Muscle Pharm Shred Matrix

MusclePharm Shred Matrix Review

MusclePharm Shred Matrix is a diet supplement that, according to the manufacturer, will increase fat burning, suppress the appetite, regulate mood and boost energy levels.

The product is manufactured by MusclePharm Corp who provide products aimed at all levels of exercisers, from ‘weekend warriors’ to professional athletes. Started by a professional athlete in 2003, MusclePharm Corp’s ‘quest is to create a superior line of sports nutrition products that are safe [and] free of banned substances”. They are based in Denver, and can be contacted using the information provided on their official website.

What Does MusclePharm Shred Matrix Claim To Do?

MusclePharm, who manufacture Shred Matrix, offer the following description of the product:

Powerful, but safe and effective for both men and women, SHRED MATRIX® utilizes the body’s multiple energy pathways and systems to promote aggressive mobilization of fat to be burned for fuel.*

• Multi-system fat loss support*
• Helps provide support against sugar cravings*
• No Jitters*
• Support overall mood*
• Clean energy

It goes on to say:

SHRED MATRIX® also addresses all the key issues that make fat loss difficult in the first place. SHRED MATRIX® supports improved energy and alertness, enhances mood and mental function, and helps promote appetite regulation.*

Does MusclePharm Shred Matrix Work?

Customer reviews are split between people who love the product and people who experience numerous side effects which leave them unable to take the product. Because of this trend we recommend starting with a lower dose than stated on the bottle to assess tolerance, increasing it over a few days of use.

Customers are instructed to take so many capsules (6) each day because of the huge list of ingredients; adequate doses of each simply would not fit into a small number of capsules. The ingredients list is a mixture of some effective ingredients, some potentially effective but under-researched ingredients, and some ineffective ingredients. Overall, the product will increase energy levels and the metabolism, and could suppress the appetite, but this is only if customers do not experience side effects that would stop their use of the pill.

The list of side effects is extensive, and seemingly side effects are very common. This is not a supplement for people who have never tried any fat burners or diet supplements before, or for anyone who wants to avoid stimulants including caffeine. The product also needs to be cycled, as it cannot be taken for more than 8 weeks at a time.

What Are The Ingredients of MusclePharm Shred Matrix?

The ingredients provided below are per serving of three capsules. Consumers can take up to two servings per day, for a total of six capsules. The product consists of numerous proprietary formulas, and so only a few individual ingredient quantities are provided.

• Niacin (as Niacinamide)3 mg(15% RDA)
• Biotin150 mcg(50% RDA)
• Pantothenic Acid (as d-Calcium Pantothenate)3 mg(30% RDA)
• Magnesium (Gluconate)4 mg(1% RDA)
• Zinc (Monomethionine)1 mg(7% RDA)
• Chromium (Chelate)100 mcg(83% RDA): This is used primarily to lower fasting blood sugar levels and to lower insulin levels in people who have type 2 diabetes. In terms of its potential effect upon weight loss, it is possible that taking chromium picolinate by mouth for 2 to 3 months might produce a small weight loss of about 1.1 kg.
  Source: http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/CHROMIUM

8 Stage Weight Loss Proprietary Blend: (2,437.5 mg per 3 capsule serving)

Stages 1 and 2: Energy and Fat Metabolism

• Guarana Seed Extract (Paullinia cupana) (22% caffeine): A berry that is naturally high in caffeine, it is often an ingredient in energy drinks and diet pills.
  Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guarana
• Caffeine Anhydrous (150 mg): Numerous studies have shown that caffeine boosts energy levels and alertness, as well as mildly boosting the metabolism. The effects shown in studies are small.
  Source: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/weight-loss/caffeine
• Green Tea Extract (40% EGCG (Camellia sinensis) (leaf): Green tea is high in a group of antioxidants called catechins. Studies have suggested that catechins increase thermogenesis in the body. It also naturally contains caffeine.
  Source: http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/70/6/1040.full
• Saw Palmetto (serenoa repens) (berry): Thought by some to treat an enlarged prostate. No clear evidence is available to link this berry with weight loss.
  Source: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/971.html
• Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis) (leaf): There is diverse clinical evidence to support the use of this plant for weight loss, as it stimulates the central nervous system and increases the metabolic rate. It is also a source of caffeine, and so should increase energy levels. Read our full investigation for more information.
  Source: https://www.dietpillswatchdog.com/does-yerba-mate-work
• Fo-Ti (Polygonum multiflorum) (root): This root is used to treat constipation, amongst a number of other ailments, and is thought to have anti-aging effects, although this seems relatively untested.
  Source: http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/fo-ti
• Eleuthero (root): More commonly referred to as Siberian ginseng, eleuthero is used to treat a range of ailments, including boosting the immune system, increasing appetite and treating chronic fatigue. However there is currently little clinical evidence to support its use, with mixed results from clinical trials and any beneficial effects declining after 8 weeks of use.
  Source: http://naturalmedicinejournal.com/siberian-ginseng-review-literature
• Cayenne 40,000 HU/g (Capsicum annum) (pepper): Some studies suggest that cayenne could suppress the appetite mildly, whilst others suggest that the heat causes a thermogenic reaction in the body, burning more calories for a period of time. However, there are also studies that show cayenne has little or no effect upon weight loss attempts.
  Source: https://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/cayenne
• Yohimbine HCl: Some studies have noticed increased blood concentrations of free fatty acids in participants who use yohimbine, suggesting increased rates of lipolysis. However, the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database has stated that there is insufficient evidence to claim it aids in weight loss.
  Source: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/759.html

