Core POISE: A Complete Female Hormone Support Supplement

Core Nutritionals has teamed up with Paul Revelia, owner and head coach of ProPhysique, to create an exclusive line of supplements called the PR Series. So far, the line includes Core Vegan, Burn Powder, and their most recent release, Core POISE.

Core POISE: Helping female competitors achieve their best

Over the years, Revelia has worked with hundreds of female competitors who push their bodies to the limit in an attempt to showcase to audiences the most aesthetically pleasing physique.

Core POISE is formulated to optimize women’s hormone health and thyroid function.

Although Revelia prioritizes clients’ health and well-being above all else, getting to a minimal level of body fat required for physique sports inevitably takes its toll. He acknowledges two primary things his female clients struggle with are maintaining optimal thyroid and hormone health, which is where the concept for POISE came about.

POISE is formulated to optimize female health and performance by:

• Alleviating hormonal stress
• Supporting thyroid function
• Enhancing mood and sense of well-being

Some of the main ingredients POISE uses to achieve positive effects are:

• Highly bioavailable forms of essential trace minerals (iodine and magnesium)
• L-tyrosine
• 3,3′-diindolylmethane (DIM)
• Chaste tree extract, which synergizes with pregnenolone (and the iodine)
• Setria L-glutathione
• Turmeric extract
• Olive leaf extract

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Core POISE Ingredients

For optimal results, Core recommends taking four capsules of POISE per day, preferably with food. If desired, you can split the dose: take two capsules in the morning and two in the evening.

A key takeaway is that POISE works through multiple pathways, but isn’t just a collection of single ingredients functioning alone – there are synergies between the ingredients. For instance, when adding progesterone (stimulatory on the thyroid) plus the substrate of iodine (which too many are deficient in lately), you get a “total is the greater than the sum of the parts” effect.

Here’s what one serving (four capsules) of Core POISE contains:

• Magnesium (as Magnesium Bisglycinate Chelate TRAACS) – 72mg (17% DV)

  

  Core POISE is one of the most comprehensive female health products we’ve seen thus far!

  Magnesium is a mineral that’s naturally found in various foods, such as spinach, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Magnesium serves as a cofactor for over 300 enzymes.^[1] Therefore, it plays a role in a number of physiological processes, including:

  • Blood glucose control
  • Protein synthesis
  • Muscle and nerve function
  • Blood pressure regulation
  • Energy production
  • Bone development
  • DNA and RNA synthesis
  • Production of glutathione (a powerful antioxidant)^[1]

  Although magnesium deficiency is rare in healthy humans, habitually low intakes can increase the risk of developing adverse health conditions, including:

  • Hypertension
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Osteoporosis (more common in females)
  • Migraines^[1]

  Beyond the general health benefits associated with magnesium, Core Nutritionals specifically included it in POISE because some research shows that supplementation can significantly reduce symptoms linked to premenstrual syndrome (PMS), such as bloating, irritability, and fatigue.^[2]

  It’s important to note that not all supplemental forms of magnesium are created equal. Some forms, such as magnesium oxide and magnesium sulfate, have poor bioavailability. This means the body has a difficult time absorbing them in the small intestine. To address this issue, Core uses magnesium bisglycinate chelate (as TRACCS), which consists of magnesium bound to glycine. Glycine is an amino acid that’s readily absorbed, so it helps transport magnesium into the bloodstream.

• Iodine (as Potassium Iodide) – 150mcg (100% DV)

  

  Check out the “Big Momma Stack” from Core!

  Iodine is a trace mineral that’s required to produce thyroid hormones. It’s most commonly found in fortified foods, such as iodized salt, but it can be sourced naturally from seafood.^[3] Core Nutritionals uses potassium iodide to deliver 150 micrograms of iodine, which covers 100% of your daily value.

  Some studies have found that approximately two billion individuals around the world are deficient in iodine, which puts them at risk for various health problems, but most notably thyroid dysfunction.^[4] The thyroid gland secretes hormones that significantly affect metabolism, growth, and development, like thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).^[5]

  The thyroid is regulated by thyroid-stimulating hormones (TSH) secreted by the pituitary gland.^[5] Once TSH is released, the thyroid gland increases iodine absorption and uses it to synthesize T3 and T4.^[5] So if someone is iodine deficient, TSH levels can stay chronically elevated, leading to an enlarged thyroid gland.^[5] Thus, consuming an appropriate amount of iodine each day is recommended to avoid thyroid problems. With women, in particular, the thyroid also assists in regulating the menstrual cycle.

