Testosterone and dietary supplements: what do you need to know?
Chapter 1: Fundamentals of testosterone
1.1. What is testosterone?
Testosterone is the main male sex hormone, androgen, playing a key role in the development and maintenance of male physiological characteristics. Although testosterone prevails in men, it is also present in the body of women, but in significantly smaller quantities where it is involved in the regulation of bone mass, sexual transmission and the general level of energy.
1.1.1. Chemical structure and synthesis:
Testosterone refers to steroid hormones derived from cholesterol. The synthesis of testosterone begins in testicles in men (the main source) and in small quantities in the adrenal glands in both men and women. The process of synthesis includes a number of enzymatic reactions catalyzed by various enzymes, such as 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD). The hypothalamus emits gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GNRG), which stimulates the pituitary gland to the production of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSG). LH, in turn, stimulates Leydig’s cells in testicles to the production of testosterone. FSG supports spermatogenesis, the process of sperm production. This complex regulation mechanism, known as a hypothalamic-pituitary-leg axis (GGG axis), ensures the maintenance of the optimal level of testosterone in the body.
1.1.2. The role of testosterone in the male body:
Testosterone performs a wide range of functions covering physiological, metabolic and behavioral aspects.
* **Развитие и поддержание мужских половых признаков:** Тестостерон отвечает за развитие мужских половых органов в эмбриональном периоде и в период полового созревания. Он также способствует росту волос на лице и теле, углублению голоса и развитию мускулатуры.
* **Сперматогенез:** Тестостерон необходим для производства спермы и поддержания фертильности.
* **Мышечная масса и сила:** Тестостерон стимулирует синтез белка, что приводит к увеличению мышечной массы и силы.
* **Плотность костей:** Тестостерон играет важную роль в поддержании плотности костей, предотвращая остеопороз.
* **Красные кровяные клетки:** Тестостерон стимулирует производство красных кровяных клеток (эритропоэз).
* **Половое влечение и эректильная функция:** Тестостерон оказывает влияние на половое влечение (либидо) и эректильную функцию.
* **Настроение и когнитивные функции:** Тестостерон может влиять на настроение, мотивацию, концентрацию и память.
* **Распределение жира:** Тестостерон влияет на распределение жира в организме, способствуя уменьшению жира в области живота.1.2. The normal level of testosterone and its fluctuations.
The definition of a “normal” level of testosterone is a difficult task, since it can vary significantly depending on the age, time of day, health status and laboratory methods. Usually, the normal range of general testosterone for men is from 300 to 1000 ng/dl (nanograms for deciliter). It is important to consider that these values are indicative and can vary in different laboratories. In addition, it is important to take into account the level of free testosterone, which is a part of testosterone that is not associated with proteins (globulin connecting sex hormones — GSPG, and albumin) and affordable for exposure to fabric. The level of free testosterone is usually from 1% to 4% of the total testosterone.
1.2.1. Factors affecting testosterone levels:
* **Возраст:** Уровень тестостерона обычно достигает пика в возрасте 20-30 лет, а затем постепенно снижается с возрастом (примерно на 1-2% в год после 30 лет). Это снижение связано с возрастными изменениями в яичках и снижением чувствительности к ЛГ.
* **Время суток:** Уровень тестостерона обычно выше утром и ниже вечером (циркадный ритм).
* **Состояние здоровья:** Хронические заболевания, такие как диабет, ожирение, заболевания печени и почек, могут снижать уровень тестостерона.
* **Лекарственные препараты:** Некоторые лекарственные препараты, такие как опиоиды, кортикостероиды и антидепрессанты, могут влиять на уровень тестостерона.
* **Стресс:** Хронический стресс может повышать уровень кортизола, который, в свою очередь, может подавлять выработку тестостерона.
* **Ожирение:** Избыточный вес, особенно в области живота, связан с более низким уровнем тестостерона. Жировая ткань содержит фермент ароматазу, который превращает тестостерон в эстроген.
* **Диета:** Недостаток питательных веществ, таких как цинк, витамин D и магний, может негативно влиять на уровень тестостерона. С другой стороны, диета, богатая обработанными продуктами, сахаром и транс-жирами, также может снижать уровень тестостерона.
* **Физическая активность:** Регулярные физические упражнения, особенно силовые тренировки, могут повышать уровень тестостерона. Однако чрезмерные и интенсивные тренировки без достаточного отдыха могут привести к снижению уровня тестостерона.
