly to our metabolic rate and our body shape. Estrogen dominance in men and women can cause excess body fat to be held onto by the body. This makes losing fat hard, if not impossible.
If our hormonal profiles are imbalanced it won’t matter how many stimulants or fat burning ingredients we take – they can even be proven to stimulate fat burning and fat metabolism, hormone imbalances can stop these from working. T432 Plus is designed to:
Maximise thyroid hormone activity. Thyroid hormones are vital for thermogenesis. Without them in the correct window, your body will not burn fat. Simple.
Slow thyroid causes high estrogen and cortisol levels. High estrogen and cortisol cause slow thyroid. This is a vicious cycle that needs to be broken to get the system in your body to work together for fat loss. This is another reason high stims for fat loss will not work, as the resulting elevated cortisol can be counter-productive. Elevated cortisol can cause your body to hold on to stored fat, break down muscle, and inhibit thyroid hormone activity.
Improve insulin sensitivity to correct insulin resistance and control adipokines. Adipokines are chemicals that are made and released from fat cells. These chemicals create a vicious cycle of obesity. They can be the cause of insulin resistance, estrogen dominance, poor thyroid hormone activity, elevated cortisol and systemic inflammation. Fat cells are not just dead storage sites they are constantly making stuff. They are more like an organ or endocrine gland. You can imagine how powerful an endocrine gland that gets from 10% of your body weight up past 25% and then over 40% of your body weight would be! A gland that size pumping out chemicals will change your whole body and make it impossible to change using a few ingredients designed to stimulate their activity further.
Control satiety without suppressing appetite. Most appetite suppressants are bulking fibres or compounds that inhibit the absorption of nutrients. The end result is fermentation and bloating. If you have gut dysbiosis (too many of the wrong kinds of organisms living in your gut) or candida/thrush then you will be feeding those microbes and making things worse. Enhancing satiety by interacting with GLP-1 will allow you to stay feeling flat and lean in the abdomen instead of bloated and fat. It will also allow you to reduce calories without getting into survival starvation mode conserving fat stores or rebounding with binge eating.
Basically, we train at the gym to encourage muscle growth and boost our metabolic rate. With the correct hormonal profile it is possible to burn fat for the other 23 hours we’re not at the gym. Which would you rather? A high-stimulant product that will help you burn fat while you are at the gym? Or a product like ATP Science T432 Plus that will help you burn fat 24/7 by working to support and correct your hormonal profile.
Information sourced from: https://atpscience.com/t432-maximise-thyroid-hormone-activity/
For more information on T432 Plus and hormonal profiles for fat burning, you can check out ATP Science's blog or podcast The ATP Project.
12 WAYS TO COMBAT STRESS, SLEEP BETTER & FEEL AMAZING EVERYDAY
Stress affects us all. Some days it's worse than others, and over time, it takes its toll on how we look, feel and perform.
Over 90% of adults say they experience stress or anxiety daily, and 74% say it's so great they feel unable to cope1. Add to this physical stress of training, injury, infection, or environmental toxins. Even certain foods can create stress on our bodily systems.
Some acute stress is helpful. However, chronic stress can be very harmful - even deadly!!
Here are ten things stress can cause and 12 ways to effectively combat stress:
Reduced Thyroid Function
Weight Gain
Muscle Loss
Gut Issues
Lowered Sex Drive
Skin Breakouts
Hair Loss
Low Energy
Irritability & Loss of Empathy
Sleep Disturbances
How do we fix this?
1) EXERCISE:
Exercise is more effective in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression than the top 5 antidepressant medications 2.
It might sound counterintuitive, but regular acute physical stress can significantly combat chronic mental stress. People who exercise regularly are less likely to experience anxiety and depression3.
Exercise releases endorphins and gives you confidence which may help reduce your stress. During or immediately after training, be sure to use essential amino acids like AMINO SWITCH™ to accelerate recovery. AMINO SWITCH™ also contains the adaptogen Schisandra, which has been shown to increase energy and reduce stress.
2) LAUGH:
You've probably heard the term 'LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE. Well, when it comes to stress, that is entirely true.
When you have fun and laugh, it's hard to feel stressed. Laughing has a natural lowering effect on cortisol (stress hormones) and increases serotonin (happy hormone). It also activates the Vagus nerve, which helps transport the serotonin from your gut to your brain.
One study showed laughing could help healing by activating the immune system, which could further reduce the effects of physical and emotional stress4. When we are stressed, it lowers our immunity which can result in increased inflammation and reduced recovery.
Try watching comedies or hanging out with people who make you laugh and enjoy life. Once you start, it can become infectious. 😊
3) SING:
Like laughter, singing also boosts serotonin and activates the Vagus nerve. This has a relaxing effect and has been shown to reduce tension, stress, and anxiety.