• L-Tyrosine – 500mg

  In order to improve mood and sense of well-being, Core uses 500 milligrams of L-tyrosine, a conditionally essential amino acid. This means that in times of extreme stress (such as dieting and training for a physique competition), it’s likely beneficial to supplement with L-tyrosine because the body can’t produce enough to meet its needs.^[6]

  

  Long story short from our analysis — For the best effects from tyrosine, choose the regular L-Tyrosine version!

  L-Tyrosine is primarily used as a precursor for the production of three neurotransmitters:

  • Epinephrine
  • Norepinephrine
  • Dopamine^[6]

  Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that help carry out physiological functions. Both epinephrine and norepinephrine are involved in the body’s sympathetic nervous system, which is activated in times of stress, such as exercise. Dopamine, on the other hand, is mainly responsible for mood, motivation, and memory.

  High-stress situations can deplete neurotransmitter levels and lead to a decline in performance, difficulty concentrating, plus mental and physical fatigue.^[6] So supplementing with L-tyrosine may help prevent the depletion of dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine. In fact, a study published in the journal Military Medicine showed that L-tyrosine supplementation can improve:

  • Alertness
  • Focus
  • Mood
  • Mental energy
  • Performance
  • Cognition^[6]

  Researchers also found that L-tyrosine mitigates stress.^[6]

• Turmeric Extract (Curcuma Longa) (Root) (95% Curcuminoids) – 500mg

  Turmeric is a yellow spice that’s extracted from the tuberous rhizome of a plant called Curcuma longa. It belongs to the same family as ginger root and contains a large amount of curcumin, which is considered its main bioactive constituent.^[7,8]

  

  The MitoBurn-powered Core SEAR was formulated to help increase the amount of brown adipose tissue and lose fat faster.

  Beyond cooking, turmeric has been used for centuries to treat ailments in both traditional Chinese and Indian medicine.^[7,8] Turmeric extract is mainly known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.^[7-10] A few studies have shown that curcumin can also attenuate the severity of PMS symptoms.^[9,10]

  For example, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial published in the journal Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that when volunteers with PMS symptoms supplemented with curcumin, they experienced reduced severity of symptoms.^[9] The researchers attributed this positive effect to curcumin’s ability to decrease inflammation and modulate specific neurotransmitters.^[9]

  Another study, published in the journal Neuropeptides, discovered that curcumin decreases the severity of PMS symptoms by increasing serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, (BDNF).^[10] Interestingly, BDNF levels at a specific point in a women’s menstrual cycle, known as the luteal phase, happen to fluctuate more in females who report PMS symptoms.^[10] So it makes sense that low levels of BDNF can contribute to the severity of PMS symptoms.

• Olive Extract (Olea Europea) (Leaf) (20% Oleuropein) – 500mg

  

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  Olive extract is derived from Olea europaea tree leaves and is known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.^[11,12] Olive leaf extract contains a rich concentration of polyphenols, such as oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol.^[11,12] Research shows that these bioactive constituents have several beneficial properties including:

  • Antioxidant
  • Antihypertensive
  • Antiatherogenic
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Hypoglycemic
  • Hypocholesterolemic^[11,12]

  Since olive leaf extract has such potent antioxidant properties, it can help protect cells from oxidative stress-induced by reactive oxygen species (ROS).^[12] Since thyroid hormones, especially thyroxine, are heavily involved in metabolism, they modulate oxygen consumption and produce ROS as a byproduct.^[12] Reactive oxygen species are highly reactive molecules that can damage a cells’ DNA, RNA, and proteins, eventually leading to cellular death.

  Fortunately, powerful antioxidants, such as olive leaf extract, can scavenge free radicals and reduce the risk of cellular damage. One of the main benefits of taking POISE is improved vitality, so olive leaf extract is a great addition to this formula.

