Daily Performance Shots.

A rare and potent ingredient that took us a while to source. It was worth it though, it’s one of the many ingredients that makes ZAAG a cut above our competitors.

Bursting with antioxidants, Astragalus is known for its
ability to uplift the immune system, as well as providing cells with protection from damage. One study (Block et al., 2003) found that astragalus increased the body’s production of white blood cells. Another (Wang et al., 2012) found that it served to widen blood vessels and increase the amount of blood pumped from the heart.

This herb takes four years to reach its full potential – so it comes with a price tag, but it’s worth every penny!

Also known as Peruvian Ginseng, this edible plant is loaded with iron and iodine, promotes healthy cells and a strong metabolism. It's also jam packed with potassium - crucial for muscle health. There's evidence
that highlights Maca's capacity to enhance libido, strength and lessen fatigue. This tough little plant grows at a higher altitude than any other crop. That's one for the water cooler chat... if people still do that kind of thing.

Used in cooking and medicine for thousands of years as an aid for digestion, cardamom also has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. A double-blind trial found that it could help improve certain biomarkers that cause inflammation and disease. There is also evidence to show that it has been able to reduce the size of gastric ulcers by 50% and even increase the activity of certain enzymes that help to fight cancer. One study showed that a certain compound in the spice stopped oral cells in test tubes from multiplying, whilst others have shown a reduction in the size and weight of skin tumours after just 15 days. All that, and straight from nature.

Proven to have beneficial effects on the stomach enzyme trypsin and pancreatic lipase, therefore aiding our digestion. The main bioactive compound in this ingredient, gingerol, can even reduce stomach pain and nausea. It may even help protect your brain against oxidative stress-related damage and, as a result, keep your memory sharp.

Also known as Tremella Fuciformis, this rare ingredient contains huge amounts of polysaccharides, known to promote nerve growth, help keep skin hydrated and bolster the immune system. It's also a great tool to reduce cholesterol and helps to prevent artery blockages. We also use snow fungus to stimulate natural collagen production. Far more preferable than using the hides and connective tissues of cows.

Found in the skin of grapes and nuts, this is why you see headlines like "red wine can lower your cholesterol." It's part of a group of compounds called polyphenols, and has been linked to many health benefits including protecting brain function and lowering blood pressure. One review concluded that high doses may help reduce the pressure exerted on artery walls when the heart beats [Liu, 2014]. That type of pressure is called systolic blood pressure and when high, is a risk factor for heart disease.⁠ It is thought to accomplish this blood-pressure-lowering effect by helping to produce more nitric oxide, which causes blood vessels to relax.⁠ And due to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of resveratrol, studies have suggested that it can help slow down age-related cognitive decline as it seems to interfere with protein fragments called beta-amyloids, which are crucial to forming the plaques that are a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease.⁠

Aside from its many culinary uses, fennel and its seeds offer a wide array of health benefits. It's antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory. The polyphenol antioxidants it contains are potent anti-inflammatory agents that have powerful effects on your health. Studies suggest that people who follow diets rich in these antioxidants have a lower risk of chronic conditions like heart disease, obesity, cancer, neurological diseases, and type 2 diabetes. What’s more, over 28 compounds have been identified in fennel seeds, including anethole, fenchone, methyl chavicol, and limonene. Although more research needs to be done, Anethole has been found to exhibit cancer-fighting properties. One test-tube study showed that it suppressed cell growth and induced apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in human breast cancer cells. Whilst another test-tube study observed that fennel extract stopped the spread of human breast cancer cells and induced cancer cell death. Pretty and powerful.

One of the original "superfoods", these little blue numbers contain powerful antioxidants that benefit our brain, immune and gut microbiome health. Rich in ellagic acid and anthocyanidins, the blueberry has been extensively researched for its protective properties and effects on the immune system. There's also evidence that suggests the aforementioned anthocyanidins support the health of our blood vessels and reduce arterial stiffness – a common problem as we age. Their low glycaemic index and high flavonoid content may also help improve insulin sensitivity -- crucial for the management of blood sugar levels.

