Written by Steve Theunissen | ISSA: CPT & Fitness Nutrition
Fact checked by Robert Iafelice, MS, RD, LDN
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Testosterone and muscle growth are inextricably linked: healthy testosterone levels promote protein synthesis, which is the process by which muscle is built. So, to reap the benefits of all that sweat equity on the gym floor, you need to have plenty of testosterone coursing through your veins. Unfortunately, our production of the hormone declines as we age. To get the amount you need, you've got to supplement.
There's a lot of choice when it comes to testosterone-boosting supplements for hard-training bodybuilders and athletes. Among the offerings is Animal Stak from Universal Nutrition. As the name suggests, this product is designed for serious weight trainers who want a hardcore stack to provide complete hormonal support.
In this Animal Stack review, we're about to find out whether this 'T' booster stacks up or whether it's just another overhyped underperformer.
Table Of Contents:
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What Is Animal Stak?
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Animal Stak Review: Pass or Fail?
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Animal Stak Ingredients
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Claimed Benefits of Animal Stak
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Animal Stak Side Effects
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Real Customer Animal Stak Reviews
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Who Should Take Animal Stak?
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Animal Stak Alternatives
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FAQs
Stak works with your body to enhance testosterone and GH levels – while blocking estrogen – to improve pump and increase muscle mass, strength, energy and vitality...
What is Animal Stak?
Animal Stak is a popular testosterone booster from Universal Nutrition. It is designed to boost testosterone production and improve athletic and bodybuilding performance and muscular growth.
Animal Stak test booster comprises a combination of natural herbal extracts, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that are thought to support testosterone levels, muscular growth, and general athletic performance. The supplement is sold in small, distinct "packs," each containing a range of capsules and tablets.
Universal Nutrition claims that Animal Stak contains substances that improve workout performance, endurance, and recovery, in addition to supporting testosterone and growth hormones. The company markets Animal Stak as a supplement for athletes and bodybuilders who want to increase their power, muscle mass, and general physical prowess.
Animal Stak Review: Pass or Fail?
Animal Stak contains some ingredients with solid research to support their inclusion in a testosterone-boosting formula. Others, like stinging nettle, have no purpose.
The biggest issue we have with Animal Stak, however, is that most of the ingredient dosages are hidden behind proprietary blends. That is disappointing, considering this product comes from a respected company like Universal Nutrition. It means that we can't be confident that the ingredients are dosed effectively enough to do anything.
The other issue is with the daily dosage. Eight capsules is a ridiculously high amount - in fact, it's the most I've ever seen in a testosterone booster!
The bottom line here is that there are better products out there that don't hide their ingredients behind proprietary blends - and that don't require you to down eight capsules every day.
Overall Verdict: PASS, but much better options are available
Pros
- Contains some ingredients that are research supported
- Five complexes to boost testosterone and growth hormone levels
- 90-day 100% guarantee
Cons
- Proprietary blend
- Requires taking eight capsules per day
9 Animal Stak Ingredients
Apart from its vitamin and mineral content, Animal Stak's ingredients are listed as five proprietary blends. If you're a regular reader of Set-for-Set supplement reviews, you know how we feel about proprietary blends. Needless to say, we're not fans!
Here's a breakdown of what the formula contains based on the information provided:
1) Vitamin D - 25 mcg
Vitamin D has been shown to enhance testosterone production, acting as a precursor to testosterone.
Vitamin D receptors are located in the testes, which suggests that the vitamin directly impacts testosterone production in the testes. Vitamin D also reduces the activity of an enzyme called aromatase, which turns testosterone into estrogen.
2) Vitamin B6 - 10.5 mg
Vitamin B6 is a cofactor in the process that turns androstenedione, a precursor to testosterone, into testosterone in the testes. It also helps to suppress prolactin, a hormone that blocks testosterone production.
Hormone levels, especially testosterone, can be adversely impacted by chronic inflammation. The anti-inflammatory effects of vitamin B6 may help to lessen inflammation and support hormonal balance.
3) Magnesium - 450 mg
Numerous enzymes involved in controlling sex hormones and metabolism require magnesium as a cofactor. This includes the enzymes that change cholesterol into pregnenolone, a precursor to several steroid hormones, including testosterone. Increased free testosterone levels may result from magnesium's ability to control Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) levels.
