Healthy Living

An In-depth Review of C4 Pre-Workout Supplement

An In-depth Review of C4 Pre-Workout Supplement

Sometimes, you need an extra boost to get out of bed and hit the gym. Other days, you just want to move your gym sessions or workout classes to a whole new level. But what if we show you something that can help you to crush your training sessions regardless of your training goals or level? That’s where a pre-workout supplement comes in.

What is a Pre-Workout Supplement?

It is a mixture of carefully selected ingredients that are designed to increase the intensity, volume, and output of training. The aim is for you to get much more out of your workout sessions. As you progress, your extra minutes, reps, and sets will add up, giving you major wins.

Traditionally, the supplement was exclusively for people who focused more on becoming muscular. However, it can support different fitness levels, whether you are advanced, intermediate, or beginner. Also, if you need cognitive focus, energy, or endurance for mental or physical performance, you can benefit from consuming pre-workout supplements. 

Combining it with a suitable nutrition program and training regimen can give you the extra boost you desire. You can click here to get a medically approved nutrition plan for muscle gain.

What’s in a C4 Pre-Workout Supplement?

Before you purchase the supplement, you need to look at the label thoroughly. It should contain clinically proven ingredients that can support your workout goals.

1. Caffeine

This is a classic ingredient in many drinks from energy drinks to soda, tea, and coffee. A standard cup of coffee contains about 80 to 100 mg of caffeine whereas a serving of pre-workout contains about 135 to 350 mg. This implies that the supplement can keep you more energized than coffee.

Within forty-five minutes of ingesting caffeine, the body absorbs 99 percent of the substance. Research shows that this rate of absorption affects athletic performance especially in cycling and running. In one study, 3 milligrams of caffeine per kg of body weight resulted in improvements in cycling than a placebo.

In another study, experienced cyclists rode faster for 1 hour at 75 percent of apex power output in ninety-five degrees Fahrenheit than cyclists who were not stimulated. Different studies have also discovered an improvement in focus, reaction time, and mental clarity. This improvement also comes with better endurance for pain.

2. Beta-Alanine

Proteins are the major constituents of muscles, and the foundation of proteins is amino acids. Beta-Alanine is an amino acid that helps the muscles to endure tough workout sessions. It is nonessential, which means the body can also produce it. However, you can still find it in food sources like fish, pork, chicken, and beef.

The beta-alanine supplement increases carnosine, which is a dipeptide that specifically targets the muscles. It also serves as an acid buffer within the cells of the muscles. This buffering activity results in fatigue-fighting effects because the muscles can efficiently contract for a longer period.

Some studies have discovered that beta-alanine has the tendency to increase working capacity and power output. It may also reduce feelings of exhaustion and fatigue, leaving a good effect on the body’s carnosine content and overall body composition. 

When using C4 pre-workouts, beta-alanine produces physical feelings such as tingling sensations in the fingertips, lips, and face. The effect is harmless; it is an indication that the supplement is effective. Beta-alanine works better when large muscles contract quickly, which is evidenced in high-intensity exercises such as: 

  • Swimming
  • Rowing
  • Running
  • Circuit training
  • Repetition 
  • Weightlifting
  • Cycling

3. Creatine Nitrate

Creatinine is among the rare nutrients in sports nutrition that has been backed by several years of research. We consume it in our food at 1 gram each day, except you are on a vegetarian or vegan diet. It is naturally present in bones and foods that help to build lean muscle and strength. The body also produces creatine at 1 gram a day. 

Many weightlifters use it as a staple supplement. It helps the body to quickly replenish lost energy, so you can spend more time during training or workout. It also draws water into your muscles, so they can appear fuller and bigger as well as function better.

Typically, people use creatine monohydrate, which boosts power and endurance during workouts that last more than 3 minutes. It also decreases the recovery period between sets. Most research on creatine covers only the monohydrate form. So, what about the nitrate form?

Creatine nitrate is a more advanced and soluble form that assists with “pumps”. A study investigated the safety of 1 and 2-gram doses of the nitrate form in young men and women. The researchers discovered that it did not have any adverse effects on them as all their blood safety indicators were within the safe range.

Researchers went further to not only prove its safety but also its efficacy. They increased the dosage to 3 grams and discovered that it offered almost the same benefits as creatine monohydrate. Therefore, consuming 1g of creatine nitrate is enough to give you a little boost but you can take 2g if you like double-scooping.

Creatine nitrate contains double nutrients because you will benefit from the creatine as well as the nitrate, which is found in beetroots. Early research shows that creatine can elevate mood and boost working memory and intelligence. You can visit https://www.webmd.com/men/creatine to read more about creatine.

When buying a C4 pre-workout supplement, ensure that the product contains a legally licensed creatine nitrate form – NO3T. This form ensures consistency and quality in the dosage, so you can experience the performance-boosting benefit whenever you consume it.

4. Arginine Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AAKG)

Arginine is a type of amino acid that is present in pork, dairy, nuts, chicken, and eggs. When you consume them, the body transforms the Arginine to NO (nitric oxide), a gas that forms in the blood vessels and opens them to promote circulation. It is also useful in the urea cycle, a natural process of converting ammonia into urea. You probably know Arginine, but what is Alpha-Ketoglutarate?

