In this two-part Episode #176 of the PricePlow Podcast, we explore Gremin, the breakthrough dual polyphenolic ingredient from Zeus Hygia that's revolutionizing sports nutrition recovery.
Dr. Arun Kanth of Zeus Hygia and Tyshawn Bryant of Green Regimen share the breakthrough science and real-world results behind Gremin, the dual polyphenolic ingredient revolutionizing plant-based sports nutrition recovery on Episode #176 of the PricePlow Podcast.
First, we sit down with Dr. Arun Kanth, founder of Zeus Hygia, to dive deep into the science behind this patent-pending combination of curcumin and green coffee extract. Then, we hear from Tyshawn Bryant, founder of Green Regimen, who shares his personal experience testing Gremin and how it led to his company's expansion into India.
This episode reveals how Zeus Hygia's proprietary BioFusion Technology solves the notorious bioavailability challenges of curcumin while combining it with chlorogenic acid from green coffee extract, bringing curcumin to the sports nutrition space in proper fashion.
With clinical studies showing 60% pain reduction, 21.5% improvement in muscular endurance, and accelerated muscle recovery, Gremin represents a significant advancement in plant-based sports nutrition ingredients. The conversation also explores the entrepreneurial journeys of both founders and the growing collaboration between innovative ingredient companies and passionate brand builders.
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https://blog.priceplow.com/podcast/zeus-hygia-gremin-arun-kanth-tyshawn-bryant-176
Video: Gremin’s Breakthrough Science and Real-World Results
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:22:21 — 75.8MB)
Detailed Show Notes: The Science and Story Behind Gremin
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0:00 - Introduction: Welcome to Zeus Hygia and Gremin
Mike and Ben welcome listeners to a special two-part episode featuring Gremin, a revolutionary dual polyphenolic ingredient that's bringing curcumin into the mainstream sports nutrition space. This episode introduces Dr. Arun Kanth, founder and director of Zeus Hygia Life Sciences, and explores how his pharmaceutical background led to creating one of the most innovative recovery ingredients in the market.
The conversation sets the stage for understanding how Gremin combines curcumin and green coffee extract through proprietary technology to overcome traditional bioavailability challenges while delivering clinically proven performance and recovery benefits. Mike notes the excitement around seeing curcumin finally positioned effectively for sports nutrition applications, given its historical formulation difficulties.
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1:15 - Arun's Scientific Background and Journey
Arun shares his impressive scientific credentials, including a postgraduate degree in pharmacy and PhD, along with his extensive pharmaceutical industry experience before founding Zeus Hygia. His background includes significant time working with major pharmaceutical companies in India, focusing primarily on research and development for small molecule drug development.
A pivotal chapter in his journey involved spending five to six years in South Korea working with a major biotechnology company, where he headed R&D for small molecules while collaborating closely with business development, marketing, regulatory, and project management departments. This cross-functional exposure ignited his entrepreneurial spirit and provided the business acumen that would prove crucial for launching Zeus Hygia.
The experience in South Korea was extremely valuable because it exposed Arun to the intersection of scientific innovation and commercial application. Working with both large molecules (biotechnology) and small molecules (pharmaceutical compounds) gave him a comprehensive understanding of different approaches to developing therapeutic compounds, knowledge that would directly inform his nutraceutical ingredient development strategy.
In 2017, Arun made the strategic decision to return to India and launch his entrepreneurial journey. Partnering with his classmate and close friend Shankar, who brought rich nutraceutical experience to complement Arun's pharmaceutical background, they officially started Zeus Hygia operations in 2018 with the tagline "efficacy matters".
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4:30 - The Humble Beginnings: Starting Without Backing
Arun provides honest insights into Zeus Hygia's early days, acknowledging that neither he nor Shankar had entrepreneurial backgrounds or family business experience. Starting from a "humble middle-class, non-entrepreneurial background," they began operations without venture backing, mentoring, or significant financial resources - relying primarily on passion and confidence in their chosen field.
New clinical research on Gremin shows impressive results. This dual polyphenolic ingredient combining green coffee extract and curcumin delivered 60% pain reduction, 21.5% endurance improvement, and 35.5% strength gains at just 500mg daily. The BioFusion Technology solves curcumin's notorious bioavailability challenges.
The initial strategy wasn't focused on specific ingredients but rather on the broader goal of creating "ingredients with a difference" in the nutraceutical space. Arun emphasizes that they were confident about being in the right domain where innovations would be accepted, but admits they were "completely naive" about the specific direction their ingredient development would take.
The learning process involved extensive market analysis, ingredient research, and gradual understanding of industry needs and opportunities. This organic development approach allowed them to identify genuine market gaps rather than forcing predetermined solutions, ultimately leading to more innovative and market-relevant ingredient development.
The bootstrapped beginning taught them valuable lessons about resource management, market validation, and the importance of focusing on genuine efficacy rather than marketing claims. This foundation would prove crucial as they developed their more sophisticated ingredients and began working with larger commercial partners.
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6:00 - Choosing Curcumin: The Obvious Starting Point
When asked about their first ingredient development project, Arun explains that curcumin was an "obvious choice" given their Indian background and familiarity with turmeric from childhood through food and traditional medicine applications. The curcumin market presented a well-established, proven ingredient space with strong consumer recognition and extensive research backing.
