Previous studies suggest that taurine supplementation may attenuate atherosclerosis by reducing lipid levels. However, energy drinks containing taurine have been shown to increase blood pressure, a key risk factor for atherosclerosis. Thus, the role of taurine in atherosclerosis remains controversial. This study aimed to investigate the effect of taurine on the development of atherosclerotic plaques.
Methods
Plasma taurine levels were measured in 105 patients with varying degrees of coronary heart disease and in 40 healthy individuals using 1,2-13C2-taurine-based ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem quadrupole mass spectrometry (UPLC-QQQ-MS/MS). Apolipoprotein E knockout (ApoE−/−) C57BL/6J mice, fed a high-fat diet and subjected to left carotid artery ligation with cannula insertion, received taurine or saline for four consecutive days. Healthy control mice were fed a normal chow diet and underwent a sham operation. Serum taurine levels, lipid indicators, and arterial histology in the individual mice were examined.
Results
Plasma taurine levels were significantly higher in patients with acute myocardial infarction (4.04 ± 0.24 μg/mL) compared to healthy controls (3.52 ± 0.22 μg/mL). Taurine treatment significantly decreased plaque areas in the carotid artery, reduced Masson’s Trichrome staining, and lowered the ratio of anti-α-SMA to anti-CD68 staining in ApoE−/− mice. Additionally, taurine treatment increased the levels of matrix metalloproteinase 2 in the cultured vascular endothelial cells in vitro.
Conclusions
These findings suggest that taurine supplementation may reduce both the size and stability of atherosclerotic plaques. Therefore, dietary taurine supplements should be used with caution.
Source:
Journal reference:
Wei, M.-G., et al. (2024). Taurine Reduces Atherosclerotic Plaque Area and Stability in Mice. Journal of Exploratory Research in Pharmacology. doi.org/10.14218/jerp.2024.00017.
XRP’s short-term trend appears to be neutral to slightly bearish. The price is struggling to break through the key resistance levels mentioned earlier, and there is a lack of strong buying momentum to push the price higher. However, the support levels around $0.5150 and $0.5000 remain critical. A break below these levels could lead to further downside, but strong buying support at these levels may prevent a sharper decline.
In terms of broader market trends, XRP has experienced increased volatility in recent weeks, which is reflected in the expanding Bollinger Bands. This suggests that price swings may continue in the short term, and traders should be cautious about sudden price movements.
XRP is in a consolidation phase, with key support levels preventing significant downward movement. The price is trading around $0.5255, slightly below key resistance at $0.5300. If the price breaks through this resistance, the next target could be $0.5500 and potentially $0.5800. However, failure to hold current support levels could lead to a retest of $0.5000 and lower.
Overall, the market remains mixed, and XRP could see further volatility in the near term. Traders will need to keep a close eye on support and resistance levels, as well as volume and momentum indicators, to gauge the next potential moves in XRP’s price.
Yield Guild Games (YGG) shared what attendees could look forward to for the upcoming YGG Play Summit happening on November 19-23, 2024 at SMX Aura, BGC, Taguig.
What’s the significance: The YGG Play Summit will provide web3 gamers a chance to discover the latest in blockchain gaming, connect with industry leaders, and gain strategies for gaming in web3.
Press Con Panel Discussion Highlights:
Anichess Panel: It focused on integrating fantasy elements and NFTs into Anichess, as well as how web3 trading card games can empower players by allowing ownership and trading of digital assets.
Speakers: Brian Chan (Head of Anichess) and Carlo Ople (CEO of Unbox Digital Media Group), moderated by Jayvee Fernandez (Technology Editor, Philippine Star)
Play, Learn, and Work: This panelexamined the intersection of web3 and AI, highlighting the relevance of digital skills acquired through gaming across various industries.
Speakers: Led by Nathan Marasigan (Partner at MLaw), with Beryl Li (co-founder, YGG), and Wei Zhou (CEO, Coins.ph)
Metaverse Filipino Worker: This panel discussion previewed the upcoming short film of the same name.
Speakers: Leah Callon-Butler (Emfarsis), with Spraky (YGG) and Edgar “Artek606” Sinio (L!ne Outs!de)
Film description:
Step into the world of the Metaverse Filipino Worker, a 5-part series exploring how Filipinos are embracing web3 as a new frontier for work. Born out of the play-to-earn boom of 2021, the concept of the MFW has evolved from players grinding for in-game tokens to highly skilled professionals shaping the global decentralized economy.
YGG Play Summit
The event promises a lineup of exclusive panel discussions, game launches, interactive workshops, and community meet-ups, drawing blockchain game enthusiasts and industry leaders from around the globe.
Key Quote
“It’s been three years since we saw how web3 touched the lives of Filipinos, and it was because of games, surprisingly. We thought it would be FinTech or remittances so it was very unexpected that the adoption came from games… That was a challenging period because the market shifted and there were a lot of things that we needed to sort out in a nascent industry. But we saw how our core community rallied on and we just kept playing together, despite the market. And now, because of that, the Philippines is known as the beating heart of Web3 games and the YGG Play Summit is the biggest Web3 gaming event, bringing together game founders, developers, creators and players, and we’re very, very proud of that.”
Mench Dizon, Country Head, YGG Pilipinas
Summit Key Details:
Key Speakers:
Gabby Dizon (YGG) – Co-founder
Beryl Li (YGG) – Co-founder
Jesse Pollak (Base) – Creator of Base and member of Coinbase’s executive team
Jeffrey “Jihoz” Zirlin (Sky Mavis) – Co-founder of Axie Infinity
Viktoriya Hying (B3) – Led Coinbase’s brand partnerships and Base ecosystem growth.
Paul Bettner (Wildcard) – Creator of Words with Friends, now pioneering blockchain games.
