Testosterone dietary supplements: side effects and contraindications

Testosterone dietary supplements: side effects and contraindications

Chapter 1: Testosterone and its role in the body

Testosterone is the main male sex hormone related to the androgen group. It is produced mainly in testicles in men and in small quantities in ovaries and adrenal glands in women. Testosterone plays a key role in many physiological processes, covering the reproductive function, muscle mass, bone density, energy metabolism, mood and overall well -being.

1.1 Testosterone functions in men:

• Development and maintenance of male sexual characteristics: Testosterone is responsible for the formation and development of the male genital organs, including testicles, prostate gland and penis. It also determines the appearance of secondary sexual characteristics, such as hair growth on the face and body, coarsening of the voice and an increase in muscle mass.
• Spermatogenes: Testosterone plays an important role in the process of spermatogenesis – the formation of sperm in the testicles. A sufficient level of testosterone is necessary for normal fertility.
• Muscle mass and strength: Testosterone stimulates protein synthesis and muscle growth. It also helps to increase strength and endurance. The low level of testosterone can lead to a decrease in muscle mass and weakness.
• Bone density: Testosterone helps maintain bone density and prevents the development of osteoporosis. The low level of testosterone can increase the risk of bone fractures.
• Energy exchange: Testosterone affects the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates. It helps to reduce fat mass and increase muscle mass, which improves the general state of metabolism.
• Erithophoes: Testosterone stimulates the production of erythropoetin, hormone, which stimulates the formation of red blood cells (red blood cells) in the bone marrow. This provides a sufficient level of oxygen in the tissues of the body.
• Mood and cognitive functions: Testosterone affects mood, cognitive functions and libido. The low level of testosterone can lead to depression, fatigue, a decrease in concentration of attention and a decrease in sex drive.

1.2 Testosterone functions in women:

Although testosterone is considered a male hormone, it also plays an important role in the female body, although in much smaller concentrations.

• Libido: Testosterone affects sexual desire in women.
• Bone density: Testosterone helps maintain bone density and prevents the development of osteoporosis.
• Muscle mass: Testosterone helps maintain muscle mass and strength.
• Energy level: Testosterone can affect the energy level and overall well -being.

1.3 Factors affecting testosterone levels:

The level of testosterone can vary depending on many factors, including:

• Age: The level of testosterone, as a rule, reaches a peak aged 20-30 years, and then gradually decreases with age.
• Health status: Some diseases, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, hypogonadism and others, can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels.
• Life: Improper nutrition, lack of physical activity, stress, lack of sleep and alcohol abuse can negatively affect testosterone levels.
• Taking drugs: Some drugs, such as corticosteroids, opioids and antidepressants, can reduce testosterone levels.
• Genetics: Genetic factors can also affect testosterone levels.

Chapter 2: Dietary supplement to increase testosterone: review and mechanisms of action

The market for biologically active additives (dietary supplements) to increase testosterone levels is very extensive. Many products are advertised as means to increase muscle mass, increase libido, improve mood and overall well -being. However, the effectiveness and safety of many of these additives is not scientifically proven. It is important to understand the mechanisms of the action of various ingredients that make up these dietary supplements and evaluate potential risks and side effects.