4) Zinc - 30 mg
Healthy testosterone production depends on zinc as an essential component. Zinc functions as a cofactor for the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme, turning testosterone into the more potent dihydrotestosterone (DHT) form.
The enzyme aromatase, which changes testosterone into estrogen, also needs zinc to function properly. For the balance between testosterone and estrogen, it's crucial to maintain healthy zinc levels.
Finally, zinc regulates luteinizing hormone production (LH), which increases the production of testosterone in the testes.
5) Pro Testosterone Complex - 1500 mg
The following substances make up Animal Stak's Pro Testosterone Complex:
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Tribulus Terrestris: Although data is conflicting, Tribulus terrestris is thought to increase testosterone levels and boost athletic and sexual performance.
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Tongkat Ali: Eurycoma longifolia, also known as tongkat ali, is believed to support testosterone production and boost libido and muscle strength.
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Fenugreek: This herb may enhance overall male health, stimulate testosterone levels, and improve workout performance.
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Stinging Nettle: Although it might have some advantages for prostate health, we couldn't find any evidence to support the use of stinging nettle in a testosterone booster.
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Maca Root Extract: This extract may enhance libido, energy, and stamina.
6) Growth Hormone Support (With Sustamine™) - 1500 mg
Here's a quick overview of the six ingredients that make up the Growth Hormone Support blend:
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Arginine HCl: Arginine is a precursor to nitric oxide, which might aid in boosting blood pressure and flow and heighten the "pump" during workouts.
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L-Lysine HCl: Lysine can enhance protein synthesis and collagen production, both promoting muscle recovery and repair.
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L-Glutamine: Glutamine is an amino acid that helps speed up muscle recovery and reduces the breakdown of muscle tissue during workouts.
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L-Alanyl-L-Glutamine: A more stable version of glutamine that supports the immune system and healing.
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Gamma Oryzanol: This substance, derived from rice bran oil, is thought to have anabolic qualities that could promote the development of muscular mass and strength.
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Alpha-GPC (Alpha-Glycerylphosphorylcholine): During exercise, alpha-GPC may improve the mind-muscle link and boost cognitive function.
7) Aromatase Combating Complex - 300 mg
This complex consists of the following three ingredients:
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Resveratrol: The naturally occurring compound Resveratrol contains antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress and promotes general health.
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D-Glucarate: Fruits and vegetables contain the compound calcium D-glucarate, which may improve liver health and help detoxify the body.
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Diindolylmethane (DIM): Encourages the conversion of powerful estrogens into less potent ones, which is believed to have estrogen-balancing effects.
8) Hormone Amplifying Blend - 500 mg
Here's what you get in this blend:
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L-Carnitine Fumarate: L-carnitine, an amino acid involved in energy metabolism, helps generate energy and enhance athletic performance.
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Agmatine Sulphate: The amino acid arginine has a metabolite called agmatine which may help boost nitric oxide production in the body. This improves blood flow to bring more oxygen and nutrients to the muscle cell.
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Quercitin: This flavonoid is well known for its possible anti-inflammatory benefits and antioxidant qualities.
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Astaxanthin: A carotenoid pigment present in some marine plants and animals. It is a potent antioxidant that could help shield cells from oxidative damage.
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Piper Nigrum Extract: Black pepper is used to make piper nigrum. Piperine, which is present in the mixture, is thought to improve the bioavailability and absorption of other nutrients and chemicals.
9) Restorative Support Complex - 500 mg
The following ingredients make up the Restorative Support Complex:
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Milk Thistle Extract: Milk thistle is a plant with possible liver-protective characteristics. These features may promote liver health and detoxification.
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Astragalus: Because of its possible immune-stimulating effects and ability to enhance general health, astragalus is a frequent plant used in traditional medicine.
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Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha is a plant with adaptogenic, or stress-reducing, properties. Reduced stress helps with hormonal balance and help reduce stress, and may improve general health.
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Na-R ALA: It is believed that the alpha-lipoic acid salt known as Na-R ALA (Sodium R-Alpha Lipoic Acid) improves bioavailability while also acting as an antioxidant.
