Testosterone and dietary supplements: scientific research and reviews

Posted on by

Testosterone and dietary supplements: scientific research and reviews

Introduction (Implicit, Covered in the First Security):

This article explores the complex relationship between testosterone and dietary supplements (БАДы), meticulously analyzing scientific research and user reviews. We delve into the mechanisms of action, potential benefits, limitations, and safety considerations of various supplements marketed to boost testosterone levels. The information provided is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as medical advice. Consultation with a qualified healthcare professional is always recommended before initiating any supplement regimen, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications.

I. Testosterone: Fundamentals and meaning

  1. Biochemistry and physiology testosterone:

    • Synthesis: Testosterone, the main male sex hormone, is synthesized mainly in the cells of the leidig eggs in men and in small quantities in the ovaries and adrenal glands in women. The synthesis begins with cholesterol, which is converted into transnhenolone, and then into dehydroepiandrosterone (dhea) and androstendion. Androstendion, in turn, can be transformed into testosterone under the influence of an enzyme 17β-hydroxisteroid dehydrogenase.
    • Transport: In the blood, testosterone is transported mainly related to proteins: globulin connecting sex hormones (GSPG), and albumin. Only a small part (about 1-3%) circulates in a free form, which is considered biologically active.
    • Receptors: Testosterone has its effect, associated with androgenate receptors (AR) located in various body tissues, including muscles, bones, brain and reproductive organs. Activation of the AR launches a cascade of intracellular signaling pathways, leading to changes in the expression of genes and, therefore, to physiological effects.
    • Metabolism: Testosterone can be metabolized by two main ways. One path includes the transformation into dihydrotestosterone (DGT) under the influence of the 5α-reductase enzyme. DGT has a higher affinity to AR and plays an important role in the development and maintenance of secondary sexual characteristics, as well as in the growth of the prostate gland. Another path includes the flavoring of testosterone in estradiol under the influence of an aromatase enzyme. Estradiol is the main estrogen and plays a role in maintaining bone density and libido.
    • Regulation: The synthesis of testosterone is regulated by a hypothalamic-pituitary axis (GGGO). Hypotalamus releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GNRG), which stimulates the pituitary gland to the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). LH stimulates Lydig’s cells in testicles to the synthesis of testosterone. Testosterone provides negative feedback on the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, suppressing the release of GNRG and LH, thereby regulating the level of testosterone in the blood.

  2. Testosterone functions in the body of men:

    • Development and maintenance of male sexual characteristics: Testosterone plays a key role in the development of male genital organs during intrauterine development and during puberty. He is also responsible for maintaining secondary sexual characteristics, such as hair growth on the face and body, deepening the voice and increasing muscle mass.
    • Reproductive function: Testosterone is necessary for spermatogenesis (sperm formation) and maintaining libido and erectile function. The low level of testosterone can lead to a decrease in fertility, impotence and loss of sexual desire.
    • Muscle mass and strength: Testosterone is an anabolic hormone that stimulates the growth and development of muscle tissue. It increases the synthesis of protein, reduces the decay of protein and helps to increase muscle mass and strength.
    • Bone density: Testosterone plays an important role in maintaining bone density. The low level of testosterone can lead to osteoporosis and an increase in the risk of fractures.
    • Red blood cells: Testosterone stimulates the production of red blood cells (red blood cells) in the bone marrow. The low level of testosterone can lead to anemia.
    • Mood and cognitive functions: Testosterone affects mood, energy and cognitive functions, such as memory and concentration. The low level of testosterone can be associated with depression, fatigue and a decrease in cognitive abilities.
    • Fat distribution: Testosterone affects the distribution of fat in the body. It helps to reduce fat mass and increase muscle mass.

