Frequently Asked Questions
Protein & Fitness
What is Protein?
The average person's body is approximately 18% protein .It forms parts of skin, tendons, muscles, cell membranes, organs and bones. And is involved in creating chemical messengers which provide fuel for growth and serve as a catalyst for maintaining muscle while losing or maintaining weight. Also influence mood and a sense of well-being.
What are the types and key differences?
Protein supplements are designed to help meet protein needs if they aren't being met through diet alone .May be more cost effective than getting protein through quality whole-foods alone .In many cases, lower in calories, cholesterol, fat and/or carbohydrates than food sources, particularly non-lean meats. Convenient, and available in many forms such as powders, bars, snacks and ready-to- drink liquids .Offered in a variety of forms, each useful for different goals and at different times in the day.
- Whey is a Fast-absorbing protein. Great for growth and muscle recovery, especially when used with 30-60 minutes after a workout.Source: Cheese
- Casein is a Slow-absorbing protein. Provides a steady release of amino acids over longer periods of time such as while sleeping. Source: Cow's Milk
- Plant Based consists of variety of protein sources, including: rice, hemp, soy and pea. Generally lactose free and often free of other components some find undesirable.Source: Varies
- Egg protein is absorbed at a rate between whey and casein. It is Lactose-free and highly bio-available.Source: Egg Whites
What is the difference between mass gainer and weight gainer?
Weight Gainers are products intended for consumption in order to increase the rate of weight gain. Carbohydrates are in a greater amount. Used by people who are facing some difficulty gaining weight in spite of frequent food intake, used for refueling the body's carbohydrate storage for better performance. Mass gainers are more focused on building up the muscle mass. Carbohydrates are in a lesser amount (protein-rich), used by people who want to add lean muscle mass.
What protein product lines exist under the GNC brand?
GNC offers a few protein product lines to provide a solution for many health/wellness & fitness goals. Let's take a look at our various GNC brand protein product lines, below. Beyond Raw®, GNC Pro Performance® AMP, GNC Pro Performance®, GNC Total Lean™ and GNC Total Lean™ Advanced.
What is Amplified Wheybolic Extreme 60™ Power?
GNC's most advanced protein, Amplified Wheybolic Extreme 60™, has evolved even further to help meet your specific training goals and develops more strength and power. This product is the only whey protein isolate to combine the whey and leucine clinically shown to fuel increased strength and size with additional ingredients proven to amplify power and anabolism. This formula features a protein blend that has been validated in clinical studies to give a 30% increase in strength, increased muscle size and a 100% improvement in exercise efficiency. Using MicroSorb™ Amino Technology, the amino acids added to this formula are pulverized, or "micronized," from large molecules into smaller particles to facilitate faster absorption. AMPed up the protein with a Power Complex featuring an mTOR-stimulating BCAA blend for protein synthesis and added creatine to increase anabolic muscle growth, making this product a combination of 7 products in 1.
Why take GNC Protein?
GNC is a leader in sports nutrition. As the industry leader in health and wellness supplements, we are passionate about offering our customers the most cutting-edge protein formulas. GNC has superior Protein formulas. Products contain the full amount of Protein stated on the label and is 100% real Protein. GNC proudly stands behind the quality, potency and taste of protein supplements.
What can L-Glutamine Powder do for you?
Glutamine plays key roles in protein metabolism, cell volumizing , and anti-catabolism. Glutamine's anti- catabolism ability prevents the breakdown of your muscles. This is especially useful for people 'cutting down'. Especially during summer when you're trying to get rid of some body fat without losing any muscle. Glutamine is needed throughout your body for optimal performance. Your small intestines requires the most Glutamine in your body, and your immune system also needs Glutamine because Glutamine levels deplete during workouts, bodybuilders are more susceptible to illnesses - this is why L- Glutamine supplementation is so important, not necessarily to gain more muscle, but for the 'maintenance' effects of L-Glutamine.
Is creatine safe to consume?
Yes, Creatine is a natural amino acid present in the body of humans and animals. The human body has 100-115 grams of creatine in the form of creatine phosphate. No negative side effects have been noted in the research with the recommended levels of supplementation.
Does Creatine make you retain water?
No. Creatine draws water from the body to do its work. There is a difference between cell volumization and water retention. Cell volumization leads to more water inside the cells, making the muscle bigger and firmer. Water retention, the process that makes the muscles look smooth, happens outside the muscle cells.
Vitamins & Minerals
What are Dietary Supplements?
Supplements as generally understood include vitamins, minerals, fibre, fatty acids, or amino acids, among other substances. Nutrition supplements intended to provide nutrients that may otherwise not be consumed in sufficient quantities. Nutrition supplements are a not a substitute to your food but a nutritional plus.
What are Multivitamins?
Multivitamins are one of the four foundations of good health; they are combinations of key vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and essential nutrients.
What is GNC Superfoods Ultra Mega range?