Luke Barwokoswki (Pixels) – Founder
Heide Hoeberechts (Pixels) – Head of Marketing
James Joonmo Kwon (delabs) – Founder and CEO, Chairman of Korea Association of Game Industry
Sascha Mojtahedi (Parallel) – Co-founder
Christy Choi (SkyGG)- Co-founder and Growth
Event Highlights:
Industry Day Panels: It will feature more than 50 web3 builders and thought leaders exploring blockchain integration in gaming.
Leaders Roundtables: Exclusive roundtables for industry insights, with findings set to release in 2025.
Game Jam: It is a 24-hour hackathon at the YGG Play Summit where teams create and pitch games. It comes with a ₱500,000 prize pool.
Gamer Expo: The event will feature demos and show matches from over 40 games.
Includes:
Star Atlas
Blade of God X
Sparkball
Spot Zero
Immortal Rising 2
Captain Laserhawk: The GAME
And many more!
Cosplay Competition: This event will come with ₱130,000 in prizes.
GAM3 Awards: Honors the best in web3 gaming, featuring a live orchestra.
Side events: Features creator’s nights, community nights, investor sessions, and more.
Esports & Tournaments:
Parallel TCG: $100,000 prize pool
Arena of Faith: $10,000 prize pool
Anichess: $10,000 prize pool
Indus: $10,000 prize pool
Special Features:
Film Premiere: Metaverse Filipino Worker, a 5-part series on Filipino contributions to web3, premieres on November 20 at SM Aura Premier Cinema.
The bottom line:The YGG Play Summit is an event that not only showcases the potential of web3 gaming but also highlights its impact on the Filipino economy and global gaming community.
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Worth reading: In an interview in July, YGG co-founder Gabby Dizon teased about the upcoming Play Summit at PH GameDev Expo noting that “it’s gonna be a big week!”
It’s an age-old argument among Brits. Just how long should you brew your tea to achieve the perfect cup? According to one expert, it’s all about two things – time and temperature – and finding the sweet spot between them.
Arthur Gautier, of Nio Teas, said: “Each type of tea needs to be brewed using its own distinct method to bring out its best flavours.”
However, it’s also about what sort of tea you prefer. To help lovers of a good brew understand how to brew each tea just right, Arthur has explained the origins and correct brewing methods for each type of tea. From black to white, oolong to green, you’ll be a tea master in no time.
Black Tea: bold and classic
Black tea is the most oxidised of all the teas, which gives it its distinctive dark colour and strong flavour. The oxidation process deepens the tea’s colour and enhances its bold, brisk taste.
Originating in China, black tea has since spread to regions like India, Sri Lanka, and Kenya, with each country offering its own unique varieties, like Darjeeling, Assam, and Ceylon. Depending on where it’s grown, black tea can range in taste from malty and earthy to fruity and floral. It also has the highest amount of caffeine among the traditional teas, making it a popular choice for mornings.
How to make the perfect brew
Water temperature: 200-212°F / 93-100°C (bring to a rolling boil)
Steep (brewing in water) time: 3-5 minutes
Pro tip: For a richer flavour, don’t rush the steep. “However, longer steeping adds more caffeine and can turn the tea bitter, so experiment to find your sweet spot,” Arthur suggests.
Green Tea: fresh and grassy
Green tea is beloved for its fresh, clean flavours, which come from minimal oxidation. The leaves are typically steamed or pan-fired right after harvest to stop the oxidation process, preserving the vibrant green colour and delicate taste.
“The flavour can range from sweet and floral to slightly grassy or even nutty, with Chinese and Japanese varieties each offering distinct profiles,” says Arthur. “Sencha, Dragonwell, and Matcha are some popular green tea types, with Matcha standing out as a powdered version of the whole leaf.”
How to make the perfect brew
Water temperature: 160-180°F / 71-82°C. The water should be simmering, not boiling.
Steep time: 2-3 minutes
Pro tip: Green tea turns bitter if brewed too hot or too long. Start with a shorter steep and cooler water for that perfect smooth sip.
White Tea: delicate and floral
White tea is the least processed of all teas. It is made from the youngest tea leaves and buds that are only dried without rolling or oxidation. This minimal processing results in a light, delicate, and naturally sweet tea, often with a floral or honey-like aroma.
Originating from China, particularly the Fujian province, white tea is known for its subtlety and elegance. Silver Needle and White Peony are popular varieties, with flavours varying from fresh and crisp to slightly fruity or woody. White tea also contains the least amount of caffeine, making it perfect for drinking all day.
How to make the perfect brew
Water temperature: 160-170°F / 82-93°C (let the water cool slightly after boiling)
Steep time: 4-5 minutes
Pro tip: “White tea is quite forgiving!” Arthur says. “You can steep it longer without the bitterness creeping in, allowing for a mild, naturally sweet brew.”
Oolong Tea: a balance Of light and dark
Oolong tea is a semi-oxidised tea, falling somewhere between green and black tea in terms of how it’s processed. Its oxidation level can vary widely, leading to an incredible range of flavours from light and floral to dark and roasted.
Traditionally grown in China and Taiwan, oolong teas are meticulously crafted through a process that includes withering, shaking, and partial oxidation, followed by rolling and drying. This creates complex flavour profiles that can include floral, fruity, or nutty notes. Popular varieties include Tieguanyin (Iron Goddess of Mercy) and Da Hong Pao (Big Red Robe). Oolong is often described as the most “complex” tea, making it a favourite for multiple infusions.
How to make the perfect brew
Water temperature: 180-200°F / 76-82°C (a little cooler than black tea)
Steep time: 3-5 minutes
Pro tip: Oolong’s complex flavours develop over multiple short steeps, so don’t stop after one! Try re-steeping for a deeper, more layered taste.
