Ingredient Encyclopedia

Every EVEREST formula is built around ingredients with real research behind them. This encyclopedia breaks down the key ingredients across our product line — what they are, where they come from, and why they're included. Each entry includes references to peer-reviewed research and institutional sources.

Browse All Ingredient Encyclopedia Articles →

Shilajit

A mineral-rich resin found naturally in the rocky mountains of the Himalayas, Altai, and Caucasus ranges. Formed over centuries by the slow decomposition of plant matter, Shilajit is one of Ayurveda's most prized substances. It is rich in fulvic acid, humic acids, and over 80 trace minerals. Research suggests it supports mitochondrial energy production, cognitive function, testosterone levels in men, and physical endurance.

Research: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial published in Andrologia (2015) found that men supplementing with purified Shilajit for 90 days experienced significantly higher total and free testosterone levels compared to placebo. Additional context: Cleveland Clinic overview of Shilajit.

Found in our Shilajit Elite formula. | Read more: Shilajit — The Ancient Mountain Resin Backed by Modern Science →

NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide)

NAD+ is a coenzyme found in every living cell, essential for energy metabolism, DNA repair, and the activation of sirtuins — proteins linked to longevity and cellular health. NAD+ levels decline significantly with age, which is associated with reduced energy, cognitive decline, and accelerated aging. Supplementing with NAD+ precursors is one of the most studied approaches in longevity research.

Research: A clinical trial published in Nature Communications (2021) demonstrated that NMN supplementation significantly increased NAD+ levels in blood and improved muscle insulin sensitivity and physical performance in older adults. See also: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements — Niacin & NAD+ precursors.

Found in our NAD+ Longevity Formula. | Read more: NAD+ — The Longevity Molecule Your Body Needs More Of →

Resveratrol

A polyphenol found naturally in red grapes, berries, and peanuts. Resveratrol activates sirtuins, the same longevity-linked proteins activated by caloric restriction, and has been shown to support cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, and protect cells from oxidative damage. It works synergistically with NAD+ to support cellular energy and healthy aging.

Research: A study published in Cell (2006) demonstrated that Resveratrol activated SIRT1, improved mitochondrial function, and extended healthy lifespan in animal models. See also: Cleveland Clinic overview of Resveratrol.

Found in our NAD+ Longevity Formula. | Read more: Resveratrol — The Longevity Antioxidant Backed by Science →

Berberine

An alkaloid extracted from plants including barberry and goldenseal. Berberine activates AMPK — the metabolic "master switch" — which improves insulin sensitivity, reduces glucose production in the liver, lowers LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, and promotes fat metabolism. It is one of the most researched natural compounds for metabolic health support.

Research: A meta-analysis published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (2015) reviewed 27 clinical trials and found that Berberine significantly reduced fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, and triglycerides. See also: Cleveland Clinic overview of Berberine.

Found in our NAD+ Longevity Formula. | Read more: Berberine — The AMPK Activator Backed by 500+ Clinical Studies →

Quercetin

A flavonoid found in onions, apples, kale, and capers. Quercetin is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound that inhibits the release of inflammatory cytokines, supports cardiovascular health, improves insulin signaling, and enhances Berberine's bioavailability by inhibiting the enzymes that break it down in the gut.

Research: A study published in the European Journal of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (2011) confirmed that Quercetin significantly increased systemic Berberine bioavailability. See also: Memorial Sloan Kettering overview of Quercetin.

Found in our NAD+ Longevity Formula. | Read more: Quercetin — The Flavonoid That Fights Aging at the Cellular Level →

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)

An essential water-soluble vitamin that humans must obtain through diet or supplementation. Vitamin C is required for collagen synthesis, immune cell function, and neutralizing free radicals. At 1000mg in effervescent form, it is rapidly absorbed and supports robust immune defense, skin health, and antioxidant protection.

Research: A Cochrane systematic review published in PLOS One (2013) found that regular Vitamin C supplementation reduced the duration and severity of common colds. See also: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements — Vitamin C and Mayo Clinic — Vitamin C.

Found in our Vitamin C + Zinc Effervescent Tablets. | Read more: Vitamin C + Zinc — The Immunity Duo Your Body Needs → | Read more: Effervescent vs. Pills — Why How You Take Vitamin C Matters →

Zinc

An essential trace mineral involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body. Zinc is critical for immune cell development, wound healing, DNA synthesis, and reproductive health. In its citrate form, it is one of the most bioavailable forms of zinc available.

Research: A meta-analysis published in the Open Respiratory Medicine Journal (2011) found that zinc supplementation significantly reduced the duration of cold symptoms when taken within 24 hours of onset. See also: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements — Zinc and Mayo Clinic — Zinc.

Found in our Vitamin C + Zinc Effervescent Tablets. | Read more: Vitamin C + Zinc — The Immunity Duo Your Body Needs →

Creatine

One of the most researched sports nutrition ingredients in existence. Creatine increases phosphocreatine stores in muscle tissue, allowing for greater ATP regeneration during high-intensity exercise. This translates to improved strength, power output, and muscle preservation. Emerging research also supports cognitive function and healthy aging benefits.

Research: A comprehensive meta-analysis published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research (2003) found that creatine supplementation produced an average 8% increase in strength and 14% increase in power output. See also: Mayo Clinic — Creatine.

Found in our Creatine Gummies with Collagen & BCAAs. | Read more: Why Creatine + Collagen Is the Ultimate Recovery Stack →

Collagen Peptides

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, forming the structural foundation of joints, tendons, ligaments, skin, and connective tissue. Collagen production declines with age, contributing to joint discomfort and reduced tissue integrity. Supplemental collagen peptides provide the amino acids — glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline — needed to support cartilage synthesis and connective tissue repair.

Research: A randomized controlled trial published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2017) found that collagen peptide supplementation combined with exercise significantly increased collagen synthesis in tendons and reduced exercise-related joint pain. See also: Mayo Clinic — Collagen.

Found in our Creatine Gummies with Collagen & BCAAs. | Read more: BCAAs + Collagen — Joint Health & Muscle Preservation →

BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids)

Leucine, isoleucine, and valine are the three branched-chain amino acids essential for muscle protein synthesis and preservation. Leucine directly activates mTOR, the primary molecular switch for muscle building. BCAAs reduce muscle protein breakdown during exercise and caloric restriction, making them essential for active adults focused on maintaining lean mass.

Research: A study published in the Journal of Nutrition (2006) found that BCAA supplementation significantly reduced markers of exercise-induced muscle damage and accelerated recovery. See also: NIH ODS — Dietary Supplements for Exercise & Athletic Performance.

Found in our Creatine Gummies with Collagen & BCAAs. | Read more: BCAAs + Collagen — Joint Health & Muscle Preservation →

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.