Ingredient Glossary

Potent antioxidant that fortifies your immune system

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is one of the most well-researched nutrients in human health. It plays a critical role in stimulating both the production and function of white blood cells, particularly lymphocytes and phagocytes. As a powerful antioxidant, it protects cells from damage caused by free radicals. It also supports the skin's barrier function, your body's first line of immune defense. The body cannot synthesize vitamin C on its own, making consistent dietary or supplemental intake essential.

Essential mineral that activates immune cells

Zinc is an essential trace mineral involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the human body. For immune function specifically, zinc is required for the normal development and function of cells that mediate both innate and adaptive immunity. It helps activate T-lymphocytes, which regulate and direct immune responses. Zinc deficiency is associated with increased susceptibility to infections, and supplementation has been shown to reduce the duration and severity of common colds. It also functions as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent.

Antiviral compounds that shorten illness duration

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) has been used as a traditional remedy for centuries and is one of the most scientifically studied botanicals for immune support. Its berries are rich in flavonoids, particularly anthocyanins, which have demonstrated antiviral activity in multiple studies. Research has shown that standardized elderberry extract can reduce the duration of influenza by an average of four days compared to placebo. It works by inhibiting viral replication and stimulating the immune system's cytokine production, which helps coordinate the body's defense response.

Herbal immune modulator used for centuries

Echinacea is among the most widely used herbal medicines worldwide, with a history of use by Native American tribes dating back centuries. It contains several active compounds including alkylamides, caffeic acid derivatives, and polysaccharides that work synergistically to modulate immune activity. Clinical research indicates that echinacea can reduce both the incidence and duration of upper respiratory tract infections. It activates macrophages, increases natural killer cell activity, and promotes the production of interferon — a key signaling protein in the antiviral immune response.

The sunshine vitamin critical for immune signaling

Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is a fat-soluble vitamin that functions more like a hormone than a traditional nutrient. Virtually every cell in the immune system has a vitamin D receptor, underscoring how fundamental it is to immune function. It regulates the expression of genes involved in immune cell differentiation and inflammatory response. Deficiency — which affects an estimated 1 billion people worldwide — is strongly associated with increased susceptibility to infections, autoimmune disorders, and chronic inflammatory conditions. D3 specifically (as opposed to D2) is the form produced in human skin upon sun exposure and is more bioavailable.

Vital for energy metabolism and neurological function

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is a water-soluble vitamin that plays essential roles in the formation of red blood cells, DNA synthesis, and the function and development of brain and nerve cells. It is a critical coenzyme in the conversion of homocysteine to methionine and in the metabolism of every cell in the body. Fatigue and weakness are among the earliest symptoms of B12 deficiency. It cannot be synthesized by the human body and must be obtained from diet (primarily animal products) or supplementation. The methylcobalamin form used in SyncShot is the most bioactive and neurologically supportive form.

Full spectrum B vitamins for cellular energy production

The B-vitamin complex encompasses eight distinct vitamins — B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B7 (biotin), B9 (folate), and B12 (cobalamin). Each plays a unique yet interconnected role in converting dietary carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into ATP — the body's primary energy currency. They act as coenzymes in the Krebs cycle and electron transport chain, the cellular machinery that powers every biological process. Working together synergistically, the B-complex vitamins support sustained mental and physical energy, stress resilience, and neurological health.

Adaptogen that reduces cortisol and boosts stamina

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an ancient medicinal herb that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for over 3,000 years. Classified as an adaptogen, it helps the body manage physical and psychological stress by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Multiple randomized controlled trials have shown that ashwagandha supplementation significantly reduces cortisol levels, perceived stress scores, and anxiety. Beyond stress, it has demonstrated measurable improvements in aerobic capacity, muscle strength, and endurance. KSM-66, the standardized extract used in SyncShot, is the most clinically studied form available.

Powers your mitochondria for sustained energy

Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone) is a naturally occurring compound found in virtually every cell of the human body, with the highest concentrations in the heart, liver, and kidneys — organs with the highest energy demands. It serves as a critical electron carrier in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, directly powering ATP synthesis. CoQ10 also functions as a potent fat-soluble antioxidant that protects mitochondrial membranes from oxidative damage. Natural CoQ10 levels decline with age, statin use, and certain health conditions. Supplementation supports sustained energy production, cardiovascular health, and cellular protection.

