What is Velositol®?
Velositol® is a patented complex of amylopectin (a type of fast-digesting carbohydrate) and chromium, designed to amplify the muscle protein synthesis (MPS) response when used alongside protein supplementation. Created by Nutrition 21, Velositol® has been shown in peer reviewed studies to double the anabolic response to protein, making it one of the most innovative additions to the performance nutrition space in recent years.
Unlike typical ergogenic aids that stimulate performance through caffeine or stimulants, Velositol® operates on the cellular level, improving how efficiently the body utilises dietary protein to fuel recovery, repair, and muscle growth.
What Does Velositol® Do?
When consumed with protein (typically whey or plant-based protein), Velositol® is designed to:
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Enhance Muscle Protein Synthesis (MPS)
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Improve Amino Acid Uptake into muscle cells
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Support Lean Muscle Development
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Promote Recovery between workouts
The primary mechanism behind Velositol® is its influence on the mTOR signalling pathway, which is the master controller of muscle protein synthesis. Research has shown that adding just 2 grams of Velositol® to a 6 gram dose of whey protein can double the MPS response compared to protein alone. This is especially relevant for athletes or individuals who consume moderate protein doses post-workout and want to maximise their efficiency.
Chromium, the trace mineral included in the Velositol® matrix, plays a role in insulin signalling and nutrient metabolism. It helps shuttle amino acids and glucose more effectively into muscle cells, supporting anabolic conditions after training.
Does Velositol® Work?
Velositol® is one of the few ingredients with published human clinical studies supporting its claims. In a randomised, double-blind study, participants who consumed Velositol® with whey protein showed significantly greater increases in muscle protein synthesis, squat performance, and vertical jump height compared to those who took protein alone.
Additional research suggests Velositol® may also:
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Increase insulinogenic response to protein
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Reduce muscle breakdown
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Improve recovery markers post-exercise
Importantly, these effects were seen without increasing total protein intake, making Velositol® an appealing option for athletes seeking results without adding more macros.
How to Use Velositol®
Velositol® is designed to be paired with protein or amino acids post-workout. The clinically studied dose is 2 grams, which is often included in:
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Protein powders
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Amino acid formulas
It’s most effective when used in post-exercise settings where muscle protein synthesis is naturally elevated. Products containing Velositol® are typically taken within 30-60 minutes after training to maximise its effects.
Final Thoughts
In a world full of buzzword ingredients, Velositol® stands out by doing something few other performance enhancers can: amplify the effects of your protein intake without needing to increase the dose. Backed by human research and designed for real world performance, Velositol® is a smart addition to any athlete's recovery stack.
