Inside Chris Bumstead’s Supplement Philosophy
While possessing top-tier genetics and a relentless work ethic, Chris Bumstead, known as CBUM, understands that supplements can help fill nutritional gaps and optimize performance. As a co-owner of Raw Nutrition and a sponsored athlete for Revive MD, his supplement choices are both performance-driven and focused on long-term health and longevity. His routine evolves based on whether he is bulking or cutting, but a few core products remain constant.
The Core Raw Nutrition Performance Stack
For his demanding training sessions, CBUM relies on his signature line of products from Raw Nutrition, which he co-founded. These products are designed to enhance energy, focus, and muscle growth.
Thavage Pre-Workout: A staple in his training, this formula is packed with ingredients to boost performance. Key components include:
- L-Citrulline: A nitric-oxide precursor that aids in blood flow and muscle pumps.
- Beta-Alanine: Helps buffer lactic acid, delaying muscle fatigue.
- Betaine Anhydrous: Supports power output and cellular hydration.
- Alpha GPC and Huperzine A: Nootropics that enhance mental focus and the mind-muscle connection.
- Caffeine: A blend of caffeine anhydrous and di-caffeine malate for sustained energy without the crash.
Itholate Protein: Post-workout recovery is critical, and CBUM uses his micro-filtered, grass-fed whey isolate protein. It delivers 25 grams of protein per scoop with zero fat and trace carbs, supporting rapid muscle recovery. He also adds this to various shakes throughout the day to meet his high protein targets.
Creatine Monohydrate: A timeless classic, CBUM is a long-time advocate of creatine for its scientifically-backed ability to enhance strength and power output. He consistently takes 5-10 grams daily, citing it as an essential supplement for muscle growth and recovery.
EAAs/BCAAs: To prevent muscle breakdown during intense and lengthy training sessions, he incorporates essential amino acids or branched-chain amino acids.
Revive MD: The Health and Longevity Stack
Unlike many bodybuilders who focus only on performance, CBUM places immense value on internal health. He partnered with Revive MD to create a series of organ and health support supplements, which he has publicly discussed using. This holistic approach is critical for sustaining his career.
- Organ Support: Given the stress his body undergoes, CBUM uses supplements for liver and kidney health.
- Omega-3s: He takes fish oil daily to combat inflammation, support joint health, and promote cardiovascular and cognitive function.
- Multivitamins and Minerals: To ensure no micronutrient deficiencies, he takes a multivitamin daily.
- Digestive Enzymes & Fiber: When consuming a large volume of food, especially during the offseason, digestive enzymes and fiber supplements are used to aid digestion and nutrient absorption.
Comparing CBUM's Pre-Workout to a Standard Formula
| Feature | CBUM's Thavage Pre-Workout | Generic Pre-Workout |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Comprehensive performance (pump, focus, endurance, energy) | Primarily energy and pump via standard stimulants |
| Key Active Ingredients | L-Citrulline, Beta-Alanine, Alpha GPC, Huperzine A, Betaine Anhydrous | Often high caffeine, sometimes basic L-arginine |
| Focus Enhancement | Advanced nootropics (Alpha GPC, Huperzine A) for mental clarity and focus | Standard caffeine for a jittery energy boost |
| Nitric Oxide Boost | High-dose L-Citrulline and Nitrosigine for sustained pump | Lower dose L-arginine or smaller L-Citrulline dose |
| Product Development | Formulated with input from a professional athlete (CBUM) and clinical data | Basic formulas with standard ingredient choices |
The Importance of Health Supplements
For many athletes, the focus is purely on performance-enhancing products. However, CBUM's routine highlights the critical role of health supplements, particularly from Revive MD. Intense, chronic training and specific dietary demands place a significant load on the body's internal systems, including the liver, heart, and immune function. By including Omega-3s, multivitamins, and specific organ support supplements, Bumstead proactively manages his health, allowing him to train harder and recover more effectively over the long term. This approach mirrors the broader shift in the fitness community towards sustainable, long-term health and away from short-term fixes. It underscores the fact that true championship conditioning involves both peak performance and robust internal health.
Conclusion
Which supplements does CBUM take? The answer is a well-orchestrated stack that combines performance-driven products from his Raw Nutrition line with essential health and longevity supplements from Revive MD. The regimen includes staples like creatine and whey isolate, advanced pre-workout formulas, and crucial vitamins and omega-3s. Ultimately, his success is not just a result of the products but of a consistent, holistic approach to training, diet, and supplementation, where every ingredient serves a specific purpose in his pursuit of excellence. For an evidence-based look into ingredient efficacy, see this article on sports nutrition supplements.