This fruit is packed full of antioxidants that can reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. One of these antioxidants - punicalagin - has been shown to be highly antimicrobial, helping you fight off a variety of illnesses that may come your way. And that’s not all, pomegranates are an excellent source of vitamins C and K, folate, and potassium - all of which support cardiovascular health and help to boost your immune system.

Not so easy to say but a powerful part of ZAAG. CoQ 10 is naturally created by our bodies and is found in every single cell we’ve got. Sometimes known as the “essential nutrient,” it’s used to create energy and also augments the immune system [Saini, 2011]. It’s a powerful aid for heart health – one study highlighted that a two-year course of CoQ10 reduced their risk of dying from heart problems.
In a study of 420 people with heart failure, treatment with CoQ10 for two years reduced their risk of dying from heart problems by around 8% [Mortensen, 2014]. Another compared CoQ10 to a placebo over a year, and found that those taking the supplement were hospitalised less frequently and had fewer serious complications stemming from heart trouble [Morisco, 1993]
CoQ10 has also illustrated its power in helping with headaches and migraines. One study showed CoQ10 supplementation reduced the number of migraines by 300% when compared with the placebo group [Sándor, 2005]. Another highlighted how CoQ10 led to “fewer and less severe headaches,” [Hershey, 2007] What’s more, a review of 25 individual studies also concluded that low levels of CoQ10 were “consistently associated with fatigue.” [Filler, 2014]. Vital stuff!

Way more than just something you put on your face -- consuming hyaluronic acid is actually incredibly beneficial. It's predominantly used for aiding the body in its response to injury and swelling, and we find it naturally in our eyes and joints. Hyaluronic Acid is well known to be a powerful tool to fight the signs of ageing, improving skin elasticity in particular. Good for you inside, and out. That’s why it’s part of the ZAAG staple. ⁠

Known for its impact on immunity – an “indisputable relation” between the two [Martens, 2020] - and depression, Vitamin D has been a mainstay in the topic of supplementation in recent years. One study of 7,500 people highlighted a “reduc[tion] in negative emotions” following supplementation when compared to a test group [Cheng, 2020]. Dr Akash Sinha, of Newcastle Uni, found that Vitamin D supplements improve muscle function and enhance our mitochondria, which he refers to as our cell’s “batteries.” He literally is on record saying that vit D can “boost [our] energy levels.” Good to know. Vit D does more than just improve how we feel, though. Evidence suggests that over a year period, those supplementing Vitamin D lost an average of 3.2KG more than those who did not supplement [Mason, 2014] -- whilst another study highlighted a decrease in body fat correlating with vit D supplementation (Salehpour, 2012). The NHS even recommends that us Brits supplement ourselves with this outside of the summer months. A truly crucial vitamin to supplement.

We've all heard of Omega-3 -- the grandparent's choice of supplement. Our body can't make omega-3 fatty acids on its own, so we have to get them from food or supplements. Omega appears to help the heart beat at a steady rate, reducing the likelihood of it shifting into a dangerous rhythm. It also lowers blood pressure and heart rate and improves blood vessel function.⁠ We have a solid dose of DHA Omega 3 in each shot of ZAAG.⁠ That's a hearty fact to know.

Sometimes known as Bee Bread (cute, right?)⁠, this ingredient is rich in essential fatty acids that help to regulate our body's immune system and fight joint inflammation. Known for having the highest GLA (Gamma Linoleic Acid) content of all the seed oils, Borage Oil aids in suppressing inflammatory responses and works hard to prevent disease and cardiovascular issues. GLA is an essential fatty acid that’s important for maintaining a joint’s cell structure and function.Your body converts it into hormone-like substances called prostaglandins, which regulate your immune system and fight joint inflammation.
GLA might also suppress inflammatory responses by directly acting on some inflammatory cells that lead to many diseases and cardiovascular issues. Another silent powerhouse found in ZAAG that goes about keeping your brain clear, your energy levels steady and your body balanced.