Yellow Tea: the rare gem
Yellow tea is a rare and highly prized tea, produced mainly in China. It’s similar to green tea in that it undergoes minimal oxidation, but what sets it apart is the slow “yellowing” process. After the leaves are lightly fired, they are wrapped and allowed to oxidise slightly, which mellows out the grassy notes found in green tea and adds a smooth, sweet flavour.
“Yellow tea is incredibly smooth, with fruity or floral undertones that are subtle and refined,” says Arthur. “Because of its rarity and the labour-intensive process needed to make it, yellow tea is often considered a special treat for tea aficionados.”
How to make the perfect brew
Water temperature: 170-180°F
Steep time: 3-4 minutes
Pro tip: Yellow tea is gentle on the palate, so experiment with shorter or longer steeps to find your ideal balance of mellow and fruity.
Pu-erh Tea: rich and earthy
Pu-erh tea is a fermented tea from the Yunnan province of China. Unlike other teas, pu-erh undergoes microbial fermentation and ageing after it’s been processed, giving it a unique, deep, earthy flavour.
Pu-erh can be categorised into two types: raw (sheng) and ripe (shou). Raw pu-erh is aged naturally over years or even decades, while ripe pu-erh undergoes a faster fermentation process to mimic the ageing of raw pu-erh in half the time. The tea’s flavours can range from earthy and rich to smooth and slightly sweet.
How to make the perfect brew
Water temperature: 195-205°F / 90-96°C
Steep time: 2-3 minutes
Pro tip: Like oolong, pu-erh can be re-steeped several times. Each steep reveals a new layer of flavour, from earthy to fruity, so don’t throw those leaves out too quickly!
Arthur said: “Tea doesn’t just taste great; it can have amazing health benefits when brewed right. Each type brings something unique to the table. Take black tea, for instance – it’s rich in antioxidants that support heart health and its natural high caffeine gives you a nice, steady lift without the jitters you might get from coffee.
“Green tea is also famous for its antioxidant punch, especially EGCG, which has been linked to everything from boosting metabolism to promoting healthy skin. Then there’s white tea—it’s super gentle, but don’t let that fool you. It’s loaded with polyphenols, which can help protect your cells from damage.
“Oolong tea’s a bit of a multi-tasker, helping with digestion, weight management, and stress relief. And let’s not forget pu-erh! It’s known for aiding digestion and is often enjoyed after meals in China.”
Silver trades at $33.64, bouncing back from a weekly low of $33.09 as RSI approaches overbought territory, signaling bullish momentum.
Key resistance levels include the October 24 high at $34.29, YTD high at $34.86, and October 2012 peak at $35.40.
A bearish daily close could shift bias to the downside, with first support at $33.24, followed by $33.00 and October 17 low of $31.32.
Silver prices staged a comeback after dipping to a weekly low of $33.09, though it remains below its opening price by 0.10% late during Friday’s North American session. At the time of writing, XAG/USD trades at $33.64.
XAG/USD Price Forecast: Technical outlook
The grey metal remains upwardly biased, even though it has posted back-to-back days recording new weekly lows. Momentum backs buyers as depicted by the Relative Strength Index (RSI), reaccelerating toward overbought territory. Therefore, the path of least resistance is tilted to the upside.
XAG/USD first resistance would be the October 24 high at $34.29, followed by the year-to-date (YTD) high at $34.86. On further strength, buyers could challenge October 2012 high at $35.40.
Conversely, if XAG/USD prints a bearish daily close, it could pave the way for further downside. the first support would be the October 24 daily low of $33.24, followed by $33.00. A breach of the latter, Silver could tumble as low as $31.32, to the October 17 swing low.
XAG/USD Daily Chart
Silver FAQs
Silver is a precious metal highly traded among investors. It has been historically used as a store of value and a medium of exchange. Although less popular than Gold, traders may turn to Silver to diversify their investment portfolio, for its intrinsic value or as a potential hedge during high-inflation periods. Investors can buy physical Silver, in coins or in bars, or trade it through vehicles such as Exchange Traded Funds, which track its price on international markets.
Silver prices can move due to a wide range of factors. Geopolitical instability or fears of a deep recession can make Silver price escalate due to its safe-haven status, although to a lesser extent than Gold’s. As a yieldless asset, Silver tends to rise with lower interest rates. Its moves also depend on how the US Dollar (USD) behaves as the asset is priced in dollars (XAG/USD). A strong Dollar tends to keep the price of Silver at bay, whereas a weaker Dollar is likely to propel prices up. Other factors such as investment demand, mining supply – Silver is much more abundant than Gold – and recycling rates can also affect prices.
Silver is widely used in industry, particularly in sectors such as electronics or solar energy, as it has one of the highest electric conductivity of all metals – more than Copper and Gold. A surge in demand can increase prices, while a decline tends to lower them. Dynamics in the US, Chinese and Indian economies can also contribute to price swings: for the US and particularly China, their big industrial sectors use Silver in various processes; in India, consumers’ demand for the precious metal for jewellery also plays a key role in setting prices.
Silver prices tend to follow Gold’s moves. When Gold prices rise, Silver typically follows suit, as their status as safe-haven assets is similar. The Gold/Silver ratio, which shows the number of ounces of Silver needed to equal the value of one ounce of Gold, may help to determine the relative valuation between both metals. Some investors may consider a high ratio as an indicator that Silver is undervalued, or Gold is overvalued. On the contrary, a low ratio might suggest that Gold is undervalued relative to Silver.
A bullish reversal triggered on Wednesday off a 2.21 bottom that successfully tested support around the 200-Day MA (blue). The subsequent counter-trend rally exceeded the 38.2% Fibonacci retracement yesterday before trying to retrace to the 50% level at 2.615.
