AN USA Shred-X: Kick Off 2025 with Applied Nutrition’s Fat Burning Supplements

AN USA enters 2025’s weight management category with Shred-X in both capsules and powder! Powder version packs 3g ALCAR while both contain research-backed green tea extract, caffeine, and focus support.

As 2025 approaches, the recently rebranded Applied Nutrition USA (AN USA) enters the weight management category with Shred-X, launching in both capsule and powder form. This dual-format release marks AN USA’s expansion beyond their pre-workouts and sports performance products, arriving just in time for New Year’s resolution season.

Shred-X brings together familiar ingredients like green tea extract, l-tyrosine, and l-theanine alongside B-vitamins to support energy levels and focus while dieting. While not part of AN USA’s premium AN Performance Series, Shred-X provides another option for those starting their 2025 fitness journeys with Applied Nutrition.

The ingredients are slightly different, with the powder providing more physical space, and this article will break them all down.

Before we get into the separate products, get notified when AN USA launches new supplements and flavors by signing up for our AN USA news alerts:

Both versions of Shred-X target energy, focus, and metabolic support, but take different approaches with their formulas.

The capsule version provides a convenient three-capsule serving with research-backed doses of green tea extract and caffeine, while the powder version leverages larger doses of ingredients like acetyl L-carnitine (3 grams!) and betaine (1.5 grams) that simply wouldn’t fit into capsules.

You’ll also find unique ingredients in each version – the capsules include olive leaf extract while the powder contains Gymnema sylvestre and sweat-inducing GBB. We’ll analyze these differences as we explore each formula below.

AN USA Shred-X Capsule Ingredients

Each serving (3 capsules) contains:

• Green Tea Extract (95% Polyphenols, containing 40% EGCG) – 400mg

  

  The foundation of Applied Nutrition USA’s Shred-X formula is a research-backed dose of green tea extract, standardized for catechins and EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate). Green tea extract has repeatedly demonstrated its effectiveness for supporting healthy weight management through multiple mechanisms of action.

  Green tea’s primary bioactive compounds, particularly EGCG, work by inhibiting an enzyme called catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT).^[1] This enzyme inhibition helps preserve circulating catecholamines like norepinephrine, leading to increased thermogenesis and fat oxidation.

  Research has shown that green tea extract can increase daily energy expenditure by approximately 4-5% and boost fat oxidation by 10-16% over 24 hours.^[1] These effects appear most pronounced when combined with caffeine, as is done in the Shred-X formula.

  Beyond its thermogenic properties, green tea extract provides additional metabolic support by:

  • Improving insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism^[2]
  • Supporting healthy lipid profiles^[3]
  • Providing antioxidant benefits through its catechin content^[4]

  The doses used in Shred-X (400mg capsules/450mg powder) align well with amounts shown to be effective in research, while staying well below the upper limit of 800mg EGCG per day considered safe for most healthy adults.

• Total Caffeine – 200mg

  The foundation of Shred-X’s formula is a moderate 200mg dose of caffeine per serving, which is a tried-and-true ingredient for both energy and fat loss support. Research has shown that caffeine can increase metabolic rate and fat oxidation through multiple mechanisms, including enhanced release of fat-mobilizing hormones like epinephrine.^[5]

  

  Applied Nutrition’s American Division is now AN USA, formerly All Black Everything (ABE). All Black Everything is returning to its UK status as a pre-workout.

  When it comes to weight management, caffeine works primarily by inhibiting an enzyme called phosphodiesterase, which helps break down cyclic AMP – a critical molecule involved in fat breakdown. By preserving cAMP levels, caffeine can enhance lipolysis (the breakdown of fat) and increase fat oxidation, especially during exercise.^[6]

  Beyond its fat-burning properties, caffeine is well known for its ability to boost energy levels and alertness by blocking adenosine receptors in the brain. This not only helps provide the mental energy needed to stay active and focused during a diet, but can also reduce the perception of effort during exercise, allowing you to train harder and longer.^[7]

  At 200mg per serving, Shred-X provides an effective but moderate dose that most users should tolerate well. This is enough caffeine to support fat loss and energy without causing the jitters or anxiety that can come with higher doses. For context, this is roughly equivalent to 2 cups of coffee.