However, their goal wasn't simply to create another curcumin ingredient. They specifically wanted to develop a "next-generation branded curcumin" that would address the major limitations plaguing existing formulations: poor solubility, limited bioavailability, and reliance on harsh additives like piperine or chemical surfactants for absorption enhancement.
The decision to avoid piperine (black pepper extract) was very strategic. While piperine dramatically improves curcumin absorption - with one famous study showing 2,000% bioavailability improvement - it comes with potential long-term concerns for daily users. Piperine works by inhibiting liver enzymes responsible for detoxification, which could be problematic for joint wellness and immunity applications requiring extended supplementation periods.
This led to the development of their first branded ingredient, BioCurcumin, using proprietary platform technology that achieved significant bioavailability improvements without harsh additives. The ingredient earned a patent in India and has patent-pending status in the United States, with clinical studies supporting its joint wellness and immunity benefits at just 100mg daily of curcuminoids - a remarkably low effective dose that demonstrates superior bioavailability.
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8:30 - The Sports Nutrition Gap: Identifying Plant-Based Opportunities
The transition from curcumin to sports nutrition was based upon a strategic market analysis by the Zeus Hygia team. Arun explains that when they decided to enter sports nutrition, they discovered a significant gap: the space was "mostly dominated by synthetic or animal-based ingredients" like carnitine, branched-chain amino acids, creatine, and HMB.
Clinical results speak louder than claims: Gremin delivers a 31% reduction in muscle damage markers and 17% performance boost in just 5 days, targeting muscle recovery, stamina, and endurance.
While acknowledging that these traditional ingredients are effective, they recognized an opportunity to address the growing demand for plant-based alternatives in sports nutrition. The challenge was developing a plant-based ingredient that could deliver comparable performance and recovery benefits to established synthetic options while meeting the clean-label preferences of modern consumers.
This market analysis led to the development of Gremin, positioned as a "clean, green, proprietary plant-based ingredient" specifically designed for the sports nutrition category. The goal was creating an ingredient that could effectively support recovery, endurance, and overall muscle health while appealing to consumers seeking natural alternatives to traditional performance supplements.
The sports nutrition positioning also brought a significant technical challenge: combining two very different compounds (water-soluble green coffee extract and water-insoluble curcumin) into a stable, effective formulation that would work in sports nutrition applications like protein powders, pre-workouts, and hydration products.
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10:30 - Patent-Pending Innovation: Combination and Technology
Mike probes into Zeus Hygia's intellectual property strategy, and Arun confirms that their patent protection covers both the specific combination of ingredients and the proprietary processing technology. This dual approach ensures comprehensive protection for their innovation while preventing competitors from simply copying the ingredient selection or manufacturing process.
The patent strategy reflects the sophisticated approach Zeus Hygia takes to ingredient development. Rather than relying on simple ingredient blending or basic extraction techniques, they've developed what they call BioFusion Technology - a proprietary platform that addresses the fundamental incompatibilities between green coffee extract and curcumin.
Green coffee extract presents several formulation challenges: it's highly water-soluble but extremely bitter and hygroscopic (absorbs moisture from air), leading to clumping and degradation issues during storage and manufacturing. Curcumin faces opposite problems: it's poorly water-soluble with limited bioavailability, making it difficult for the body to absorb and utilize effectively.
Zeus Hygia's proprietary BioFusion Technology transforms raw green coffee beans and turmeric powder into Gremin's enhanced dual polyphenolic formula.
The BioFusion Technology approach involves multiple stages of processing, including encapsulation followed by spray drying, to create a final ingredient that addresses all these challenges simultaneously. The result is a neutral-tasting, water-dispersible powder that masks green coffee's bitterness, protects against moisture-induced degradation, and dramatically improves curcumin's solubility and bioavailability.
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12:45 - The First Company to Combine Green Coffee and Curcumin
Arun emphasizes a crucial point often overlooked in ingredient discussions: Zeus Hygia is the first company to introduce a combination of decaffeinated green coffee extract with curcumin to the market. The decaffeination is intentional - they're focusing on the chlorogenic acid content for metabolic and performance benefits rather than relying on caffeine for stimulant effects.
This first-to-market positioning provides significant competitive advantages and validates their patent protection strategy. The combination isn't obvious or intuitive, requiring specific technical knowledge and processing capabilities to execute successfully. The clinical research supporting the combination further strengthens their market position.
Gremin reduced inflammatory C-reactive protein by 29.3% while placebo groups saw inflammation worsen by 11.4%.
The decaffeinated approach also opens broader application opportunities. Many sports nutrition products already contain caffeine from other sources, so a caffeine-free ingredient provides formulators with more flexibility. Additionally, the chlorogenic acid focus aligns with growing consumer interest in metabolic health benefits rather than simple stimulant effects.
Ben asks about the platform technology's broader applications, and Arun confirms that the BioFusion Technology can be adapted for other ingredient combinations. They've already developed additional ingredients using variations of the technology, suggesting that Zeus Hygia is building a comprehensive platform approach rather than focusing solely on single-ingredient development.
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14:30 - Clinical Evidence: Two Published Human Studies
Arun details Gremin's impressive clinical research foundation, consisting of two published human clinical studies plus additional animal safety and efficacy research. The clinical program demonstrates Zeus Hygia's commitment to evidence-based ingredient development rather than relying solely on individual ingredient research or theoretical benefits.
