Complete Ingredient Research & Citations

Complete Ingredient 
Research & Citations
Evidence-based nutritional support for optimal recovery and restorative sleep
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RECOVERY PACK
DETAILED INGREDIENT BREAKDOWN
A comprehensive analysis of each nutrient, its mechanisms of action, and the peer-reviewed research supporting its use in injury recovery and physical therapy.
1000mg
INGREDIENT 1: OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS
What It Does
Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) are essential polyunsaturated fats with powerful anti-inflammatory properties. They are crucial for reducing inflammation associated with injury and supporting muscle recovery throughout rehabilitation.
How It Works
Omega-3s work by:
Reducing inflammatory cytokines - Specifically decreasing pro-inflammatory markers like IL-6 and TNF-alpha
Supporting muscle protein synthesis - Enhancing the body's ability to rebuild damaged muscle tissue
Alleviating muscle soreness - Reducing delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) after therapy sessions
Improving tissue healing - Supporting the resolution phase of inflammation, which is critical for proper tissue repair
The Research
Study 1: Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Calder PC. Omega-3 fatty acids and inflammatory processes. Nutrients. 2010 Mar;2(3):355-374.
This comprehensive review demonstrates that omega-3 fatty acids significantly reduce inflammatory processes by competing with omega-6 fatty acids in cell membranes, leading to decreased production of inflammatory mediators.
Study 2: Clinical Trial Results
Kiecolt-Glaser, J., Belury, M., Andridge, R., Malarkey, W., Hwang, B., & Glaser, R. (2012). Omega-3 supplementation lowers inflammation in healthy middle-aged and older adults: A randomized controlled trial. Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, 26, 988-995.
This randomized controlled trial showed that omega-3 supplementation reduced systemic inflammation markers by up to 10-12% in healthy adults, demonstrating clear anti-inflammatory benefits relevant to injury recovery.
Why It's Essential for PT Recovery
Physical therapy creates controlled microtrauma to stimulate tissue remodeling. Without adequate omega-3 intake, the inflammatory response can become prolonged and counterproductive, slowing recovery and increasing pain levels.
450mg
INGREDIENT 2: TURMERIC WITH BLACK PEPPER
What It Does
Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound. Black pepper (piperine) is added to enhance absorption by up to 2000%, making the curcumin bioavailable and effective.
How It Works
Curcumin works through multiple mechanisms:
Inhibits inflammatory enzymes - Blocks COX-2 and LOX enzymes that produce inflammatory compounds
Reduces pain signaling - Modulates pain pathways similar to NSAIDs but without gastrointestinal side effects
Supports tissue healing - Promotes healthy inflammatory resolution at injury sites
Protects against oxidative stress - Acts as a potent antioxidant during the healing process
The Research
Study 1: Systematic Review of Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Ferguson JJA, Abbott KA, Garg ML. Anti-inflammatory effects of oral supplementation with curcumin: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Nutrition Reviews, Volume 79, Issue 9, September 2021, Pages 1043–1066.
This meta-analysis of multiple randomized controlled trials concluded that curcumin supplementation significantly reduces inflammatory markers (CRP, IL-6) and improves functional outcomes in individuals with inflammation-related conditions.
Study 2: Safety and Efficacy
Chainani-Wu, N. "Safety and anti-inflammatory activity of curcumin: a component of turmeric (Curcuma longa)." The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. 2003.
This study established both the safety profile and anti-inflammatory efficacy of curcumin, demonstrating that it can modulate inflammation without the adverse effects commonly seen with pharmaceutical anti-inflammatories.
Why It's Essential for PT Recovery
Inflammation at the injury site is necessary for healing, but excessive or prolonged inflammation delays recovery. Curcumin helps maintain balanced inflammation - enough to support healing, but not so much that it causes additional tissue damage or pain.
1000mg
INGREDIENT 3: VITAMIN C
What It Does
Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis, the primary structural protein in connective tissue. It also functions as a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative damage during the recovery process.
