The Original Blue Raspberry Ice
XTEND
Score 90
This large-format BCAA supplement combines glutamine, electrolytes, and citrulline malate to effectively support muscle recovery, hydration, and workout performance at a great value.
Score 90
This large-format BCAA supplement combines glutamine, electrolytes, and citrulline malate to effectively support muscle recovery, hydration, and workout performance at a great value.
Analysis
The XTEND Original Blue Raspberry Ice (90 servings) provides a comprehensive blend for active individuals, centered around 7 grams of Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) in a 2:1:1 ratio. This specific BCAA profile, particularly with L-Leucine, is often favored for its role in muscle protein synthesis and can assist in reducing muscle breakdown during intense workouts.
Beyond BCAAs, this supplement includes 2.5 grams of L-Glutamine, an amino acid that may help support muscle recovery and immune function, especially after strenuous physical activity. An electrolyte blend with Sodium and Potassium is also present to aid in rehydration and maintain fluid balance, which is crucial for sustained performance.
Additionally, it features 1 gram of Citrulline Malate, an ingredient that can contribute to improved blood flow and nutrient delivery to muscles during exercise. The inclusion of Vitamin B6 further supports energy metabolism, making this a multi-faceted supplement designed for use during or around your training sessions to help optimize results.
Pros
- Delivers 7 grams of BCAAs in a proven 2:1:1 ratio.
- Includes L-Glutamine to support muscle recovery and immune health.
- Contains an electrolyte blend (Sodium & Potassium) for hydration.
- Zero calories and carbohydrates, suitable for various diets.
- Features Citrulline Malate to contribute to blood flow during exercise.
- Excellent value per serving due to the larger container size.
Cons
- The Citrulline Malate dosage is on the lower side for significant 'pump' effects.
- Likely contains artificial sweeteners and flavors, which some prefer to avoid.
- Not a standalone protein source; requires additional protein intake for muscle building.
Warnings
- Not recommended for individuals under 18 years of age.
- Consult a healthcare professional if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.
- Discontinue use at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery.
$55.94($0.62 per serving)
 Amazon | $ 55.94 | |
 iHerb | $ 64.99 | |
| iHerb | $ 64.99 |
Goals
Impact
Highest effect
The combination of BCAAs, glutamine, electrolytes, and citrulline directly supports performance, endurance, and recovery for active individuals. These ingredients are foundational for many fitness regimens.
Impact
Highest effect
BCAAs, especially L-Leucine, are often used to stimulate muscle protein synthesis and support muscle growth, particularly when combined with proper training and diet. L-Glutamine further supports muscle recovery processes.
Impact
Highest effect
BCAAs can be used as an energy source during prolonged exercise, and electrolytes help maintain fluid balance to prevent fatigue. Vitamin B6 also plays a role in energy metabolism, contributing to overall energy levels.
Impact
High effect
Citrulline Malate can support nitric oxide production, which may contribute to healthy blood flow and cardiovascular function. Electrolytes are also crucial for maintaining proper heart rhythm and fluid balance.
Impact
High effect
L-Glutamine is an amino acid that plays a role in maintaining the integrity of the gut lining, which can contribute to overall digestive well-being for some individuals, especially under stress.
Impact
High effect
L-Glutamine is known to be a fuel source for immune cells and may help support immune system function, particularly during periods of intense physical stress or recovery.
Impact
Moderate effect
While electrolytes are important for heart function and citrulline may support blood vessel health, this product is not primarily formulated as a dedicated heart health supplement. Its main benefits lie elsewhere.
Impact
Lower effect
There are no specific ingredients in this product directly targeting bone health, such as calcium or vitamin D. Its formulation is primarily geared towards muscle support and hydration.
Impact
Lower effect
This product does not contain ingredients commonly associated with direct detoxification pathways. Its primary mechanisms are muscle support, hydration, and energy metabolism rather than detoxification.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
Calories | 0 Calorie(s) |
Total Carbohydrates | 0 Gram(s) |
Vitamin B6 | 640 mcg |
Sodium | 220 mg |
Potassium | 200 mg |
L-Leucine | 3500 mg |
L-Glutamine | 2500 mg |
L-Isoleucine | 1750 mg |
L-Valine | 1750 mg |
Electrolyte Blend | 1140 mg |
Citrulline Malate | 1000 mg |
Leucine 90
Providing 3500mg (3.5g) of L-Leucine, a key BCAA for stimulating muscle protein synthesis, this product offers a robust dose for directly supporting muscle growth and repair.
Glutamine 85
The 2500mg (2.5g) of L-Glutamine is a substantial dose, often used to support muscle recovery and immune function after intense workouts, making it a key component of this blend.
Valine 85
The 1750mg (1.75g) of L-Valine is a good contributing amount to the overall BCAA profile, working synergistically with leucine and isoleucine for various muscle functions and energy.
Alternative products
78 Value 
BCAA Sport Cherry Limeade
Cellucor
This alternative offers a good combination of BCAAs (4g), Glutamine (2g), and a substantial electrolyte blend, making it a solid choice for muscle recovery and hydration. Its price per serving offers good value for these key ingredients, especially for lighter activity days or when you want a balanced amino acid and electrolyte profile at a comparable cost.