Promotes calm focus without the crash

L-Theanine is an amino acid found naturally in tea leaves (Camellia sinensis). It has a unique ability to promote relaxed alertness — a state of calm, focused attention without sedation. It achieves this by increasing alpha brain wave activity, boosting GABA (an inhibitory neurotransmitter), and modulating levels of serotonin and dopamine. When combined with caffeine (as it naturally occurs in tea), L-theanine smooths out the stimulant curve, eliminating jitteriness and sustaining attention for longer periods. Clinical research supports its role in reducing anxiety, improving reaction time, and enhancing working memory.

Adaptogen that fights mental fatigue and burnout

Rhodiola rosea is a Scandinavian and Siberian adaptogenic herb used for centuries by Viking warriors and Soviet athletes for its fatigue-fighting and performance-enhancing properties. It contains rosavins and salidroside, bioactive compounds that modulate the stress response system and influence monoamine neurotransmitters including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Unlike stimulants, Rhodiola reduces fatigue and improves mental performance without increasing cortisol or causing energy crashes. Clinical trials demonstrate significant improvements in stress resilience, cognitive function, and physical endurance.

Fast-acting alertness and endurance boost

Caffeine anhydrous is the dehydrated, powdered form of caffeine — providing a precise, rapidly absorbed dose free from the variability of coffee or tea. Caffeine blocks adenosine receptors in the brain, preventing the accumulation of the fatigue signal that normally builds throughout the day. This results in improved alertness, reaction time, sustained attention, and physical endurance. At 100mg (roughly the equivalent of one espresso), this dose provides meaningful cognitive and performance benefits while remaining well within the range comfortable for caffeine-sensitive individuals. When combined with L-Theanine at a 1:2 ratio, the combination produces smooth, sustained focus without jitteriness or crash.

Fiber that feeds and grows good gut bacteria

Prebiotics are non-digestible dietary fibers that selectively stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial microorganisms in the gut. Inulin, a fructan derived from chicory root, is among the most well-studied and effective prebiotics available. Prebiotics serve as fuel for bacteria already present in your microbiome, dramatically amplifying their growth and activity. Regular inulin consumption has been shown to significantly increase populations of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus while reducing harmful bacteria. It also improves calcium absorption, supports regularity, and has prebiotic effects throughout the colon.

Enzymes that optimize nutrient breakdown and absorption

Digestive enzymes are biological catalysts that break down macronutrients into their absorbable components. SyncShot's enzyme blend includes amylase (breaks down starches), protease (breaks down proteins), lipase (breaks down fats), cellulase (breaks down plant fiber), and lactase (breaks down lactose). Together they ensure complete digestion and maximum nutrient extraction from food. Many adults have suboptimal enzyme production due to age, stress, poor diet, or gut inflammation. Supplementing with a comprehensive enzyme blend can dramatically reduce bloating, gas, and digestive discomfort while improving the bioavailability of all nutrients consumed.

Anti-nausea and digestive comfort powerhouse

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is one of the world's most ancient and widely used medicinal plants, with over 115 distinct chemical components identified. Its primary bioactive compounds, gingerols and shogaols, have potent anti-nausea, anti-inflammatory, and prokinetic properties. Ginger has been shown in clinical studies to be highly effective against nausea from multiple causes including morning sickness, chemotherapy, and motion sickness. It accelerates gastric emptying, reducing the sensation of fullness and indigestion. Its anti-inflammatory properties extend to the gut lining, making it protective against gastric ulcers and inflammatory bowel conditions.

Soothes the gut lining and supports regularity

Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis miller) is famous for its skin-soothing properties, but its benefits extend powerfully to the gastrointestinal tract. The inner gel contains polysaccharides (particularly acemannan) that coat and protect the intestinal lining, reducing inflammation and promoting the repair of damaged epithelial cells. It also contains anthraquinones that gently stimulate intestinal motility, making it effective for constipation without the harsh effects of stimulant laxatives. Research suggests aloe vera may benefit conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) through its anti-inflammatory and mucilaginous properties.