• Cayenne Pepper Extract – 200mg

  At 200mg, Shred-X includes a moderate dose of cayenne pepper extract to support its thermogenic properties. Cayenne pepper’s primary bioactive compound is capsaicin, which research has shown can help increase energy expenditure and fat oxidation through multiple mechanisms.^[8]

  

  The thermogenic effects of cayenne pepper are primarily mediated through activation of TRPV1 receptors, which can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system and increase catecholamine release.^[9] This leads to increased energy expenditure and enhanced fat oxidation, particularly in individuals with higher BMIs.^[10]

  Meta-analyses have shown that capsaicin supplementation can reduce energy intake by roughly 74 calories per meal^[11] and increase energy expenditure by approximately 50 calories per day.^[12]

• Olive Leaf Extract – 200mg

  Olive leaf extract (OLE) provides another interesting angle to Shred-X’s formula through its potent polyphenols, with oleuropein being the primary active compound.^[13]

  Research has shown that OLE can help support healthy blood glucose management and lipid metabolism. When combined with a calorie-restricted diet, OLE supplementation has been shown to beneficially impact body weight and fat mass compared to diet alone.^[14]

  The mechanisms behind OLE’s effects appear to be linked to its potent antioxidant properties and ability to support healthy metabolic function. Studies indicate that oleuropein and its derivative hydroxytyrosol can help reduce lipid peroxidation and enhance antioxidant enzyme activity.^[15]

  At 200mg, Applied Nutrition has included a moderate but research-backed dose of OLE that should work synergistically with the other ingredients in Shred-X to support healthy weight management goals.

• Choline Bitartrate – 183mg (providing 75mg choline, 14%DV)

  At 183mg of choline bitartrate (providing 75mg choline), we have a moderate but useful dose that can support several pathways beneficial during a diet. While this isn’t a massive amount, choline plays important roles in fat metabolism and cognitive function that shouldn’t be overlooked.

  As an essential nutrient, choline serves as a building block for phosphatidylcholine, a critical phospholipid involved in fat transport and metabolism.^[16] This is especially relevant during weight loss efforts, as proper fat metabolism becomes increasingly important when in a caloric deficit.

  

  Additionally, choline helps support the production of acetylcholine, often called the “learning neurotransmitter”, which can help maintain mental clarity and focus during low-calorie periods.^[17] Research has also shown that choline supplementation may help improve carnitine retention in muscle tissue, potentially supporting fat utilization during exercise.^[18]

• L-Tyrosine – 150mg

  At 150mg of L-tyrosine, Applied Nutrition includes a modest dose to support mood and focus during dieting phases. While this isn’t a clinically-supported dose, it can still contribute to the formula’s overall effects, especially when combined with caffeine.

  L-tyrosine serves as a critical precursor to dopamine and norepinephrine – key neurotransmitters that support focus, motivation, and cognitive performance.^[19] This is relevant during calorie-restriction, when brain catecholamine levels may be affected by dietary changes.

  Research shows that tyrosine supplementation can help maintain optimal catecholamine levels during stressful conditions.^[20] While most studies use higher doses, even modest amounts of tyrosine may help support some mental clarity and focus during a diet, especially when paired with the formula’s caffeine and other nootropic ingredients.

• L-Theanine – 150mg

  L-Theanine is an amino acid found naturally in tea leaves that works synergistically with caffeine while helping to reduce potential jittery side effects. This “smart caffeine” combination is particularly useful in a high-energy formula like Shred-X.^[21]

  L-theanine achieves this by promoting relaxation without sedation through its effects on brain wave activity and neurotransmitter function.^[22] Research shows it can help reduce anxiety and stress while maintaining alertness.^[23]

  At 150mg alongside 200mg total caffeine, Shred-X provides a ratio that may help users maintain focus and productivity while minimizing the “crash” often associated with high-stim formulas.^[24]

• Theacrine – 50mg

  