A naturally occurring substance in the body, and a derivative of amino acids, N Acetyl Carnitine’s main function is in energy production, as it converts fat into energy. Benefits range from improved heart health and improved carbohydrate metabolism (Wang, 2018), to improving oxygen uptake in the brain [Volek, 2008] and “significantly improving mental fatigue,” along with improving “attention concentration.” (Vermeulen, 2004)

Used in over 600 bodily processes, magnesium is a truly crucial element in ZAAG. A vital component in the regulation of muscle and nerve function, magnesium also works to move blood sugar into your muscles to aid your strength throughout the day. Without adequate levels of this, your body can't complete the chemical reactions it needs to produce energy. Somewhere between 20% [Durlach, 2004] and 80% [Touvier, 2006] of the world population are suspected to be deficient in magnesium. Don't be one of them.

Also known as pyridoxine, this vitamin assists more than 100 enzymes perform functions including converting food into energy; balancing levels of homocysteine (in turn, benefitting hearth health); as well as supporting a strong immune system and brain. It’s also a vital part in the equation required to create serotonin, the much fabled hormone that elevates mood. There’s also evidence to suggest the benefits of B6 in the role of alleviating premenstrual syndrome issues.

An exalted medicinal berry that serves as our vital source of vitamin C. Amla has a higher antioxidant activity, higher absorption rate, is more stable and offers less deterioration of crucial compounds when compared with other sources. It facilitates collagen production and accelerates the repair and regeneration of connective tissue. Further, it supports our microbiome -- an essential component of immune system health.⁠ Plus it supports our microbiome - crucial when considering immune system health.⁠ Fun fact, amla is known as "the most important medicinal plant in the Indian traditional system of medicine," according to Manjeshwar Baliga PhD.

This fights fatigue, produces DNA and keeps our nervous system functioning properly. B12 is truly a superhero in terms of supplementation. Our bodies can’t make B12 by themselves, so it’s crucial that we source it through our diet.⁠ B12 also helps with the functioning of your brain, which is why it’s so often turned to as a booster when we’re feeling stress or anxiety.⁠ It's also essential for the metabolism of proteins -- touted as an "energy boosting nutrient" that "plays a key role in converting food into energy," according to Spencer Kroll PhD. A study of over 40,000 people found that low B12 levels were associated with “poorer attention and memory, [Nalder, 2021 & Köbe, 2016]. Supplementation “led to improved cognition in 84% of participants, and improved scores on memory and attention tests in 78%” [Jatoi, 2020]. Those deficient in B12 have been found to be twice as likely to be severely depressed as those with adequate levels. [Penninx, 2000] With an estimated 6-15% of the population being deficient in B12 [U.S. Department of Health, 2022], if you’re struggling with energy, adding B12 to your regime could be a great idea. The kicker is that it’s predominantly gained through animal products, so if you’re a vegan or a veggie then you’ll want to consider adding a little B12 to your menu.⁠ By having the appropriate amount of B12 in your system, you’ll be aiding the production of your red blood cells which carry oxygen all over your delightful body. A bloody good vitamin, literally.

An essential mineral used for proper thyroid function. We can’t produce it ourselves so we have to consume it. It kills fungus, bacteria and other microorganisms. Vital for thyroid health – which in turn provides us with healthy metabolism and heart health amongst other things.

A type of chemical known as an amino sulfonic acid, taurine helps with a whole host of things including hydration, electrolyte balance, digestion, central nervous system functioning and immune system regulation. Our bodies need larger amounts of taurine during times of stress, and one study has demonstrated its efficacy in improving the symptoms of diabetes in addition to providing relief from oxidative brain stress. [U-Llah, 2018]. Another noted its preventative effects on cardiovascular disease [Murakami, 2014].

Selenium helps metabolism by proxy, by benefitting the healthy function of our thyroid, which helps to regulate our weight and metabolise hormones. These hormones perform many functions in our body, including regulating how we burn calories [Ventura, 2017]. Further, In a small study, those who took daily selenium supplements lost more weight and body fat than those who didn't [Cavedon, 2020].