It is an ingredient combination that forms a vital part of the body’s energy cycle known as the Krebs Cycle or citric acid cycle. This energy cycle is crucial in ATP (cellular energy) production. It is believed that Alpha-ketoglutarate stimulates protein synthesis as well as delays catabolic pathways in order to preserve muscles. Since alpha-ketoglutarate is critical in the energy cycle, theoretically, it may improve endurance and stamina.

5. Theacrine  

This is a dopaminergic substance that provides focus and energy. Structurally, it acts like caffeine that makes you feel happier, better, more motivated and more alert. But it won’t make you feel jittery like other stimulants. Preliminary studies on human consumption of theacrine show that the human body won’t adapt quickly to it like caffeine, thereby, extending tolerance build-up.

6. N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine 

This is a soluble Tyrosine that the brain can absorb. It supports dopamine and noradrenaline production, including cognitive and mental health during strenuous activities like physical training. Research shows that oral doses of tyrosine can improve performance during intense cycling. It can also improve mood, helping you to benefit more from workout sessions.

Benefits of C4 Pre-Workout Supplements

Do Before-Workout Supplements Actually Work? | Live Science

The benefits of using C4 pre-workouts are:

  1. Increase in endurance, energy, and focus
  2. Weight loss
  3. Reduced fatigue
  4. Short recovery period
  5. Strength building
  6. Lean muscle formation

Side-Effects of C4 Pre-Workout Supplements

C4 pre-workout supplement contains recovery compounds, energy supplements, and performance boosters. Therefore, your body may react to them in a certain way. It may also not react at all. It all depends on your body’s metabolism. 

The side effects of C4 pre-workout supplements are:

  1. Anxiety
  2. Cramps
  3. Numbness or tingles
  4. Jitters
  5. Headache
  6. Trouble with sleeping

If you experience any of the side effects after consuming the supplement, ensure you consult a certified trainer or your doctor before consuming it again.

How to Use Pre-Workouts

The pros and cons of pre-workout supplements - M Club Spa and Fitness

Typically, you should take the supplement between 20 to 30 minutes before a workout. Mix the recommended serving with about 6 to 12 fl. Oz. of water. You also need to consume enough water during the workout. 

Who Shouldn’t Take Pre-Workouts?

Pregnant women, nursing mothers, sick adults, and people below 18 years should stay away from pre-workouts. They should only be used by healthy adults. The direction for use on the product label should be strictly adhered to.

How Long Will the Supplement Last?

On average, you will start feeling the effects of the supplement 45 minutes after consuming it, and this will last for about 3 to 6 hours. But you will feel the effects faster if you are very sensitive to stimulants and they will last for nearly 6 hours. Overall, your sensitivity to the ingredients in the supplement will determine the rate at which you will feel the effects.

Stacking Pre-Workout with Other Supplements

If you plan to stack pre-workout with other supplements, ensure you don’t go beyond your nitrate limit. You shouldn’t also combine stimulatory products like weight loss and pre-workout products. You can only take one per time. In this C4 Ripped review, you will learn how C4 pre-workouts can help you burn fat without losing muscle.

Additionally, products that contain higher levels of nitrates like NO3 and C4 should not be combined. Here’s the general principle for stacking products:

Consume pre-workouts, followed by intra-workouts like alpha-amino for recovery and hydration. Afterward, you can take post-workouts like protein powders.

Pre-Workout vs Coffee

Both products contain caffeine but you should know that while coffee can boost energy, pre-workout offers extra performance benefits. The formula is also tailored to enhance physical and mental output for various activities. 

Simply put, pre-workout supplements are a combination of specific doses of different ingredients that help you get more value from your workouts. With consistent use, you will see the advantages of consuming pre-workouts such as increased muscle, power, and strength, including better endurance.

Conclusion

C4 pre-workouts provide energy, focus, and quick recovery between sets. You can feel the effects quickly depending on your sensitivity to the ingredients we discussed above. Remember that everyone’s body and workout sessions are different, so the effects may not be the same for all. You can try out different C4 pre-workouts to find out which one works best for you.

Healthy Living

Why Should You Use an Independent Health Care Marketplace?

While some people receive health benefits from their employers, many others are left searching for something to offset the demanding costs of medical bills. You may work as an independent contractor, not meet company hours or complete a job that doesn’t provide the service. For those without medical coverage, guidance could offer several benefits. Here are several reasons to consider using an independent marketplace to acquire an insurance plan.

It Reduces Company Affiliation and Influence

When researching a health insurance plan in Massachusetts, you want to select something that offers you the best deal. Some organizations are closely tied to hospitals or health insurance companies. Others may be working directly with government agencies. Cut the ties. These places may not be looking to give you the best selection but one that could be more suited to their operations. They want to make money.

An independent health care marketplace, however, is different. It does not have these connections. Instead, they gather information, supply numbers and provide you with options. They work with several agencies without preferring one over the other. This may mean you get less bias and prioritize your needs.

