TLAB Fit

01/19/2026

Zinc & Elderberry: Hype, Truth, and How They Actually Work

By TLAB | Evidence-Driven Performance & Health

As flu season ramps up, **zinc** and **elderberry** get mentioned everywhere — often together, often incorrectly.

Let’s separate **marketing hype** from **physiology**.

Why Zinc Matters During Flu Season:

Zinc is a cornerstone mineral for immune defense, involved in over **300 enzymatic reactions**.

✔ Supports **T-cell and natural killer (NK) cell activity**
✔ Helps limit **viral replication**
✔ Maintains **mucosal barrier integrity** (nose, throat, lungs)
✔ Supports **inflammation control and recovery**

Inadequate zinc = slower immune response and prolonged illness.

🫐 Does Zinc Need Elderberry to Be Absorbed?

**No.**

Zinc **does not require elderberry for absorption** and this distinction matters.

Here’s the truth:

* Zinc absorption occurs in the small intestine via mineral transporters
* Elderberry does **not** act as a zinc transporter or absorption enhancer

👉 What elderberry *does* provide is **immune synergy**, not dependency.

🔗 Why Zinc + Elderberry Still Works Well Together

Elderberry contains anthocyanins and polyphenols that:

✔ Support balanced **cytokine signaling**
✔ Provide **antioxidant protection**
✔ Help regulate immune-related inflammation
✔ Support upper respiratory health

TLAB view:
Zinc activates immune cells.
Elderberry supports the environment those cells operate in.

That’s synergy — not necessity.

🧪 What to Stack With Zinc (Evidence-Based)

For flu-season support:

🟢 **Vitamin C** — immune signaling + antioxidant defense
🟢 **Vitamin D3** — immune gene regulation
🟢 **Quercetin** — zinc ionophore (helps zinc enter cells)
🟢 **Magnesium** — immune balance and recovery
🟢 **Elderberry** — antioxidant immune support

💡 *Advanced note:* **Quercetin**, not elderberry, is the compound most associated with improving zinc’s **cellular uptake**.

⚠️ What to Avoid Taking With Zinc

To maximize absorption, avoid taking zinc at the same time as:

❌ Calcium
❌ Iron
❌ High-dose magnesium
❌ High-fiber or phytate-heavy meals

**Best practice:**
➡ Take zinc on an **empty stomach or with light protein**
➡ Separate competing minerals by **2+ hours**

📌 TLAB Bottom Line

Zinc is foundational.
Elderberry is supportive.
Neither should be misunderstood or overhyped.

Real immune performance comes from **mechanism-driven stacks**, not viral claims.

🧬 **Train Like A Beast. Recover Like A Professional.**

01/09/2026

We are now on YouTube! New content coming soon !

TLAB Fit (Train Like A Beast) is a strength-focused training and performance channel built for athletes who care about results — not hype.Founded in Septembe...

07/22/2025

classic lemonade 🍋 great taste , crisp citrus flavor, very refreshing!

06/21/2025

Orange Soda flavor 8 out of 10 , great pic me up , best if chilled in a yeti cup with ice !

12/22/2024

Unlock Your Fitness Potential with Gains In Bulk Instantized Creatine – Use Code TLAB at Checkout for a 15% discount !

When it comes to achieving your fitness goals, finding the right supplements can make all the difference.

Gains In Bulk's **Instantized Creatine** is here to elevate your workout game, whether you're aiming for increased strength, enhanced endurance, or faster recovery. And the best part?

Why Choose Gains In Bulk Instantized Creatine?

1. Superior Absorption:
Unlike regular creatine, Gains In Bulk’s Instantized Creatine is micronized, making it easier to dissolve in your favorite drink. This means better absorption, quicker results, and no chalky residue.

2. Maximize Performance:
Creatine is a scientifically-backed supplement proven to enhance ATP production, giving you the energy needed to power through intense workouts. Whether you're lifting heavy, sprinting, or engaging in endurance training, this supplement has you covered.

3. Clean and Effective:
Gains In Bulk is known for its commitment to quality. Their Instantized Creatine is free from fillers, artificial additives, and unnecessary ingredients. It's a clean formula designed to deliver pure performance benefits.

Key Benefits of Gains In Bulk Instantized Creatine:

Boost Strength: Helps increase strength and power output during workouts.
Improve Endurance: Supports longer, more intense training sessions.
Aid Recovery: Promotes muscle recovery, reducing post-workout soreness.
Convenient and Mixable: Easily blends with water, shakes, or other beverages for on-the-go use.

Exclusive Discount Just for You!
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12/04/2024

Adenosine 5'-Triphosphate (ATP) is a crucial molecule that serves as the primary energy currency in all living cells, including those in the human body. ATP is involved in various biological processes by providing the necessary energy to drive them. For instance, during exercise, the body's demand for ATP increases significantly—up to a thousand-fold—to support increased metabolic activity and maintain performance levels.

