Beyond Raw LIT is a clinically dosed pre-workout supplement produced by GNC and formulated to deliver a powerful performance boost during workouts. The key to its effectiveness lies in a specific combination of ingredients that work synergistically to provide energy, focus, endurance, and muscle pumps. Below is a complete breakdown of the main components found in LIT Pre-Workout.
Core Ingredients for Energy, Focus, and Intensity
Caffeine Anhydrous
One of the most prominent ingredients in LIT pre-workout is caffeine anhydrous, a dehydrated form of caffeine. A single serving typically contains 250mg, an amount equivalent to roughly 2-3 cups of coffee, which provides a significant energy and mental focus boost. Caffeine functions by stimulating the central nervous system, which helps reduce the perception of effort during exercise and enhances physical endurance. For most users, this results in heightened alertness and the motivation needed to push through tough workouts.
Creatine Monohydrate
LIT pre-workout includes micronized creatine monohydrate, one of the most widely studied and effective sports nutrition supplements. Creatine helps fuel energy production in muscle cells during high-intensity, short-duration activities like weightlifting or sprinting. By increasing the body’s stores of creatine, it can help improve athletic performance and increase workout intensity, which over time, contributes to increased muscle strength and mass. The typical serving in the original formula is 1.5 grams, which is below the daily recommended 3-5 grams, meaning additional supplementation may be required to get the full benefits.
Beta-Alanine
CarnoSyn beta-alanine is another key ingredient, with LIT providing a 3.2-gram dose. Beta-alanine is a non-essential amino acid that increases muscle carnosine levels, which acts as a buffer against pH drops in the muscles during intense exercise. This effectively helps delay the onset of muscle fatigue, allowing for greater endurance and more reps during training. A common side effect of beta-alanine is a tingling or itching sensation on the skin, known as paresthesia, which is a normal and harmless reaction.
Ingredients for Enhanced Muscle Pumps
L-Citrulline
To support enhanced blood flow and muscle pumps, LIT contains L-citrulline. This amino acid is a precursor to nitric oxide (N.O.) production in the body. Increased nitric oxide leads to vasodilation, or the widening of blood vessels, which improves blood flow to the muscles. The result is a more pronounced muscle pump, better nutrient delivery to the muscles, and more efficient clearing of metabolic waste. The standard formula includes 3 grams of L-citrulline.
Nitrosigine®
LIT also includes Nitrosigine, a patented complex of arginine and silicon. This ingredient works with L-citrulline to further boost nitric oxide levels in the body. Clinical studies have shown that Nitrosigine can elevate blood arginine levels, leading to increased N.O. production and superior muscle pumps.
Innovative and Specialized Ingredients
ElevATP®
An interesting addition to the formula is elevATP, a patented ancient peat and apple fruit extract. This ingredient is designed to stimulate the body's natural production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the primary source of energy for muscle contractions. By increasing ATP levels, elevATP helps boost muscular energy and power output during exercise.
NeuroFactor™
For mental acuity and cognitive function, LIT incorporates NeuroFactor, a patented extract from the fruit of the coffee bean. This ingredient has been shown to support an increase in Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) levels. BDNF is a protein that plays a key role in the health and function of neurons, which can lead to improved focus and a better mind-muscle connection during workouts.
Comparison: Beyond Raw LIT vs. Beyond Raw LIT V2
| Feature | Beyond Raw LIT (Original) | Beyond Raw LIT V2 (Updated) |
|---|---|---|
| Caffeine | 250mg caffeine anhydrous | 250mg caffeine blend (anhydrous + ZumXR) |
| Creatine | 1.5g micronized creatine monohydrate | 3g creatine monohydrate |
| L-Citrulline | 3g | 5g |
| Nitrosigine® | 1.5g | Present, unspecified dose |
| Additional Nootropic | NeuroFactor™ | Cognizin® |
| Endurance Enhancers | Beta-Alanine, elevATP® | Beta-Alanine, Senactiv® |
| Hydration | Minimal electrolytes | Enhanced electrolytes |
How the Ingredients Work Together
The combination of these ingredients creates a multi-faceted approach to pre-workout performance. Caffeine delivers the immediate energy and focus needed to start, while beta-alanine helps extend that intensity by buffering muscle acidity to fight fatigue. Creatine supports explosive, short-burst power during heavy lifting. For the physical pump, L-citrulline and Nitrosigine work together to increase nitric oxide levels, improving blood flow and muscle fullness. Finally, the innovative extracts elevATP and NeuroFactor provide support for cellular energy production and cognitive function, rounding out the performance benefits. For a deeper dive into the benefits of specific compounds, consult resources like the International Society of Sports Nutrition for evidence-based information.
Conclusion
Beyond Raw LIT pre-workout is formulated with a transparent list of well-regarded ingredients aimed at improving workout intensity and performance across multiple angles. The combination of caffeine for energy, creatine for strength, beta-alanine for endurance, and L-citrulline and Nitrosigine for muscle pumps provides a solid foundation for many gym-goers. While the dosages in the original formula may not be optimal for all individuals, particularly the amount of creatine, the overall blend offers a comprehensive approach to maximizing training sessions. Users can expect increased energy and focus, greater endurance, and noticeable muscle pumps, with the potential for side effects like tingling or jitters depending on individual sensitivity.