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CoQ10: This is an antioxidant that is needed to produce energy within cells.
Claimed Benefits of Animal Stak
Universal Nutrition claims that Animal Stak will provide you with the following health benefits:
1) Increase Testosterone Levels
Animal Stak's main marketing promise is that it will boost testosterone levels. Tribulus terrestris and Eurycoma longifolia (Tongkat Ali), two constituents in Animal Stak, are thought to have the capacity to encourage the production of testosterone.
However, the effectiveness of these ingredients varies from person to person, and there is frequently conflicting evidence regarding how directly these ingredients affect testosterone levels.
For more ways to increase testosterone, read our article How To Boost Testosterone Naturally.
2) Increased muscle mass
Higher testosterone levels may promote the synthesis of muscle proteins, which is necessary for muscular growth and recovery.
It's crucial to remember that in addition to exercise, diet, rest, and genetics, other elements affect how muscles develop. Animal Stak's ingredients that support testosterone may aid in muscle growth, but a well-planned exercise routine and a healthy diet should always come first.
3) Increased blood flow
L-Arginine and Agmatine Sulphate, two ingredients in Animal Stak, are thought to encourage vasodilation, a process that opens blood vessels and may enhance blood flow. Increased blood flow may improve the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to working muscles, boosting exercise performance and recovery.
4) Improved sexual function
Tongkat Ali and maca root extract have historically been used to promote male sexual health and libido. While there may be some advantages to these natural substances, reactions can vary from person to person, and there is not enough convincing scientific data to support their effects on improving sexual function.
5) Increased energy
Animal Stak's combination of ingredients, which includes adaptogens like Ashwagandha and Astragalus, may assist stress management and energy levels. The body may have more energy and greater resources available for both physical and mental performance if stress is reduced.
Animal Stak Side Effects
A few potential Animal Stak side effects are:
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Hormonal imbalance, leading to mood swings and irritability
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Acne and Skin Conditions
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If a person has a genetic propensity for male pattern baldness, testosterone boosters may accelerate the thinning of their hair.
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Testosterone boosters occasionally alter sleep patterns, causing insomnia or trouble getting asleep.
Real Customer Animal Stak Reviews
Animal Stak is available from several online retailers, including the official Univeral Nutrition site and Amazon, so there are quite a few Animal Stak reviews online. It has an Amazon rating of 4.5 stars, based on more than 4,200 reviews. Here are a couple of typical verified user reviews:
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Who Should Take Animal Stak?
Animal Stak is mainly designed for bodybuilders and weight lifters trying to add muscle mass and strength. However, it may also be suitable for the following groups:
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Men over 30 trying to offset age-related testosterone decline
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People who have been diagnosed with low testosterone levels
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Those seeking hormone support
How To Take Animal Stak
Each daily serving of Animal Stak is packaged separately in a plastic bag. It consists of eight capsules. It is important to take it with food, and all eight Animal Stak pills should be taken together.
When To Take Animal Stak
Animal Stak should be taken thirty minutes before training or a half hour before bed on non-training days.
Animal Stak Alternatives
There is no shortage when it comes to competition for Animal Stak. Based on our extensive research over many years, we've identified our three top alternatives:
1) TestoPrime
TestoPrime is a popular testosterone booster produced by the UK-based company Wolfson Brands (UK) Limited. It contains the following ingredients:
- D-aspartic acid
- Korean Red Ginseng
- KSM Ashwaganha
- Green Tea Extract
- Vitamin D3
- Pomegranate Extract
- Fenugreek Extract
- Garlic Extract
- Vitamin B5 & B6
- Zinc
- Bioperine
A key ingredient is D-aspartic acid, which is needed to produce testosterone. It also increases luteinizing hormone (LH) levels which stimulates testosterone synthesis. You get 2352 mg of D-Aspartic acid in TestoPrime.
TestoPrime is designed to be a natural and safe testosterone booster. It suits people looking for a clean supplement alternative that is transparent about its dosage and loaded with research-backed ingredients. The recommended daily dosage is four capsules per day.
Pros
- Research supported ingredients
- Contains D-Aspartic Acid
- Transparent labeling
Cons
- Only available from the official website
TestoPrime is an all-natural testosterone support that can help any man take control of his youthful vitality with a flood of new and natural testosterone...
