N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine (NALT) is an amino acid precursor of dopamine, epinephrine and norepinephrine. Several trials support the hypothesis that increasing serum L-Tyrosine levels can improve mental performance especially in states where one might be lacking sufficient sleep or is subject to environmental stressors [20,1]. 

Leveraging the effects of dopamine during activities that one might not necessarily enjoy is a powerful tool to find pleasure in certain activities and increase adherence to a workout routine.

NALT is indeed a nutritionally sound source of L-Tyrosine, being a critical component of TPN formulas in a clinical setting (Total Parenteral Nutrition, aka intravenous nutrition). Some argue that NALT is dose-dependently inferior to L-Tyrosine in achieving greater serum concentrations of L-Tyrosine, but the data cited to make this claim is based on IV (intravenous) and not oral administration [3]. 

Any drug that is administered IV has 100% bioavailability and is not subject to the first pass metabolism of the liver, conversely, anything that is orally consumed is subject to fecal losses based on how readily it is transported through the intestinal epithelia, as well as having to undergo first pass metabolism of the liver (where much of a compound can become rapidly metabolized / excreted, or a prodrug can be activated and utilized by the body. In this case, NALT is a prodrug to L-Tyrosine).

It is well established that acetylation of an amino acid may alter its pharmacokinetics and can allow for increased blood-brain barrier permeability, which is desirable for the purposes of inducing neurochemical changes [3].

Anecdotally, many individuals claim to 'feel' NALT much more so than regular L-Tyrosine.

In summary, this means that the use of NALT as opposed to regular L-Tyrosine was a decision carefully made based on real world experience and a practical understanding of pharmacokinetics.

NADH is the reduced form of NAD+, a compound that exists within our body that has been supported in a recent meta analysis to be an excellent supplement for ameliorating fatigue, providing the greatest benefits in those who suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome [2].

NADH is taken up by the mitochondria and is a critical component in generating cellular energy (functioning as an electron transporter in the electron transport chain).

NADH has also been supported to:

• Increase the production of dopamine   
• Increase general quality of life
• Reduce symptoms of anxiety
• Increase maximum achievable heart rate during exercise secondary to an increase in work capacity

As the body utilizes one molecule of NADH, 3 molecules of ATP and one molecule of NAD+ are produced. This means that you can expect to see an increase in power output and endurance with this cutting edge ingredient.

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

Through increasing serotonin levels in the brain, it has shown comparable efficacy to Fluoxetine (SSRI) without the associated anhedonia or weight gain frequently seen with SSRIs, additionally, saffron has robust evidence supporting it as a weight loss agent through suppressing one's appetite and improving glucose tolerance (this effect is more pronounced in those who are overweight and/or obese) [4].

Phenylethylamine (PEA) is an endogenously produced neurotransmitter which targets the trace-amine associated receptor (TAAR1), the same receptor targeted by amphetamines. Because of its natural occurrence in the body, phenylethylamine is quickly utilized and disposed of as the body knows exactly what to do with it (PEA is rapidly metabolized by the MAO-B enzyme). The effects are characterized by an increase in dopaminergic signalling and are relatively short lived compared to other substituted phenylethylamines like Adderall (amphetamine/d-amphetamine), only persisting long enough to provide a benefit when taken immediately prior to performing a psychomotor task [5].

N,N-Dimethylphenylethylamine (N,N-DMPEA) is a compound initially discovered in the Eria Jarensis orchid and used as flavoring compound (described as sweet & fishy), being recognized by the World Health Organization for this purpose [7]. Interestingly, the compound is a substituted phenylethylamine (PEA) and also a TAAR1 agonist like PEA [6]. 

In comparison to PEA, it contains two additional methyl groups, which allows the compound to persist for longer periods before being cleaved and metabolized by the MAO-B enzyme which works to break down / eliminate trace amines from the body.

You may experience a slight euphoria from this ingredient, many people describe it as a 'buzz'.

Beta Alanine is an incredibly effective oral agent for the purposes of increasing muscle carnosine levels and work capacity under load; being especially noticeable in high rep ranges and bouts of near-maximal cardio [21]. 

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 [22, 21].

Citicholine (CDP-Choline) is one of the only cholinergic compounds shown to boost psychomotor speed and increase dopamine production, it is indeed an expensive and valuable ingredient for improving performance and cognition [8,9]. CDP Choline is not only an excellent choline source, it is also a source of Uridine which appears to have unique cognitive enhancing effects [9].

Alpha GPC is amongst the best sources of choline, increasing acetylcholine levels in the brain and improving power output in athletes. Acetylcholine is necessary in the triggering of synapses, being used in the neuromuscular junction to trigger the firing of motor neurons [10,11]. 

This may also result in increased muscle fiber recruitment / mind-muscle connection, improved learning abilities and a greater attention span [11]. 

DMAE is a unique source of choline which has been shown to be effective in reducing the accumulation of the harmful pigment ‘lipofuscin’ in the body, this pigment increases with age and is associated with some neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and dementia [12].

Taurine is a non proteinogenic amino acid which plays a role in regulating fluid balance and neurochemistry. Taurine promotes cell volume homeostasis, helping in situations of dehydration / fluid retention thus positively affecting fluid balance [14,15].

Taurine increases activity of the GABA-A receptor which may explain why it synergizes well with caffeine and other stimulants, by 'taking the edge off' certain stimulants.

Taurine has been shown to improve athletic performance and increase the tolerability of caffeine by ameliorating some of the vasoconstricting properties some may experience with stimulants [13,15].

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 [16].

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.

Piperine is a component of black pepper extract which is an established bioenhancer of many different nutraceuticals, it works by enhancing intestinal absorption of many poorly absorbed compounds and slowing the rate at which certain compounds are broken down by the liver; leading to increased serum concentrations and a greater AUC (area under the curve) of a compound [17].

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 [18,19].

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