  3. Normal levels of testosterone and factors affecting them:

    • Ranks of the norm: Normal levels of testosterone vary depending on the age, time of day and laboratories. Typically, the range of norms for general testosterone in men is from 300 to 1000 ng/dl. The level of free testosterone, which is a biologically active form, is usually from 5 to 25 ng/dl.
    • Age: The level of testosterone usually reaches a peak aged 20 to 30 years and gradually decreases with age (approximately 1-2% per year after 30 years). This decrease in testosterone associated with age is called Andropausa or late hypogonadism.
    • Health status: Some diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, chronic diseases of the kidneys and liver, can affect the level of testosterone.
    • Medicines: Some drugs, such as opioid analgesics, glucocorticoids and antidepressants, can reduce testosterone levels.
    • Life: Life lifestyle factors, such as diet, physical exercises, sleep and stress, can also affect the level of testosterone. Lack of sleep, malnutrition, sedentary lifestyle and chronic stress can reduce testosterone levels.
    • Genetics: Genetic factors can also play a role in determining the level of testosterone.
    • Times of Day: The level of testosterone is usually higher in the morning and below in the evening. Therefore, blood tests to determine the level of testosterone are usually carried out in the morning.

  4. Hypogonadism: causes, symptoms and diagnostics:

    • Definition: Hypogonadism is a condition in which the body does not produce enough testosterone.
    • Reasons: Hycogonadism can be primary (lesion of the testicles) or secondary (damage to the hypothalamus or pituitary gland).
      • Primary hypogonadism: The reasons include congenital conditions, such as Cleinfelter syndrome, testicular injuries, infections (for example, orchitis), autoimmune diseases and cancer treatment (chemotherapy or radiation therapy).
      • Secondary hypogonadism: The causes include pituitary tumors, head injuries, infections, pituitary gear deficiency and taking some drugs (for example, opioids).
    • Symptoms: Symptoms of hypogonadism can vary depending on the age of the onset of the disease.
      • In children: Delay of sexual development, lack of voice deepening, insufficient development of muscle mass and lack of hair growth on the face and body.
      • In adult men: Libido decrease, erectile dysfunction, a decrease in muscle mass and strength, an increase in fat mass, fatigue, depression, a decrease in bone density, a decrease in hair growth on the face and body, infertility and gynecomastia (increase in the mammary glands).
    • Diagnosis: Diagnosis of hypogonadism includes a blood test to determine the level of testosterone (general and free), luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle -stimulating hormone (FSH). Additional tests can also be prescribed to identify the causes of hypogonadism, such as analysis for prolactin, estradiol, thyroid hormones and genetic tests.

II. Dietary supplements declared as Testosterone beastors: review and action mechanisms

  1. D-asparaginic acid (D-ASPARTIC Acid-DAA):

    • The mechanism of action: DAA is an amino acid that is believed to play a role in the synthesis and release of hormones, including testosterone. Studies show that the DAA can stimulate the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland, which, in turn, stimulates testicles to the production of testosterone. It is assumed that DAA can also directly affect the testicles, increasing the production of testosterone.
    • Scientific research: Some studies have shown that the DAA can increase the level of testosterone in men with a low level of testosterone or in barren men. However, other studies did not reveal the significant effect of DAA on testosterone levels in healthy men with a normal level of testosterone. The dosage and duration of DAA admission can affect research results.
    • Reviews: Reviews about DAA are diverse. Some users report an increase in libido, improving mood and increasing muscle mass. However, other users do not notice any effects or report side effects, such as irritability and acne.
    • Side effects and safety: DAA is usually considered safe when receiving in recommended doses. However, some users report side effects, such as headache, irritability and acne. Additional studies are needed to assess the long -term safety of DAA.

