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The Original Smash Apple

XTEND
4.5
(46498 ratings)
Potassium 190 mg
Sodium 220 mg
Valine 1750 mg
Isoleucine 1750 mg
Leucine 3500 mg
Glutamine 2500 mg
Product Image
Score 85.0

A popular intra-workout BCAA supplement offering a high dose of branched-chain amino acids, L-Glutamine, and electrolytes for muscle recovery, performance support, and hydration, with a zero-calorie profile.

Quantity: 1 kgServings size: 14 Gram(s) (71 servings)
Selected goals:
Other goals:
Fitness
Muscle Gain
Digestive Health
Immunity
Heart Health

Score 85.0

A popular intra-workout BCAA supplement offering a high dose of branched-chain amino acids, L-Glutamine, and electrolytes for muscle recovery, performance support, and hydration, with a zero-calorie profile.

Analysis

The XTEND Original BCAA formula is a well-established product in the sports nutrition market, primarily designed for intra-workout and post-workout recovery. Its core strength lies in the robust 7-gram blend of Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) in the scientifically supported 2:1:1 ratio (Leucine:Isoleucine:Valine), which is crucial for stimulating muscle protein synthesis and aiding muscle repair. The addition of 2.5 grams of L-Glutamine further supports recovery, gut health, and immune function, which are beneficial for active individuals. The electrolyte blend provides basic hydration support, though for very intense or prolonged exercise, a more comprehensive electrolyte profile might be needed. The 1 gram of Citrulline Malate is a nice touch for promoting blood flow and reducing fatigue, although it's on the lower end of the clinically effective dose for significant performance enhancement. The zero-calorie, zero-carbohydrate profile makes it versatile for various dietary goals, from weight loss to muscle gain, as it doesn't add unwanted macros. Online reviews generally praise its taste and effectiveness for recovery and reducing muscle soreness.

Pros
  • High dose of BCAAs (7g) in the optimal 2:1:1 ratio for muscle protein synthesis and recovery.
  • Includes 2.5g of L-Glutamine, beneficial for muscle repair, gut health, and immune support.
  • Zero calories and carbohydrates, making it suitable for various dietary plans and flexible for intra-workout use.
  • Contains electrolytes (Sodium, Potassium) to aid hydration during exercise.
Cons
  • The 1g dosage of Citrulline Malate is lower than the typically recommended effective dose (6-8g) for significant performance benefits like increased pumps or endurance.
  • While it contains electrolytes, the blend might not be sufficient for individuals undergoing very intense, prolonged workouts or heavy sweating, potentially requiring additional electrolyte supplementation.
  • The reliance on artificial flavors and sweeteners might be a concern for some users seeking more natural ingredients.
Warnings
  • Individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions should consult a healthcare professional before using high-amino acid supplements.
  • Excessive intake of BCAAs without adequate intake of other essential amino acids could theoretically lead to amino acid imbalances over time, though unlikely at recommended doses in active individuals.
$54.99($0.77 per serving)
Amazon
$ 54.99
iHerb
$ 64.99
Ingredients
IngredientAmount per serving
Calories 0 Calorie(s)
Total Carbohydrates 0 Gram(s)
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride) 640 mcg
Sodium 220 mg
Potassium 190 mg
L-Leucine 3500 mg
L-Glutamine 2500 mg
L-Isoleucine 1750 mg
L-Valine 1750 mg
Electrolyte Blend 1140 mg
Citrulline Malate 1000 mg
Adults 18–50 Sugar Free Women
Categories
Leucine 95.0
Contains 3500mg (3.5g) of L-Leucine, the most critical BCAA for initiating muscle protein synthesis, provided at an effective and leading dose.
Glutamine 90.0
Delivers 2500mg (2.5g) of L-Glutamine, a clinically relevant dose for supporting muscle recovery, immune health, and gut integrity.
Valine 90.0
Provides 1750mg (1.75g) of L-Valine, which works synergistically with Leucine and Isoleucine to support muscle growth and repair.
Goals
Muscle Gain 95.0
The high dosage and optimal ratio of BCAAs directly support muscle protein synthesis, while glutamine aids recovery essential for growth.
Fitness 90.0
Provides essential amino acids for muscle performance, endurance, and aids in reducing exercise-induced muscle damage.
General Health 75.0
Contributes positively through hydration, amino acid support for body functions, and gut health support from glutamine.
80 Value

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4.4
(15376 ratings)
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75 Value

Micronized L-Glutamine 1000 mg

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60 Value

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Theracurmin & L-Glutamine

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Catalyte Lemon Lime Flavored Electrolytes

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(1673 ratings)
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70 Budget

Branched-Chain Amino Acids

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4.6
(1947 ratings)
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60 Budget

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68 Budget

L-Glutamine

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4.7
(1536 ratings)
Offers L-Glutamine at a significantly lower price per serving (11 cents vs 58.9 cents), enabling cost-effective supplementation for recovery and gut health. This is ideal for users prioritizing glutamine benefits on a budget.
80 Value

Warrior Blend Protein Berry

Sunwarrior
4.4
(15376 ratings)
Provides 16g of plant-based protein, which naturally includes BCAAs, along with some electrolytes, for a price per serving (80 cents) that is slightly higher than XTEND (58.9 cents). This offers a more complete and nutrient-dense recovery profile for a good overall value.
75 Value

Micronized L-Glutamine 1000 mg

Natural Factors
4.8
(1738 ratings)
Offers 1000mg of L-Glutamine per serving at a very competitive price (13 cents), providing good value for those seeking to maximize their glutamine intake for recovery and gut health, even if it's a narrower scope than XTEND.
60 Value

Sport Strawberry Lemonade

Nuun
4.6
(2932 ratings)
Offers effective electrolyte replenishment at a very low cost per serving (58 cents vs 58.9 cents). It provides excellent value for basic hydration and mineral balance during workouts, matching XTEND's hydration focus at a comparable price.
90 Performance

Serious Mass Chocolate Peanut Butter

Optimum Nutrition
4.5
(71864 ratings)
Offers a comprehensive blend of protein, high carbohydrates, and added glutamine and creatine, far exceeding XTEND's profile for muscle and weight gain. It serves as a more complete nutritional strategy for maximizing anabolism and recovery.
80 Performance

Theracurmin & L-Glutamine

Natural Factors CurcuminRich
4.7
(364 ratings)
Provides a robust 5000mg dose of L-Glutamine, double the amount in XTEND, for enhanced recovery and gut health support, along with added curcumin for anti-inflammatory effects. This makes it a superior choice for targeted recovery benefits.
85 Performance

Catalyte Lemon Lime Flavored Electrolytes

Thorne
4.4
(1673 ratings)
Features a more comprehensive and higher-dosed electrolyte blend, including key minerals like calcium and magnesium, along with B vitamins and Vitamin C. This delivers superior hydration and cellular support during intense exercise compared to XTEND's basic electrolyte profile.