The first study involved 16 healthy, active gym-going subjects aged 20-30 years using 500mg twice daily over 10 days. This study focused on young, dynamic subjects who would be least likely to show dramatic improvements, making positive results more significant.[1] The protocol included controlled exercise-induced muscle damage to assess recovery parameters.
Across four performance metrics, Gremin dominated placebo in every category, with push-up endurance showing the most dramatic 21.5% improvement.
The second study expanded to 60 subjects with an age range of 30-50 years (averaging around 40 years old) using 500mg once daily over 14 days. This larger study provided more robust statistical power while testing effectiveness across different age groups and training backgrounds.[2]
Both studies used healthy, active, gym-going populations - the exact demographic most likely to use sports nutrition supplements. This participant selection strengthens the real-world applicability of the results compared to studies conducted on sedentary or clinical populations.
The dose exploration across both studies (500mg twice daily vs. once daily) provides practical guidance for formulators and consumers while establishing the minimum effective dose range. The fact that significant benefits were observed with both dosing protocols suggests flexible application options.
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16:30 - Comprehensive Performance Testing and Biomarkers
The 2024 study employed sophisticated testing methods to capture multiple dimensions of Gremin's effects. Arun highlights the use of VO₂ max testing, six-minute walk tests, grip strength measurements, DEXA scans for body composition analysis, and various biochemical markers to provide comprehensive assessment.
DEXA scan results confirm body composition benefits: Gremin users gained 14 times more lean mass and 11 times more fat-free mass than placebo.
This multi-modal approach demonstrates the thoroughness of Zeus Hygia's clinical research program. Rather than focusing on single endpoints or subjective measures, they've validated Gremin's effects across objective performance metrics, body composition changes, and biochemical recovery markers.
The 14-day study duration is impressive because it demonstrates rapid-onset benefits. Many sports nutrition ingredients require 4-6 weeks of supplementation before showing meaningful effects, but Gremin's benefits became apparent within two weeks - less than a typical supplement container's duration.
The combination of biomarkers and performance testing provides both mechanistic understanding and practical application guidance. Improvements in biochemical markers like lactate dehydrogenase and inflammatory markers explain why participants experienced better performance and reduced fatigue.
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19:30 - Neutral Taste and Formulation Advantages
One of Gremin's most significant practical advantages is its neutral taste profile, which Arun emphasizes solves a major formulation challenge. Traditional curcumin is notoriously difficult to incorporate into powdered supplements due to its distinctive, earthy flavor and bright orange color, while green coffee extract contributes significant bitterness.
The BioFusion Technology encapsulation process masks both flavor issues simultaneously. The water-dispersible powder format makes Gremin suitable for protein powders, pre-workout formulas, post-workout recovery drinks, and hydration supplements without compromising taste or requiring extensive flavor masking.
This formulation advantage extends beyond taste to include manufacturing benefits. The encapsulated ingredient flows consistently during capsule filling, mixes uniformly in powder blends, and remains stable during storage - addressing multiple production challenges that formulators face with traditional curcumin or green coffee ingredients.
Ben specifically asks about the taste masking technology, and Arun explains that the encapsulation process prevents both the spicy, orange characteristics of curcumin and the bitterness of green coffee from affecting the final product's sensory profile. This enables ready-to-mix applications that would be impossible with traditional ingredient forms.
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21:15 - Commercial Success and Market Applications
Arun reveals that Gremin has already achieved commercial success in India, where it's incorporated into top-selling products combining the ingredient with Shilajit for male wellness applications targeting endurance and vitality. This real-world market validation demonstrates consumer acceptance and effective positioning beyond traditional sports nutrition categories.
Nine evidence-based reasons Gremin stands out: from its vegan formulation and water-soluble technology to clinical validation and synergistic protein compatibility.
Protein powder applications are the most natural fit, where Gremin addresses the muscle wear, tear, and soreness associated with strength training while complementing protein's muscle-building effects. Several commercially launched products in India successfully combine Gremin with protein powders and protein bars.
Sports hydration supplements are another growing application area where Gremin can be combined with electrolytes and other performance ingredients for comprehensive workout support. The water-dispersible format and neutral taste make these applications technically feasible and commercially viable.
The clean label positioning becomes valuable when Gremin is combined with plant-based proteins, creating completely plant-derived supplement formulations that appeal to vegans, vegetarians, and clean-eating consumers seeking natural performance support.
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23:00 - Gummy Applications and Dosing Flexibility
Mike inquires about gummy applications, and Arun confirms that 250mg gummies are technically feasible, allowing for twice-daily dosing to reach the clinically effective 500mg total. While the relatively high dose creates some limitations for single-gummy applications, the flexible dosing approach maintains clinical relevance.
The gummy format consideration demonstrates Zeus Hygia's attention to diverse delivery methods and consumer preferences. As the supplement industry continues expanding into more convenient and enjoyable formats, ingredients that can accommodate multiple delivery systems provide significant commercial advantages.
The discussion reveals that Gremin's applications extend well beyond traditional capsules and powders to include various innovative formats that meet modern consumer demands for convenience, taste, and efficacy.