How It Works
Vitamin C supports recovery through:
Collagen synthesis - Required cofactor for enzymes that produce collagen, essential for tendon, ligament, and skin repair
Connective tissue repair - Supports the structural integrity of tissues being rebuilt during PT
Antioxidant protection - Neutralizes free radicals produced during inflammation and exercise
Immune function - Supports immune cells involved in tissue repair and infection prevention
Iron absorption - Enhances absorption of iron needed for oxygen transport to healing tissues
The Research
Study 1: Antioxidants and Performance
Clemente-Suárez VJ, Bustamante-Sanchez Á, Mielgo-Ayuso J, Martínez-Guardado I, Martín-Rodríguez A, Tornero-Aguilera JF. Antioxidants and Sports Performance. Nutrients. 2023 May 18;15(10):2371.
This review demonstrates that vitamin C supplementation reduces oxidative stress markers and supports recovery in individuals undergoing physical stress, including rehabilitation from injury.
Study 2: Pain Management
Bryer, S.C., Goldfarb, A.H. "The role of vitamin C in the treatment of pain: new insights." Journal of Translational Medicine. 2017.
Research shows that vitamin C plays a role in pain modulation and may reduce pain intensity during recovery, particularly in cases involving connective tissue damage.
Why It's Essential for PT Recovery
Without adequate vitamin C, collagen synthesis is impaired, leading to weaker scar tissue formation and prolonged healing times. Physical therapy creates demands for new collagen production in tendons, ligaments, and muscles - vitamin C is the limiting factor in this process.
30mg
INGREDIENT 4: ZINC
What It Does
Zinc is a trace mineral integral to immune function, protein synthesis, and cell division - all critical processes during tissue repair and recovery.
How It Works
Zinc supports recovery by:
Protein synthesis - Required cofactor for enzymes that build new proteins, including muscle tissue
Cell division - Essential for the proliferation of cells needed to replace damaged tissue
Immune function - Supports immune cells (neutrophils, macrophages) that clean up damaged tissue and prevent infection
Wound healing - Accelerates closure of wounds and surgical incisions
Collagen formation - Works synergistically with vitamin C to produce structural proteins
The Research
Study 1: Zinc in Wound Healing
Lin, P., Sermersheim, M., Li, H., Lee, P., Steinberg, S., & Ma, J. (2017). Zinc in Wound Healing Modulation. Nutrients, 10.
This review demonstrates that zinc deficiency significantly impairs wound healing, while adequate zinc status accelerates tissue repair through multiple mechanisms including enhanced cell proliferation and improved immune function.
Study 2: Immune Function
Prasad, A.S. "Zinc in human health: effect of zinc on immune cells." Molecular Medicine. 2008.
This research establishes zinc's critical role in immune cell function, showing that zinc supplementation enhances the activity of immune cells responsible for tissue repair and infection control during recovery.
Why It's Essential for PT Recovery
Physical therapy patients are at increased risk of zinc deficiency due to elevated metabolic demands and potential dietary inadequacies. Without sufficient zinc, tissue repair slows dramatically, and the risk of complications increases.
ADEK Complex
INGREDIENT 5: ADEK COMPLEX (Vitamins A, D3, E, K2)
Dosage:
Vitamin A: 600 mcg RAE (as Retinyl Acetate)
Vitamin D3: 125 mcg (as Cholecalciferol)
Vitamin E: 33.5 mg (as d-Alpha Tocopherol Succinate)
Vitamin K2: 1100 mcg (MK-4 and MK-7)
What It Does
This synergistic fat-soluble vitamin complex provides comprehensive support for bone, muscle, and connective tissue recovery.
How Each Vitamin Works
Vitamin A
Promotes epithelial tissue repair (skin, mucous membranes)
Supports collagen remodeling
Essential for immune function during healing
Vitamin D3
Aids calcium absorption for bone mineralization
Supports muscle function and strength
Modulates immune response critical to healing
Reduces inflammation when properly balanced
Vitamin E
Functions as lipid-phase antioxidant
Protects cell membranes from oxidative damage during inflammation
Supports immune cell function
Vitamin K2
Activates osteocalcin (directs calcium into bones)
Activates matrix Gla protein (keeps calcium out of soft tissues)
Supports proper calcium utilization throughout the body
Works synergistically with Vitamin D3
The Research
Study 1: Vitamin D and Muscle Function
Fleet JC. "Vitamin D and skeletal muscle function." Mol Aspects Med. 2008.