Coats and soothes the digestive tract lining

Slippery Elm Bark is an inner bark extract from the Ulmus rubra tree with a long history of use in traditional medicine for digestive health. Its primary active compound is mucilage — a gel-forming polysaccharide that coats and protects the mucosal lining of the digestive tract. This soothing effect makes it particularly effective for conditions like IBS, acid reflux, heartburn, and general gut inflammation. Unlike bacterial supplements which introduce live cultures that struggle to survive in acidic liquid environments, Slippery Elm Bark is a stable plant extract that remains fully active and potent in a liquid shot format.

Rebuilds skin structure for firmness and elasticity

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, forming the structural scaffold of skin, joints, bones, and connective tissue. After age 25, collagen production declines by approximately 1% per year, leading to visible signs of aging. Hydrolyzed collagen peptides are short-chain amino acids (primarily glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline) that are rapidly absorbed and used directly by fibroblasts to produce new collagen. Multiple double-blind clinical trials have demonstrated that supplementing with 5–10g of collagen peptides daily for 8–12 weeks significantly improves skin elasticity, hydration, and wrinkle depth. Type I and III peptides are most relevant to skin health.

The beauty vitamin for hair, skin, and nails

Biotin (vitamin B7) is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a central role in the metabolism of fatty acids, amino acids, and glucose. It is particularly crucial for the health of keratin — the structural protein that makes up hair, skin, and nails. Biotin deficiency, even subclinical deficiency, is associated with brittle nails, hair thinning, and skin problems. The 2,500 mcg dose in SyncShot is specifically formulated to support measurable improvements in hair thickness, nail strength, and skin smoothness, which typically become apparent after 2–3 months of consistent use. Water-soluble and well-tolerated, excess biotin is safely excreted in urine.

Attracts moisture to keep skin plump and hydrated

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a glycosaminoglycan naturally produced by the body that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. It is the primary molecule responsible for skin hydration and volume, found abundantly in the dermis, joints, and eyes. Natural HA levels decline with age and UV exposure, contributing to dry, dull, and wrinkled skin. Oral HA supplementation has been shown in clinical studies to increase skin moisture content, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and improve skin suppleness. It works from within to hydrate the extracellular matrix of the skin in a way that topical application cannot fully achieve.

Fat-soluble antioxidant that protects skin cells

Vitamin E is a family of fat-soluble compounds with powerful antioxidant properties, with alpha-tocopherol being the most biologically active form in humans. In the skin, vitamin E is concentrated in the sebaceous glands and distributed throughout the epidermis where it protects cell membranes from oxidative damage caused by UV radiation, pollution, and metabolic processes. It works synergistically with vitamin C — vitamin C regenerates oxidized vitamin E, amplifying both compounds' antioxidant effects. Research supports vitamin E's role in photoprotection, wound healing, reducing inflammation, and maintaining the integrity of the skin barrier.

Structural mineral essential for collagen synthesis

Silicon (as orthosilicic acid) is the third most abundant trace element in the human body and plays a critical but often overlooked role in connective tissue formation. It acts as a molecular bridge in the cross-linking of collagen and elastin fibers, giving skin, hair, and nails their structural integrity and resilience. Silica is a cofactor for the enzyme prolyl hydroxylase, which is required for collagen synthesis. Studies have shown that supplemental silica significantly increases nail thickness, improves hair fragility scores, and enhances skin surface microrelief. The bioavailable form derived from horsetail extract ensures maximum absorption.

Regulates your sleep-wake cycle naturally

Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in response to darkness, serving as the body's primary signal for the onset of sleep. It synchronizes the circadian rhythm — the internal 24-hour clock that governs sleep-wake cycles, hormonal patterns, and cellular repair processes. Supplemental melatonin is particularly effective for people with delayed sleep phase disorder, jet lag, and shift work sleep disruption. Research consistently shows doses above 5mg provide no additional sleep benefit and may cause morning grogginess, hormonal disruption, and rebound insomnia. The effective dose for most adults is 0.5–3mg.

Calming mineral that relaxes muscles and mind

Magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral in the human body and a cofactor in over 300 enzymatic reactions. It is fundamental to the regulation of the nervous system, muscle contraction and relaxation, and energy production. Magnesium glycinate — a chelated form bound to the amino acid glycine — is among the most bioavailable forms and is particularly valued for its calming properties. Both magnesium and glycine independently promote relaxation; together they support falling asleep faster, deeper sleep stages, and reduced nighttime awakenings. Approximately 48% of Americans consume less than the recommended amount of magnesium, making supplementation broadly beneficial.

