8 Performance-Enhancing Superfoods + Supplements

There are many different supplements and superfoods out there we can use to activate higher functioning and perform at a higher level.

Elevating energy, recovery, and supporting better hormonal health and mental clarity - these eight options: collagen, butea superba, colostrum, shilajit, beef protein powder, pine pollen, black ginger, and coffee, all offer unique benefits backed by both tradition and modern research. 

Let’s look into how these can boost performance:

1. Collagen

Collagen, the most abundant protein in the body, provides amino acids that help structure our skin, bones, joints, nails, hair, and connective tissues. As we age, collagen production declines, which can lead to joint discomfort and reduced skin elasticity. 

Consuming more collagen powder or collagen-rich foods (like bone broth) can help us recover better and be more resilient.

• Performance Benefits: Collagen contains amino acids like glycine and proline, which aid muscle repair, joint health, and physical performance. A 2019 study found that collagen supplementation improved joint pain and function in athletes.

• How to Use: Add 10-20g of collagen powder into smoothies, clean coffee, or post-workout shakes for easy absorption.

• Why It’s Great: Collagen is mostly tasteless and easy to add into different foods and drinks. Collagen supports recovery and longevity, making it ideal for active lifestyles.
  
  

2. Butea Superba

Butea superba is an herb from Thailand, traditionally used to enhance male vitality, libido, and performance. Its flavonoids are believed to support androgen activity and energy.

• Performance Benefits: Butea superba may increase DHT (dihydrotestosterone) and androgen receptor sensitivity, supporting strength and libido.

• How to Use: Take 500-1000mg daily in the morning or before high-intensity activities like lifting or sports.

• Why It’s Great: Its targeted support for male performance and energy makes it a go-to for athletes and active men.
  
  

3. Colostrum

Colostrum is a nutrient-rich milk made by mammals after birth is packed with growth factors, antibodies, and bioactive compounds. Colostrum supplements are gaining popularity because they are powerful for supporting immunity and athletic recovery.

• Performance Benefits: Colostrum enhances immune function, reduces exercise-induced gut permeability, and promotes muscle repair. A 2016 study showed colostrum improved recovery and performance in cyclists.

• How to Use: Take 1-2g of colostrum daily or mix our colostrum powder into shakes or drinks of all kinds. Our Core Colostrum is grassfed, cold-processed, ethically sourced, and third-party tested for purity.

• Why It’s Great: Colostrum's immunity and recovery-supporting properties help athletes stay consistent, especially during intense training periods.
  
  
  

4. Shilajit

Shilajit is a mineral-rich resin from the Himalayas and a staple in Ayurvedic medicine. Packed with over 80 minerals + fulvic acid, it is revered for its adaptogenic and energy-boosting properties.

• Performance Benefits: Shilajit supports testosterone production, mitochondrial energy (ATP), and cognitive function. A 2015 study showed 250mg daily increased total testosterone and luteinizing hormone in men. It also reduces oxidative stress, enhancing endurance.

• How to Use: Dissolve 500-1000mg of shilajit resin or shilajit tablets in warm water or coffee daily. Shilajit is best sourced from a company that does third-party tested to ensure purity.

• Why It’s Great: Its broad-spectrum benefits—energy, hormones, and brain health—make it a versatile performance booster.
  
  
  

5. Beef Protein Powder

Beef protein powder is a high-quality, complete protein made from collagenous cuts of beef, offering a dairy-free alternative to whey. Rich in amino acids and collagen, it supports muscle growth and recovery without the bloating some experience with lower quality protein powders.

• Performance Benefits: Beef protein provides essential amino acids for muscle protein synthesis. A 2020 study on triathletes found that 25g of beef protein powder daily improved the testosterone-to-cortisol ratio, supporting an anabolic state. Beef protein powder's glycine content also aids recovery and sleep quality.

• How to Use: Mix 25-30g into a post-workout shake or smoothie. Pair with carbs for optimal muscle glycogen replenishment.

• Why It’s Great: Beef protein delivers muscle-building benefits with added collagen for joint and skin health. Our Prime Protein is third party tested for purity ensuring we provide the best quality clean protein powder.
  
  

6. Pine Pollen

Pine pollen is harvested from pine trees and is full of phytoandrogens. Traditionally pine pollen has been used to support hormonal balance and vitality.

• Performance Benefits: Pine pollen’s phytoandrogens (plant-based testosterone-like compounds) may support testosterone levels and libido. While human studies are limited, animal research suggests it enhances endurance and hormonal health.

• How to Use: Take 1-2 dropperfuls of our pine pollen tincture daily. Start with a small dose, assess tolerance, and dose up from there.

• Why It’s Great: Its natural hormonal support makes it a unique addition for men and women seeking vitality.
  
  
  

7. Black Ginger

Black ginger is a Thai herb rich in methoxyflavones. Celebrated for its effects on energy, circulation, and performance. It’s a favorite among athletes for its pre-workout benefits.

• Performance Benefits: Black ginger improves blood flow, metabolism, and endurance. A 2018 study found it enhanced physical performance and reduced fatigue.

• How to Use: Take 500-1000mg of black ginger extract pre-workout to access an extra boost during your training sessions.

• Why It’s Great: Its ability to boost energy and circulation makes it a natural pre-workout alternative to caffeinated options.
  
  
  

8. Coffee

Coffee contains caffeine, phytonutrients, and antioxidants. Coffee is a powerful superfood for physical and cognitive performance.

• Performance Benefits: Caffeine (100-200mg per cup) enhances alertness, endurance, and fat metabolism. A 2019 meta-analysis confirmed coffee improves exercise performance by reducing perceived exertion.

• How to Use: Drink 1-2 cups of black coffee (or espresso) 30-60 minutes before workouts or mental tasks. Minimize coffee use after noon to avoid negatively effective sleep quality.

• Why It’s Great: Coffee’s accessibility, cognitive enhancement, make it a daily performance staple. Our regenerative mold-free coffee has been tested for mycotoxins, mold, pesticides, and herbicides like glyphosate making it an awesome option for optimal coffee.
  
  
  

How to Incorporate These Into Your Routine