This research demonstrates that vitamin D is essential for muscle protein synthesis and muscle function, with deficiency leading to muscle weakness and impaired recovery.
Study 2: Vitamin K and D Synergy
Kuang X et al. "The combination effect of vitamin K and vitamin D on bone mineral density." Arch Osteoporos 2020.
This study shows that vitamins K2 and D3 work synergistically to improve bone mineral density and proper calcium utilization, particularly important for patients recovering from bone or joint injuries.
Why It's Essential for PT Recovery
Fat-soluble vitamins work together to support the skeletal system, muscular system, and immune system simultaneously. Physical therapy places demands on all three systems, making this complex essential for comprehensive recovery support.
BCAAs
INGREDIENT 6: BRANCHED-CHAIN AMINO ACIDS (BCAAs)
Composition: Leucine, Isoleucine, and Valine
What They Do
BCAAs are essential amino acids that serve as building blocks for muscle protein. They are unique in that they can be metabolized directly in muscle tissue rather than the liver, making them immediately available for muscle repair.
How They Work
BCAAs support recovery through:
Muscle protein synthesis - Leucine specifically activates mTOR pathway, triggering muscle building
Reduced muscle damage - Decreases markers of muscle damage following exercise or therapy
Decreased muscle soreness - Reduces delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) severity and duration
Prevention of muscle breakdown - Reduces catabolism during periods of stress or caloric deficit
Faster recovery between sessions - Enables patients to maintain therapy intensity without excessive fatigue
The Research
Study 1: BCAAs and Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage
Lim IS. Effects of branched-chain amino acid supplement on knee peak torque and indicators of muscle damage following isokinetic exercise-induced delayed onset muscle soreness. Phys Act Nutr. 2020 Dec;24(4):28-33.
This study demonstrated that BCAA supplementation significantly reduced muscle damage markers and improved recovery of muscle strength following exercise-induced muscle damage.
Study 2: BCAAs During Exercise
Shimomura, Y., Murakami, T., Nakai, N., Nagasaki, M., Harris, R.A. "Exercise promotes BCAA catabolism: effects of BCAA supplementation on skeletal muscle during exercise." Journal of Nutrition. 2004.
This research shows that exercise increases BCAA catabolism (breakdown), and supplementation helps maintain muscle protein synthesis rates during and after physical stress.
Why It's Essential for PT Recovery
Physical therapy creates controlled muscle damage to stimulate adaptation. BCAAs provide the raw materials needed to rebuild stronger tissue while reducing excessive soreness that could limit therapy adherence.
Recovery Pack Synergies
Anti-Inflammatory Stack (Omega-3 + Turmeric)
These work through complementary pathways - omega-3s modify cell membrane composition while curcumin inhibits inflammatory enzymes, creating a more comprehensive anti-inflammatory effect than either alone.
Collagen Support (Vitamin C + Zinc + ADEK)
Collagen synthesis requires multiple cofactors. Vitamin C and zinc are direct cofactors, while vitamins A, D, and K2 support the tissue remodeling process and ensure proper mineral utilization.
Muscle Recovery (BCAAs + Omega-3 + Zinc)
BCAAs provide building blocks, omega-3s reduce inflammation that impairs protein synthesis, and zinc activates enzymes required for muscle protein synthesis.
SLEEP PACK 
DETAILED INGREDIENT BREAKDOWN
Six scientifically-backed compounds that work synergistically to optimize sleep quality, reduce sleep latency, and support the restorative processes essential for physical recovery.
100mg
INGREDIENT 1: L-THEANINE
What It Does
L-theanine is an amino acid found naturally in tea leaves that promotes relaxation without causing sedation or drowsiness.