  2. Tribulus Terrestris Tribulus:

    • The mechanism of action: Tribulus Terrright is a plant that is used in traditional medicine to treat various diseases, including sexual dysfunction and infertility. It is believed that active compounds in the tribulus, such as saponins, can increase the level of testosterone by stimulating the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and improving the function of testicles.
    • Scientific research: Most studies of the Terertris tribulus were carried out on animals. Some animal studies have shown that tribulus can increase testosterone levels and improve sexual function. However, studies in public gave ambiguous results. Some studies have not revealed a significant effect of the tribulus on the level of testosterone in healthy men. Other studies have shown that tribulus can improve sexual function and libido, but does not increase the level of testosterone.
    • Reviews: Reviews about Tower Trestrix are also diverse. Some users report improving libido, improving erectile function and increasing muscle mass. However, other users do not notice any effects or report side effects, such as stomach disorder.
    • Side effects and safety: Toltris tribulus is usually considered safe when receiving in recommended doses. However, some users report side effects, such as stomach disorder, nausea and vomiting. Additional studies are needed to assess the long -term safety of the Terestris tribulus.

  3. Pajuk (Fenugreek):

    • The mechanism of action: The fencing is a plant that is used in cooking and traditional medicine. It is believed that the fences can increase the level of testosterone by inhibiting the aromatase enzyme, which turns testosterone into estrogen. In addition, the fencing may contain compounds that stimulate the release of luteinizing hormone (LH).
    • Scientific research: Some studies have shown that the fencing can increase testosterone levels and improve sexual function in men. For example, one study showed that the fences increase the level of free testosterone and improves libido in men. Other studies have shown that the fencing can improve muscle strength and body composition.
    • Reviews: Reviews about the fencing is mostly positive. Many users report an increase in libido, improving mood and increasing muscle mass. Some users also report an improvement in digestion.
    • Side effects and safety: The fencing is usually considered safe when receiving in recommended doses. However, some users report side effects, such as stomach disorder, diarrhea and a change in body smell. The fencing can interact with some drugs such as anticoagulants.

  4. Zinc (Zinc):

    • The mechanism of action: Zinc is an indispensable mineral that plays an important role in many body functions, including immune function, protein synthesis and reproductive function. Zinc is necessary for the production of testosterone. Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels. Zinc can also inhibit an aromatase enzyme that turns testosterone into estrogen.
    • Scientific research: Studies have shown that the addition of zinc can increase the level of testosterone in men with zinc deficiency. However, in healthy men with a normal zinc level, the addition of zinc usually does not lead to a significant increase in testosterone levels.
    • Reviews: Reviews about zinc are diverse. Some users report an increase in libido, improving mood and improving the immune function. However, other users do not notice any effects or report side effects, such as nausea and stomach disorder.
    • Side effects and safety: Zinc is usually considered safe when taking in recommended doses. However, high doses of zinc can cause side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, stomach disorder and a decrease in immune function. Long -term use of high zinc doses can lead to copper deficiency.

  5. Vitamin D (Vitamin D):

    • The mechanism of action: Vitamin D is a fat -soluble vitamin that plays an important role in many body functions, including bone health, immune function and regulation of hormone levels. Some studies have shown that vitamin D may affect testosterone levels. It is believed that vitamin D can stimulate testosterone production in testicles.
    • Scientific research: Some studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency is associated with a low level of testosterone. The addition of vitamin D can increase the level of testosterone in men with vitamin D deficiency. However, other studies did not reveal the significant effect of vitamin D on the level of testosterone in healthy men with a normal level of vitamin D.
    • Reviews: Reviews about vitamin D are mainly positive. Many users report improving mood, improving immune function and improving bone health. Some users also report an increase in energy and improving sleep.
    • Side effects and safety: Vitamin D is usually considered safe when receiving in recommended doses. However, high doses of vitamin D can cause side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, weakness and increased blood calcium.

  6. Magnus (Magnesium):

    • The mechanism of action: Magnesium is an indispensable mineral that plays an important role in many body functions, including energy metabolism, muscle function and regulation of hormone levels. Magnesium is necessary for the production of testosterone. Magnesium deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels. Magnesium can also increase the level of free testosterone by binding to globulin connecting sex hormones (GSPG), and reducing its ability to bind testosterone.
    • Scientific research: Studies have shown that the addition of magnesium can increase the level of testosterone in men with magnesium deficiency. However, in healthy men with a normal level of magnesium, adding magnesium may not lead to a significant increase in testosterone levels. Physical exercises can enhance the influence of magnesium on testosterone levels.
    • Reviews: Reviews about magnesium are mostly positive. Many users report on improving sleep, reducing muscle seizures and improving mood. Some users also report an increase in energy and improving muscle force.
    • Side effects and safety: Magnesium is usually considered safe when taken in recommended doses. However, high doses of magnesium can cause side effects, such as diarrhea, nausea and stomach disorder.