That price zone is joined by the 20-Day MA, now at 2.60. Before natural gas has a chance to rise above 2.60/2.62 and head for higher targets, it first needs to recapture the 20-Day line and exceed the 50% retracement. Notice that today’s low retraced part of Thursday’s price range but support was found well above the orange 50-Day MA, which was recaptured only yesterday.
Signs of Strength Retained
Despite the recent 26.8% correction that triggered a bullish reversal day from the new trend low of 2.21, the 20-Day MA stayed well above both the 50-Day and 200-Day lines. In concert, the 50-Day MA, a measure for the intermediate trend, remained in an uptrend and above the 200-Day MA during the correction. This is a sign of underlying strength in demand for natural gas that can lead to further highs and a test of resistance around the top trendline across resistance of a large symmetrical triangle consolidation pattern. There are a couple reasons for this assessment.
Underling Demand Shows Improvement
Notice that when looking at the angles of the lower uptrend lines, the slope of the line, that represents the trend, has been increasing. This is due to higher swing lows that have been established since the February bottom. Combine that with the recent rally from the long-term trend indicator, the 200-Day MA, and the price behavior shows improving demand. Next, natural gas either continues to progress inside the triangle consolidation formation or it breaks out. The next potential breakout on the table is to the upside.
For a look at all of today’s economic events, check out our economic calendar.
Our team of nutrition and fitness experts tested and evaluated Jacked Factory Nitrosurge using our custom pre-workout scoring methodology. Based on our broader supplement scoring system, we evaluated the pre-workout across nine key categories, including ingredients, dose, price, and safety, providing an honest review.
We consulted with Victoria Burgess, Ph.D., CSCS, CISSN, a certified strength and conditioning specialist and certified sports nutritionist. The information in this article was fact-checked for accuracy by Kelly Uhler.
Pre-workout supplements are very popular among athletes and fitness enthusiasts. (
1
) The multi-ingredient formulas are often created to provide the energy boost you need to support your training performance. But with so many
pre-workout supplements
available today, it’s hard to know which one you should choose.
Our team of fitness and nutrition experts is dedicated to providing you with the information you need to choose a pre-workout that works and fits your needs. In our Jacked Factory Nitrosurge review, we’ll evaluate this pre-workout supplement using our custom pre-workout testing methodology, examining ingredients, effectiveness, cost, and safety, and comparing the label and claims to the scientific evidence.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.
Pros
Provides 180-360 mg of caffeine
Made for all fitness levels
Suitable for vegan and dairy-free diets
Priced less than $1 per scoop, below market average
Cons
Beta-alanine is underdosed at 1.6-3.2 g
Contains artificial sweeteners
Jacked Factory Nitrosurge overview
Jacked Factory Nitrosurge pre-workout powder provides many of the ingredients you’d expect in a pre-workout formula. However, the dosing of some active ingredients may not meet the recommended level to be effective.
Nitrosurge ingredients
Nitrosurge has many of the key ingredients found in a pre-workout supplement, including:
L-citrulline
L-citrulline is a nonessential amino acid and nitric oxide enhancer that increases blood flow and the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles during a workout. (
3
) Sports nutrition experts recommend 6 to 8 grams of L-citrulline daily for energy-boosting benefits. (
1
)
Beta-alanine
Beta-alanine is an amino acid needed to create carnosine, a dipeptide composed of the two amino acids beta-alanine and L-histidine. (
4
) Carnosine is found primarily in the muscle and works to reduce muscle fatigue to benefit performance. Larger concentrations of carnosine in the muscle may alleviate exercise-induced fatigue, allowing you to work out longer. (
1
Betaine anhydrous is a compound naturally produced in the body and obtained from food that supports cell hydration, protects cells, and aids in creatine production. (
5
) Similar to creatine, which assists in cellular energy production, having a higher concentration of both in muscle enhances exercise endurance and muscle-pumping power and recovery. (
1
)
Though less is known about the ergogenic benefits of betaine anhydrous, early research suggests it allows you to lift heavier for longer periods, delaying fatigue, and may support muscle growth. (
1
) Sports nutrition experts suggest 1.25 to 2.5 grams of betaine per-day as a pre- or post-workout supplement. (
1
)
Caffeine anhydrous
Caffeine anhydrous is a highly studied athletic stimulant and a key ingredient in many pre-workout formulas. Low-to-moderate doses of caffeine enhance exercise performance by supporting energy, endurance, and focus. (
1
Research investigating the potential benefits of including nootropics in a pre-workout is limited. Still, improved focus during a workout may make you more present and engaged, improving performance and results. (
1
)
AstraGin®
Jacked Factory Nitrosurge also contains AstraGin, a proprietary compound consisting of astragalus and ginseng, botanicals that may improve nutrient absorption. However, research is limited, with one study showing improvements in the absorption of arginine, an amino acid used in some pre-workout formulas that the body converts to citrulline, and an increase in nitric oxide production. (
1
) How it benefits the Jacked Factory formula is unclear.
Sweeteners
The pre-workout supplement from Jacked Factory has no sugar or calories, but it’s sweetened with the artificial sweeteners sucralose and acesulfame potassium (Ace-K). Sweeteners aren’t a key pre-workout ingredient for enhancing performance, but they are one we want to point out for those avoiding or limiting artificial ingredients.
Recent reports express some concern over the use of artificial sweeteners, noting that they may cause stomach upset or headaches, but they’re generally recognized as safe. (
11
) It’s okay to consume foods made with artificial sweeteners, but limiting your intake is better for overall health.
Nitrosurge dosage and effectiveness
One of the major drawbacks of Nutrosurge is dosing. One scoop provides:
3 grams of L-citrulline, versus the clinically effective daily dose of 6 to 8 grams (
1
)
1.6 grams of beta-alanine, versus the clinically effective daily dose of 4 to 6 grams (
1
1.25 grams of betaine anhydrous, versus the clinically effective daily dose of 1.25 to 2.5 grams (
1
)
180 milligrams of caffeine anhydrous, versus the clinically effective dose of 180 to 300 milligrams (
1
)
Key ingredient dosing for the pre-workout may be lower than the clinically effective dose. Still, Nitrosurge is a good choice for gym-goers looking for a
less stimulating pre-workout supplement
that may cause fewer side effects.