How It Works
L-theanine supports sleep through:
Increasing GABA levels - Enhances the brain's primary inhibitory neurotransmitter
Boosting serotonin - Supports mood regulation and sleep-wake cycles
Elevating dopamine - Promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety
Promoting alpha brain waves - Induces a state of wakeful relaxation conducive to sleep onset
Reducing stress hormones - Lowers cortisol and other stress markers
The Research
Study 1: Systematic Review
Bulman A, D'Cunha N, Marx W, Turner M, McKune A, Naumovski N. The Effects of L-Theanine Supplementation on Quality of Sleep: A Systematic Review. Proceedings. 2023; 91(1):32.
This systematic review concluded that L-theanine supplementation improves sleep quality and reduces sleep latency in individuals experiencing stress-related sleep disturbances.
Study 2: Sleep Disturbances
Jang, H.S., Jung, J.Y., Jang, I.S., Jang, K.H., Kim, S.H., Ha, J.H., Suk, K., Lee, M.G. "L-theanine partially counteracts caffeine-induced sleep disturbances in rats." Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 2012.
This study demonstrates L-theanine's ability to improve sleep quality even in the presence of stimulants, suggesting it promotes sleep through active relaxation mechanisms rather than simple sedation.
Why It's Essential for PT Recovery
Stress and anxiety about injury recovery can significantly impair sleep quality. L-theanine addresses this by promoting relaxation without causing next-day grogginess, allowing patients to fall asleep more easily while maintaining daytime function.
133mg
INGREDIENT 2: MAGNESIUM GLYCINATE
What It Does
Magnesium glycinate is a highly bioavailable form of magnesium that supports deep, restorative sleep by regulating neurotransmitters and muscle function.
How It Works
Magnesium supports sleep through:
Maintaining GABA levels - GABA is the primary neurotransmitter promoting sleep and relaxation
Regulating melatonin - Supports the body's natural sleep-wake cycle
Muscle relaxation - Reduces nighttime muscle tension and cramping
Nervous system calming - Reduces neuronal excitability for easier sleep onset
Stress hormone regulation - Helps normalize cortisol levels
Why Glycinate Form?
Superior absorption compared to oxide or citrate forms
Gentle on digestive system (minimal laxative effect)
The glycine component also promotes sleep (synergistic effect)
The Research
Study 1: Magnesium and Sleep Quality
Nielsen, F.H., Johnson, L.K., Zeng, H. "Magnesium supplementation improves indicators of low magnesium status and inflammatory stress in adults older than 51 years with poor quality sleep." Magnes Res. 2010.
This study found that magnesium supplementation improved sleep quality, particularly in individuals with low magnesium status, by reducing inflammatory markers and supporting deeper sleep stages.
Study 2: Post-Surgical Sleep
Saba S, Faizi F, Sepandi M, Nehrir B. Effect of short-term magnesium supplementation on anxiety, depression and sleep quality in patients after open-heart surgery. Magnes Res. 2022 Apr 1;35(2):62-70.
This clinical trial demonstrated that magnesium supplementation significantly improved sleep quality in post-surgical patients, a population with similar recovery demands to PT patients.
Why It's Essential for PT Recovery
Magnesium deficiency is common and worsens with physical stress. Inadequate magnesium disrupts sleep architecture, reducing time spent in deep sleep stages where the majority of tissue repair occurs.
500mg
INGREDIENT 3: ASHWAGANDHA
What It Does
Ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogenic herb that helps the body manage stress and promotes restorative sleep by reducing cortisol and modulating the stress response system.
How It Works
Ashwagandha supports sleep through:
Reducing cortisol levels - Particularly nighttime cortisol, which interferes with sleep
Modulating stress response - Helps the body adapt to physical and emotional stress
Reducing anxiety - Promotes mental calmness conducive to sleep
Improving sleep architecture - Increases time spent in deep, restorative sleep stages
Supporting overall recovery - Adaptogenic properties help the body recover from physical stress
The Research
Study 1: Insomnia and Anxiety
Langade, D., Kanchi, S., Salve, J., Debnath, K., Ambegaokar, D. "Efficacy and safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root extract in insomnia and anxiety: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study." Cureus. 2019.