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24:30 - Venture Funding Announcement and Future Plans
Arun shares exciting news about Zeus Hygia's recent Series A funding announcement, marking their transition from bootstrapped startup to venture-backed company. This funding enables aggressive international market expansion while supporting continued research and development of science-backed ingredients.
The funding will support additional long-term studies for Gremin and accelerate development of new ingredients targeting sports wellness, women's health, and the emerging eSports category. This diverse pipeline approach positions Zeus Hygia as a comprehensive ingredient innovation company rather than a single-ingredient focused business.
The US office and warehouse in New York/New Jersey region provides domestic sample availability and supply chain support for American brands and manufacturers. This infrastructure investment demonstrates serious commitment to the North American market and removes typical import/export barriers for potential customers.
Muscle damage marker comparison shows Gremin's superior recovery effect, with lactate dehydrogenase levels dropping significantly while placebo remained elevated.
The venture backing validation also provides credibility with larger supplement companies who may have been hesitant to work with earlier-stage suppliers. Access to professional investors and advisors will likely accelerate both product development and commercial growth.
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26:15 - Stadice: The Mango-Based Cognitive Ingredient
The conversation briefly touches on Stadice, Zeus Hygia's mango-based cognitive enhancement ingredient that's already launched in the US market through Onnit's Alpha Brain formula. This ingredient targets focus, alertness, and memory during gaming and eSports activities, representing Zeus Hygia's expansion beyond sports nutrition into cognitive performance.
Arun mentions an upcoming second clinical study for Stadice that he's eager to discuss in future conversations, suggesting continued innovation and research investment across their ingredient portfolio. The Onnit partnership validates Zeus Hygia's ingredient quality and regulatory compliance, as Onnit maintains rigorous scientific and safety standards.
The cognitive performance positioning is a natural extension of Zeus Hygia's sports nutrition expertise into the rapidly growing eSports and cognitive enhancement markets. This diversification strategy reduces dependence on any single market segment while leveraging their core competencies in clinically-backed ingredient development.
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28:15 - Connecting with Tyshawn Bryant
Arun sets up the second half of the episode by explaining his connection with Tyshawn Bryant, describing him as a "well-built bodybuilder" who was experiencing elbow pain and muscle soreness during workouts when they met at an industry expo. Arun suggested Tyshawn try Gremin capsules, leading to the positive feedback that made Tyshawn an ideal candidate to discuss real-world Gremin benefits.
This organic connection between ingredient supplier and brand founder illustrates how relationships develop in the supplement industry, often starting with personal experiences and evolving into commercial partnerships. The anecdotal feedback from experienced athletes and trainers provides valuable real-world validation beyond clinical study results.
The transition to Tyshawn's story provides a shift from scientific and technical discussion to practical application and entrepreneurial journey, providing listeners with both the research foundation and real-world experience perspective on Gremin's benefits.
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29:45 - Zeus Hygia Contact Information and Social Media
Four branches of recovery: Gremin activates multiple pathways including protein kinase B for muscle growth, AMPK for endurance, and inflammatory cytokine regulation for comprehensive sports wellness support.
Arun provides comprehensive contact information for Zeus Hygia, emphasizing their active presence on LinkedIn and Facebook platforms. The company website (zeushygia.com) and email (info@zeushygia.com) provide direct access, while their US office can be reached for domestic inquiries and sample requests.
LinkedIn is highlighted as the most active platform for immediate communication, reflecting the professional B2B nature of the ingredient supply business. This emphasis on professional networking platforms aligns with Zeus Hygia's focus on working with established supplement brands and manufacturers rather than direct-to-consumer sales.
The multiple communication channels demonstrate Zeus Hygia's commitment to accessibility and customer service, important factors for ingredient suppliers working with diverse international markets and varying communication preferences.
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33:00 - Part 2: Tyshawn Bryant and the Green Regimen Story
Tyshawn Bryant, Founder and CEO of Green Regimen
The second half of the episode introduces Tyshawn Bryant, founder of Green Regimen, calling in from Los Angeles, California. Mike sets up the connection through the previous conversation with Arun, who recommended Tyshawn as someone with direct experience using Gremin and valuable insights into its real-world applications.
Tyshawn's energy and enthusiasm are immediately apparent as he describes the beautiful LA weather and confirms his positive experience with the Gremin ingredient. This personal testimonial aspect provides a valuable counterpoint to the clinical research discussion, showing how research translates to individual user experiences.
The earthquake and tsunami alerts in the region provide a moment of connection and humanity, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of natural disasters while maintaining focus on the business and health topics at hand. This casual interaction helps establish the conversational tone that will characterize Tyshawn's portion of the interview.
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33:45 - Green Regimen's Origin: A Personal Health Crisis
Tyshawn shares the deeply personal origin story of Green Regimen, which began not as a business plan but as a desperate attempt to help his mother through cancer treatment in 2010. As a personal trainer and nutritionist, Tyshawn found himself with "more questions than answers" after consulting with doctors about potential supportive strategies for his mother's condition.
The frustration with conventional medical approaches led Tyshawn to research alternative supportive strategies, ultimately deciding to create green smoothies to potentially help block free radical activity and slow cancer growth. This forced a leap of faith and determination: "I only have one mom. Let me figure this out".