It Simplifies the Process

What do you want out of health care? Independent healthcare service has agents who can work with you to search for choices, but this happens through one person and at one time. You do not have to visit different businesses or call around during your lunch hour to discuss plans. Go online and complete a survey, sharing information about yourself and your interests. Then, agency members review the details, research best fits and send you plans at various prices with different coverage possibilities.

They Understand Supplemental Coverage

Some establishments may give you partial coverage, but you could want more. An agent knows to review what you currently have and determine what reasonable selections are offered in the state.

For instance, your office may supply reasonable coverage for wellness checks and hospital stays, but vision and dental may be lacking. If you require more attention to teeth or have a history of vision concerns, you may wish to invest in additional coverage for these areas. A health insurance plan from the marketplace gives you the chance to fill in these holes and boost insurance where you desire more coverage.

They Know the Laws

If you do not think that you can afford insurance, professionals in the marketplace are aware of laws and codes that could assist you in receiving government subsidies. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) citizens with certain qualifications could get assistance on the monthly payments. In addition, you could reduce your out-of-pocket costs.

A health insurance plan is there to offer security during difficult times. Whether you break a bone, catch the flu or require long-term treatment, your plan is something that eases the financial stress so you can focus on your wellbeing. Working with an independent marketplace to find the right plan is important for these reasons. Agents have a wealth of background and expertise to assist in meeting your needs.

Healthy Living

Save on New Plaque Disclosing Tablets for Kids from Smile Brilliant

plaque disclosing tablets

The best teeth brushing tool for kids is now available from Smile Brilliant and I can save you on your order! These are the Plaque Highlighter chewable tablets for kids (an adult version is also available). They are for ages 5+ and even my teen became intrigued by using the tablets. You will be amazed at how unclean your teeth really can be even after you just brushed. I know it woke my son to the fact that he does not brush well enough.

Each box of plaque disclosing tablets for kids has 30 Berry Blast-flavored chewable tablets. They highlight plaque & tartar buildup with a temporary pink dye. This encourages kids to brush away all the color as fast as they can. It makes brushing habits stronger and more fun!

They chew one tablet, swish around the mouth for 30 seconds and spit it out. Do a quick water rinse and find the existing plaque under the pink dye! Now, they can work to brush and floss away for a cleaner mouth.

Smile Brilliant products are backed by decades of research and hygienists & dental professionals.

Enjoy 25% off any set of plaque highlighters with code usfg25 via this link!

Healthy Living

5 Symptoms You May Not Recognize Are Signs of Mental Illness

5 Symptoms You May Not Recognize Are Signs of Mental Illness
Photo by Anh Nguyen on Unsplash

Mental health disorders appear in many forms, which makes them tough to recognize, diagnose and treat, especially when your symptoms could point to several physical conditions as well. If you’ve tried time and time again to overcome specific feelings or behaviors but fall short every time, then you may need more help than you can give yourself.  

You don’t have to suffer in silence, even if what you’re experiencing seems like something you should be able to tackle on your own. The following five symptoms and signs of mental illness may be a reason to seek online mental health services and discover the chemical or emotional cause of your woes.

1. Feeling Worried all the Time

Everyone worries and stresses from time to time, but when the feelings don’t subside, there could be a bigger problem. Constant feelings of anxiety can stop you from living your life and interfere with important relationships. If you feel worried but you’re not sure why, or if you have additional symptoms like shortness of breath, headache, dizziness or heart palpitations, you should ask to be screened for an anxiety disorder right away.  

2. Quick Mood Changes and Emotional Outbursts

It’s not always easy to determine how quickly or how often your mood shifts because you’re typically focused on the catalyst and not the feelings. However, your friends and family can tell when you’re experiencing a dramatic change and this can cause them to distance themselves from you at times. If there’s a chemical reason for your outbursts, then medical intervention may be able to alleviate some of your distress.

3. Feeling Sad for No Reason

People often try to justify depression with a reason. You’re tired because you work too hard, or you can’t work out because you broke your ankle back in high school. Being sad “just because” is okay sometimes, but when you lose motivation and interest in hobbies, friendships and work for long periods of time, you could be in the throws of deep mental anguish.

4. Inability to Sleep

Disruption of sleep patterns is often a sign of mental illness, but there are so many other catalysts to blame that you may not even consider it. If you’ve tried everything to cure your insomnia including removing electronic devices, ensuring total darkness and following a strict bedtime routine but sleep still eludes you, then you should ask your doctor about sleep disorders.

5. Loss of Appetite or Weight Fluctuation

Weight issues plague most of the population at one point or another, so when your own eating habits start to fluctuate, you may not think too much about it. However, if you experience rapid weight loss or gain compounded by feelings of anxiety, or if you start to obsess over your food intake, then you may be suffering from deep depression or even an eating disorder.

Chances are, everyone will experience at least one of the symptoms on this list, which does not necessarily point to mental illness. However, if you experience prolonged or compounded indications, you should speak with a professional to learn more about what’s happening in your brain.