* **Сон:** Недостаток сна (менее 7-8 часов в сутки) может негативно влиять на уровень тестостерона.
* **Алкоголь и курение:** Злоупотребление алкоголем и курение могут снижать уровень тестостерона.1.3. Testosterone deficiency (hypogonadism): causes, symptoms, diagnosis.
Hycogonadism is a condition in which testicular testicles do not produce enough testosterone. Hypogonadism can be primary (related to testicles in the testicles) or secondary (associated with problems in the pituitary or hypothalamus).
1.3.1. The reasons for hypogonadism:
* **Первичный гипогонадизм:**
* **Возрастные изменения:** С возрастом функция яичек снижается.
* **Синдром Клайнфельтера:** Генетическое заболевание, при котором у мужчин есть дополнительная Х-хромосома (XXY).
* **Крипторхизм:** Неопущение яичек в мошонку.
* **Орхит:** Воспаление яичек, вызванное инфекцией (например, свинкой).
* **Травма яичек:** Повреждение яичек может привести к снижению выработки тестостерона.
* **Химиотерапия и лучевая терапия:** Лечение рака может повредить яички.
* **Вторичный гипогонадизм:**
* **Опухоли гипофиза:** Опухоли гипофиза могут нарушать выработку ЛГ и ФСГ.
* **Синдром Каллманна:** Генетическое заболевание, при котором гипоталамус не вырабатывает достаточно ГнРГ.
* **Гипопитуитаризм:** Снижение функции гипофиза.
* **Ожирение:** Ожирение может нарушать функцию гипоталамуса и гипофиза.
* **Прием анаболических стероидов:** Длительное использование анаболических стероидов может подавлять собственную выработку тестостерона.1.3.2. Symptoms of hypogonadism:
Symptoms of hypogonadism can vary depending on the age of the onset of the disease and the degree of testosterone deficiency.
* **Снижение полового влечения (либидо).**
* **Эректильная дисфункция (импотенция).**
* **Уменьшение мышечной массы и силы.**
* **Увеличение жировой массы, особенно в области живота.**
* **Усталость и слабость.**
* **Депрессия и раздражительность.**
* **Снижение концентрации и памяти.**
* **Остеопороз (снижение плотности костей).**
* **Уменьшение роста волос на лице и теле.**
* **Увеличение груди (гинекомастия).**
* **Бесплодие.**
* **Приливы жара.**
* **Уменьшение размера яичек.**1.3.3. Diagnosis of hypogonadism:
Diagnosis of hypogonadism includes a blood test for the level of general and free testosterone. A blood test should be carried out in the morning when the level of testosterone is the highest. Additional tests such as LH, FSH, prolactin, estradiol and blood test for other diseases can also be prescribed. The doctor can also conduct a physical examination and collect an anamnesis to assess the symptoms and identify possible causes of hypogonadism. In some cases, an MRI of the pituitary gland may be required to exclude tumors.
Chapter 2: Bad and testosterone: Review
2.1. What is dietary supplements and their role in maintaining health.
Bades (biologically active additives) are concentrated sources of nutrients (vitamins, minerals, amino acids, herbs, etc.) designed to supplement the diet. Bades are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. However, they can be used to maintain health, prevent diseases and improve overall well -being.
2.1.1. The legal status of dietary supplements:
The legal status of dietary supplements differs in different countries. In most countries, dietary supplements are regulated as food products, and not as drugs. This means that they do not undergo strict clinical trials as medicines, and manufacturers are not required to prove their effectiveness and safety. However, dietary supplement manufacturers are required to comply with the requirements for the quality, safety and labeling of products.
2.1.2. Various types of dietary supplements:
There is a huge variety of dietary supplements intended for various purposes. These include:
* **Витамины и минералы:** Витамин D, витамин C, витамины группы B, цинк, магний, селен и т.д.
* **Аминокислоты:** Креатин, BCAA (аминокислоты с разветвленной цепью), аргинин, L-карнитин и т.д.
* **Травяные экстракты:** Трибулус террестрис, ашваганда, эврикома длиннолистная (Тонгкат Али), пажитник (фенугрек) и т.д.
* **Пробиотики:** Бактерии, полезные для здоровья кишечника.
* **Омега-3 жирные кислоты:** EPA (эйкозапентаеновая кислота) и DHA (докозагексаеновая кислота).
* **Антиоксиданты:** Ресвератрол, кверцетин, коэнзим Q10 и т.д.