Stages 3 and 4: Appetite Balancing and Weight Management Control:

• Glucomannan (Amorphophallus konjac) (root): The fibre based powder absorbs water, becoming gel-like in consistency; it helps to fill the stomach and slows down digestion, meaning that the dieter can go for longer before feeling hungry again. Numerous studies show that glucomannan use leads to small amounts of weight loss without making any other changes.
  Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6096282
• Raspberry Ketone: Whilst there is a small amount of evidence that raspberry ketone can cause weight loss in rats, there have never been any human trials on the potential weight loss effects of raspberry ketone.
  Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/raspberry-ketones_b_2727943.html
• Guar Gum
• Alpha Lipoic Acid: Appears to suppress the appetite by inhibiting AMPK in the hypothalamus although little research has been conducted in humans at this point. This fatty acid also appears to boost fat burning slightly, although this is only a very small effect.
  Source: http://examine.com/supplements/Alpha-Lipoic+Acid/#summary4-0
• Gymnema sylvestre (leaf): Traditionally used in Indian medicine, several studies have shown that this herb can support healthy blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Research into Gymnema Sylvestra’s role in weight loss is still in preliminary stages, but a few studies are publishing promising results. It appears to lower blood glucose levels.
  Source: http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/GYMNEMA
• Banaba Extract (1% Corosolic Acid) (leaf): This plant extract may help to lower blood sugar levels, which may help to regulate sugar cravings.v
  Source: http://www.livestrong.com/article/54535-banaba-leaf-weight-loss/
• D-Biotin
• Calcium Malate
• White Kidney Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris)(bean): One study in humans showed that participants who consumed white kidney bean extract, in addition to being on a multi-component weight loss programs (diet, exercise and behavioural intervention) lost more weight when compared to those who just followed the multi-component diet.
  Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17658120
• Chromium (Chelate)

Stage 5: Anti-Stress Mood Balancing Matrix:

• Turmeric (Standardized for Curcuminoids)
• Panax Ginseng Root
• 5 HTP (Griffonia simplicifolia) (seed): 5HTP is used by the body to make serotonin, which primarily plays a role in regulating mood. Some studies, primarily in animals, have shown that 5HTP reduces the appetite, as well as boosting mood.
  Source: http://examine.com/supplements/5-HTP/
• Echinacea Angustifolia (root): Often associated with cold prevention.
• Garlic: It is thought that garlic can improve blood circulation, lead to slightly lowered cholesterol levels, and lower blood pressure, which are all important for general health.
  Source: http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/superfoods/garlic.aspx
• Wood Betony (Betonica officinalis) (herb)
• Astragalus membranaceus (root): This herb is used to boost the immune system and to fight bacteria and viruses. However, there is not enough clinical evidence to supportits use.
  Source: http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/astragalus

Stage 6: Brain Power Matrix

• Pyroglutamic Acid
• Papain:

Stage 7: Diuretic Complex

• Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos pungens)(leaf): Uva Ursi is used to treat constipation, amongst other ailments. It can also have an astringent effect upon tissues in the body. It is possible that this leads to the user looking temporarily thinner, as their skin becomes dehydrated, allowing muscles to stand out more.
  Source: http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/uva+ursi
• Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)(root) Extract 20:1 (contains Taraxol & Taraxerol): Primarily a diuretic and laxative.
  Source: http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/DANDELION
• Potassium Aspartate: See above.

Stage 8: Sugar Stop and Enzyme Aid Matrix:

• DigeSEB (Amylases, Protease Blend [I, II and III], Lipase, Lactase, HemiSEB cellulase, Maltase, Invertase, Bromelain, Peptizyme SP, Papain and Alpha- Galactosidase): This is a blend of enzymes that break down carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Whilst their supplementation may improve digestion, it is unlikely to lead to any weight changes.
• Ginger (Zingiber officinale)(root): Some studies suggest that ginger root is an appetite suppressant. One study used dried ginger powder to make a tea that participants drank with breakfast. Researchers found that satiety levels were much higher when the tea was consumed with breakfast, rather than just the breakfast on its own.
  Source: http://www.progressivehealth.com/ginger-for-weight-loss.htm
• Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)(seed): Fennel may work as a laxative by relaxing the colon.
  Source: http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/fennel
• Almond Oil Powder
• Dulse (Palmaria palmata) (algae)
• Alfalfa (Medicago sativa)(leaf)
• Chlorella (algae)
• Artichoke (Cynara cardunculus)(leaf): Used to treat IBS and to reduce gas, as well as to increase urine output by acting as a mild diuretic.
  Source: http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/artichoke
• Irish Moss Red Algae (Chondrus crispus) (algae)
• Wild Mexican Yam (Dioscorea villosa) (root)
• Apple Pectin
• Kelp
• Bromelain
• Rutin NF

Does MusclePharm Shred Matrix Have Any Side Effects?