Value and safety
At $0.93 per scoop, Nitrosurge is priced below the average market for pre-workout supplements. The lower price makes it a good value for those who want to try pre-workout supplements without making a huge investment.
However, Jacked Factory may be able to keep the price point lower by opting out of third-party testing. The FDA oversees dietary supplements but doesn’t test products for safety or effectiveness. The FDA only requires supplement makers to manufacture their products in facilities that follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). (
12
)
It’s up to the manufacturer to ensure supplement safety and effectiveness. Third-party testing is an independent evaluation of a supplement that checks ingredients and potency for an added layer of protection.
Nitrosurge is made in a GMP facility but not independently lab- or third-party tested.
Nitrosurge pre-workout side effects
Because of the lower dosing of key ingredients, Nitrosurge may cause fewer pre-workout side effects. Nitric oxide enhancers like L-citrulline may cause flushing or skin irritation, while high intakes of caffeine may cause anxiety, heart palpitations, or difficulty sleeping. (
13
)
Pre-workouts are safe for most healthy people as long as they take the supplement as directed on the label. (
1
) Unfortunately, some people may take multiple doses of pre-workout powder a day, consuming more than the 400-milligram daily limit for caffeine, leading to unwanted side effects. (
13
) A double dose of Nitrosurge provides 360 milligrams of caffeine, nearly meeting your daily caffeine limit.
Caffeine may also come from other food items, like coffee, energy drinks, or tea. (
14
) Cutting back on other sources of caffeine when using a pre-workout can reduce the risk of side effects. It’s important to work your way up in caffeine dose when learning your personal tolerance.
Before starting the use of any pre-workout supplement, consult your doctor or a registered dietitian for individualized guidance on ingredients and doses for your needs.
What customers are saying
More than 22,000 Amazon Customers have reviewed Jacked Factory Nitrosurge, giving the pre-workout an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5. Customer reviews give high marks for taste, effectiveness, and price. However, some consumers report that the supplement makes them feel jittery and tingly.
“I’ve been using the NITROSURGE Pre-Workout Supplement for 2 weeks now, and it has undoubtedly made a noticeable difference in my workout routine…However, the high stimulant content and the tingling sensation may not suit everyone,” says Mister July, a verified Amazon customer.
“The blueberry lemonade flavor is so good, and it dissolves super easily in water. I didn’t have that weird jittery or shaky feeling that I’ve gotten with other pre-workouts, which was a big plus for me.”
Cindy O., Amazon
Mike J. is an Amazon customer who didn’t like the taste or the high caffeine content in the double scoop serving of Nitrosurge. “If taste is low on your list, feel free to entertain this option. It gives a smooth bump in energy and is formulated well for that. I do believe the max scoop is too great in caffeine content, so I’d stay away from double scooping, 360mg, but that’s your decision.”
Cherry limeade, arctic white, black cherry, blue raspberry, blueberry lemonade, cherry limeade, fruit punch, grape, green apple, pineapple, sour peach rings, and watermelon
Serving size
1 to 2 scoops (8.4 to 16.8 g)
Price per serving
$0.93 to $1.87
Servings per container
15 to 30
Caffeine per serving
180 to 360 mg
Third-party testing
No
A thermogenic pre-workout formula, Jacked Factory Nitrosurge Shred aims to burn fat while preserving muscle.
Key product features
Caffeine
180 mg
Beta-alanine
1.6 g
Flavors
6
Sweeteners
Artificial
What you should know
Jacked Factory Nitrosurge Shred is a fat-burning pre-workout supplement that provides 180 milligrams of caffeine anhydrous and 1 gram of acetyl L-carnitine per scoop. The main difference between Nitrosurge Shred and the original formula is the added acetyl L-carnitine, an amino acid derivative that supports using fat for energy. (
The added acetyl L-carnitine in Nitrosurge Shred claims to support body recomposition by helping burn fat for fuel. However, research is mixed on its effectiveness. (
Provides 180 mg of caffeine anhydrous, which may enhance energy without overstimulation
No artificial dyes or added fillers
Nootropics for focused training
Contains BioPerine to improve nutrient bioavailability
Cons
Contains artificial sweeteners
Lacks clinically effective dosing for beta-alanine and L-citrulline
Jacked Factory Nitrosurge Shred overview
Jacked Factory Nitrosurge Shred is similar to the original Nitrosurge pre-workout drink from Jacked Factory but also contains acetyl-L-carnitine to support the use of fat for energy. Here, we take a closer look at what’s in Nitrosurge Shred, how it compares to the original, and what the research says.
Nitrosurge Shred ingredients
Nitrosurge Shred has many of the same ingredients as the original Jacked Factory pre-workout supplement, including L-citrulline, beta-alanine, caffeine anhydrous, L-theanine, and theobromine. It’s also sweetened with artificial sweeteners sucralose and Ace-K.
Additional ingredients in the fat-burning pre-workout include:
Acetyl-L-carnitine
Carnitine is an amino acid made in the liver. It’s a conditionally essential nutrient, meaning under certain circumstances, such as kidney disease, you may not produce enough carnitine to meet needs. (
15
) Carnitine is involved in energy production, helping move long-chain fatty acids into the cell to make adenosine triphosphate (ATP)—the cell’s main source of energy, sparing the use of glucose and protein for energy. (
15
Carnitine is primarily found in tissue that breaks down fat for energy. Acetyl-L-carnitine is a chemical and amino acid derivative naturally found in food and used in supplements like Nitrosurge Shred to support energy production. Small studies have shown that supplementation benefits athletic performance, but it may not do much to help change body composition. (
15
In Nitrosurge Shred, Jacked Factory claims the acetyl-L-carnitine supports “body recomposition,” burning body fat to enhance lean muscle mass. (
17
) Despite its role in using fat for energy, a 2018 study published in
Physical Activity and Nutrition
found no changes in body fat mass in a small group of fit men taking 2 grams of carnitine a day over a nine-week period while engaging in regular strength training. (
16
) However, larger, more diverse studies are needed to determine the potential fat-burning benefits of carnitine.