This little mineral is necessary for so much – from metabolism, to digestion, to nerve function and immune cell development. In terms of immune support, one review of seven studies demonstrated that daily zinc consumption could reduce the duration of your common cold by 33%... good stuff. [Hemilä, 2017]. It’s also great for repairing wounds. - one study of zinc consumption on 60 people found “significant reductions” in ulcer size when compared with a placebo group [Momen-Heravi, 2017]. Hospitals use it as a way to boost the treatment of burns, ulcers and skin injuries. So if you’re one of those accident prone people, this might get you back on a normal keel a little sooner than usual. Zinc’s also been noted as an effective way to treat inflammation by various studies [Lubberts, 2013; Bao 2010]. That’s why, like the other 28 champion ingredients, we proudly use it in ZAAG.

Widely understood as the bodybuilder's favourite supplement, creatine's actually a natural compound and acts as a source of quick energy for your body. It's been found to increase strength by roughly 5% in a review of 53 studies [Lanhers, 2017], as well as extending the length of gym sessions [Schoenfeld, 2010]. It impacts our minds as well as our bodies, though. Research has highlighted improvement in short-term memory and reasoning abilities of healthy individuals [Avgerinos, 2018], as well as displaying a "significant improvement" in memory and recall ability for older people [McMorris, 2007], as well as boosting brain function [Smith, 2014].

Call it Holy Basil if you're feeling fancy. The main use of this herb is the alleviation of stress, but it also benefits us in other ways:
> Organ and tissue protection from chemical stress in the environment.⁠⁠
> Counters metabolic stress through normalisation of blood glucose and blood pressure.⁠
> Benefits memory and cognitive function through its anxiety reducing and antidepressant properties.⁠
The word Tulsi itself translates as "the incomparable one" in English. So, let's just say it's looked at pretty favourably.

Only discovered in 1998, choline is already considered an essential nutrient – meaning it’s required for normal bodily function and human health. It impacts liver function, brain development, muscle movement, our nervous system and metabolism. It’s also essential in order to produce a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, an important factor in regulating memory, mood and intelligence (Poly, 2011). Various studies have highlighted choline’s impact on lowering BMI and body fat [Kinet, 2014], lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease [Olthof, 2005], improving brain function and memory [Poly, 2011] as well being “significantly associated” with the alleviation of anxiety [Bjelland, 2009].

The tasty green stuff that's been promoted by health professionals for decades, Green Tea Extract, by way of the EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) makes it a scientifically-proven metabolic booster. One study even found a 17% increase in the amount of fat burned when compared to those who didn't consume green tea extract [Venables, 2008]. Another study looked at obese individuals, and found that those taking the extract burnt around 183 more calories per day after three months than the control group [Auvichayapat, 2008].

Citicoline is a naturally occurring compound, nootropic, and a building block of our cell membranes. One study [McGlade, 2012] highlights Citicoline’s capacity to improve cognitive inhibition, with their findings suggesting the nootropic “may improve attentional performance and ameliorate attentional deficits associated with central nervous system disorders.” Another [Nakazaki, 2021] illustrated an improved “overall memory performance, especially episodic memory” after 12 weeks of supplementation. There’s a vast amount of data pertaining to the impact of citicoline supplementation on various areas of brain health – from alzheimers, anxiety and stroke recovery. But more research is required before we’d suggest that. A key member of our brain-defending roster of nootropics, and one of 29 potent ingredients you’ll find in ZAAG.

Phosphatidylserine (try saying that with your mouth full): supports “short-term and long-term memory, learning & recalling of information, the ability to focus attention and concentrate, the ability to solve problems, and the ability to communicate” [Glade, 2015]. It’s also been shown to improve short-term auditory memory [Hirayama, 2014]; “significant[ly] improve” immediate learning and memory acquisition [Schrieber, 2000]; and “significantly increased memory” [Kato-Kataoka, 2010]. There’s further evidence to suggest that supplementing phosphatidylserine can improve exercise capacity and increase performance [Kingsley, 2012]