Herbal sedative that reduces sleep onset time

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) has been used as a medicinal herb since ancient Greece and Rome, where it was prescribed for insomnia and anxiety. Its sedative and anxiolytic effects are attributed to its ability to increase available GABA in the brain by inhibiting GABA breakdown and stimulating GABA receptors — mechanisms similar to benzodiazepines but without the dependency risk or cognitive side effects. Multiple clinical trials have demonstrated that valerian significantly reduces sleep latency (the time taken to fall asleep) and improves subjective sleep quality. It also contains valerenic acid, which has been shown to modulate the serotonin system.

Anxiety-reducing botanical for peaceful sleep

Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) is a climbing vine with a long history of use in traditional medicine for anxiety and insomnia. Its primary active compounds, including chrysin and other flavonoids, act on GABA-A receptors in the brain — the same receptors targeted by anti-anxiety medications — but through a gentler, non-habit-forming mechanism. Clinical research has shown passionflower to be as effective as low-dose oxazepam (a pharmaceutical anxiolytic) for generalized anxiety disorder, with fewer side effects. It is particularly valued for reducing mental rumination, the racing thoughts that prevent sleep onset. It works synergistically with valerian and melatonin to promote deep, restful sleep.

Golden spice with powerful anti-inflammatory curcuminoids

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a flowering plant in the ginger family that has been the subject of over 12,000 peer-reviewed studies. Curcumin, its primary active compound, is a polyphenol that modulates multiple molecular targets in the inflammation cascade, including NF-kB, COX-2 enzymes, and various pro-inflammatory cytokines. Its effects are comparable to some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) without gastrointestinal side effects. Research supports its role in managing osteoarthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, metabolic syndrome, and reducing exercise-induced muscle damage.

Enhances absorption of curcumin by up to 2000%

Piperine (BioPerine) is the alkaloid responsible for the pungency of black pepper and is included in SyncShot specifically as a bioavailability enhancer. Curcumin is notoriously poorly absorbed on its own — it is rapidly metabolized and excreted before it can reach systemic circulation in meaningful concentrations. Piperine inhibits the glucuronidation enzymes responsible for curcumin's rapid breakdown in the intestinal wall and liver. The landmark 1998 study by Shoba et al. demonstrated that 20mg of piperine increased serum curcumin concentration by 2000% in humans. BioPerine also enhances the absorption of other nutrients including selenium, vitamin B6, and CoQ10.

Essential fatty acids that resolve chronic inflammation

Omega-3 fatty acids EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids that cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained from diet or supplements. They are incorporated into cell membrane phospholipids throughout the body, where they modulate inflammatory signaling by competing with arachidonic acid. EPA in particular is the precursor to resolvins and protectins — specialized pro-resolving mediators that actively resolve inflammation. Extensive research supports omega-3s for reducing triglycerides, lowering systemic inflammation, and protecting against cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline.

Ancient resin that blocks inflammatory pathways

Boswellia (Boswellia serrata), also known as Indian frankincense, is an extract from the resin of the Boswellia tree that has been used in Ayurvedic and traditional African medicine for thousands of years. Its active compounds, boswellic acids (particularly AKBA), specifically inhibit 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX), an enzyme that synthesizes pro-inflammatory leukotrienes. This mechanism is distinct from and complementary to curcumin's NF-kB inhibition and omega-3's COX pathway modulation. Boswellia has robust clinical evidence supporting its use in osteoarthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease, with a particularly favorable safety profile.

Anthocyanin-rich fruit that reduces muscle soreness

Tart cherry (Prunus cerasus) is one of the most concentrated natural sources of anthocyanins — the pigments that give cherries their deep red color and powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Anthocyanins inhibit both COX-1 and COX-2 inflammatory enzymes with potency comparable to aspirin and ibuprofen. Multiple randomized controlled trials in athletes have shown tart cherry extract significantly reduces exercise-induced muscle damage, soreness, and strength loss compared to placebo. Beyond athletic recovery, tart cherry contains melatonin and tryptophan, contributing to sleep quality.