PEAK ATP® is a patented form of oral ATP supplementation that has been shown to effectively enhance athletic performance, muscle growth, and recovery. It is identical in structure to the ATP naturally produced by the body, ensuring effective integration and utilization.

Research has demonstrated several benefits of supplementing with PEAK ATP®:

*Increased Performance and Strength*

Supplementation can lead to improvements in blood flow, which enhances nutrient delivery and waste removal from muscles during and after exercise. This can significantly boost overall exercise performance, strength, and power output.

*Improved Muscle Growth and Recovery*

PEAK ATP® has been linked to increased muscle thickness, lean body mass, and faster recovery times, making it beneficial for resistance training.

*Enhanced Cognitive Function*

There is evidence that ATP supplementation can help maintain cognitive function and decrease reaction time errors following high-intensity exercise, thus potentially mitigating exercise-induced cognitive dysfunction.

PEAK ATP® can be particularly beneficial for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and those engaging in regular physical activities that demand high energy output. However, due to its effects on muscle power and cognitive function, virtually anyone looking to enhance their physical performance or manage fatigue could potentially benefit from this supplement .

11/10/2024

"At TLAB.Fit, we are committed not only to exploring and reviewing supplements but also to sharing our personal experiences with them. One such product that has made a significant impact on our daily health routine is the AstraGin® supplement. After rigorous testing and consistent use, we've found AstraGin® to be a game-changer in enhancing nutrient absorption and promoting gut health. It's one supplement we take every day and highly recommend for anyone looking to optimize their dietary intake and overall well-being."

Now let's explain what this amazing supplement does ....

AstraGin® is a plant-based compound that enhances the body's ability to absorb key nutrients, thereby supporting overall gut health and wellness. This patented ingredient, derived from Panax notoginseng and Astragalus membranaceus, is recognized for its capacity to boost the uptake of vital nutrients such as amino acids, fatty acids, and vitamins through the intestinal wall.

One of the standout features of AstraGin® is its ability to significantly increase the absorption of amino acids like leucine, which is crucial for muscle protein synthesis. This process is facilitated through the activation of the mTOR pathway, a critical mechanism in muscle growth. Additionally, AstraGin® enhances the absorption of fatty acids and other nutrients, which play a role in various bodily functions including muscle recovery and immune system support.

Clinical studies have demonstrated that AstraGin® contributes to a healthier gut environment by increasing the populations of beneficial bacteria and decreasing harmful ones. This effect is coupled with improvements in the integrity of the intestinal barrier, which helps to mitigate the entry of toxins and enhances immune function.

For those looking to incorporate AstraGin® into their diet, the UpSorb product from NutraBio is a recommended option. This product combines the benefits of AstraGin® with other absorption-enhancing ingredients, potentially increasing the effectiveness of your dietary supplements. More information about UpSorb can be found on NutraBio's official product page [here](https://nutrabio.com/products/upsorb).

Overall, AstraGin® appears to be a powerful tool for anyone looking to optimize their nutrient intake and support gut health through a natural, well-researched ingredient. For more detailed information about AstraGin® and its various applications, visiting NuLiv Science’s website would be beneficial.
https://nulivscience.com/ingredients/astragin/

07/21/2024

In the lab putting in that work !

Axe & Sledge Supplements Axe & Sledge Tuffwraps HELIMIX

07/21/2024

Electrolytes play a crucial role in maintaining the body’s homeostasis and ensuring optimal athletic performance. These minerals, which include sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and chloride, are vital for various bodily functions, particularly for athletes who constantly push their physical limits. Understanding the benefits of electrolytes and their effects on sports performance can help athletes optimize their training and recovery processes.

Hydration and Fluid Balance

One of the primary benefits of electrolytes is their role in maintaining proper hydration. Electrolytes help regulate the balance of fluids within the body’s cells and tissues. During intense physical activity, athletes lose significant amounts of fluids and electrolytes through sweat. Replenishing these lost electrolytes is essential to prevent dehydration, which can impair performance, lead to muscle cramps, and cause fatigue. Sodium, in particular, is crucial for fluid retention and preventing hyponatremia, a condition characterized by low sodium levels in the blood.

Muscle Function and Recovery

Electrolytes are essential for proper muscle function. Calcium and magnesium play key roles in muscle contraction and relaxation. Potassium is vital for maintaining normal muscle function and preventing cramps. An imbalance in electrolytes can lead to muscle weakness, spasms, and cramping, all of which can significantly hinder an athlete’s performance. By ensuring adequate intake of electrolytes, athletes can maintain muscle efficiency and reduce the risk of injuries.

Enhancing Recovery

Post-exercise recovery is another area where electrolytes play a significant role. After strenuous activity, replenishing lost electrolytes can aid in faster recovery, reduce muscle soreness, and prepare the body for the next training session. Many athletes use electrolyte-rich drinks or supplements post-workout to ensure they recover quickly and maintain peak performance levels.

By incorporating electrolyte-rich foods or supplements into their diet, athletes can enhance their performance, reduce the risk of injuries, and improve their overall health and well-being.

