Not to be confused with the late-night infomercials that tout the male-enhancing benefits of Extenze, Xtend is supplement that actually claims benefits, namely in the department of muscle recovery and growth, for both males and females. Manufactured by Scivation, Xtend is increasingly distancing the gap between itself and other competitive BCAA (branched chain amino acid) supplements. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein and muscle tissue, and they are involved in countless other daily processes that must take place within the body. Rather than simply depending on your staple protein shake or whole foods for amino acids, supplements like Xtend are extremely valuable because they deliver amino acids that are not peptide-bonded. In other words, the amino acids in Xtend are free-form, resulting in absorption into the bloodstream and subsequent utilization that is much faster than other options, such whey protein.
Basics of Xtend
The difference between Xtend and general amino acid supplements, however, is that it is predominantly a branched chain amino acid formula. Among the twenty-three amino acids, BCAA’s (L-Leucine, L-Isoleucine, L-Valine) are considered to be the most critical in regards to effects on protein synthesis, muscle recovery, and muscle growth. Xtend contains all three in the desired 2:1:1 ratio, a scientifically supported ingredient profile where the proportion of amino acids interdependently yields the most beneficial usage. BCAA’s are classified as essential amino acids because they are not naturally produced within the body and must, therefore, be consumed through diet or supplementation.
Taking those things basic concepts into account, Xtend continues to grow in popularity among athletes and bodybuilders, and for right reason. The physical demands of consistent training and weightlifting inevitably wage war on the body, and amino acids serve as the catalyst for beginning the process of repair and new growth of muscle tissue. Although marketed as a BCAA supplement, Xtend also contains 1g of L-Glutamine, 1g of Citrulline Malate, and Vitamin B6 to aid in muscle recovery and energy to power through workouts.
Personal Xtend Review
I am definite advocate of Xtend, for several reasons. In terms of taste, Xtend is virtually unmatched. I tried the refreshing watermelon flavor and the powder parallels that of a watermelon Jolly Rancher. Xtend can be mixed with water, your favorite sport’s drink, juice, or other supplements like Purple Wraath (another popular amino acid supplement). Unlike other products, however, Xtend can actually be consumed by simply taking the small serving scoop and dumping the candy-like powder in the mouth, followed by some water to wash it down. I found this method of taking Xtend extremely tasty and convenient.
Above all else, and of utmost importance, Xtend delivers in the regards to its nutrient profile and effectiveness. The necessity of amino acids, along with the unparalleled speed and usability of free-form amino acids, solidifies Xtend for that mere reason. The inclusion of Vitamin B6 also provides for a good source of natural energy. My recovery time is definitely faster when supplementing with Xtend, but as a disclaimer, I do use other amino acid and protein supplements.
If anything, Xtend is hindered by its arguably costly price tag. Nevertheless, there is always a way around retail; just use bodybuilding.com, which offers Xtend for significantly cheaper than your local vitamin or supplement store.
Source
Amino Acids, Bodybuilding.com