  7. Ashwaganda (Ashwagandha):

    • The mechanism of action: Ashvaganda is an adaptogenic plant that is used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various diseases, including stress, anxiety and sexual dysfunction. It is believed that Ashvaganda can increase testosterone levels by reducing the level of cortisol, stress hormone, which can suppress testosterone production. Ashvaganda can also improve the function of the testicles and stimulate the production of luteinizing hormone (LH).
    • Scientific research: Some studies have shown that Ashvagand can increase testosterone levels and improve sexual function in men. For example, one study showed that Ashvaganda increases testosterone levels and improves sperm quality in barren men. Other studies have shown that Ashvagand can improve muscle strength and endurance.
    • Reviews: Reviews about Ashvaganda are mostly positive. Many users report a decrease in stress and anxiety, improving sleep and increasing energy. Some users also report an increase in libido and improving muscle force.
    • Side effects and safety: Ashvaganda is usually considered safe when receiving in recommended doses. However, some users report side effects, such as stomach disorder, diarrhea and drowsiness. Ashvaganda can interact with some drugs such as immunosuppressants and sedatives.

  8. Creatine:

    • The mechanism of action: Creatine is a natural compound that is contained in the muscles and is used for energy production. Creatine is not a direct booster of testosterone, but it can indirectly affect the level of testosterone by increasing muscle mass and strength. Physical exercises, especially strength training, stimulate the production of testosterone. Creatine can improve the results of strength training, which can lead to an increase in testosterone levels.
    • Scientific research: Studies have shown that creatine can increase muscle mass and strength, especially in combination with strength training. Some studies also showed that creatine can increase testosterone levels, but these results are not always consistent.
    • Reviews: Reviews about Creatin are mostly positive. Many users report an increase in muscle mass and strength, improve endurance and improve recovery after training.
    • Side effects and safety: Creatine is usually considered safe when receiving in recommended doses. However, some users report side effects, such as water retention, stomach disorder and muscle cramps.

  9. Other dietary supplements:

    • Maca Peruvian (Maca Root): Some studies show a libido improvement, but not necessarily testosterone levels.
    • Yohimbine: It is used for erectile dysfunction, but is not a direct booster of testosterone. It can have side effects, such as anxiety and increasing blood pressure.
    • INDOL-3-carbinol (i3c): It affects the metabolism of estrogen, potentially reducing the effects of estrogen, but does not increase the production of testosterone.
    • DIM (Diindolylmethane): Like i3c, affects the metabolism of estrogen.
    • Pine (boron): Some studies involve a slight increase in free testosterone.

III. Scientific research: meta -analysis and systematic reviews

  1. The importance of quality research:

    • Controlled clinical studies (RCTs): RCTs are the gold standard of scientific research. They include random distribution of participants in groups that receive active treatment (dietary supplements) or placebo (inactive substance). This allows researchers to determine whether the dietary supplement really has an effect, or the observed changes are associated with the placebo effect.
    • Placebo-control: The placebo-control is necessary to take into account the psychological effect that can occur when taking any substance. Participants who believe that they take an active substance can report an improvement in symptoms, even if they take placebo.
    • Double blind research: Double blind study is a type of RCT in which neither participants nor researchers know who receives active treatment and who is a placebo. This helps to avoid bias from both participants and researchers.
    • Sample size: The sample size is important to ensure the statistical significance of the research results. The larger the sample size, the greater the likelihood that the results of the study will be reliable and reproducible.
    • Duration of research: The duration of the study is also important. Short -term studies may not reveal long -term effects or side effects of dietary supplements.
    • Assessment of the quality of research: It is important to critically evaluate the quality of research before drawing conclusions about the effectiveness of dietary supplements. It is necessary to take into account the research methodology, sample size, duration of research and the presence of bias.