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  Theacrine is a naturally-occurring compound structurally similar to caffeine, found primarily in Camellia kucha tea leaves.^[25] Like caffeine, theacrine works through multiple mechanisms, including adenosine receptor antagonism and phosphodiesterase inhibition, which can help enhance energy, focus, and motivation.^[26]

  What makes theacrine particularly interesting is that unlike caffeine, research suggests users may not develop tolerance to its effects with continued use.^[25] In performance studies, theacrine has demonstrated impressive results, with one study showing improvements of 27-38% in time to exhaustion during exercise.^[27]

  At 50mg, Shred-X provides a moderate dose that works synergistically with its caffeine to support sustained energy and focus during weight loss efforts, but note that some research is confounded with additional ingredients that aren’t in this formula.^[28-30]

• Acetyl L-Carnitine – 25mg

  The powder version of Shred-X contains a substantial 3 gram dose of Acetyl L-Carnitine (ALCAR), while the capsule version includes just 25mg – a significant difference between the two formulas that heavily favors the powder for this ingredient’s benefits.

  ALCAR is the acetylated form of L-carnitine that’s believed to more easily crosses the blood-brain barrier compared to standard L-carnitine.^[31] This enhanced bioavailability allows ALCAR to support both physical and cognitive benefits during a weight loss phase.

  

  Applied Nutrition USA shakes up the pre-workout game with AN Performance PRE! Featuring Cognizin citicoline, NeuroRush, natural caffeine, and Informed Sport certification, it delivers energy, focus, and performance you can trust.

  In terms of fat loss support, ALCAR helps transport long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria where they can be oxidized for energy.^[31] This transport system is especially important during caloric restriction when optimizing fat utilization becomes crucial.

  The 3 gram dose in the powder version aligns well with clinical research showing improvements in fat oxidation and exercise recovery.^[32] While the 25mg in the capsules is likely too low to provide meaningful benefits on its own, the powder version provides a research-backed dose that may:^[33]

  • Enhance fatty acid oxidation during exercise
  • Support exercise recovery and reduce muscle soreness
  • Help maintain mental energy and focus during caloric restriction

  The dramatic difference in ALCAR content between formulas is one of the key differentiating factors that may influence which version consumers choose, with the powder offering significantly more potential for enhanced fat oxidation and exercise recovery support.

• Vitamins and Minerals:

  • Vitamin B3 (as Niacinamide) – 16mg (100% DV)

  • Vitamin B6 (as Pyridoxine HCl) – 5mg (294% DV)

  • Vitamin B12 – 200mcg (8333% DV)

  • Chromium Picolinate – 116mcg (providing 14.4mcg chromium, 41% DV)

AN USA Shred-X Powder Ingredients

Each serving (1 scoop / 10g) contains:

• Acetyl L-Carnitine – 3g

  See above, but note that this is a far greater dose!

• Betaine Anhydrous – 1.5g

  Betaine (trimethylglycine) serves multiple roles in the formula through its functions as both an osmolyte and methyl donor. At 1.5 grams, AN USA provides a moderate but still potentially beneficial dose, although most successful clinical studies use 2.5 grams per day.^[34]

  Research indicates betaine may support body composition improvements when combined with resistance training by promoting favorable changes in muscle mass and fat loss.^[35] It may also enhance power output and work capacity during high-volume resistance training.^[36]

  While the 1.5 gram dose is lower than what’s typically studied, it may still contribute to the formula’s overall effectiveness, especially when combined with other ingredients that support body composition and performance.

• Green Tea Extract – 450mg

  See above.

• Choline – 300mg

  See above.

• Gymnema Sylvestre Extract – 250mg

  

  Gymnema sylvestre is an herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine that has gained attention for its effects on sugar cravings and glucose metabolism. The active compounds in Gymnema, known as gymnemic acids, can temporarily block sweet taste receptors on the tongue, potentially reducing cravings for sugary foods.^[37]

  Research suggests Gymnema may help support healthy blood sugar levels through multiple mechanisms, including enhanced insulin secretion and decreased glucose absorption in the intestines.^[38]

  At 250mg, Shred-X provides a moderate dose that may help reduce sugar cravings while dieting, though higher doses are often used in research examining its effects on blood glucose management.^[39]

• L-Theanine – 250mg

  See above.

