Below you’ll find detailed ingredient information along with a curated set of peer-reviewed research studies that informed the formulation of SootheFlex. This page is designed for educational and informational purposes only. The studies evaluated the individual ingredients, not the finished product.
Turmeric is rich in curcumin, a well-studied polyphenol known for its role in supporting a healthy inflammatory response. Curcumin is frequently used to promote joint comfort, mobility, and resilience to everyday physical stressors. Its antioxidant properties help maintain cellular balance and overall wellness.
1.1
Curcumin Supplementation and Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage
Fernández-Lázaro D, Mielgo-Ayuso J, Seco-Calvo J, et al. Modulation of Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage, Inflammation, and Oxidative Markers by Curcumin Supplementation in a Physically Active Population: A Systematic Review. Nutrients. 2020;12(2):501.
This systematic review analyzed multiple studies involving physically active populations. The researchers found that curcumin dosages ranging from 150 mg to 1500 mg were effective in reducing creatine kinase (a marker of muscle damage) and subjective muscle soreness (DOMS) following intense exercise. The review highlights that adding piperine (black pepper extract) significantly enhances the bioavailability of curcumin, ensuring it is absorbed effectively by the body to exert its anti-inflammatory effects.
Ginger contains naturally occurring gingerols that help support digestive comfort and a balanced inflammatory response. It is commonly used to promote joint flexibility and ease minor day-to-day discomfort. Its antioxidant activity also contributes to overall cellular wellness and physical recovery.
2.1
Ginger Reduces Muscle Pain Caused by Eccentric Exercise
This study in The Journal of Pain found that daily consumption of ginger reduced exercise-induced muscle pain by 25%. While some acute pain studies use high "loading" doses (2g), this study supports the efficacy of consistent daily ginger supplementation of 500 mg to 1000 mg for managing muscle sensitivity and stiffness over time.
Magnesium malate provides a bioavailable form of magnesium paired with malic acid, a compound naturally involved in cellular energy production. This form is commonly used to support muscle relaxation, neuromuscular balance, and overall physical comfort. It also plays a role in maintaining healthy energy metabolism throughout the day.*
3.1
Bioavailability of Magnesium Forms: Malate vs. Others
Uysal N, Kizildag S, Yuce Z, et al. Timeline (Bioavailability) of Magnesium Compounds in Hours: Which Magnesium Compound Works Best? Biol Trace Elem Res. 2019;187(1):128-136.
This study investigated the absorption rates of five different magnesium compounds: Magnesium Malate, Citrate, Oxide, Sulfate, and Acetyl Taurate. The researchers found that Magnesium Malate achieved the highest "Area Under the Curve" (AUC) calculation, meaning it was absorbed the most effectively and maintained high serum levels for the longest duration. Notably, Magnesium Malate significantly outperformed Magnesium Oxide and Citrate in bioavailability, validating it as a highly potent form for maximizing magnesium intake.
Russell IJ, Michalek JE, Flechas JD, Abraham GE. Treatment of fibromyalgia syndrome with Super Malic: a randomized, double blind, placebo controlled, crossover pilot study. J Rheumatol. 1995;22(5):953-958.
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study evaluated the effects of Magnesium Malate on patients with fibromyalgia. The study found that supplementation significantly reduced pain and tenderness in trigger points (tender points) compared to placebo. The combination of magnesium and malic acid is hypothesized to assist in ATP (energy) production, addressing the muscle fatigue often found in these conditions.
View study details
3.3
Effects of Magnesium Supplementation on Muscle Soreness
Reno AM, Green M, Killen LG, et al. Effects of Magnesium Supplementation on Muscle Soreness and Performance. J Strength Cond Res. 2022;36(8):2198-2203.
In this 2022 study, college-aged individuals taking magnesium supplements showed significantly lower muscle soreness ratings at 24, 36, and 48 hours after heavy exercise compared to the placebo group. The study highlights magnesium's role in clearing lactate and regulating muscle contraction, validating its use for speeding up physical recovery.
Vitamin D3 plays a central role in supporting bone, muscle, and immune system health. It contributes to calcium regulation and helps maintain normal musculoskeletal function. Many adults may have suboptimal levels, making supplemental vitamin D3 a useful tool for overall wellness and daily vitality.
Makrani AH, Afshari M, Ghajar M, et al. Vitamin D and fibromyalgia: a meta-analysis. Korean J Pain. 2017;30(4):250-257.
This meta-analysis reviewed 12 studies comparing Vitamin D levels in fibromyalgia patients versus healthy controls. The analysis confirmed that patients with widespread chronic pain frequently have significantly lower Vitamin D levels. The review suggests that supplementation to correct these levels (often using dosages between 2,400 IU and 4,000 IU) is correlated with reduced pain scores and improved quality of life, making it a critical nutrient for pain management.
Iron is an essential mineral required for oxygen transport, cellular energy, and red blood cell formation. Chelated iron forms, such as ferrous bisglycinate, are known for their gentle and more bioavailable profile. Adequate iron intake helps support physical endurance, cognitive clarity, and day-to-day energy levels.
5.1
Influence of Iron Supplementation on Fatigue and Mood in Athletes
Burden RJ, Morton K, Richards T, et al. Influence of iron supplementation on fatigue, mood states and sweating profiles of healthy non-anemic athletes during a training exercise. J Clin Biochem Nutr. 2023;72:1-10.
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study examined the effects of iron on non-anemic male and female athletes. Surprisingly, even a low daily dose (3.6 mg) resulted in significant improvements in subjective fatigue, stress scores, and mood states over a 4-week period compared to placebo. This confirms that maintaining optimal iron stores is essential for energy and mental resilience in active adults, independent of menstruation or anemia diagnoses.
Selenium is a trace mineral involved in antioxidant defense and healthy thyroid function. It supports key enzymes that protect cells from oxidative stress and contributes to overall metabolic balance. Selenium’s role in immune health and cellular protection makes it an important nutrient for whole-body wellness.
Savory LA, Kerr CJ, Whiting P, et al. Selenium supplementation and exercise: effect on oxidant stress in overweight adults. Obesity (Silver Spring). 2012;20(4):794-801.
This study investigated whether selenium supplementation could reduce oxidative stress markers (lipid hydroperoxides) following high-intensity exercise. The results showed that selenium effectively decreased post-exercise oxidative damage, confirming its role as a "nutritional safety net" for active individuals. By supporting the enzyme glutathione peroxidase, selenium helps the body recover from the cellular stress induced by physical exertion.