  2. Meta analysis and systematic reviews: Data evaluation tools:

    • Definition: Meta analysis is a statistical method that combines the results of several studies to get a more accurate assessment of the effect of treatment. A systematic review is a review of literature that uses strict and transparent methods for identifying, evaluating and synthesis of all relevant studies on a specific topic.
    • Advantages: Meta -analysis and systematic reviews provide more reliable evidence than individual studies, since they take into account the results of several studies. They also help to identify the contradictions between research and determine areas that require further research.
    • Restrictions: The quality of meta -analysis and systematic review depends on the quality of the studied studies. If the studied studies have methodological disadvantages, then the results of meta -analysis and systematic review can also be unreliable.
    • Examples: There are meta -analyzes and systematic reviews that evaluate the effectiveness of various dietary supplements to increase testosterone levels. These reviews allow us to evaluate the totality of evidence and draw more reasonable conclusions about the effectiveness and safety of dietary supplements.

  3. Analysis of meta -analyzes by specific dietary supplements (DAA, tribulus, zinc, etc.):

    • D-asparaginic acid (DAA): DAA meta -analyzes showed ambiguous results. Some meta -analyzes revealed a slight increase in testosterone levels in men with low testosterone or in barren men. However, other meta -analyzes did not reveal the significant effect of DAA on testosterone levels in healthy men with normal testosterone levels. The quality of included studies in DAA meta -analyzes often leaves much to be desired, which complicates unequivocal conclusions.
    • TRIBULUS TERRESTRIS: Meta analyzes for the tribulus to the Terright also gave ambiguous results. Most meta -analyzes did not reveal the significant influence of the tribulus on the level of testosterone in healthy men. Some meta -analyzes have shown that the tribulus can improve sexual function and libido, but does not increase the level of testosterone. As in the case of DAA, the quality of the studied studies in the meta -analysis of the tribulus is often low.
    • Zinc: Circus meta -analyzes have shown that the addition of zinc can increase the level of testosterone in men with zinc deficiency. However, in healthy men with a normal zinc level, the addition of zinc usually does not lead to a significant increase in testosterone levels.
    • Vitamin D: Vitamin D meta -analyzes showed that the addition of vitamin D can increase the level of testosterone in men with vitamin D deficiency. However, in healthy men with a normal level of vitamin D, the addition of vitamin D may not lead to a significant increase in testosterone levels.
    • Ashwaganda: Ashvagand meta analyzes showed that Ashvaganda can increase testosterone levels and improve sexual function in men. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results.

IV. Consumer reviews: subjective experience and interpretation

  1. The meaning of subjective reviews:

    • Real experience: Consumer reviews can provide valuable information about the real experience of using dietary supplements. They can give an idea of ​​the effectiveness, side effects and subjective sensations associated with the intake of dietary supplements.
    • A variety of opinions: Consumer reviews represent a variety of opinions and prospects. They can help identify patterns and trends that may not be obvious in scientific research.
    • Emotional component: Consumer reviews often contain an emotional component, which can be important for understanding the influence of dietary supplements on the quality of life and overall well -being.
    • Warning about side effects: Consumer reviews can warn about rare or unexpected side effects that may not be detected in clinical studies.

  2. Factors affecting the perception of dietary supplements:

    • Placebo effect: As mentioned earlier, the placebo effect can play a significant role in the perception of the effectiveness of dietary supplements. The belief that the dietary supplement will be effective can lead to an improvement in symptoms, even if dietary supplements have no real effect.
    • Expectations: Expectations associated with dietary supplements can affect the perception of its effectiveness. If a person expects a dietary supplement to have a strong effect, he is more likely to report the improvement of symptoms.
    • Related factors: Related factors, such as diet, physical exercises, sleep and stress, can also affect the perception of the effectiveness of dietary supplements. If a person simultaneously with a dietary supplement improves his lifestyle, he can mistakenly attribute the improvement of the symptoms of BAD.
    • Individual differences: Individual differences in genetics, physiology and state of health can affect how a person reacts to dietary supplements. What works for one person may not work for another.
    • Marketing and commercials: Marketing and advertising can have a strong influence on the perception of the effectiveness of dietary supplements. Exaggerated statements and promises can create unrealistic expectations and lead to disappointment.