• Chaste Tree Extract (Vitex Agnus-Castus) (Fruit) (1.5% Agnusides) – 270mg

  Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chaste tree fruit extract, is a plant that’s native to Mediterranean countries. Historically, it has been used in traditional medicine for numerous purposes. Recent studies have shown it’s primarily effective for treating complications associated with menopause, PMS, infertility, and reproductive problems.^[13-15]

  

  Core Pro features the same protein blend as Core MRP, without the carbohydrates.

  The average age of menopause onset is 51, but the process can begin in a woman’s mid to early 40s. And “the change” is known for causing or setting in motion a host of really miserable symptoms and conditions, including but not limited to:

  • Hot flashes
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Osteoporosis
  • Weight gain
  • Depression^[13]

  For women who still experience PMS, a systematic review published in the journal Archives of Women’s Mental Health analyzed eight randomized controlled trials and found that chaste tree fruit extract is a safe and effective treatment for symptoms of both PMS and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.^[15] According to the current body of evidence, chaste tree fruit extract may help reduce:

  • Fatigue
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Migraines
  • Cramps
  • Bloating
  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia
  • Irritability^[14,15]

  More research is needed, but studies suggest that chaste tree fruit extract carries out its effects by activating dopamine pathways in the brain.^[13]

• Setria L-Glutathione – 250mg

  To further combat oxidative stress, Core uses 250 milligrams of Setria Glutathione, a branded ingredient developed by Kyowa Hakko. Glutathione is one of the most powerful antioxidants in the human body, which is why many consider it essential for optimizing overall health.^[16,17] Setria is a unique tripeptide form of glutathione that’s been clinically shown to raise blood glutathione levels.^[16]

  

  Glutathione is one of the most powerful antioxidants in the body.

  As we mentioned above, antioxidants reduce oxidative stress induced by free radical production and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Free radicals are highly reactive molecules because they’re extremely unstable and have an odd number of electrons. Thus, they travel around looking for healthy cells to react with. As a result, free radicals can damage a cell’s enzymes, DNA, membrane, and mitochondria.

  Glutathione is composed of three amino acids – cysteine, glycine, and glutamic acid – and is found in high concentrations in a majority of cells.^[17] There are two forms of glutathione: reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG). Research shows that the ratio of GSH to GSSG determines the cell’s redox potential.^[17]

  For example, healthy cells typically have a GSH:GSSG ratio greater than 100.^[17] If this ratio falls to 10 or below, the cell is more likely to be damaged by oxidative stress.^[17] Glutathione is endogenously produced in a cell’s mitochondria,^[17] but supplementing with an additional source of glutathione may further protect the cell from oxidative stress.

  Research shows that glutathione is involved in a number of physiological functions, such as:

  • Neutralizing chemical radicals
  • Enhancing the production of endogenous antioxidant enzymes
  • Regenerating vitamins C and E
  • Transporting mercury out of cells and the brain
  • Regulating cellular proliferation and apoptosis^[17]

  Glutathione is considered to be vital for mitochondrial function and maintenance of mitochondrial DNA.^[17] It also involved in the detoxification of endogenous and xenobiotic compounds.^[17]

• 3,3′-Diindolylmethane (DIM) – 200mg

  3,3′ diindolylmethane (DIM) is becoming a lot more mainstream in the sports supplement industry now that people are starting to realize how beneficial it is for achieving hormonal balance. DIM is known for its unique ability to lower elevated levels of estrogen and can actually benefit both males and females.

  You’ll commonly see DIM included in testosterone boosters and marketed as an estrogen blocker. Though that claim is only somewhat true. DIM doesn’t completely eliminate estrogen from the body, it just makes sure that estrogen levels don’t become excessively high. Diindolylmethane primarily expresses its estrogen-balancing properties by inhibiting aromatase and 5a-reductase, which are two enzymes involved in estrogen production.^[18]

  

  Core Burn is also included in the PR Series!

  Furthermore, research shows that DIM enhances levels of estradiol 2-hydroxylase (EH), (good estrogen) and reduces levels of 16-alpha-hydroxy estrone (bad estrogen).^[19] This results in a more optimal ratio of good-to-bad estrogen, which is very beneficial for both males and females.