2.1 The most common ingredients in dietary supplement to increase testosterone:

• D-asparaginic acid (DAA): DAA is an amino acid, which is believed to stimulates the production of luteinizing hormone (LH) in the pituitary gland. LH, in turn, stimulates Leydig’s cells in testicles to the production of testosterone. Some studies show that the DAA can increase the level of testosterone in men with a low level of this hormone, but other studies do not confirm these results.
• Tribulus Terrestris Tribulus: Tribulus Terrytris is a plant that is traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine to increase libido and improve sports indicators. It is believed that the tribulus stimulates the production of LH and testosterone. However, scientific data on its effectiveness in increasing the level of testosterone are contradictory. Most studies do not confirm the significant influence of the tribulus on the level of testosterone in healthy men.
• Fenugreek (Fenugreek): Sennaya fan is a plant whose seeds are used as a spice and a drug. It is believed that the fences contains compounds that can block the enzyme aromatase that turns testosterone into estrogen. Some studies show that the fencing can increase testosterone levels and improve libido in men.
• Zinc: Zinc is an important trace element that plays a role in many physiological processes, including testosterone production. Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels. Taking zinc can increase the level of testosterone in men with a deficiency of this trace element.
• Magnesium: Magnesium is also an important trace element that is involved in the production of testosterone. Magnesium deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels. Magnesium intake can increase the level of testosterone in men with a deficiency of this trace element.
• Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays a role in the production of testosterone. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels. Vitamin D intake can increase the level of testosterone in men with a deficiency of this vitamin.
• DAA (D-asparaginic acid): It is believed that it stimulates the production of luteinizing hormone (LH), which, in turn, stimulates the production of testosterone.
• Urtica dioica root extract: Contains Lignans who can contact a globulin connecting sex hormones (GSPG), increasing the amount of free testosterone.
• Long -leaved eurecoma (Eurycoma Longifolia, Tongkat Ali): It is traditionally used to increase libido and fertility. It is assumed that it can increase the level of testosterone, but scientific data is not always consistent.
• Brown: A trace element that can affect the metabolism of testosterone and estrogen. Some studies show that it can slightly increase the level of testosterone.
• Creatine: Although creatine is mainly used to increase muscle mass and strength, some studies show that it can affect the level of testosterone, especially in combination with strength training.
• Melatonin: A hormone that regulates a dream. Some studies show the relationship between melatonin and the level of testosterone, but additional studies are needed.
• ZMA (Zinc Monomethionine Aspartate): Combination of zinc, magnesium and vitamin B6. It is used to increase the level of testosterone and improve recovery after training, although scientific evidence is limited.
• Aromatase inhibitors (for example, chrysin): It is assumed that they reduce testosterone transformation into estrogen, thereby increasing testosterone levels. The effectiveness of Khrzin as an inhibitor of aromatase in people is doubtful due to its low bioavailability.

2.2 mechanisms for the action of dietary supplement to increase testosterone:

Bades to increase testosterone can act in various ways, including:

• Stimulation of LH production: Some dietary supplements, such as DAA and tribulus, are believed to stimulate the production of LH, which, in turn, stimulates the production of testosterone in testicles.
• Aromatase inhibiting: Some dietary supplements, such as the fencing, is believed to inhibit the enzyme aromatase, which turns testosterone into estrogen. This can lead to an increase in testosterone levels.
• GSPG blocking: Some dietary supplements, such as nettle root extract, is believed to block the GSPG, which connects testosterone in the blood. This can lead to an increase in the amount of free testosterone, which is a biologically active form of the hormone.
• Filling a deficiency of trace elements: Some dietary supplements contain zinc, magnesium and vitamin D, which are necessary for the production of testosterone. Filling up the deficiency of these trace elements can increase the level of testosterone.
• Improving the general state of health: Some dietary supplements contain ingredients that can improve general health, such as antioxidants and adaptogens. This can indirectly affect the level of testosterone.

Chapter 3: Side effects of dietary supplement to increase testosterone

Bades designed to increase the level of testosterone, despite their positioning as “natural” means, can cause side effects. It is important to understand that “natural” does not always mean “safe.” Side effects can vary depending on a specific ingredient, dosage, individual sensitivity and the presence of concomitant diseases.

3.1 General side effects:

• Gastrointestinal disorders: Many dietary supplements can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, bloating and other gastrointestinal disorders. This is especially common when taking high doses or with individual intolerance to ingredients.
• Headache: Headache is a common side effect of many dietary supplements, including those that are designed to increase testosterone levels.
• Acne: An increase in the level of testosterone can stimulate the production of sebum, which can lead to the appearance of acne.
• Irritability and aggressiveness: An increase in the level of testosterone can lead to irritability, aggressiveness and mood swings.
• Insomnia: Some dietary supplements can violate sleep and lead to insomnia.
• Fatigue: In some cases, dietary supplements that should increase energy can cause fatigue and weakness.
• Hair loss (alopecia): A high level of dihydrotestosterone (DGT), a derivative of testosterone, can contribute to hair loss, especially in people genetically predisposed to catching male type.
• Prostate increase: A prolonged increase in testosterone levels can contribute to an increase in the prostate gland (benign prostate hyperplasia – DHCH), which can lead to urination problems.