  3. Critical assessment of reviews: identification of trends and bias:

    • Analysis of the content: It is important to critically evaluate the content of reviews in order to identify patterns and trends. Pay attention to general topics, repeated side effects and conflicting opinions.
    • Source of reviews: It is important to consider the source of reviews. Reviews on websites related to dietary supplements may be biased and not reflect the real experience of users. Reviews on independent websites and forums can be more reliable.
    • Confirmation of information: If possible, check the information presented in reviews using other sources, such as scientific research and expert reviews.
    • Skeptical attitude: Take reviews with a share of skepticism. Remember that consumer reviews are subjective opinions that can be prone to bias and placebo effect.

  4. Examples of reviews on different dietary supplements and their interpretation:

    • Example 1 (positive review about DAA): “I took DAA for a month and noticed an increase in libido and a slight increase in muscle mass. I also feel more energetic.”
      • Interpretation: This review may indicate that the DAA had a positive effect on the libido and muscle mass of this user. However, it is impossible to exclude the effect of placebo or the effect of related factors.
    • Example 2 (negative review of the tribulus): “I took the tribulus for two months and did not notice any effects. It was a waste of money.”
      • Interpretation: This review may indicate that the tribulus did not have any influence on this user. However, this does not mean that the tribulus is not effective for everyone.
    • Example 3 (mixed review of Ashvagand): “I take Ashvaganda for a week and noticed a decrease in stress and improving sleep. However, I also have a little disorder of the stomach.”
      • Interpretation: This review may indicate that Ashvaganda had a positive effect on the stress and sleep of this user, but also caused a side effect in the form of a stomach disorder.

V. Safety and side effects of dietary supplements

  1. General principles of dietary supplement safety:

    • Are not drugs: It is important to understand that dietary supplements are not medicines and are not subject to the same strict regulation as medicines. This means that dietary supplement manufacturers are not required to prove their effectiveness and safety before selling them.
    • Possible side effects: Bades can cause side effects, especially when taking high doses or in combination with other drugs or dietary supplements.
    • Interaction with drugs: Bades can interact with medicines, which can change their effectiveness or enhance side effects.
    • Quality and composition: The quality and composition of dietary supplements can vary from the manufacturer to the manufacturer. Some dietary supplements may contain ingredients that are not indicated on the label, or ingredients contained in irregular doses.
    • Consultation with a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you have any diseases or take any medicine.

  2. Side effects associated with specific dietary supplements (D-asparaginic acid, tribulus, etc.):

    • D-asparaginic acid (DAA): Possible side effects include headache, irritability, acne and stomach disorder.
    • TRIBULUS TERRESTRIS: Possible side effects include stomach disorder, nausea, vomiting and allergic reactions.
    • Pajuk (Fenugreek): Possible side effects include stomach disorder, diarrhea and a change in body odor.
    • Zinc: Possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, disorder of the stomach and a decrease in immune function. Long -term use of high zinc doses can lead to copper deficiency.
    • Vitamin D: Possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, weakness and increased blood calcium.
    • Ashwaganda (Ashwagandha): Possible side effects include stomach disorder, diarrhea and drowsiness. Ashvaganda can interact with some drugs such as immunosuppressants and sedatives.

  3. Factors that increase the risk of side effects:

    • High doses: Reception of dietary supplements in high doses increases the risk of side effects.
    • Long -term use: Long -term use of dietary supplements can lead to the development of side effects.
    • Combination Badov: Simultaneous reception of several ba

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *