C4 Ultimate Shred Matrix Proprietary Blend
Also known as: C4 Ultimate Shred, Betaine (BetaPower®), Trimethylglycine, Caffeine, Theacrine (TeaCrine®), 1,3,7,9-tetramethyluric acid, Dynamine™ (Methylliberine), Capsaicin (from Cayenne Extract), Cayenne Extract, Grains of Paradise extract (CaloriBurn®), Aframomum melegueta extract, MitoBurn® (L-BAIBA, beta-aminoisobutyric acid), L-BAIBA, Oligonol® (low molecular weight polyphenol), polyphenol-rich lychee/mango extract, L-Arginine and L-Citrulline (VELOX® blend), Tyrosine (L-Tyrosine), Huperzine A, alkaloid from Huperzia serrata, PeptiPump® (AI-designed peptide proprietary to C4), C4 Ultimate Shred Matrix Proprietary Blend
Overview
C4 Ultimate Shred is a pre-workout supplement designed to enhance energy, fat metabolism, muscle pumps, and mental focus. It combines stimulants like caffeine, Theacrine, and Dynamine, thermogenic agents such as Cayenne, Grains of Paradise, MitoBurn, and Oligonol, vasodilators L-Arginine and L-Citrulline, cognitive enhancers Tyrosine and Huperzine A, and a proprietary peptide, PeptiPump. It is primarily used before exercise to boost energy, support fat loss during cutting phases, improve muscle pump, and enhance mental focus. The blend contains a high stimulant content, thermogenic and metabolic support ingredients, vasodilatory amino acids, cognitive enhancers, and a proprietary peptide. While ingredients like caffeine and betaine are well-studied, newer patented ingredients like PeptiPump lack independent peer-reviewed data. Evidence for caffeine, betaine, L-arginine/citrulline, and some thermogenics is supported by multiple RCTs and meta-analyses.
Benefits
C4 Ultimate Shred offers several potential benefits, primarily driven by its individual ingredients. Caffeine (300 mg) significantly improves exercise performance and alertness. TeaCrine and Dynamine may synergistically enhance energy and mood with caffeine. Grains of Paradise extract (CaloriBurn) has been shown to modestly increase thermogenesis and fat oxidation. Capsaicin (Cayenne) increases energy expenditure and fat oxidation. L-Arginine and L-Citrulline enhance nitric oxide production, improving blood flow and muscle pumps. Betaine supplementation improves muscle endurance and power output. Tyrosine supports cognitive function under stress, and Huperzine A may improve focus. Improved hydration status via betaine and potential antioxidant effects from Oligonol polyphenols are secondary benefits. These benefits are most applicable to athletes and active adults during cutting phases or those seeking stimulant-based pre-workout support. Caffeine and betaine show clinically meaningful ergogenic effects, while thermogenic agents provide modest metabolic increases. Vasodilators improve subjective muscle pump and may enhance performance.
How it works
C4 Ultimate Shred works through multiple biological pathways. Caffeine acts as an adenosine receptor antagonist, increasing catecholamine release. TeaCrine and Dynamine modulate the purinergic system, enhancing energy without tolerance. Capsaicin and Grains of Paradise activate TRPV1 receptors, increasing thermogenesis. L-Arginine and L-Citrulline enhance nitric oxide synthesis, causing vasodilation. Betaine functions as an osmolyte and methyl donor in homocysteine metabolism. Tyrosine is a precursor to dopamine and norepinephrine, and Huperzine A inhibits acetylcholinesterase, enhancing cholinergic transmission. These ingredients stimulate the central nervous system, promote cardiovascular vasodilation, and enhance metabolic rate via mitochondrial and adrenergic pathways. The blend targets adenosine receptors, TRPV1, nitric oxide synthase, and acetylcholinesterase.
Side effects
C4 Ultimate Shred is generally safe for healthy adults when used as directed, but caution is advised due to its high caffeine content. Common side effects include tingling/paresthesia from beta-alanine (if included) and jitters, increased heart rate, and anxiety from caffeine. Uncommon side effects may include gastrointestinal discomfort and headache. Rare side effects include allergic reactions to botanical extracts. Caffeine may interact with stimulants, certain antidepressants, and anticoagulants, while Huperzine A may interact with cholinergic drugs. It is contraindicated in pregnancy, breastfeeding, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and stimulant sensitivity. It is not recommended for adolescents or individuals sensitive to stimulants.
Dosage
Due to the proprietary nature of the blend, specific dosages for each ingredient are not disclosed. However, the caffeine content is 300 mg, which is within the effective range of 3-6 mg/kg body weight for most adults. Betaine is typically dosed at 2.5 g/day, and L-Citrulline at ≥6 g/day for performance benefits. The upper limit for caffeine is approximately 400 mg/day for most adults. It is recommended to take C4 Ultimate Shred 30-60 minutes before exercise for peak effects. The powder form allows for rapid absorption. It is best taken with water and avoiding concurrent intake with large meals for faster onset. Hydration supports betaine function.
FAQs
Is C4 Ultimate Shred safe?
It is safe for healthy adults at recommended doses, but monitor caffeine intake due to potential side effects like jitters and increased heart rate.
How soon before exercise should it be taken?
It should be taken about 30-60 minutes prior to exercise to allow for absorption and peak effects during your workout.
Will it cause jitters?
It is possible due to the high caffeine content; individual tolerance varies, so start with a lower dose to assess your sensitivity.
Does it help with fat loss?
It may modestly increase metabolic rate and fat oxidation but is not a standalone fat loss solution; it should be combined with a balanced diet and exercise.
Are proprietary peptides like PeptiPump proven?
No independent peer-reviewed studies are currently available to validate the efficacy of proprietary peptides like PeptiPump.
Research Sources
- https://cellucor.com/products/c4-ultimate-shred – This is a product page for C4 Ultimate Shred. It provides information on the ingredients and purported benefits of the supplement, but it does not contain independent research or clinical trials.
- https://blog.priceplow.com/supplement-news/cellucor-c4-ultimate-shred – This blog post discusses the ingredients and formulation of C4 Ultimate Shred. It provides insights into the potential benefits and mechanisms of action of the supplement, but it does not present original research or clinical data.
- https://barbend.com/cellucor-c4-ultimate-pre-workout-review/ – This is a review of Cellucor C4 Ultimate Pre-Workout. It offers an assessment of the product's effectiveness and value, but it does not contain primary research or clinical trial results.
- https://www.gnc.com/pre-workout-supplements/448007.html – This is a product page on GNC's website for C4 Ultimate Shred. It provides information on the supplement's ingredients and intended use, but it does not include independent research or clinical studies.
- https://gainsx.in/product/cellucor-c4-ultimate-shred-pre-workout-20-serv/ – This is a product page for Cellucor C4 Ultimate Shred Pre-Workout on an online retailer's website. It provides details on the supplement's features and benefits, but it does not contain original research or clinical trial data.
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