  Excessive levels of estrogen in males can result in:

  • Gynecomastia
  • Infertility
  • Erectile dysfunction

  Whereas, abnormally high levels of estrogen in females can lead to:

  • Headaches
  • Irregular menstrual cycles
  • Fatigue
  • Swelling and tenderness in breasts
  • PMS
  • Weight gain
  • Anxiety
  • Developing fibroids or cysts

  Research suggests that DIM could serve as an anti-estrogenic agent and may reduce the risk of thyroid proliferative disease and breast cancer, which affects a greater percentage of women than men.^[20,21] A 2016 systematic review in the journal Nutrition Reviews showed that DIM’s anti-cancer properties are attributed to its ability to alter apoptosis, estrogen metabolism, and responses to oxidative stress.^[21]

• Pregnenolone – 5mg

  

  You can also find pregnenolone in the Core FURY pre workout!

  Pregnenolone is a neurosteroid hormone that promotes the production of other hormones by acting as a direct precursor or metabolic intermediate. The main hormones that pregnenolone helps synthesize are:

  • Estrogen
  • DHEA
  • Cortisol
  • Testosterone
  • Progesterone^[22,23]

  Pregnenolone is naturally produced in the body from cholesterol by a mitochondrial enzyme found in various steroidogenic tissues, such as adrenal glands, gonads, and placenta.^[23] There is a misconception that pregnenolone is just a precursor to other steroid hormones. It actually has potent anti-inflammatory and anti-fatigue properties.^[23]

  Research shows that pregnenolone and its metabolites may:

  • Modulate cognitive function
  • Increase learning and memory
  • Relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety
  • Offer neuroprotection against neuroinflammatory diseases^[23]

  So not only does pregnenolone help synthesize other hormones, like progesterone, estrogen, and DHEA, but it has its own unique health benefits.

• Bioperine (95% Black Pepper Extract) – 5mg

  

  Bioperine is the trusted, trademarked form of black pepper extract that promises 95% or greater piperine, the part of black pepper with all the activity!

  It’s well known that some ingredients aren’t absorbed very well in the small intestine. That’s why manufacturers formulate their supplements with compounds that improve bioavailability. These compounds work by helping the body absorb certain ingredients so they can be utilized for their intended purpose.

  One ingredient known for its ability to improve bioavailability is Bioperine, a black pepper fruit extract standardized to contain 95% of the main bioactive constituent, piperine.^[24] BioPerine was developed by Sabinsa Corporation and can be found in a wide range of dietary supplements, including multivitamins, pre-workouts, fat burners, and nootropics.

  Through enhancing thermogenesis, modulating efflux mechanisms, and inhibiting specific enzymes, BioPerine can increase the bioavailability of several nutrients, such as:

  • Amino acids
  • Vitamins
  • Minerals
  • Fatty acids
  • Omega-3
  • Curcumin^[24,25]

  To ensure that you get the most out of POISE, Core uses BioPerine at the clinically-studied dose.

Paul Revelia: The Coach Behind the PR Series

Not only is Revelia the owner and head coach at ProPhysique, but he’s also a Core elite athlete and natural professional bodybuilder. For years, Revelia has been using Core Nutritionals for all his supplement needs. He’s also close friends with Doug Miller, Core CEO. Throughout Revelia’s coaching career, he recommended Core supplements to his trainees, which eventually led to the creation of the PR Series.

Core Vegan is a great tasting plant-based protein with added amino acids for optimal gains!

So far the series includes:

• Core Vegan: high-quality vegan protein powder
• Burn Powder: comprehensive stimulant-based fat burner
• POISE: a complete female hormone health supplement

You may be wondering why these products are included in the PR Series? Since Revelia has a dairy allergy, he’s limited by the types of protein powders he can consume, including many in Core’s inventory, such as PRO, POST, or ISO. So he convinced Doug to work together to create a high-quality vegan protein powder, which he not only takes himself but also recommends to his clients on a plant-based diet.

Burn Powder was added to the PR Series because Revelia coaches mainly contest-prep clients who have to attain very low body fat percentages to be presentable on stage. So Burn Powder helps make fat loss just a bit easier. Lastly, POISE is specifically for females who struggle with hormonal imbalance and thyroid issues, which physique competitors are prone to.

We expect that Core will continue to expand the PR Series throughout 2021, so be on the lookout for more supplements coming soon!

As always, use code PricePlow for 20% off on all Core Nutritional products. Don’t forget to subscribe below for more Core Nutritionals news, reviews, interviews, and deals from PricePlow!