85 Value 
Whey Protein Isolate Dutch Chocolate
SR Sports Research
For individuals focused on muscle gain and recovery, this whey protein isolate offers 25g of complete protein per serving, along with electrolytes. While the per-serving price is higher than your BCAA product, it represents good value by providing a full protein source, which can be highly effective for muscle development and overall nutritional support after workouts.
88 Value 
ISONatural Unflavored
ALLMAX
This unflavored whey protein isolate provides 27g of protein per serving with very low carbs and fat, alongside beneficial calcium, sodium, and potassium. It offers excellent value as a pure protein source for muscle growth and recovery, and its unflavored nature allows for versatility in mixing with various beverages or foods.
82 Performance 
Muscle BCAA Tropical Punch
ZHOU
This product offers a much higher dose of BCAAs (10g vs 7g) for enhanced muscle gain and fitness support. It also includes Glutamine and Citrulline Malate, plus beneficial Vitamin C, coconut water for hydration, and a probiotic to contribute to digestive health, making it a more comprehensive recovery and performance blend.
88 Performance 
HydroBCAA + Essentials Blackberry Lemonade
PS ProSupps
For more complete muscle support, this alternative provides a full spectrum of Essential Amino Acids (EAAs) in addition to BCAAs (7g BCAAs, 3g EAAs). This broader amino acid profile can more thoroughly support muscle protein synthesis, aligning strongly with muscle gain and fitness goals. It also includes electrolytes for hydration.
93 Performance 
Isopure Zero Carb Strawberries & Cream
Nature's Best
If your primary goal is significant muscle gain, this protein isolate delivers a substantial 50g of pure protein per serving. Protein is fundamental for muscle building and repair, offering a more complete nutritional approach than just amino acids. It also provides higher levels of sodium and potassium for robust hydration and cardiovascular support.
85 Budget 
Hydrator Lemon Lime Flavored
Vega Sport
If your main priority is efficient hydration and electrolyte replenishment to support energy and cardiovascular health during physical activity, this option is significantly more affordable than your current product. It delivers a comprehensive electrolyte profile (Sodium, Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium, Vitamin C) for optimal rehydration.
88 Budget 
BCAA 3200 mg
Best Naturals
For basic BCAA needs at a much lower cost, these capsules provide 3.2g of BCAAs per serving. It's a budget-friendly way to get amino acid support if you don't require the added Glutamine, Citrulline Malate, or comprehensive electrolytes of your current powder.
78 Budget 
Mega-Size BCAA 1000 Caps
Optimum Nutrition
This is a very cost-effective way to supplement BCAAs in capsule form, providing 1g of BCAAs per serving. While the dose is lower than your current product, it's significantly cheaper and can be adjusted by taking multiple capsules to meet your desired BCAA intake.
78 Value
BCAA Sport Cherry Limeade
Cellucor
This alternative offers a good combination of BCAAs (4g), Glutamine (2g), and a substantial electrolyte blend, making it a solid choice for muscle recovery and hydration. Its price per serving offers good value for these key ingredients, especially for lighter activity days or when you want a balanced amino acid and electrolyte profile at a comparable cost.
85 Value
Whey Protein Isolate Dutch Chocolate
SR Sports Research
For individuals focused on muscle gain and recovery, this whey protein isolate offers 25g of complete protein per serving, along with electrolytes. While the per-serving price is higher than your BCAA product, it represents good value by providing a full protein source, which can be highly effective for muscle development and overall nutritional support after workouts.
88 Value
ISONatural Unflavored
ALLMAX
This unflavored whey protein isolate provides 27g of protein per serving with very low carbs and fat, alongside beneficial calcium, sodium, and potassium. It offers excellent value as a pure protein source for muscle growth and recovery, and its unflavored nature allows for versatility in mixing with various beverages or foods.
82 Performance
Muscle BCAA Tropical Punch
ZHOU
This product offers a much higher dose of BCAAs (10g vs 7g) for enhanced muscle gain and fitness support. It also includes Glutamine and Citrulline Malate, plus beneficial Vitamin C, coconut water for hydration, and a probiotic to contribute to digestive health, making it a more comprehensive recovery and performance blend.
88 Performance
HydroBCAA + Essentials Blackberry Lemonade
PS ProSupps
For more complete muscle support, this alternative provides a full spectrum of Essential Amino Acids (EAAs) in addition to BCAAs (7g BCAAs, 3g EAAs). This broader amino acid profile can more thoroughly support muscle protein synthesis, aligning strongly with muscle gain and fitness goals. It also includes electrolytes for hydration.
93 Performance
Isopure Zero Carb Strawberries & Cream
Nature's Best
If your primary goal is significant muscle gain, this protein isolate delivers a substantial 50g of pure protein per serving. Protein is fundamental for muscle building and repair, offering a more complete nutritional approach than just amino acids. It also provides higher levels of sodium and potassium for robust hydration and cardiovascular support.