BioPerine
BioPerine is a branded form of piperine, a compound found in black pepper that improves nutrient bioavailability for better absorption. (
18
) Though it’s not known how well it improves absorption of the ingredients in the pre-workout, studies show that BioPerine enhances absorption of minerals like iron. (
18
)
Nitrosurge Shred dosage and effectiveness
Nitrosurge Shred also contains lower doses of key ingredients like the original Jacked Factory pre-workout drink. One scoop of powder has:
2 grams of L-citrulline
1.6 grams of beta-alanine
180 milligrams of caffeine anhydrous
However, lower doses may lead to fewer side effects, while still providing an energy boost.
Value and safety
At $1.00 per scoop, Nitrosurge Shred is affordable compared to the average market price for pre-workouts. We give higher scores to supplements that are priced below the average market price.
Nitrosurge Shred isn’t third-party tested, but it’s made in a GMP facility.
Nitrosurge Shred pre-workout side effects
You may experience fewer side effects with Nitrosurge Shred pre-workout than with other pre-workout drinks because of lower ingredient dosing.
Caffeine content is a concern, but with 180 milligrams per scoop, Nitrosurge Shred is a low-dose formula. However, you may need to adjust caffeine intake from other drinks to avoid exceeding the daily limit.
There are no upper tolerance limits for carnitine, and it’s likely safe to consume for most people. However, it can interact with medications like antibiotics or anti-seizure drugs, and you should consult with your doctor for personalized guidance before starting a pre-workout supplement. (
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What customers are saying
Jacked Factory Nitrosurge Shred has an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 on Amazon, with more than 6,800 customer reviews. Consumers on Amazon say they like the taste and effectiveness of Nitrosurge Shred, but not everyone likes the side effects.
“Awesome pre-workout. Great energy boost, without the jitters. By far the best tasting pre I’ve ever tried.”
Rick J., Amazon
Catriona M. is another verified buyer of the pre-workout drink who likes the results. “I was struggling to get through some of my more intense workouts when I try to push myself more to get more endurance. This stuff is amazing. My face and occasionally arms may tingle from the product but it isn’t intolerable. I have noticed more energy to push through and reap the benefits.”
Amazon customer Russo was unhappy with how the pre-workout caused a drop in energy later in the day. “I was loving this for a few days until I noticed by mid afternoon I was exhausted. Nothings changed in my routine but I would be so tired. Decided to test a different product and no afternoon crash. Did this one again for a few days and noticed a significant crash by the afternoon.”
We’ve featured Jacked Factory Nitrosurge Shred in:
Black cherry, blue raspberry, blueberry lemonade, fruit punch, orange pineapple, and watermelon
Serving size
1 scoop (7.2 g)
Price per serving
$1.00
Servings per container
30
Caffeine per serving
180 mg
Third-party tested
No
Compare Jacked Factory
How we score pre-workout supplements
Every pre-workout supplement we review is rated across nine primary categories. Each category is assigned a different percentage weight of the total score based on its relative importance when considering whether or not you should purchase a pre-workout product. Pre-workout supplements can also earn bonus credits that boost the overall rating for third-party testing credentials, sustainable packaging, the addition of antioxidants, and more.
Common stimulant sources of energy in pre-workout supplements are caffeine anhydrous, PurCaf, di-caffeine malate, and theobromine. Common stimulant-free ingredients that support energy include taurine, eleuthero root, niacin, and vitamins B6 and B12. We look for effective doses of these ingredients for energy.
Ingredients for endurance—10%
When included in effective doses, some pre-workout formula ingredients may boost mental and physical endurance during workouts. These include beta-alanine, Carnosyn, ancient peat, and apple extract, Rhodiola rosea, L-carnitine, eleuthero root, astragalus root extract, AstraGin, and Senactiv. We look for effective doses of these ingredients for endurance.
Ingredients for lean muscle support—10%
We look for 11 ingredients in effective doses that support lean muscle growth. Some of these ingredients are backed by more research than others, and they are weighted accordingly in the score for this section. The ingredients are creatine, betaine, leucine, taurine, isoleucine, valine, zinc, vitamin B, BCAAs, boron, and calcium.
Ingredients for muscle fatigue reduction—10%
We look for pre-workout formulas with ingredients shown to reduce muscle fatigue. Specifically, we look for formulas that include citrulline malate and beetroot.
Non-stim ingredients—10%
Non-stimulant ingredients, such as vitamin B12, B6, or Taurine, are important because they support energy production and overall performance without relying on stimulants like caffeine. Including non-stim ingredients ensures that the supplement provides a more balanced and sustained energy boost, reducing the risk of jitters or crashes that can come with high-stimulant products. This makes it a valuable consideration for those seeking a more natural or less intense energy boost from their pre-workout supplement.
Ingredients for focus—5%
Improved focus can add to the intensity and intentionality of your workout. Many ingredients in pre-workout formulas included for focus either aren’t backed by studies or the studies show no effect. Still, we consider the inclusion and dosing of four common pre-workout ingredients in this category, though with a much smaller weight in the overall score. They include Alpha GPC, tyrosine, huperzine A, and choline bitartrate.