In one study, the music you enjoyed, because it brought back happy nostalgic memories, was the most effective at reducing stress markers.
So next time you're in the car on your way to or from work, belt out a tune you love at the top of your voice and watch your stress levels drop.
4) SPEND TIME WITH FRIENDS:
People who live the longest, healthiest lives have two things in common: Purpose and community. Supporting friends and hanging out with friends and family can be stress-reducing.
One study showed men and women with the least social connections had the most significant levels of anxiety and depression.
However, pick your friends carefully and hang around people who support your goals and are genuinely fun to be around.
5) SUPPLEMENT:
Many natural ingredients can reduce stress. Here is a list of the top 7 and the supplements you can find them in -
· Magnesium – ADRENAL SWITCH™ & ALPHA SWITCH™
This super important mineral is involved in over 600 bodily processes per day. It is critical for energy metabolism, nervous system relaxation, muscle recovery, energy, and so much more.
Nearly 75% of the population is not getting enough magnesium for their daily needs. Simply supplementing with magnesium citrate after exercise or before bed will profoundly benefit your recovery and lower your cortisol (stress).
· Ashwagandha – ADRENAL SWITCH™ & ALPHA SWITCH™
Known as the king of herbs. This Ayurvedic medicinal root has been used for centuries to help combat fatigue, reduce stress, and support energy. It is an adaptogen class of compounds that aid our mind and body adapt to stress.
Ashwagandha contains a natural compound called Withanolides that have been shown to lower cortisol (stress) and support natural hormone balance.
· Schisandra – AMINO SWITCH™ & ESTRO SWITCH™
This traditional Chinese medicinal berry supports qi (energy & life force). It elicits some of its benefits through liver detoxification. It is also an effective adaptogen (like ashwagandha) and improves how your body responds to caffeine by reducing jitters, improving energy levels and preventing an energy crash.
Schisandra needs to provide high levels of Schisandrin A like that found in AMINO SWITCH™ & ESTRO SWITCH™.
· Alpina galanga – COFFEE SWITCH™, THERMAL SWITCH™ & POWER SWITCH™
This unique alpine grown galangal extract has been shown to improve your tolerance to stress. It was voted 2019 innovative ingredient of the year and outperforms caffeine in focus and alertness scores without activating the central nervous system (without producing adrenaline or cortisol).
Alpina galanga will often be found in combination with caffeine or coffee, as it has been shown to amplify your body's response to caffeine by 30 – 50% and make it feel cleaner & longer lasting.
Alpina may also reduce adenosine in the brain. Therefore, preventing mental fatigue, tiredness and procrastination. It also boosts D2 dopamine receptor sensitivity, which helps combat stress by boosting mood.
The feeling of Alpina and Caffeine together is one of happiness, alertness and profound focus.
· Glycine – ADRENAL SWITCH™ & COLLAGEN SWITCH™
This non-essential amino acid has many benefits, including its tonifying effect on the nervous system. Glycine also helps support connective tissue recovery, immune response, and energy by supporting endogenous (internal) creatine production.
Like GABA, it has a calming effect if used after exercise or before bed. However, Glycine can be consumed before training, where it can help improve energy.
· L-Theanine – ADRENAL SWITCH™
L-Theanine is another non-essential amino acid with the ability to calm your body and brain. L-Theanine is found in green tea and has been shown to take the edge off caffeine (reduce jitters or anxiety) while promoting focus and elevating mood.
· Medicinal Mushrooms – VITALITY SWITCH™ & COFFEE SWITCH™
Medicinal mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine systems for centuries. They are adaptogens that help support your body's response to stress. They're also great at lowering inflammation which could be causing chronic physical stress. Medicinal mushrooms like Shitake, Maitake, Turkey Tail, King Trumpet and Cordyceps support energy and immunity while fighting pathogens like viruses, bacteria, fungus etc.
6) GET YOUR MACROS & MICROS RIGHT:
Undereating or eating calorie-dense but micronutrient depleted food can profoundly affect your mental health, stress, and body fat levels.
Keep in mind 'FOOD CAN CHANGE YOUR MOOD'. Eating food that spikes and then drops your blood sugar levels can leave you exhausted, tired, grumpy, and hungry.
Being in a chronic calorie deficit can increase cortisol (stress hormone), slow fat loss, increase muscle loss, and increase inflammation and stress. Make your diet cyclical and have higher calorie days mixed in with your calorie deficit. Using KETO SWITCH™ between meals or during fasting on your calorie deficit days can reduce muscle loss, support brain function, and reduce hunger.
7) MEDITATION & MINDFULNESS:
We all know meditation and mindfulness are helpful ways of reducing stress. However, some people have difficulty clearing their minds when attempting meditation. Apps like 'Head Space' and others can teach you or guide you through meditation, which can be life-changing.
8) CUDDLE:
Cuddling, hugging, kissing, and sex can relieve stress by promoting the release of oxytocin and serotonin. These practices have been shown to lower blood pressure, heart rate and other emotional and physical symptoms of stress.
Chimpanzees also cuddle friends and family who are stressed, and it has the same hormonal response in our closest primate relatives.
9) YOGA & STRETCHING
Yoga is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that has been shown to lower stress and anxiety for centuries. Studies looking at Yoga's overall effects have shown it to boost mood and lower stress. It may be as effective at treating depression as some medications.
10) BREATHE:
Slowing your breathing helps to activate the parasympathetic (rest, digest, relax & recover) nervous system. It is the opposite of the fight or flight sympathetic nervous system, which is activated by shallow quick breaths.
If you get into anxiety or panic, try 'Box Breathing'.
· Breathe in through your nose for 4 seconds.
· Hold your breath for 4 seconds.
· Exhale through your mouth for 4 seconds.
· Hold the exhale for 4 seconds.
· Repeat 4 times.
11) GET A PET:
Pets are like cuddling. They help us release oxytocin and serotonin. However, sometimes pets are even better because they generally provide unconditional love in return, and the relationships are not as complicated as human ones.
Having a pet may also keep you active as you must exercise them daily, which is stress-relieving.
12) GET OUT IN NATURE:
Being in nature, surrounded by trees, mountains, lakes, streams or even on the beach, listening to the crashing waves is therapeutic and stress relieving. Part of the stress-relieving effect is due to our connection to the planet, and part of it is the disconnection from emails, social media and more which can increase stress.
Another part is the sunlight on our skin boosts Vitamin D, endorphins and oxytocin, which have immune-boosting, hormone-regulating and stress relieving benefits. Disconnect at least once a week and exercise in nature (not just in the gym or around the block). Breathe in the fresh air and take in the calming effects being away from the city provides.
SUMMARY:
There are so many stressors in our lives and multiple ways to help manage or destress. You need to consider what is stressing you the most and make efforts to remove these stressors from your life.
If you practice all the above techniques but continue to expose yourself to a stressful job or relationship, it is like trying to put out a forest fire with a garden hose. It will help but may not prevent all the adverse effects of stress.
Switch Nutrition aim to help people live healthier, more active lifestyles providing your body with all it needs to get the most out of each day with their wide range of products. Check out their range of products here.
One of the most apparent symptoms of stress is a lack of energy or enthusiasm. Getting a good night's sleep by having ADRENAL SWITCH™ before bed will be the number one place to start.
And when you wake up, try replacing your daily brew with COFFEE SWITCH™ for longer-lasting healthier energy!!
Disclaimer: The above article is merely a guide and is in no way a recommendation or a treatment protocol for any health conditions or diseases. You should always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before changing your supplement, training, or nutritional strategy. Formulated Supplementary Sports Foods must not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women, anyone consuming prescription medication or children under the age of 15 unless advised by a qualified healthcare provider.
Magnesium deficiency (or hypomagnesemia) is a common, yet often overlooked health issue. And if left unchecked it can lead to serious health problems.
While there aren't sufficient statistics here in New Zealand, in the United States around 2% of the population are magnesium deficient, while other studies suggest 75% are not meeting their recommended daily magnesium intake.
Magnesium deficiency can also be hard to detect, as the obvious signs typically don’t appear until your levels are unhealthily low. Serious health problems that can develop as a result of low magnesium include: diabetes, celiac disease, hungry bone syndrome and more.
To help you avoid running into these health problems in future, here are 10 signs you might need a magnesium pick me up this winter:
1. You Experience Muscle Twitching And Cramping
Do you experience constant twitches, tremors, or muscle cramps? According to scientists, these symptoms are caused by an increased flow of calcium into your nerve cells. This causes your muscle nerves to become over-stimulated. Supplementing with magnesium is a great way to help calm your over-excited nerves and relieve twitching or cramping.
2. Mental Health Issues
Mental health issues such as depression or anxiety can also be enhanced by a magnesium deficiency. Recent studies found that low magnesium levels came with an increased risk of depression. Scientists have also theorised that low magnesium may promote anxiety - although more research is required on the subject.
3. You Constantly Feel Fatigued Or Weak
Feeling fatigued or tired is another common symptom of magnesium deficiency. Fatigue can be defined as experiencing physical or mental exhaustion. We all feel fatigued from time to time, so you’re likely to have to experience additional symptoms before being diagnosed with a magnesium deficiency.
4. You Have High Blood Pressure
A variety of observational studies have shown that low magnesium levels along with a poor diet, can lead to a rise in blood pressure. Other reviews also found that magnesium supplements had positive effects in lowering blood pressure, which also reduces the risk of heart disease.
5. You’re Asthmatic
Interestingly enough, magnesium deficiency is often found in those with severe asthma. This is due to the fact that a lack of magnesium can lead to a buildup of calcium in the lungs - which constricts your airways and makes breathing more difficult. In some cases asthmatics are given an inhaler with magnesium sulfate to help relax and expand the airways.
6. You Have An Irregular Heartbeat
One of the more serious symptoms of magnesium deficiency is an irregular heartbeat (or heart arrhythmia). Patients who suffered from heart failure were shown to have lower levels of magnesium compared to healthy people. Treating heart patients with magnesium is also proven to help improve the health and function of the heart.
7. You Suffer From Migraines Or Migraine-Like Headaches
Multiple studies have shown that low magnesium levels in the brain can be related to migraines. This is because magnesium is needed for optimal nerve function in the brain. Taking magnesium supplements helps improve your nerve function and can lessen the likelihood of migraine attacks. Just remember to speak to your doctor if your migraines / headaches still continue.
8. You’re Having Trouble Sleeping
Magnesium can help relax the body and the mind, which helps you get a better sleep. It also helps the “GABA” receptors in the brain function properly. GABA is the neurotransmitter which allows the brain to reach a restful state.
9. You Have Weak Bones (Or Osteoporosis)
Osteoporosis is a disorder where your bones become weaker and are more likely to damage or fracture. Factors such as old age and lack of vitamin D and K are commonly associated with this disorder, however magnesium deficiency can also increase the risk of osteoporosis. As well as weakening bones, low magnesium levels can reduce the blood levels of calcium, which is also crucial for bone health.
10. You’re Pregnant
Often the higher the estrogen or progesterone levels in a woman’s body, the lower the magnesium levels. This commonly occurs during pregnancy. This is part of the reason why pregnant women experience more cramps and other muscular problems in the second half of their cycles - as during this time their magnesium levels usually drop.
How Much Magnesium Should You Be Taking?
According to the National Institutes of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements, adult men should consume between 400g and 420mg of magnesium per day.
Women on the other hand should be consuming between 310mg and 320mg daily. It’s also recommended that pregnant women consume a higher dose than those who are not pregnant (as touched on above).
Need high-quality Magnesium?
Check out Sportfuel’s range of magnesium supplements today.
You've grown up with people admiring your ability to eat what you want when you want without gaining a pound, but that fast metabolism of yours isn't doing you much good now that you've set your sights on bulking up. If it seems like no matter how hard you train or what changes you try to make to your diet, you just can't pack on the pounds of muscle mass that you desire--you're a hard gainer. Following these five nutrition tips can help you complement your fitness routine and make it easier for you to bulk up:
1. Eat a Little Dirty.
Nowadays, everyone is concerned with sticking to a clean eating routine with healthy foods like egg whites, lean protein and sweet potatoes. While you don't want to begin eating nothing but junk food, letting yourself indulge in a dirty little treat or two can help you see better results when you step on the scale. Complement your healthy whole food diet with the occasional extra dose of fat or simple carbohydrates. Don't be afraid to have a few cookies, a piece of cake or two or some ice cream from time to time.
2. Don't Forgo Fats.
Many hard gainers find it hard to physically eat enough to pack on the pounds as it's just not comfortable to gorge yourself and walk around with a bloated stomach. Adding extra fats to your foods can give you an extra dose of calories without requiring you to eat a high volume of food. Choose unsaturated fats like extra virgin olive oil or foods that are lower in saturated fat like peanut butter to enhance meals.
3. Keep Eating Carbs.
Cutting out carbohydrates is a killer for hard gainers like you. Your body is going to need them to supply you with energy and keep your muscles maintained between workouts. As a hard gainer, carbs are an important friend to keep in your diet. In addition to whole grains and healthy carbs, you're one of the few rare people who can actually eat things like pizza, plates full of pasta and sugary foods. They'll give you a massive dose of calories to support your weight gain efforts. Be mindful of eating too many high fiber foods, too. They're incredibly filling and can make it hard for you to keep up with frequent eating.
4. Munch Around the Clock.
Eating more frequently will help further your mission to sneak in extra calories. Try eating every 2 to 3 hours per day and make sure you're eating protein every single time you stop for a meal or a snack. If you don't have time to fix something or cook, just reach for a mass gainer supplement shake that you can quickly sip to fill up on calories and keep your body working to build muscle.
5. Write It Down.
You may not be eating as much as you think. Download an app that allows you to record what you're eating with just a tap or two on the screen and log everything. This way, you'll be able to see precisely how many calories you're consuming and find places where you can make changes to start increasing muscle mass.In addition to fine tuning your diet by following the tips outlined above, you can increase your chances of gaining bulk by adding the right weight gainer supplements to your sports nutrition plan.Sportsfuel has a huge selection of weight gainer formulas from which to choose, and we'll be glad to help you select the right one to complement your workout goals. Contact us for assistance or check out our selection of weight gain supplements now.