3.2 specific side effects by ingredients:

• D-asparaginic acid (DAA):
  • Headache
  • Irritability
  • Nausea
  • Changes in the hormonal background (including an increase in estrogen levels in some cases)
• Tribulus Terrestris Tribulus:
  • Gastrointestinal disorders (nausea, diarrhea)
  • Insomnia
  • Anxiety
  • In rare cases, gynecomastia (an increase in the chest glands in men) due to a possible estrogenic effect.
• Fenugreek (Fenugreek):
  • Gastrointestinal disorders (diarrhea, bloating)
  • The smell of the body resembling maple syrup (due to the content of the sotolone)
  • Potential allergic reactions
  • Possible decrease in blood sugar (caution should be observed when taking diabetes)
• Zinc:
  • Gastrointestinal disorders (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
  • Reducing the level of copper (with prolonged use of high doses)
  • Metal taste in the mouth
• Magnesium:
  • Diarrhea (especially when taking magnesium citrate)
  • Nausea
  • Spasms in the stomach
• Vitamin D:
  • Hypercalcemia (an increased level of calcium in the blood) when taking high doses, which can lead to nausea, vomiting, weakness, constipation and kidney problems.
• Long -leaved eurecoma (Eurycoma Longifolia, Tongkat Ali):
  • Insomnia
  • Anxiety
  • Irritability
• Aromatase inhibitors (for example, chrysin):
  • The suppression of estrogen (which can lead to problems with joints, a decrease in libido and other side effects). However, as mentioned earlier, the bioavailability of Khrzin is low, so these effects can be less pronounced.

3.3 influence on the cardiovascular system:

Some dietary supplements to increase testosterone can have a negative effect on the cardiovascular system, especially in people with a predisposition to cardiac diseases. Some studies show that an increased level of testosterone can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, such as myocardial infarction and stroke. Some ingredients, such as stimulants, can increase blood pressure and heart rate.

3.4 influence on the reproductive system:

Reception of dietary supplements to increase testosterone can have a negative effect on the reproductive system, especially in men. Exogenous testosterone (or substances that stimulate its production) can suppress the production of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GNRG), LH and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). This, in turn, can lead to a decrease in the size of the testicles, a decrease in sperm production and infertility.

3.5 Impact on the liver:

Some dietary supplements to increase testosterone can have a toxic effect on the liver, especially with prolonged use of high doses. It is important to monitor the signs of liver damage, such as jaundice, dark urine and abdominal pain.

3.6 Interaction with drugs:

Bades to increase testosterone can interact with various drugs, enhancing or weakening their effect. It is important to inform your doctor about taking any dietary supplements in order to avoid potential interactions. It is especially important to be caused by caution when taking dietary supplements with anticoagulants (for example, warfarin), antidiabetic drugs and antidepressants.

Chapter 4: Contraindications to the use of dietary supplements to increase testosterone

There are certain states and situations in which the intake of dietary supplements aimed at increasing the level of testosterone is strictly contraindicated or requires extreme caution. Before you start taking such additives, you must carefully evaluate all the risks and consult a doctor.

4.1 Absolute contraindications:

• Prostate cancer: Testosterone can stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells. Therefore, in the presence of prostate cancer, any dietary supplements that increase the level of testosterone are strictly contraindicated.
• Breast cancer in men: Similarly, the prostate cancer, testosterone can stimulate the growth of cancer cells of the mammary gland in men.
• Severe heart failure: In severe heart failure, the body cannot effectively cope with additional load, which can increase the level of testosterone on the cardiovascular system.
• Severe liver diseases: In severe liver diseases, such as cirrhosis, the liver cannot effectively metabolize hormones and other substances, which can lead to serious complications.
• Allergy or individual intolerance to dietary supplements: In the presence of allergies or individual intolerance to any of the components of the dietary supplement, its intake is strictly contraindicated.
• Children and adolescence: The use of dietary supplements affecting hormonal background during puberty can disrupt normal development and lead to irreversible consequences.

4.2 relative contraindications (care and consultation with a doctor are required):

• Benign prostate hyperplasia (DGPZH): Testosterone can contribute to an increase in prostate, which can aggravate the symptoms of DHCH, such as difficult urination.
• Diseases of the cardiovascular system (coronary heart disease, arrhythmia, hypertension): An increase in testosterone levels can have a negative effect on the cardiovascular system.
• Diabetes sugar: Some dietary supplements can affect blood sugar, which may require adjusting the dose of drugs for diabetes.
• Kidney diseases: Some dietary supplements can provide an additional load on the kidneys.
• Apnee in a dream: An increase in testosterone levels can aggravate the symptoms of apnea in a dream.
• Increased cholesterol level: An increase in testosterone levels can lead to an increase in the level of “poor” cholesterol (LDL) and a decrease in the level of “good” cholesterol (HDL).
• Blood coagulation disorders: Some dietary supplements can affect blood coagulation, which can increase the risk of bleeding.
• Taking drugs: As mentioned earlier, dietary supplements can interact with various drugs.
• Migraine: Some dietary supplements can provoke migraine attacks.
• Alarm disorders and depression: An increase in testosterone levels can aggravate the symptoms of anxiety and depression in some people.
• Pregnancy planning (for men and women): Bades affecting the hormonal background can have a negative effect on fertility.