The protocol involved making green smoothies for his mother consistently for about two months, with remarkable results. Over four months, his mother dropped 50 pounds, regained her health, and has remained cancer-free ever since. This dramatic outcome provided the inspiration and validation for what would eventually become Green Regimen's product line.
The transition from personal necessity to business opportunity occurred when Tyshawn realized that "maybe there's other people I can help" who might be experiencing similar health challenges. This authentic origin story provides the foundation for Green Regimen's commitment to efficacy and genuine health benefits rather than marketing claims.
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36:00 - From Green Smoothies to Elite Lifestyle Protein
Recognizing the potential to help others, Tyshawn decided to transform his mother's green smoothie ingredients into a more practical meal replacement shake by adding plant-based protein. However, his attempt to find suitable plant-based proteins at Whole Foods led to disappointment: existing products "made her green smoothies taste like dirt" despite their high prices.
This formulation challenge prompted Tyshawn to develop his own solution, combining hemp and pea protein for what he considered "the strongest amino acid profile possible for a plant-based protein." The formula included the same ingredients from his mother's successful smoothies: spirulina, broccoli, kale, chia seed, plus organic coconut water for sweetness without stevia.
The result was Elite Lifestyle Nutrition, a plant-based nutritional shake that maintained the efficacy of the original green smoothies while providing complete protein nutrition and superior taste compared to existing market options. The "no stevia" approach became a key differentiator, addressing the aftertaste issues that plague many plant-based protein products.
What started as a personal solution gradually evolved into a business when people began requesting the product. Tyshawn emphasizes that he "never intended to have a company" but was drawn into entrepreneurship by the effectiveness of his formulations and growing demand from people who experienced the benefits firsthand.
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38:30 - The Entrepreneurial Learning Curve
Tyshawn provides honest insights into the challenges of accidental entrepreneurship, noting that "once you start a business, then you realize how difficult and impossible business is." Despite the initial success of his products, the transition from personal use to commercial operation required learning entirely new skill sets around manufacturing, marketing, and distribution.
The business has grown successfully since its informal beginning, with current distribution through GNC and Amazon plus their own website. This retail presence validates both the product quality and market demand, especially given GNC's rigorous product standards and competitive selection process.
All Green Regimen products stem from "the structure of efficacy" rather than marketing trends or profit considerations. Having proven the effectiveness of his initial formulation with his mother's health transformation, Tyshawn maintained this evidence-based approach as the foundation for product development across his growing line.
The success has enabled expansion beyond the original protein product to include additional supplements targeting specific health and performance needs, always maintaining the core principle of proven efficacy over marketing appeal.
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40:30 - Elite Lifestyle Nutrition: The Complete Formula
Tyshawn details the Elite Lifestyle Nutrition formulation, emphasizing how it combines the hemp-pea protein base with the superfood ingredients from his mother's original smoothies. The inclusion of spirulina, maca, chia seed, and coconut water creates a comprehensive nutritional profile that goes well beyond basic protein supplementation.
The coconut water serves multiple functions: providing natural sweetness to eliminate the need for stevia while contributing valuable potassium for electrolyte balance. This is important given that most Americans consume excessive sodium relative to potassium, and the natural balance from coconut water helps address this nutritional gap.
Customer feedback consistently highlights two key benefits: the superior taste compared to other plant-based proteins and the absence of the chalky texture and bitter aftertaste that characterizes many competing products. These sensory advantages enable long-term adherence and customer satisfaction beyond just nutritional benefits.
The product's success has led to customer requests for additional products, driving expansion into complementary supplements that maintain the same efficacy-focused development approach while addressing broader health and performance needs.
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42:30 - Lessons from the Failed Kids Product
Tyshawn shares valuable entrepreneurial insights from his first product attempt - a kids' supplement that failed commercially despite being well-formulated. The primary lesson involved understanding the difference between consumers (children who would use the product) and customers (parents who make purchase decisions).
The kids' product faced multiple barriers that Tyshawn hadn't anticipated: parental skepticism about supplements for children, concerns about necessity, and resistance to introducing new elements into established routines. These customer-consumer misalignment issues create complex sales challenges that don't exist with adult-focused products.
Mentorship emerged as a crucial missing element during his early entrepreneurship phase. Having someone with relevant experience to identify potential obstacles and guide strategic decisions could have prevented the kids' product failure or redirected efforts toward more viable opportunities earlier in the process.
The failure provided valuable education about target market identification and customer research that informed his more successful subsequent product development. Understanding who makes purchase decisions and their specific motivations became central to Green Regimen's later success with adult-focused products.
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44:00 - The Taste Challenge in Plant-Based Proteins
Both Mike and Tyshawn acknowledge the industry-wide challenge of making plant-based proteins palatable, with Tyshawn noting that many company founders may not actually use their own products regularly. If they did, they would likely recognize the taste and texture problems that limit customer satisfaction and repeat purchases.
The chalky texture is the biggest hurdle for plant-based protein acceptance, requiring extensive formulation work and multiple iterations to overcome. Tyshawn's success in eliminating chalkiness came through persistent testing and refinement, eventually achieving a smooth, pleasant texture that encourages regular use.
Digestive enzymes were added to address another common plant-based protein issue: digestive discomfort. While plant-based doesn't automatically mean easier to digest, the enzyme addition helps prevent gastrointestinal issues that can develop with regular use of poorly formulated plant proteins.
The formulation process involved extensive trials with "friends and family," though Tyshawn acknowledges this approach doesn't provide true long-term success indicators. Real validation came through retail placement and customer retention, where taste and digestive tolerance become crucial for repeat purchases.
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46:15 - The Secret Weapons: Coconut Water and No Stevia
Mike identifies coconut water as a potential "secret weapon" in Elite Lifestyle Nutrition, providing both potassium for electrolyte balance and natural sweetness. The high placement on the ingredient label indicates significant inclusion levels, contributing meaningfully to the product's nutritional and sensory profile.
The potassium content addresses a critical nutritional gap in American diets, where sodium-potassium imbalance contributes to various health issues. Providing readily absorbed potassium can help users feel better immediately while supporting long-term cardiovascular and metabolic health.
The no stevia approach differentiates Elite Lifestyle Nutrition from most plant-based proteins, which rely heavily on stevia for sweetness. However, stevia often contributes bitter aftertastes, especially in lower-quality formulations, creating negative sensory experiences that limit product adoption.
Organic rice syrup solids contribute to both sweetness and mixability, helping eliminate the clumping issues common with plant-based proteins. Tyshawn tested various alternatives, including tapioca, but found rice syrup solids provided the best functional properties for smooth mixing and pleasant texture.
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48:30 - Green Regimen Energy and Focus: Clean Stimulation
Customer requests for additional products led Tyshawn to develop Green Regimen Energy and Focus Capsules, targeting people who rely on multiple cups of coffee but experience energy crashes. The goal was creating "clean energy" without the jittery highs and crashing lows associated with excessive caffeine consumption.
The formulation includes L-theanine to smooth caffeine's effects and prevent crashes, plus tyrosine for cognitive support and neurotransmitter production. This brings a more sophisticated approach to energy supplementation compared to simple caffeine products.
Customer feedback validation was crucial before launch, with Tyshawn ensuring that users could genuinely feel the product's effects. The nootropic benefits needed to be apparent to justify the additional product development and marketing investment.
The "very simple" formulation philosophy maintains consistency with Green Regimen's overall approach: focusing on proven, effective ingredients rather than kitchen sink formulations that might look impressive but don't deliver proportional benefits.
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50:00 - Actazin: The Kiwi-Based Gut Health Innovation
Tyshawn's newest product, Kiwi Optimize, features Actazin, a clinically studied kiwi fruit extract that rebuilds gut microbiome health. This represents his expansion into digestive health while maintaining the evidence-based ingredient selection that characterizes all Green Regimen products.
Actazin works by improving protein digestion and preventing protein fermentation in the gut that can cause inflammation. The chewable format makes it convenient to take with protein meals, addressing digestive issues that some people experience with regular protein supplementation.
The ingredient provides both acute benefits through its natural digestive enzyme content (actinidin) and long-term benefits by building healthy gut microflora. This dual-action approach enables users to experience immediate improvements while creating lasting digestive health enhancements.
The 30-day protocol followed by optional maintenance dosing reflects the ingredient's ability to create lasting improvements rather than requiring continuous supplementation for ongoing benefits. This approach aligns with consumer preferences for supplements that build health rather than creating dependency.
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51:30 - Ben's Kiwi Sleep Discovery
Ben shares fascinating research about kiwi fruit and sleep quality in elite athletes, where consuming two kiwis before bed produced "insane improvements in sleep quality" compared to control groups. This study used whole kiwi fruit rather than extracts, making the results additionally impressive for a natural food intervention.
Mike notes that kiwi doesn't receive much attention in the supplement ingredient space despite its proven benefits, suggesting untapped potential for kiwi-based ingredients. The sleep research is just one of many potential applications for kiwi compounds in health and performance supplements.
The discussion reveals that eating two kiwis nightly for several weeks provides significant sleep improvements, but that's more kiwi consumption than most people achieve in months or even years! This highlights the potential value of concentrated kiwi ingredients for delivering therapeutic doses in convenient supplement formats.
The sleep research adds another dimension to kiwi's health benefits beyond digestive support, suggesting that Actazin and similar ingredients might provide multiple simultaneous benefits that enhance overall health and recovery.
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53:15 - The Zeus Hygia Connection: Introducing Gremin
Tyshawn explains his introduction to Gremin through a mutual industry contact who excitedly described the ingredient's combination of curcumin and green coffee bean extract for post-workout recovery and lean body mass support. The enthusiastic recommendation came with clinical study backing, immediately capturing Tyshawn's attention.
However, Tyshawn's scientific skepticism led him to request the actual clinical studies before making judgments about the ingredient's potential. His experience with sports performance supplement claims made him cautious about accepting marketing promises without reviewing the underlying research data.
The clinical studies initially seemed limited in their exercise protocols - primarily six-minute walk tests and basic exercises rather than the high-intensity training that characterizes serious athletic endeavors. This raised questions about whether the benefits would translate to more demanding training scenarios.
Tyshawn's serendipitous trip to India provided an opportunity to visit Zeus Hygia's offices in Hyderabad and meet directly with Arun and Shankar, the company founders. This face-to-face meeting enabled detailed discussion about the research limitations and Tyshawn's concerns about translating the results to higher-intensity training applications.