The most researched supplement for strength and power

Creatine monohydrate is the most extensively studied performance supplement in sports science, with over 1,000 published studies confirming its safety and efficacy. It works by increasing phosphocreatine stores in muscle, which rapidly regenerates ATP — the primary energy currency of muscle contraction — during high-intensity efforts. This translates to measurable improvements in maximum strength, power output, sprint performance, and the ability to sustain high-intensity exercise. Creatine also draws water into muscle cells, contributing to cell volumization that may signal protein synthesis. Long-term supplementation at 3–5g per day is consistently shown to increase lean muscle mass.

Buffers lactic acid to delay muscle fatigue

Beta-alanine is a non-essential amino acid that combines with histidine in muscle tissue to form carnosine — a dipeptide that buffers hydrogen ions (acid) produced during high-intensity exercise. By buffering intramuscular pH, carnosine delays the onset of fatigue and extends the duration of high-intensity effort before force production declines. Multiple meta-analyses confirm beta-alanine supplementation significantly improves performance in activities lasting 1–4 minutes. A harmless tingling sensation called paresthesia is a common and expected side effect that subsides with continued use.

Key amino acid for muscle recovery and immune support

L-Glutamine is the most abundant free amino acid in the human body and a conditionally essential nutrient during periods of intense physical stress. During prolonged or intense exercise, glutamine is rapidly depleted from muscle tissue, and adequate resynthesis is a rate-limiting step in recovery. It serves as the primary fuel source for rapidly dividing immune cells, which is why intense training suppresses immunity. Supplemental glutamine supports both muscle protein synthesis and immune function simultaneously. It also maintains gut mucosal integrity, supporting the intestinal barrier that separates the gut contents from systemic circulation.

Replenishes minerals lost through sweat

This comprehensive electrolyte blend provides sodium, potassium, and magnesium — the three key minerals lost most heavily through sweat during exercise. Sodium is the primary extracellular electrolyte and drives fluid retention and cell hydration. Potassium maintains intracellular fluid balance and is critical for muscle contraction and nerve transmission. Magnesium is involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions including ATP synthesis and muscle relaxation. Electrolyte depletion is a leading cause of exercise-induced cramping, early fatigue, and cognitive decline during prolonged activity.

Bioavailable choline for sharper focus and memory

Alpha-GPC (alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine) is the most bioavailable form of choline supplement available and one of the few that crosses the blood-brain barrier efficiently. Once in the brain, it is converted to acetylcholine — the primary neurotransmitter of memory, attention, and cognitive processing speed. Clinical research demonstrates Alpha-GPC significantly improves memory formation, learning speed, and reaction time in both healthy adults and those with cognitive impairment. It has also shown promise for improving athletic performance by increasing growth hormone secretion and enhancing power output.

NAD+ precursor that supports cellular energy and longevity

NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) is a direct precursor to NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), a coenzyme that plays a central role in cellular energy metabolism, DNA repair, and gene expression regulation. NAD+ levels decline dramatically with age — by around 50% between the ages of 40 and 60 — contributing to reduced energy, impaired DNA repair capacity, and metabolic dysfunction. NMN is converted to NAD+ in cells more efficiently than other precursors (like NR or niacin), potentially bypassing the rate-limiting steps in the salvage pathway. Human clinical trials are ongoing and promising.

Plant alkaloid clinically proven for blood sugar and cholesterol

Berberine is an isoquinoline alkaloid extracted from several plants including Berberis vulgaris (barberry) and Coptis chinensis. It is one of the most rigorously studied plant compounds for metabolic health, with over 3,000 published studies. Berberine activates AMPK — often called the 'metabolic master switch' — which regulates glucose uptake, fatty acid oxidation, and mitochondrial biogenesis. Multiple meta-analyses confirm berberine is as effective as metformin for reducing fasting blood glucose and HbA1c in type 2 diabetics. It also significantly reduces LDL cholesterol and triglycerides and improves gut microbiome diversity.

Supports insulin sensitivity, hormonal balance, and mood

Inositol (specifically myo-inositol) is a carbohydrate that functions as a secondary messenger in insulin signaling pathways, facilitating the cellular uptake of glucose. It is particularly well-studied for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), where insulin resistance is a primary driver — multiple clinical trials demonstrate that myo-inositol at 2–4g daily restores ovulatory function, reduces androgen levels, and improves metabolic markers. Beyond hormonal applications, inositol functions as a signaling molecule in serotonin and dopamine pathways. Research supports its efficacy for OCD, panic disorder, and anxiety at higher doses.