This double-blind, placebo-controlled study showed that ashwagandha significantly improved sleep quality, reduced sleep latency, and increased total sleep time in individuals with insomnia and anxiety.
Study 2: Sleep Quality in Healthy Adults
Deshpande A, Irani N, Balkrishnan R, Benny IR. A randomized, double blind, placebo controlled study to evaluate the effects of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract on sleep quality in healthy adults. Sleep Medicine, Volume 72, 2020, Pages 28-36.
This study demonstrated that ashwagandha improved sleep quality even in healthy adults, with particular benefits for sleep onset latency and sleep efficiency.
Why It's Essential for PT Recovery
Physical injury creates both physical and psychological stress. Elevated stress hormones, particularly cortisol, interfere with sleep quality and tissue repair. Ashwagandha addresses the root cause of stress-related sleep disturbances.
Herbal Blend
INGREDIENT 4: VALERIAN ROOT + HERBAL BLEND
What It Does
Valerian root is a well-studied herbal remedy that reduces the time it takes to fall asleep (sleep latency) and improves overall sleep quality through its effects on GABA receptors.
How It Works
Valerian supports sleep through:
GABAergic activity - Increases GABA availability in the brain
Adenosine potentiation - Enhances the effects of adenosine, a sleep-promoting compound
Reduced sleep latency - Helps users fall asleep faster
Improved sleep quality - Increases subjective sleep satisfaction
No hangover effect - Unlike pharmaceutical sleep aids, doesn't cause next-day grogginess
The Research
Study 1: Post-Surgical Sleep
Zare Elmi HK, Gholami M, Saki M, Ebrahimzadeh F. Efficacy of Valerian Extract on Sleep Quality after Coronary Artery bypass Graft Surgery: A Triple-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial. Chin J Integr Med. 2021 Jan;27(1):7-15.
This triple-blind randomized controlled trial found that valerian extract significantly improved sleep quality in post-surgical patients without adverse effects, demonstrating its safety and efficacy in a recovery population.
Study 2: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Bent, S., Padula, A., Moore, D., Patterson, M., Mehling, W. "Valerian for sleep: a systematic review and meta-analysis." Am J Med. 2006.
This comprehensive review of multiple studies concluded that valerian improves sleep quality, though individual response varies. The safety profile is excellent with minimal reported side effects.
Why It's Essential for PT Recovery
Unlike pharmaceutical sleep medications, valerian promotes natural sleep without dependency concerns or morning grogginess. This makes it ideal for patients who need consistent sleep support throughout a multi-week rehabilitation program.
250mg
INGREDIENT 5: RHODIOLA ROSEA
What It Does
Rhodiola is an adaptogenic herb that improves stress resilience and reduces fatigue, particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing stress-related sleep disturbances during recovery.
How It Works
Rhodiola supports sleep indirectly by:
Reducing stress-induced fatigue - Combats the exhaustion that paradoxically interferes with sleep
Improving stress resilience - Helps the body adapt to physical and emotional stressors
Regulating stress hormones - Normalizes cortisol and other stress markers
Supporting energy balance - Prevents the "tired but wired" state that disrupts sleep
Enhancing recovery from physical stress - Particularly relevant during intensive PT
The Research
Study 1: Stress Symptoms and Conditions
Ivanova Stojcheva E, Quintela JC. The Effectiveness of Rhodiola rosea L. Preparations in Alleviating Various Aspects of Life-Stress Symptoms and Stress-Induced Conditions-Encouraging Clinical Evidence. Molecules. 2022 Jun 17;27(12):3902.
This review of clinical evidence demonstrates that rhodiola effectively alleviates various stress symptoms, including those that interfere with sleep quality.
Study 2: Stress-Related Fatigue
Olsson, E.M., von Schéele, B., Panossian, A.G. "A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study of the standardized extract shr-5 of the roots of Rhodiola rosea in the treatment of subjects with stress-related fatigue." Planta Med. 2009.
This placebo-controlled study showed that rhodiola significantly reduced stress-related fatigue and improved overall well-being, including sleep quality, in individuals under chronic stress.