Our wholesome formulas provide powerful greens and absolutely no artificial flavours or sweeteners. These can help customers fill nutritional gaps and achieve a higher level of wellness, energy and fitness. These robust potency formulas are non-GMO, gluten free, vegetarian, soy and dairy free.
What is the difference between the RDA & DV for a Vitamins and Minerals?
RDAs are recommended daily intakes of a nutrient for healthy people. They tell you how much of that nutrient you should get on average each day. RDAs are developed by the Food and Nutrition Board at the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies. They vary by age, gender and whether a woman is pregnant or breastfeeding; so there are many different RDAs for each nutrient.
DVs were developed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to help consumers determine the level of various nutrients in a serving of a product or food in relation to their approximate requirement for it. The label actually provides the %DV so that consumers can see how much (what percentage) a serving of the product contributes to reaching the DV.
How to choose right Multlvitamin?
There are a lot of options to choose from when selecting which multivitamin is right for an individual. Consider lifestyle, stage of life, gender, dietary choices and health concerns. Another popular consideration is a multivitamin that releases nutrients all at once or gradually over an extended period of time. Many people consider the source of some of the vitamins in the formulation, or the type.
Fish Oils & Omegas
What are Omega 3 fatty acids?
Fish oil is an oil derived from tissues of fish. Fish oil earned its reputation as a nutritional powerhouse from two fatty acids found within it, EPA and DHA. These heavy hitters are also known as Omega-3s. They're necessary for healthy infants, children and adults.
Why buy GNC Fish Oil?
GNC Fish Oils are sourced from wild, deep-ocean fish. They are ultra-purified and clinical grade, with no prescription required.
What is EPA, DHA & ALA?
EPA, DHA and ALA are all types of omega-3s. EPA and DHA are compounds found in Fish Oil that are very beneficial to the body. It helps support heart health, as well as promotes the health of the brain, joints, eyes and skin.
What are mercury & heavy metal content?
GNC fish oil is free of mercury, lead, heavy metals & PCB's. We only use high-quality ingredients and raw materials which are rigorously tested before being used. Each product goes through 150+ GNC quality checks including raw materials, purity, and potency and expiration date.
Is it free from fishy burps?
It is specially coated to help reduce "fishy burps"-guaranteed; not just flavoring to cover it.
Weight Management
What is GNC Total Lean™?
Total Lean™ is GNC's comprehensive weight management line. Supports healthy body composition and supports healthy weight management .It helps in maintaining muscle mass while losing fat.
What is GNC Total Lean™ Advanced?
Total Lean™ Advanced is a next level body-toning system designed to tighten and tone, improve fitness and stimulate metabolism and energy for an active lifestyle. GNC Total Lean™ Advanced supports healthy metabolism for lean muscle. Goes beyond weight loss and management. It is consumed by those who want to lose fat & tone up.
Why to consume GNC Total Lean Advanced Lean Shake Burn?
GNC Total Lean™ Advanced Lean Shake Burn is a delicious protein with a clinically studied blend shown to burn 3X more calories and supercharge your metabolism for fast, energizing results!*^ This advanced formula features 30 grams of ultra-pure whey protein isolate for lean muscle performance and recovery. With just 11 grams of total carbohydrates per serving, Lean Shake™ Burn is also suitable for low carb diets. Scientifically formulated to deliver an invigorating rush of energy, stimulate your mind and body to jumpstart your day and fuel fat-burning workout.
Is Caffeine acts as a stimulant?
Caffeine is a bitter and white crystalline compound belonging to a family of chemical compounds called xanthines.Caffeine and its related compounds act as central nervous system and heart muscle stimulants. Caffeine has thermo genic properties and can help support improve physical endurance activity and performance. Caffeine also helps support mental alertness. Caffeine can help in the performance of cognitive tasks and reaction time.
How one can consume GNC meal replacement powder?
As a meal replacement mix one serving with 8-10 fl. oz. of cold water. Mix well. Drink two shakes daily while following a healthy reduced calorie meal and exercise program to achieve the best results.
Does meal replacement shakes provides satiety?
GNC Total Lean™ Lean Shake™ 25 offers a well-balanced blend of high quality protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and fat. This great tasting combination makes a healthy addition to you dietary regimen. With 25 grams of high quality protein per serving, Lean Shake™ 25 can be an effective way to increase your feeling of fullness and satiety. Dietary protein can also help support lean body mass. Each serving of GNC Total Lean™ Lean Shake™ 25 also includes 8 grams of fiber including oat beta-glucan. Oat beta-glucan is a naturally –occurring, powerful, low-glycemic soluble fiber found in oat bran that helps support normal, healthy blood glucose levels. Both protein and fiber are effective at inducing a greater feeling of satiety compared to high-glycemic foods and can make you feel fuller for a longer period of time, so you eat less and wait longer between meals.
Can breast feeding women consume Garcinia Cambogia extract?