2) TestoFuel
TestoFuel is one of the most popular natural testosterone boosters on the current market, manufactured by a company called Roar Ambition. The key ingredients in its formula are D-Aspartic acid, oyster extract, vitamin D, fenugreek, zinc, magnesium, and Asian Red panax ginseng.
TestoFuel does not contain any synthetic ingredients or other artificial components. All of the ingredients are completely natural, being herbally based, in addition to vitamins and minerals. Roar Ambition claims that TestoFuel will help build muscle, increase a person's sex drive, boost stamina and metabolism, and promote strength gains.
Many verified user reviewers agree. I have personally taken TestoFuel for a 3-month period, during which time I had significant strength increases and was able to add 4-5 pounds of lean muscle mass. I didn't have my testosterone levels tested, though, so don't know if the supplement actually increased my 'T' levels.
The daily dosage for TestoFuel is four capsules.
Pros
- Research supported ingredients
- Boosts the metabolism
- No proprietary blends
Cons
- Some ingredients underdosed
TestoFuel is considered to be a revolutionary, exhaustively researched muscle building supplement with one very focused aim...to smash down the barriers to growth by opening your testosterone floodgates...
3) Hunter Test
Hunter Test is another 'T' booster from Roar Ambition. It's notable for its high dosage of D-aspartic acid. You get 3,000 mg of this vital amino acid for testosterone synthesis. That is the highest amount I've seen in a testosterone booster.
Other ingredients and dosages include 300 mg of ashwagandha root extract, 300 mg of Panax ginseng root extract, 200 mg of indole-3-carbinol ( a plant hormone that suppresses aromatase, an enzyme that converts testosterone to estrogen), and 200 mg of magnesium.
The only real negative I could find with Hunter Test is that you have to take six capsules per day - that's nearly as much as Animal Stak and could be a problem for people who have an aversion to swallowing capsules.
Pros
- High dose of D-Aspartic acid
- Well researched ingredients
- Manufactured in FDA-approved facilities
Cons
- Requires taking six capsules per day
Hunter Test leaves nothing to chance. We work with scientists to find nine potent ingredients, all with the power to boost testosterone – and transform your whole life...
FAQs
Hopefully we've answered most of your questions so far, but just in case, here are some of the more frequently asked questions about Animal Stak.
What does Animal Stak do to your body?
Animal Stak aims to increase the body's normal production of testosterone. Improved muscle size and strength may result from increased protein synthesis. Some ingredients may help athletes perform better, last longer, and recover faster. Other compounds in Animal Stak, such as those that support ideal testosterone-to-estrogen ratios, may help to maintain a healthy hormonal balance.
Does Animal Stak make you bigger?
Animal Stak by itself will not make you bigger. But if you combine it with consistent, intense weight training and follow a high-protein diet that puts you in a calorie surplus, it may help you gain muscle mass.
Is Animal Stak safe?
Yes, Animal Stak is a safe supplement to take. It contains only natural ingredients consisting of herbs, vitamins, and minerals. Some people may experience stomach discomfort such as gas, bloating, or diarrhea, but these effects are usually short-lived.
Is Animal Stak a steroid?
No, Animal Stak is not a steroid. Rather than being a synthetic replacement for testosterone like anabolic steroids, Animal Stak contains natural ingredients that promote more of the body's natural testosterone production in the testes.
Animal Stak Review: Summary
Animal Stack by Universal Nutrition may be a well-dosed supplement that delivers clinical amounts of its key ingredients. The problem is that we'll never know because its dosages are hidden behind proprietary blends.
As such, we simply can't put our confidence in its ability to produce results. We're also not keen on the requirement to take eight capsules per day. Take your chances with Animal Stak if you wish - or else try another testosterone boosting supplement like TestoPrime, TestoFuel, and Hunter Test that's more transparent and has a more reasonable dosing protocol.
TestoFuel is considered to be a revolutionary, exhaustively researched muscle building supplement with one very focused aim...to smash down the barriers to growth by opening your testosterone floodgates...
Want to learn more about your options? Read our TestoPrime Review, TestoFuel Review, and Hunter Test Review to see how they stack up.
Steve Theunissen
Author