With so many ingredients used in this diet pill, it is no surprise at all that there are numerous potential side effects associated with the use of this product. Customers report headaches, heartburn, dizziness, energy crashes, jitteriness and nausea, but insomnia, disturbed sleep and altered sleeping patterns appear to be the most common side effects. Some customers noted a decreased sex drive whilst others noted an increased sex drive.

Caffeine can cause headaches, increased urination, jitteriness, dehydration, increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, heart palpitations and problems sleeping. Yohimbe has been linked with irregular or rapid heartbeat, kidney failure, seizure, and heart attack in rare cases. More common side effects include stomach upset, tremor, sleep problems, anxiety or agitation, high blood pressure, a racing heartbeat, dizziness, stomach problems, drooling, sinus pain, irritability, headache, frequent urination, bloating, rash, nausea, and vomiting.

Artichoke and dandelion appear to act as a diuretic, and so will cause increased urination. Their use can also lead to dehydration which causes other side effects, including headaches. Serious dehydration is very dangerous, and so consumers should ensure that they drink plenty of water whilst taking this product. Fennel and Uva Ursi are laxatives, and so will cause increased bowel movements. Its use could also cause loose stools, diarrhoea, stomach cramps and severe dehydration. With this mix of laxative and diuretic ingredients, dehydration is a real concern. Long term use of laxative products can cause dependency, as the walls of the bowel are weakened and need to be artificially stimulated.

White kidney bean extract can cause gas, bloating, heartburn, diarrhoea, loose stools and stomach discomfort. It can also interfere with vitamin absorption, and is not suitable for long term use.

Eleuthero can cause drowsiness, changes in heart rhythm, sadness, anxiety and muscle spasms, although these all seem to be rare. Fo-ti has been linked with liver damage in some users, and so its use is possible unsafe. It also acts as a laxative, and could cause diarrhoea.

Are There Any Customer Reviews For MusclePharm Shred Matrix?

There are literally hundreds of customer reviews for this product on bodybuilding.com. Customer reviews are split between people who love the product and people who experience numerous side effects which leave them unable to take the product. Customers considering this product should read more of the reviews for MusclePharm Shred Matrix, as the reviews provided below are a very small selection.

Did a really good job of appetite suppression for me and really kick started my weight loss. Energy level was ok, but had to drop down to 2 pills twice/day because it gave me headaches

I’m not usually sensitive to caffeine products and in general like the MP products, but this particular item after 4 recommended doses made me extremely nauseous, and slightly dizzy even though I hydrated as recommended. On the plus side the appetite suppression was noticeable. As I said MP has some great products unfortunately this one is not for me.

Great energy boost, it definitely keeps you awake but when it’s time to relax and sleep it was nearly impossible for me. I toss and turned every night I took this and am happy to say I am finally done with the entire bottle and can look forward to a few good nights of sleep. I lost 10LBS with this stuff, I wouldn’t recommend it because of the sleep issues, there are better products out there.

Does MusclePharm Shred Matrix Offer a Money-Back Guarantee?

There is no money back guarantee for this product. Muscle Pharm offer a 30 day returns period for unopened products. Other retailers may have different returns policies. Bodybuilding.com have the most comprehensive returns policy, and often offer store credit or exchanges where a refund is unavailable.

Where Can I Buy MusclePharm Shred Matrix?

MusclePharm Shred Matrix is available from a huge range of third party online retailers, as well as direct from the manufacturer’s website.

MusclePharm offer three sizes of Shred Matrix on their official website; 7 servings (21 capsules), 20 servings (60 capsules) or 40 servings (120 capsules). The bag containing 7 servings costs $8.29, the bottle containing 20 servings costs $19.99 and the bottle containing 40 servings costs $33.99. Delivery costs are dependent upon the price of the total order and there is no free shipping option.

GNC sell a bottle of 120 capsules for $41.99 (although members will pay $39.99), and a bottle of 60 capsules for $21.99 (although members will pay $19.99).

Bodybuilding.com sell a pack of 21 capsules for $7.13, a bottle of 60 capsules for $14.54 and a bottle of 120 capsules for $24.86.

MusclePharm Shred Matrix can also be purchased from EVitamins’ UK website; they sell a bottle of 60 capsules for £10.33 and a bottle of 120 capsules for £22.74. Delivery costs may apply.

Consumers should consider how long a single bottle of a supplement will last before they make a purchase. The recommended dose for MusclePharm Shred Matrix is six capsules per day, a bottle of 60 capsules will last for 10 days, and a bottle of 120 capsules will last for 20 days if used as recommended. This makes the product expensive to use in the long term.