07/20/2024

History and Development of HMB (Beta-Hydroxy Beta-Methylbutyrate)

Origin and Discovery:

HMB, or beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate, is a compound that the human body produces as it metabolizes the amino acid leucine, which is crucial for protein synthesis. The discovery of HMB dates back to the early 1990s when Dr. Steven L. Nissen at Iowa State University first identified its potential benefits. Dr. Nissen and his team were investigating metabolites of leucine that could affect muscle metabolism.

Development and Commercial Use:

Initially researched for its potential to prevent muscle wasting in farm animals, HMB quickly garnered interest for human applications, particularly in sports nutrition and medical settings. By the mid-1990s, studies began to explore its effects on muscle mass and strength in humans, leading to its adoption among bodybuilders and athletes.

Applications and Benefits:

1. Muscle Recovery and Preservation:
HMB is widely recognized for its role in decreasing muscle protein breakdown. It is particularly beneficial during times of stress, such as after intense exercise or during caloric restriction, making it a popular supplement for athletes undergoing rigorous training regimens.

2. Enhancement in Sports and Strength Training:
Numerous studies suggest that HMB supplementation can lead to improvements in lean body mass, strength, and overall athletic performance. It appears to be most effective when combined with resistance training, as it enhances recovery, reduces exercise-induced muscle damage, and accelerates strength development.

3. Dosage and Administration:
The typical recommended dosage of HMB is about 3 grams per day, often divided into three doses of 1 gram each, ideally taken with meals to maximize absorption. For athletes or individuals engaging in intense training sessions, this dosage may vary slightly based on body weight and the intensity of the exercise regimen.

Current Use and Research:

Today, HMB is included in various nutritional supplements aimed at athletes, the elderly, and those recovering from illness or injury.

07/20/2024

The Power of HMB Supplementation and Strategic Stacking

The Benefits of HMB (Beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate)

HMB, a metabolite of the essential amino acid leucine, has been extensively studied for its effects on muscle health and performance. Primarily, HMB is renowned for its ability to promote muscle protein synthesis and decrease muscle protein breakdown. This dual action makes it an invaluable supplement for athletes aiming to enhance recovery, increase muscle mass, and reduce muscle soreness after intense physical activity.

Stacking HMB with Creatine:

Combining HMB with creatine offers a synergistic approach that can further enhance athletic performance and muscle growth. Creatine, a compound that helps supply energy to cells, particularly muscle cells during high-intensity, short-duration exercises like sprinting or weightlifting, complements HMB's muscle preservation and recovery benefits.

Enhanced Strength & Power:

Creatine increases phosphocreatine stores in the muscles, enhancing the ability to perform high-intensity tasks by rapidly producing ATP, the energy currency of the cell. When stacked with HMB, this can lead to significant improvements in strength, power output, and explosive performance.

Improved Muscle Recovery:

Both supplements contribute to reduced recovery times and decreased muscle damage, which is crucial for athletes undergoing frequent and intense training sessions.

Adding Electrolytes to the Mix:

Electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, and magnesium, play critical roles in maintaining fluid balance, muscle contractions, and nerve function. When combined with HMB and creatine, electrolytes can further optimize overall performance, particularly in endurance sports or activities that cause a lot of sweating.

Conclusion:

The strategic stacking of HMB, creatine, and electrolytes offers a robust framework for athletes seeking to maximize muscle growth, strength, recovery, and overall performance.This combination harnesses the individual strengths of each component to provide a comprehensive support system for both the structural and functional aspects of athletic performance.

Gains in bulk creatine use discount code TLAB

05/17/2023

A Champion's Mindset ......

A champion's mindset refers to the mental attitudes and behaviors that successful individuals, often in competitive fields like sports, business, or academics, adopt to achieve their goals. While it can vary between individuals, there are common traits that are often associated with a champion's mindset:

Growth Mindset: Champions believe in their capacity to learn and grow. They understand that talent is just the starting point and that hard work, learning, and resilience are essential for success.

Self-Discipline: Champions exhibit high levels of self-control and consistency. They are committed to their training or work, even when it is difficult or when they do not feel like it.

Resilience: They are mentally tough and can bounce back from setbacks or failures. They see these as opportunities to learn rather than reasons to give up.

Focus: Champions are able to concentrate on their goals and not let distractions divert their attention.

Confidence: They believe in their abilities and don't let self-doubt undermine their performance.

Goal-Oriented: Champions set clear, achievable goals and constantly work towards them.

Positive Attitude: They maintain a positive outlook, even in the face of adversity. This allows them to stay motivated and keep striving for their goals.

Embrace Challenges: Champions aren't afraid to step outside their comfort zone. They see challenges as opportunities to grow and improve.

Practice Patience: They understand that success doesn't happen overnight. Champions are willing to put in the time and effort it takes to reach their goals.

Continuous Learning: Champions are always looking for ways to improve. They seek feedback and are willing to learn from others.

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