Like with any other dietary supplement a woman who is breast feeding should not consume the Garcinia extract. Breast-feeding women should not use the extract simply due to the fact that there’s extra nutrition needed during times of breast feeding.
Digestion & Superfoods
What are Probiotics?
Probiotics are “good” bacteria found in the body, they are beneficial to health. They are found naturally in the intestine as well as fermented foods like yogurt, buttermilk etc. Probiotics need to be replenished daily to support good health and help fight bad bacteria in the body.
Good quality Aloe Vera?
GNC Natural Brand Whole Leaf Aloe Vera Juice is processed to GNC's highest quality standards, ensuring that you receive the purest aloe available. To maximize the amount of aloepolysaccharides, vitamins, minerals, and enzymes per serving, each certified organic aloe leaf is processed in its entirety. Aloin and Emodin, the bitter constituents of aloe, are removed using innovative technology.
Why take GNC Probiotics?
GNC takes extra care to ensure our probiotic products are protected throughout the entire manufacturing process. It uses a cutting edge freeze dry process to ensure the freshness of the product, which improves effectiveness. The freeze dry process eliminates the need for refrigeration, which makes them more convenient to store and travel with and GNC guarantees the potency all the way to the expiration date.
Which Probiotic should be consumed?
Potency increases with the amount of probiotics consumed. The higher the number,the higher the potency. Potency is measured in CFUs (Colony Forming Units), or live active cultures. People looking for mild daily support should start with a lower number. People with digestive concerns should consider a higher number.
GNC cleansing formula as a detox?
This combination is one of the most advanced digestive health products available. It supplies a premium blend of digestive enzymes, fiber and acidophilus to form a more complete digestive formula.
Herbs & Natural Remedies
Whole Herbs Vs. Extracts
Whole herbs are usually dried, chopped or ground into powder, and may be processed with water or alcohol for encapsulation. Standardized herbal extracts are made by dissolving herbs in a solvent like water, alcohol or liquid carbon dioxide, resulting in a chemical extract. The goal of standardization is to provide uniformity of a specific constituent that may be biologically active.
Why to buy GNC Odorless Super Garlic?
It is an enteric coated to prevent garlic odor. Contains 1100 mg of whole herb which supports cardiovascular health.
What are the available forms of Ginkgo Biloba?
Gingko can be enjoyed many ways. Ginkgo biloba extract is collected from the dried green leaves of the plant and is available as liquid extracts, capsules, and tablets form. Look for an extract that contains flavonoids and terpenoids on the label, or contains the standardized leaf extract sometimes referred to as GBE (ginkgo biloba extract).
Ginkgo Biloba helps in Glaucoma, how true it is?
It was observed that ginkgo can increase blood flow to the eye and improves visual damage in some glaucoma patients. Many herbal remedies given to Glaucoma patients seem to have Ginkgo Biloba in them.
Why one should consume GNC Cranberry Fruit 500mg?
Each serving contains 1000 mg of Cranberry Juice Concentrate. Rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals for healthy immune system, provide dietary support for a healthy urinary tract and reducing risk of cardiovascular disease. A great alternative to high sugar cranberry juice with an easy-to- swallow capsule.
What are the different types of Ginseng?
- Korean Ginseng: Modern scientific research and studies suggest that consistent consumption of Korean Ginseng will boost immunity, metabolism, regulates energy levels, improves skin, improves blood circulation and has relaxing effect.
- American Ginseng: American ginseng, has been enjoyed by Native Americans for centuries as a way to support energy, fertility, and digestion. Potent chemicals deep within the root of the plant are responsible for its therapeutic benefits. Polysaccharide glycans and ginsenosides are the most important. They’re two special nutrients that kick starts the energy boost for which ginseng is best known.
- Siberian Ginseng: Siberian ginseng consists of a group of glycosides known as eleutherosides, and known as an adaptogen, which help the body adjust to stressful circumstances, ranging from extreme heat or cold to infections or trauma. In women it supports healthy menstruation, uterine tone and Offering a fertility boost to men.
- Brazilian Ginseng: Used for the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome, menopausal symptoms, ulcers, anxiety, menstrual problems, impotence, immune support and also as an aphrodisiac.
- Indian Ginseng: Indian ginseng, commonly known as Ashwagandha, is one of the most important herbs in oriental Indian medicine.
Who needs Ginseng and what are some symptoms of deficiency?
Those who use ginseng swear by its effects. Some conditions that ginseng has been used to treat are: Alzheimer's disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, the common cold, diabetes, infertility in males, stress, the flu, fibromyalgia, infection, and atherosclerosis. Bodybuilders and athletes have found ginseng to be a very valuable supplement for a number of reasons. First, ginseng helps the body adapt to higher levels of stress. Next, ginseng has the ability to increase endurance and help recovery rates. Finally, ginseng is a remedy for fatigue and nervous breakdown.