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55:45 - The Intensity Challenge: Real-World Testing
During his visit to Zeus Hygia, Tyshawn expressed his concern that the clinical study participants' exercise intensity might not represent the training demands of serious athletes. He specifically noted that the research protocols wouldn't adequately challenge someone who trains with high intensity six days per week.
The Zeus Hygia founders listened carefully to Tyshawn's feedback and agreed that his training intensity concerns were valid. They provided Gremin samples for Tyshawn to conduct his own testing with his network of athletes who train at much higher intensities than the original study participants.
Tyshawn's personal testing protocol was deliberately challenging: he stopped taking curcumin (which he had been using regularly) and changed his workout routine to create maximum muscle damage and soreness. This would provide the harshest test conditions for evaluating Gremin's recovery benefits.
The workout modification involved significantly higher weights, lower rep ranges (5-10 reps), and dramatically increased volume, particularly for leg training with squats, deadlifts, and Romanian deadlifts on the same day. This protocol guaranteed severe muscle soreness and provided clear metrics for assessing recovery acceleration.
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58:00 - Week-by-Week Gremin Results
Week 1: Despite taking 1000mg daily (double the clinical study dose), Tyshawn experienced the expected severe soreness from his modified workout routine. However, he noticed an ability to "work through the soreness much easier than normal," though he didn't initially attribute significant importance to this observation.
Week 2: The breakthrough began during the second week when other participants in Tyshawn's informal study reported feeling "more energized" and able to get through workouts with less fatigue. Tyshawn personally began experiencing the ability to "push more" weight while feeling less limited by soreness and muscle fatigue.
Week 3: The most surprising development occurred during week three when Tyshawn's chronic elbow inflammation - a nagging injury that created intermittent pain and training limitations - completely disappeared. This unexpected benefit went beyond the anticipated muscle recovery effects to address ongoing inflammatory issues.
The elbow problem had historically prevented Tyshawn from progressing beyond certain weights in tricep exercises due to pain limitations. With the inflammation resolved, he could continue progressive overload without being constrained by joint pain, significantly improving his training quality and progression.
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59:45 - Unexpected Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
The elbow pain resolution was the most dramatic and unexpected benefit from Gremin supplementation. Tyshawn had experienced this chronic issue for an extended period, and traditional approaches hadn't provided lasting relief. The complete elimination of pain and limitation was "not what I expected Gremin to do."
While Tyshawn was aware of curcumin's anti-inflammatory properties, he hadn't anticipated that Gremin would be more effective than his previous curcumin supplementation for managing chronic joint inflammation. The combination formulation appeared to provide superior bioavailability and anti-inflammatory activity compared to his previous supplements.
The pain relief enabled Tyshawn to train through exercises that had previously been limited by discomfort, allowing him to maintain consistent progression without accommodation or modification. This provided a significant quality-of-life improvement beyond basic muscle recovery enhancement.
The unexpected joint benefits suggested that Gremin's effects extend beyond acute exercise recovery to include management of chronic inflammatory conditions that can limit training quality and progression over time.
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61:00 - Network Testing Results: UFC and Powerlifting Athletes
Tyshawn's testing network included diverse high-level athletes: a UFC fighter and a powerlifter who train at intensities far exceeding typical gym-goers. Both athletes reported significant improvements in recovery and training capacity while using Gremin, validating the benefits across different training modalities.
The UFC fighter's feedback was especially valuable given the extreme physical demands of mixed martial arts training, which combines strength, endurance, skill work, and high-intensity sparring. Recovery acceleration in this context can lead to substantial performance advantages for competition preparation.
The powerlifter's experience provided insights into Gremin's effects on maximum strength training, where recovery between sessions directly impacts the ability to maintain progression and training volume. Positive feedback from this population suggests benefits for serious strength athletes.
A recreational but dedicated gym-goer (six days per week) reported reduced training anxiety, especially for challenging sessions like leg day. This psychological benefit - described as being able to "attack weights on a different level" - suggests neurological or confidence-related effects beyond basic muscle recovery.
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62:30 - The Neurological Dimension
The recreational athlete's report of reduced training anxiety and improved mental approach to challenging workouts introduces an interesting neurological dimension to Gremin's effects. While not explicitly designed as a nootropic, the combination of ingredients may influence mood, confidence, or stress response during training.
Curcumin has documented effects on neuroinflammation and mood regulation, while chlorogenic acid influences brain metabolism and neurotransmitter function. The combination might create subtle but meaningful improvements in training mindset and mental resilience during challenging sessions.
The ability to "attack weights" with reduced anxiety could translate to improved training quality, better progression, and enhanced long-term results. Mental barriers often limit training intensity more than physical capabilities, making psychological benefits valuable for serious athletes.
Tyshawn's network testing revealed that Gremin's benefits extend beyond simple muscle recovery to include improvements in training motivation, confidence, and mental approach - factors that significantly impact long-term training success and athletic development.
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64:00 - Formulation Plans: Gremin in Future Products
Based on his positive personal experience and network feedback, Tyshawn confirms that Green Regimen will incorporate Gremin into a future sports performance product, likely in the pre-workout or post-workout category. However, the launch timeline is pushed to 2026 due to current focus on international expansion.
The decision to include Gremin represents significant validation from an experienced formulator who personally tested the ingredient under demanding conditions. Tyshawn's commitment to "efficacy first" means that ingredients must demonstrate genuine benefits before inclusion in Green Regimen products.