Why It's Essential for PT Recovery
Physical therapy is inherently stressful to the body. This physical stress, combined with the emotional stress of injury and recovery, can create a state where patients feel exhausted but unable to achieve restorative sleep. Rhodiola addresses this paradox.
850mg
INGREDIENT 6: GLYCINE
What It Does
Glycine is a simple amino acid that improves sleep quality through unique mechanisms involving thermoregulation and neurotransmitter modulation.
How It Works
Glycine supports sleep through:
Lowering core body temperature - Facilitates the natural temperature drop needed for sleep onset
Promoting slow-wave sleep - Increases time spent in the deepest, most restorative sleep stage
Modulating NMDA receptors - Regulates excitatory neurotransmission in the brain
Improving subjective sleep quality - Users report feeling more rested upon waking
Enhancing next-day alertness - Better sleep quality translates to improved daytime function
No residual effects - Doesn't cause morning grogginess or hangover
The Research
Study 1: Polysomnographic Changes
Yamadera W, Inagawa K, Chiba S, Bannai M, Takahashi M, Nakayama K. Glycine ingestion improves subjective sleep quality in human volunteers, correlating with polysomnographic changes. Sleep and Biological Rhythms. 2007.
This study used polysomnography (objective sleep measurement) to demonstrate that glycine ingestion improves sleep quality by facilitating entry into slow-wave sleep and reducing the time it takes to fall asleep.
Study 2: Daytime Performance After Sleep Restriction
Bannai M, Kawai N, Ono K, Nakahara K, Murakami N. The effects of glycine on subjective daytime performance in partially sleep-restricted healthy volunteers. Frontiers in Neurology. 2012.
This study showed that glycine not only improves subjective sleep quality but also enhances next-day cognitive performance and alertness even after partial sleep deprivation - highly relevant for PT patients balancing recovery with daily responsibilities.
Why It's Essential for PT Recovery
Growth hormone secretion, which drives tissue repair, peaks during slow-wave sleep. Glycine specifically enhances this sleep stage, maximizing the body's natural repair processes during the night. Additionally, the improved next-day alertness helps patients stay engaged and motivated during PT sessions.
Sleep Pack Synergies
GABA Enhancement (L-Theanine + Magnesium + Valerian)
All three increase GABA activity through different mechanisms, creating a robust sleep-promoting effect without the tolerance issues seen with pharmaceutical GABAergic drugs.
Stress Management (Ashwagandha + Rhodiola)
Both are adaptogens but work through complementary pathways - ashwagandha primarily reduces cortisol while rhodiola improves stress resilience and energy regulation.
Sleep Architecture Optimization (Glycine + Magnesium)
Glycine promotes slow-wave sleep specifically, while magnesium supports overall sleep architecture and muscle relaxation, ensuring both sleep quality and physical comfort.
QUALITY ASSURANCE & MANUFACTURING
cGMP Certified Manufacturing
All Vitality Rx supplements are manufactured in facilities that follow FDA Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), ensuring:
Proper facility design and maintenance
Validated manufacturing processes
Quality control testing at multiple stages
Proper documentation and traceability
Regular facility inspections
Third-Party Testing
Every batch undergoes independent third-party testing for:
Potency verification - Confirms active ingredients match label claims
Purity testing - Screens for contaminants (heavy metals, microbes, pesticides)
Identity verification - Confirms ingredients are what they claim to be
Stability testing - Ensures products maintain potency through expiration date
Certifications
Where applicable, products carry:
Organic certification
Kosher certification
Vegan certification
Non-GMO verification
REFERENCES & CITATIONS
All studies referenced in this document are peer-reviewed publications from reputable scientific journals. Full citations are provided for each ingredient to allow healthcare providers and patients to review the underlying research.
For additional questions about specific ingredients or research, contact our medical staff at [email protected].
"This comprehensive ingredient breakdown represents our commitment to transparency and evidence-based formulation. Every ingredient in the Stay Ready Recovery Pack and Sleep Pack has been carefully selected based on peer-reviewed research demonstrating efficacy for tissue repair, inflammation management, and restorative sleep."