Classic Chocolate Protein X Lucy Bartholomew

Well, the amazing team at Tonika have certainly outdone themselves with this little protein. Co-created with Endurance athlete superstar Lucy Bartholomew this protein powder packs a punch and is sure to take your training or life in general to the next level.

Let's unpack this little gem.

Firstly rich in adaptogens that Tonika is famous for - A, Siberian ginseng, Schisandra and a new addition - Gotu kola. All herbs have t ability to modulate the stress response, reduce physical and mental fatigue and improve cognition. 

And speaking of cognition these herbs also have neuroprotective effects, supporting acetylcholine production which supports our memory, cognition and learning capability. At therapeutic doses herbs such as Gotu kola have been shown to reduce signs of ageing in the brain with the potential to treat Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. This particular product doesn't quite pack THAT much punch but a little bit still counts right?!

A and effects have also made the research with these herbs being nerve tonics in some cultures, shown to reduce toxicity in the brain, support detoxification and liver health and protect the brain from damage.

Another common theme across the adaptogenic herbs used in this formula is the ability to assist with blood sugar regulation. The anti-diabetic properties seen in A, Schisandra and Siberian ginseng increase c sensitivity to glucose, down-regulating the need for huge amounts of insulin seen in it conditions, b carbohydrate and fat metabolism and assist with weight loss. 

On the other side of the coin we see an improved ability to make ATP (our energy molecule), and the unique formula of amino acids added to the formula have clinically shown to optimise muscle protein balance b supporting muscle growth through reducing breakdown. The Amino9 formulation is not only rich in branch-chain amino acids which are famous for their ability to aid muscle repair and growth following a workout but all 9 of the essential amino acids - meaning the ones our body cannot produce itself but require for not only optimal muscle health but DNA synthesis and production of countless necessary enzymes and substrates needed for all of our essential body functions.

Along with the magnesium citrate which is one of the b forms of magnesium, boosting serum levels which means the 3 functions magnesium performs are all supported as well as an added benefit of reducing muscle cramps, and tension (which means headaches too!), modulating stress and boosting vitamin D absorption - meaning stronger immune system.

Speaking of which immune modulation and enhancement is also a common theme across the herbs, Siberian ginseng has anti-viral properties boosting numbers of natural killer cells and macrophages, A has the white blood cells and neutrophils covered.

Again in regards to the immune system gone awry, Schisandra has shown anti-allergic activity in clinical trials reducing endogenous players involved in allergic responses such as asthma, atopic dermatitis and eczema. Couple this with Gotu kola which is r for its w properties - perfect for endurance athletes. But this wound healing again extends eczema and varicose ulcers showing to increase cellular proliferation, lower inflammation and boost collagen synthesis.

I think it also needs to be said that his protein is actually delicious. The MCT and combination of faba bean, sprouted pea protein and organic cacao means that either shaken over your favourite nut milk or jacked up with other smoothie favourites it is sure to delight the senses as well as the internal organs :)

- Rowena Benbow (In-house Naturopath)