4.3 Contraindications for women:

In addition to general contraindications, there are specific contraindications for women associated with the reception of dietary supplements to increase testosterone:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Reception of dietary supplements affecting the hormonal background is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential risk for the development of the fetus and baby.
• Hormone -dependent tumors (breast cancer, uterine cancer): Testosterone can stimulate the growth of hormone -dependent tumors.
• Ovarian polycystic ovary (SPKU): In women with PCOS, an increased level of testosterone is often observed. Reception of dietary supplements that increase the level of testosterone can aggravate the symptoms of PCU, such as acne, hirsutism (excess hair growth on the face and body) and irregular menstruation.

Chapter 5: How to minimize risks when taking dietary supplement to increase testosterone

If you still decide to take dietary supplements to increase testosterone, it is important to take measures to minimize risks and side effects.

5.1 Consultation with a doctor:

Before you start taking any dietary supplements, especially those that affect the hormonal background, you need to consult a doctor. The doctor can evaluate your health status, identify contraindications and provide individual recommendations.

5.2 A thorough choice of dietary supplement:

• Study the composition: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement and make sure that it contains the ingredients whose efficiency and safety are confirmed by scientific research.
• Choose trusted manufacturers: Give preference to dietary supplements from well -known and trusted manufacturers who have a good reputation and meet quality standards.
• Pay attention to certification: Check if the dietary supplements have quality certificates such as GMP (good manufactoring practice).
• Avoid dietary supplements with dubious ingredients: Avoid dietary supplements containing ingredients that do not have scientific evidence of effectiveness or which may be dangerous.

5.3 Compliance with the recommended dosage:

Do not exceed the recommended dosage of dietary supplements. Exceeding the dosage will not lead to a faster or better result, but can increase the risk of side effects.

5.4 Monitoring of health status:

During the use of Bad, you must carefully monitor your health state and pay attention to any side effects. When any side effects appear, it is necessary to stop taking the dietary supplement and consult a doctor.

5.5 Correct lifestyle:

Reception of dietary supplements should not replace a healthy lifestyle. To maintain the normal level of testosterone, you need to eat properly, regularly play sports, get enough sleep and avoid stress.

5.6 Regular medical examinations:

During the administration of Bad, it is necessary to regularly undergo medical examinations in order to control the level of testosterone and other health indicators.

5.7 Continuation of dietary supplements:

Do not take dietary supplement to increase testosterone for a long time without a break. Long -term dietary supplements can lead to undesirable side effects. After a certain period of admission of dietary supplements, it is necessary to take a break so that the body can recover.

Chapter 6: Alternative ways to increase testosterone levels

Instead of taking dietary supplements, there are a number of alternative ways to increase testosterone levels, which are safer and more effective.

6.1 Healthy lifestyle:

• Proper nutrition: A balanced diet, rich in proteins, useful fats and complex carbohydrates, is necessary to maintain a normal level of testosterone.
• Regular physical exercises: Regular physical exercises, especially strength training, can increase testosterone levels.
• Sufficient sleep: The lack of sleep can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels. Try to sleep at least 7-8 hours a day.
• Stress management: Stress can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels. Use stress management methods such as meditation, yoga and relaxation.
• Maintaining a healthy weight: Obesity can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels. Try to maintain healthy weight.

6.2 Medication therapy:

In some cases, with a pronounced deficiency of testosterone, hormone replacement therapy (ZGT) may be prescribed. ZGT is carried out under the strict supervision of a doctor and has its own indications and contraindications. ZGT can be effective in increasing testosterone levels, but can also cause side effects.

6.3 Treatment of related diseases:

Treatment of concomitant diseases, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and hypogonadism, can help increase testosterone levels.

Chapter 7: Conclusion (in this structure, there is no, according to the assignment)

(The result is usually summarized here, key points are emphasized and conclusion is made. However, in accordance with the conditions of the problem, this chapter is absent.)

Chapter 8: List of literature (in this structure, there is no, according to the assignment)

(There are usually references to scientific articles, research and other sources used in the preparation of the material. However, in accordance with the conditions of the problem, this chapter is absent.)