• L-Tyrosine – 250mg

  See above.

• Taurine – 250mg

  Taurine is a conditionally essential amino acid that’s found abundantly in muscle tissue and serves multiple functions including osmoregulation, antioxidant defense, and calcium signaling modulation.^[40]

  

  In terms of exercise performance, taurine has been shown to improve endurance and reduce fatigue, although these benefits are typically seen at higher doses (1-6g).^[41]

  While the 250mg dose in Shred-X is on the lower end, taurine may still provide modest support during calorie-restricted phases by helping maintain cellular hydration and assisting with cellular energy production.^[42]

• Caffeine Anhydrous – 200mg

  See above.

• Gamma-butyrobetaine Ethyl Ester Chloride – 30mg

  Applied Nutrition finally includes a solid dose of gamma-butyrobetaine (GBB), which serves as the direct precursor to L-carnitine in the body’s natural carnitine production pathway.^[43]

  What makes GBB particularly fascinating is its pronounced thermogenic effect that manifests as increased sweating during exercise. This effect was first documented when researchers had to reduce doses in early studies because participants reported excessive sweating at higher doses.

  Beyond the sweating response, research has shown that GBB supplementation can significantly increase plasma carnitine concentrations – helping optimize fat transport and utilization.^[43]

  At 30mg, Shred-X provides an effective dose that may support both carnitine production and thermogenesis without causing extreme sweating that can occur at higher doses. Just remember to bring a towel to the gym!

• Vitamins and Minerals

  • Vitamin B3 (as Niacinamide) – 25mg (156% DV)

  • Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride) – 5mg (294% DV)

  • Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin) – 100mcg (4166% DV)

  • Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) – 1000mg (1111% DV)

  

  Looking at the formulas side by side like this, we can see that the powder has substantially more active ingredients like acetyl L-carnitine, and includes additional ingredients like betaine, taurine, and GBB that aren’t in the capsule version.

Shred-X Powder Flavors Available

Here’s an up-to-date list of all flavors of AN USA Shred-X powder:

Dosage and Timing

For the capsule version, AN USA recommends taking 3 capsules in the morning with food. To assess tolerance, start with a single capsule and gradually increase the dose.

For the powder version, mix 1 level scoop (10g) with ~7oz cold water and drink in the morning or 15 minutes prior to exercise. As with any supplement containing stimulants, start with a half scoop to evaluate your tolerance.

To maintain effectiveness, consider cycling off after 8 weeks of continuous use. Do not exceed 1 serving per day of either version.

Side Effects and Warnings

Due to the caffeine content in both versions, avoid taking Shred-X within 4-6 hours of bedtime. Do not combine with AN Performance PRE or other stimulant-containing supplements. If you’re looking to stack this with a pre-workout, consider using AN Performance‘s stimulant-free version instead.

Additionally:

• Do not use if pregnant or nursing
• Consult a healthcare professional before use if you have any medical conditions
• Discontinue use and consult your doctor if you experience any adverse reactions
• Do not exceed recommended serving size
• Keep out of reach of children

Again, those sensitive to caffeine or other stimulants should start with a reduced serving size to assess tolerance.

Conclusion: Starting 2025 with AN USA

Aaron Heidebreicht is the new CEO of Applied Nutrition’s US division. He explained his plans in Episode #130 of the PricePlow Podcast.

While Shred-X may not feature novel ingredients or breakthrough technology like AN USA’s premium AN Performance line that we helped formulate (Shred-X was made by the UK team), it represents another step in the company’s growing American presence. The dual-format approach gives users flexibility in how they approach their 2025 weight management goals, whether they prefer the convenience of capsules or the versatility of a powder.

As discussed in our recent podcast with AN USA CEO Aaron Heidebreicht, the company continues to expand thoughtfully into new categories while maintaining their commitment to quality manufacturing standards. For those beginning their New Year’s fitness journey, Shred-X provides a straightforward option to complement AN USA’s existing lineup of sports nutrition products.