Ingredients for hydration—5%
Hydration plays an important role in muscle performance and recovery. We give high scores in this category to formulas that contain sodium, potassium, and/or coconut water powder (a natural source of potassium).
Sweeteners—10%
We consider research about common sweeteners when assessing which pre-workout formulas provide the least health risks to users.
Cost per serving—5%
While price isn’t always indicative of quality or value, we do reward more affordable pre-workout supplements, though we give this category less weight than the others.
FAQs
Is Nitrosurge pre-workout good?
Nitrosurge by Jacked Factory is a good pre-workout supplement because it contains many key nutrients that support energy, endurance, and focus during exercise. However, Nitrosurge doesn’t provide clinically effective doses of some key ingredients, including L-citrulline and beta-alanine. (
) Though the lower doses may cause fewer side effects.
Does Nitrosurge have creatine?
Nitrosurge doesn’t contain creatine, a compound of amino acids that supports cellular energy production and recovery, benefiting exercise endurance and strength. (
available by itself or in multi-ingredient supplements like pre-workout drinks, protein powders, and post-workout recovery formulas.
How much is Jacked Factory Nitrosurge?
Jacked Factory Nitrosurge costs $0.93 per scoop, while Nitrosurge Shred costs $1.00 per scoop. Both pre-workout drinks cost less than the average market price, making them affordable supplements for fitness enthusiasts who need an energy boost before working out.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
Data on Friday showed that Tokyo’s inflation eased below 2%.
Market participants are watching the upcoming election in Japan.
Economic data showed a surge in US business activity.
The USD/JPY price analysis shows a dim outlook for Bank of Japan rate hikes after Tokyo’s inflation eased below the 2% target. As a result, the yen remained fragile near a three-month low and was heading for a fourth week of losses. Meanwhile, the dollar eased slightly with Treasury yields but hovered near recent peaks.
Data on Friday showed that Tokyo’s inflation eased below the Bank of Japan’s 2% target, challenging the outlook for rate hikes. Japan’s central bank has been hoping for higher inflation and consumption to support its rate-hiking cycle. However, weaker price pressure might cause further delays in rate hikes, weakening the yen.
At the same time, market participants are watching the upcoming election in Japan, which might affect BoJ’s policy plans. According to polls, the ruling party could lose its majority status, which would change the outlook for fiscal policy. Such changes could also affect future rate hike plans.
Meanwhile, the greenback remained steady against most peers ahead of the US presidential election. Despite a slight pullback on Friday, the dollar is heading for another week of gains. This week’s rally in the dollar came as market participants worried about the escalating tensions in the Middle East.
At the same time, speculations about the outcome of the November election caused fluctuations. At first, Trump was in the lead, boosting the dollar. However, this changed after a Reuters poll revealed that Kamala was in the lead.
Elsewhere, economic data released on Thursday showed a surge in US business activity. Moreover, unemployment claims fell more than expected. The reports supported a more gradual pace for Fed rate cuts.
USD/JPY key events today
The pair might end the week quietly as neither the US nor Japan will release significant reports.
USD/JPY technical price analysis: Bulls aim for 153.00
USD/JPY price analysis
On the technical side, the USD/JPY price has retreated after meeting solid resistance at the 153.00 psychological level. However, bulls remain in the lead despite the drop. The price trades above the 30-SMA, and the RSI is in bullish territory. Therefore, the price has upside potential.
A rebound near the 30-SMA will allow bulls to challenge the 153.00 level for a new high. A break above will signal a continuation of the bullish trend.
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Here’s the latest price predictions for Dogecoin and Shiba Inu (SHIB). Meanwhile, ETFSwap (ETFS) is poised for explosive growth from $0.03 to $8.
As 2024 draws to an end, the crypto market is heating up with bullish predictions for some tokens. Investors are expecting Dogecoin (DOGE) to reach the $1 mark and Shiba Inu’s (SHIB) evident path to $0.5, while ETFSwap (ETFS) presents the most potential as it skyrockets to $8.
ETFSwap (ETFS): Presenting Opportunities With Tokenized ETFs
As advanced technology continues to rock the DeFi sector, ETFSwap (ETFS) has carved out a niche for itself as it specializes in hosting tokenized exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Through the Ethereum network, ETFSwap (ETFS) allows investors to diversify their portfolios across an array of asset classes by making the likes of real ETFs, equity ETFs, commodity ETFs, fixed market ETFs, and many other ETF currencies available at all times on its platform.
In recent news concerning Dogecoin price predictions and Shiba Inu, ETFswap (ETFS) is projected to reach the $8 mark in the next few months, and this can be attributed to its fast-growing adoption and multiple features that support returns for investors. On ETFSwap (ETFS), investors make the easiest 1,000% gains, with all listed ETFs carrying a 10x marginal trading capital. Meanwhile, investors can also take advantage of the 50x feature that makes them eligible for 5,000% returns. To incentivize its users, ETFSwap (ETFS) offers annual percentage yields (APY) of up to 87% as rewards for staking. These staking activities not only accommodate the native token (ETFS) but also stablecoins, Bitcoin, ETF currencies, etc.
ETFSwap (ETFS) is listed on top exchanges like CoinMarketCap, and its users are ready to make good market decisions as they anticipate the main launch of its beta platform. In the first phase, users will be able to participate in various liquidity pools, access real-time prices on all ETF currencies, and also take part in staking and swapping activities. Meanwhile, the second stage will feature advanced AI-powered tools like the ETF Screener, ETF Filter, and ETF Tracker. This technology will mitigate risks for investors by highlighting the profitable ETF investment options based on user region, previous trends, and current market conditions.
To strengthen investors’ confidence over the security of their assets, ETFSwap (ETFS) collaborates with MiCa-compliant institutions without compromising its DeFi nature. In addition, ETFSwap has completed its KYC verification with SolidProof, a cybersecurity and blockchain audit firm that protects blockchain projects and financial institutions from hacks.