The specific application (pre-workout vs. post-workout) remains under consideration, reflecting Gremin's versatility for different timing strategies. The clinical research supports both approaches, with pre-loading providing protective effects and post-workout dosing accelerating recovery markers.
Tyshawn hints at combining Gremin with another undisclosed ingredient, suggesting a synergistic approach that could enhance the recovery benefits while potentially addressing additional performance aspects like energy, focus, or endurance.
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65:15 - The India Expansion Project
Tyshawn's 2026 timeline for the Gremin product reflects his current priority: launching Green Regimen in India with a plant-based protein specifically formulated for Indian consumers. This is a massive undertaking requiring significant time and resource allocation through late 2025.
The Indian protein product will differ substantially from the US version to accommodate Indian palate preferences. Having traveled to India three times, Tyshawn emphasizes the country's "most delicious food I've ever tasted" and the cultural importance of exceptional taste in any food product, including supplements.
The amino acid profile will maintain scientific integrity as a complete protein suitable for meal replacement applications, but the taste formulation will be specifically designed for Indian taste preferences rather than adapting the American version.
This international expansion is both a significant business opportunity and validation of Green Regimen's product quality. Success in the demanding Indian market, where taste expectations are exceptionally high, would demonstrate the company's formulation expertise and cultural adaptability.
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67:00 - The GNC "Next Big Thing" Recognition
Mike discovers that Green Regimen's website URL structure includes "the-next-big-thing," leading to Tyshawn's explanation of his GNC contest victory. GNC partnered with Startup CPG to identify "the next big thing in the supplement industry," with Green Regimen selected as one of the winners.
This recognition provided Green Regimen with the opportunity for GNC shelf placement - a significant achievement given GNC's competitive product selection process and established brand requirements. The contest victory validates both product quality and market potential from a major retailer's perspective.
The "Next Big Thing" designation embedded in GNC's URL structure creates ongoing marketing value and credibility for Green Regimen, demonstrating third-party recognition of their innovation and market potential.
GNC's selection process likely involved evaluation of product quality, market differentiation, consumer demand, and business viability - making the recognition meaningful for validating Green Regimen's overall business approach.
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68:30 - Entrepreneurial Advice and Social Media Presence
Tyshawn offers practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: "If you have to become an entrepreneur, if you feel like you need to... but if you don't have to, don't do it." This honest assessment reflects the challenges and demands of building a supplement business while acknowledging that some people are driven by necessity or passion.
The advice emphasizes the importance of genuine motivation and commitment, as entrepreneurship requires sustained effort through inevitable difficulties and setbacks. Success often depends more on persistence and adaptability than initial advantages or resources.
Green Regimen's social media presence focuses on Instagram and LinkedIn under the @GreenRegimen handle, with all content managed through the brand rather than Tyshawn's personal accounts. This approach maintains professional focus while building brand recognition and authority.
The LinkedIn emphasis reflects the B2B aspects of the supplement industry, where professional networking and industry relationships significantly impact business development and growth opportunities.
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69:30 - Closing: The Intensity Connection
The episode concludes with appreciation for Tyshawn's emphasis on training intensity as a crucial factor for maximizing supplement benefits. His testing approach - deliberately creating challenging conditions - provides more relevant insights than studies conducted under minimal stress conditions.
Mike notes that the most impressive gym users and results typically correlate with higher training intensity, making Tyshawn's high-intensity testing useful for understanding Gremin's real-world potential among serious athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
The conversation validates the principle that effective sports nutrition ingredients should be tested under demanding conditions that match their intended use rather than mild protocols that might not reveal their full potential.
Tyshawn's commitment to sharing training intensity content on social media could provide valuable inspiration and education for followers while demonstrating the practical application of Green Regimen products in high-performance contexts.
Links and Where to Follow
Related Links:
Dr. Arun Kanth of Zeus Hygia and Tyshawn Bryant of Green Regimen share the breakthrough science and real-world results behind Gremin, the dual polyphenolic ingredient revolutionizing plant-based sports nutrition recovery on Episode #176 of the PricePlow Podcast.
Dr. Arun Kanth and Zeus Hygia:
- Zeus Hygia Website
- Dr. Arun Kanth on LinkedIn
- Zeus Hygia on LinkedIn
- Zeus Hygia on Instagram
- Email: info@zeushygia.com
Tyshawn Bryant and Green Regimen:
Thank you to Dr. Arun Kanth for sharing the impressive science behind Gremin and Zeus Hygia's innovative approach to solving bioavailability challenges in sports nutrition. The combination of rigorous clinical research and proprietary technology provides a genuine advancement in plant-based performance ingredients.
Special appreciation to Tyshawn Bryant for his honest insights into entrepreneurship and his thorough real-world testing of Gremin under demanding training conditions. His commitment to efficacy over marketing claims provides valuable validation for the ingredient's practical benefits among serious athletes.
This two-part episode demonstrates how scientific innovation and entrepreneurial passion combine to advance the supplement industry, creating better products for consumers while building meaningful businesses around genuine health benefits.
Subscribe to the PricePlow Podcast for more conversations with ingredient innovators, brand builders, and industry leaders who are shaping the future of sports nutrition and health supplementation!
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