At a glance
Summary
The ESN Athlete Stack features a comprehensive blend of vitamins and minerals, utilizing highly bioavailable forms such as calcium citrate, magnesium citrate, and iron bisglycinate, which enhance absorption and minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. The formulation is free from artificial sweeteners, dyes, and seed oils, and includes beneficial antioxidants like vitamin E and C. The presence of anti-caking agents and a capsule shell is typical for supplements, but the overall ingredient quality and formulation integrity are high, contributing to a favorable score.
Key ingredients 15
Calcium CitrateGood
Calcium citrate is a highly absorbable form of calcium, essential for bone health and muscle function. It is preferred over other forms due to its better absorption, especially in individuals with low stomach acid. This form of calcium does not require food for absorption, making it versatile for supplementation.
Risks
Excessive intake may lead to hypercalcemia, which can cause kidney stones and impaired absorption of other minerals.
Benefits
Supports bone density and strength, and plays a crucial role in muscle contraction and nerve signaling.
Magnesium CitrateGood
Magnesium citrate is a well-absorbed form of magnesium, important for muscle and nerve function, and energy production. It is often used to prevent magnesium deficiency and is known for its laxative properties. This form is more bioavailable compared to magnesium oxide.
Risks
High doses can cause diarrhea and abdominal cramping.
Benefits
Supports cardiovascular health, muscle relaxation, and energy metabolism.
Potassium CitrateGood
Potassium citrate is used to prevent kidney stones and maintain proper electrolyte balance. It is a bioavailable form of potassium, which is crucial for heart and muscle function. This form helps alkalize the urine, reducing the risk of stone formation.
Risks
Excessive intake can lead to hyperkalemia, which may cause heart rhythm disturbances.
Benefits
Helps maintain normal blood pressure and supports cardiovascular health.
Vitamin EGood
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative damage. It is essential for immune function and skin health. Mixed tocopherols provide a broader spectrum of antioxidant protection compared to alpha-tocopherol alone.
Risks
High doses may interfere with blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding.
Benefits
Supports immune function and skin health, and protects against oxidative stress.
Vitamin CGood
Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that supports immune function and collagen synthesis. Ascorbic acid is the pure form of vitamin C, known for its role in enhancing iron absorption. It is water-soluble and must be consumed regularly as the body does not store it.
Risks
High doses can cause gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea.
Benefits
Boosts immune function, enhances iron absorption, and supports skin health through collagen production.
Iron BisglycinateGood
Iron bisglycinate is a highly absorbable form of iron, used to prevent and treat iron deficiency anemia. It is gentle on the stomach compared to other forms of iron. This chelated form reduces the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.
Risks
Excessive iron intake can lead to toxicity, causing organ damage.
Benefits
Supports oxygen transport in the blood and is essential for energy production.
Zinc BisglycinateGood
Zinc bisglycinate is a chelated form of zinc, known for its high bioavailability and absorption. It supports immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. This form minimizes gastrointestinal discomfort compared to zinc sulfate.
Risks
Excessive zinc intake can interfere with copper absorption and cause immune dysfunction.
Benefits
Enhances immune response, supports skin health, and aids in cellular repair.
NiacinGood
Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is essential for energy metabolism and DNA repair. Nicotinamide is a form that does not cause flushing, unlike nicotinic acid. It plays a role in maintaining healthy skin and nerves.
Risks
High doses can cause liver damage and gastrointestinal issues.
Benefits
Supports energy production and helps maintain healthy skin and nervous system.
Pantothenic AcidGood
Pantothenic acid, or vitamin B5, is essential for synthesizing coenzyme A, which is critical for fatty acid metabolism. Calcium D-pantothenate is the stable form used in supplements. It supports adrenal function and energy production.
Benefits
Supports energy metabolism and adrenal health.
L-SelenomethionineGood
L-selenomethionine is an organic form of selenium, known for its high bioavailability. It acts as an antioxidant and supports thyroid function. This form is incorporated into proteins, providing a stable source of selenium.
Risks
Excessive selenium intake can lead to selenosis, causing hair loss and nail brittleness.
Benefits
Supports antioxidant defense and thyroid hormone metabolism.
Vitamin D3Good
Vitamin D3, or cholecalciferol, is the most effective form of vitamin D for raising blood levels. It is crucial for calcium absorption and bone health. This form is synthesized in the skin upon sun exposure.
Risks
Excessive intake can lead to hypercalcemia, causing kidney damage.
Benefits
Enhances calcium absorption and supports bone and immune health.
Manganese BisglycinateGood
Manganese bisglycinate is a chelated form of manganese, known for its high absorption and bioavailability. It is important for bone formation and antioxidant enzyme function. This form reduces the risk of gastrointestinal irritation.
Risks
Excessive manganese intake can lead to neurological issues.
Benefits
Supports bone health and antioxidant defense.
BiotinGood
Biotin, or vitamin B7, is essential for carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism. D-biotin is the naturally occurring, biologically active form. It is known for supporting hair, skin, and nail health.
Benefits
Promotes healthy hair, skin, and nails, and supports metabolic processes.
Vitamin B6Good
Vitamin B6, or pyridoxine hydrochloride, is crucial for amino acid metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis. It supports immune function and hemoglobin production. This form is commonly used in supplements for its stability.
Risks
High doses can cause nerve damage and sensory neuropathy.
Benefits
Supports brain health and aids in the production of neurotransmitters.
Folic AcidNeutral
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
Risks
Excessive intake can mask vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms.
Benefits
Supports fetal development and reduces the risk of birth defects.
Processing
Unprocessed or Minimally Processed Foods
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