Dogecoin Price Prediction Builds Momentum
Dogecoin (DOGE) has been on roll lately and the recent giveaway activities from Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, are also fueling the Dogecoin price. With predictions for the Dogecoin price to explode, the optimism in DOGE’s community has returned, especially after a 30.5% increase in the Dogecoin price within the last 7 days.
As the fourth biggest cryptocurrency by market cap, most crypto analysts believe that Dogecoin’s advantage is its popularity among crypto enthusiasts. Most investors believe the Dogecoin price is about to go parabolic, envisioning a target of $1 in the coming weeks. While the Dogecoin price experienced volatility in the last week, it remained in a bullish mode, further confirming its potential to bring future gains. As of writing time on CoinGecko, the Dogecoin price is at $0.1456 with a daily trading volume of approximately $2 billion. The current Dogecoin price is 80.5% lower than its ATH price of $0.7 in 2021.
Shiba Inu (SHIB): Pointing Towards Potential Growth
Shiba Inu (SHIB) has long been consolidating under $0.000013 price levels. The SHIB token’s ecosystem has also launched ShibTorch, a new burn feature on Shibarium, to stabilize its demand and supply and inflate its price levels.
Crypto experts have recently shared a new compelling analysis on Shiba Inu. The experts claim that SHIB is on the path to breaching the $0.5 price mark soon by tying its movement closely to Bitcoin. On CoinGecko, Shiba Inu (SHIB) has a market cap of $11 billion and is currently trading at $0.00001881 per SHIB.
Join The ETFSwap (ETFS) Presale
ETFSwap (ETFS) is currently in the third stage of its presale and has already achieved massive success, selling over 4 billion tokens. Smart investors are bullish about ETFSwap’s price projections and are rapidly buying ETFS tokens for a low price of $0.03846 before it gets to $8. There is no better time to join ETFSwap than now!
This is a sponsored article. Opinions expressed are solely those of the sponsor and readers should conduct their own due diligence before taking any action based on information presented in this article.
Silver price rebounds after the release of the US Durable Goods Orders data for September.
Fresh demand for US core goods contracted steadily by 0.8%.
Improving market sentiment could dampen the appeal of safe-haven assets.
Silver price (XAG/USD) recovers its intraday losses after discovering buying interest near the key support of $33.00 in Friday’s New York session. The white metal rebounds after the release of the United States (US) Durable Goods Orders for September, which showed that fresh demand for long-lasting goods declined steadily by 0.8%. However, the pace at which Durable Goods Orders contracted was slower than estimates of 1.0%.
The US Dollar (USD) edged lower after the release of the Durable Goods Orders data, with the US Dollar Index (DXY) struggling to hold 104.00. 10-year US Treasury yields fall to near 4.19%. Lower yields on interest-bearing assets reduce the opportunity cost of holding an investment in non-yielding assets, such as Silver.
The Silver price faced pressure in the last two trading sessions amid profit-booking after it posted a fresh high close to $35 on Tuesday, the highest level seen in over 12 years.
Meanwhile, an improvement in investors’ risk appetite could weigh on the Silver price. The market sentiment has improved as investors start digesting expectations that former US President Donald Trump will win over current Vice President Kamala Harris in national elections on November 5. The S&P 500 has opened on a positive note on Friday.
Also, the visit of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Saudi Arabia has slightly renewed hopes of a ceasefire in the war between Iran and Israel in southern cities of Lebanon.
Silver technical analysis
Silver price bounces back from 33.00 in North American trading hours on Friday. The white metal aims to revisit a fresh over 12-year high near $35.00. The asset strengthened after breaking above the horizontal resistance plotted from May 21 high of $32.50 on a daily timeframe, which will act as a support for now. Upward-sloping 20- and 50-day Exponential Moving Averages (EMAs) near $32.30 and $31.10, respectively, signal more upside ahead.
The 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) oscillates above 60.00, points to an active bullish momentum.
Silver daily chart
Silver FAQs
Silver is a precious metal highly traded among investors. It has been historically used as a store of value and a medium of exchange. Although less popular than Gold, traders may turn to Silver to diversify their investment portfolio, for its intrinsic value or as a potential hedge during high-inflation periods. Investors can buy physical Silver, in coins or in bars, or trade it through vehicles such as Exchange Traded Funds, which track its price on international markets.
Silver prices can move due to a wide range of factors. Geopolitical instability or fears of a deep recession can make Silver price escalate due to its safe-haven status, although to a lesser extent than Gold’s. As a yieldless asset, Silver tends to rise with lower interest rates. Its moves also depend on how the US Dollar (USD) behaves as the asset is priced in dollars (XAG/USD). A strong Dollar tends to keep the price of Silver at bay, whereas a weaker Dollar is likely to propel prices up. Other factors such as investment demand, mining supply – Silver is much more abundant than Gold – and recycling rates can also affect prices.
Silver is widely used in industry, particularly in sectors such as electronics or solar energy, as it has one of the highest electric conductivity of all metals – more than Copper and Gold. A surge in demand can increase prices, while a decline tends to lower them. Dynamics in the US, Chinese and Indian economies can also contribute to price swings: for the US and particularly China, their big industrial sectors use Silver in various processes; in India, consumers’ demand for the precious metal for jewellery also plays a key role in setting prices.
Silver prices tend to follow Gold’s moves. When Gold prices rise, Silver typically follows suit, as their status as safe-haven assets is similar. The Gold/Silver ratio, which shows the number of ounces of Silver needed to equal the value of one ounce of Gold, may help to determine the relative valuation between both metals. Some investors may consider a high ratio as an indicator that Silver is undervalued, or Gold is overvalued. On the contrary, a low ratio might suggest that Gold is undervalued relative to Silver.