* **Другие добавки:** D-аспарагиновая кислота (DAA), индол-3-карбинол (I3C) и т.д.2.2. Dietary supplements positioned as «Testosterone booster»: review and classification.
The dietary supplement market offers many products positioned as “testosterone booster” or “testosterone amplifiers”. These additives promise to increase testosterone levels, improve muscle mass and strength, increase libido and improve overall well -being. However, it is important to understand that the effectiveness and safety of many of these additives is not proven by scientific research.
2.2.1. Classification of dietary supplement to increase testosterone:
* **Травяные экстракты:**
* **Трибулус террестрис:** Считается, что стимулирует выработку ЛГ и тестостерона.
* **Ашваганда:** Адаптоген, который может снижать уровень кортизола и повышать уровень тестостерона.
* **Эврикома длиннолистная (Тонгкат Али):** Считается, что повышает уровень свободного тестостерона и либидо.
* **Пажитник (фенугрек):** Содержит сапонины, которые могут повышать уровень тестостерона.
* **Мака перуанская:** Считается, что повышает либидо и энергию, но не обязательно влияет на уровень тестостерона.
* **Йохимбе:** Считается, что улучшает эректильную функцию и либидо, но может иметь побочные эффекты.
* **Витамины и минералы:**
* **Витамин D:** Важен для здоровья костей, иммунитета и может влиять на уровень тестостерона.
* **Цинк:** Необходим для выработки тестостерона и сперматогенеза.
* **Магний:** Участвует в сотнях биохимических реакций, включая выработку тестостерона.
* **Селен:** Антиоксидант, который важен для здоровья щитовидной железы и может влиять на уровень тестостерона.
* **Аминокислоты и другие соединения:**
* **D-аспарагиновая кислота (DAA):** Считается, что стимулирует выработку ЛГ и тестостерона.
* **Креатин:** Улучшает мышечную силу и массу, но не обязательно влияет на уровень тестостерона напрямую.
* **Индол-3-карбинол (I3C):** Может помочь сбалансировать уровень эстрогенов.
* **Arimistane (Андроста-3,5-диен-7,17-дион):** Ингибитор ароматазы, который может уменьшить превращение тестостерона в эстроген.2.3. The mechanisms of action of dietary supplements affecting testosterone levels.
The mechanisms of the action of dietary supplements affecting the level of testosterone can be different and depend on a particular ingredient. Some dietary supplements can stimulate the production of LH and FSH with a pituitary gland, which, in turn, leads to an increase in testosterone production. Other dietary supplements can inhibit aromatase, an enzyme that turns testosterone into estrogen, thereby increasing testosterone levels. Another dietary supplement can reduce the level of cortisol, stress hormone, which can suppress testosterone production. Some dietary supplements can increase the level of free testosterone, contacting the GSPG and releasing testosterone from a related state. Finally, some dietary supplements can have an antioxidant or anti -inflammatory effect, which can indirectly improve the function of the testicles and the production of testosterone. It is important to note that the mechanisms of the action of many dietary supplements have not been fully studied, and many of the statements about effectiveness are not confirmed by scientific data.
Chapter 3: Scientific data and evidence of the effectiveness of dietary supplements
3.1. Analysis of scientific research on the most popular dietary supplement for increasing testosterone.
A critical analysis of scientific research is the key to assessing the effectiveness of dietary supplement to increase testosterone. It is important to take into account the size of the sample, the design of the study (randomized controlled study, observation study, etc.), methodology, the presence of a control group (placebo) and the statistical significance of the results. It is also important to take into account potential conflicts of interests (for example, financing of the study by the manufacturer of Bad).
3.1.1. TRIBULUS TERRSTIS:
Tribulus Terrrestris is one of the most popular dietary supplements advertised to increase testosterone. However, scientific data on its effectiveness are contradictory. Some studies show that Tertrix tribulus can increase libido and improve erectile function, but does not have a significant effect on testosterone levels in healthy men with a normal level of testosterone. Other studies have shown a slight increase in testosterone levels in men with a low level of testosterone. In general, evidence of the efficiency of the tribulus of the Terright to increase testosterone is limited and require further research. Most positive results were observed in studies with animal participation or in studies with a small sample size.
3.1.2. Ashwaganda:
Ashvaganda is an adaptogenic plant used in Ayurvedic medicine. Some studies show that Ashvagand can reduce cortisol levels, increase testosterone levels, improve muscle strength and mass, and reduce anxiety and stress. For example, one study showed that the reception of Ashvaganda for 8 weeks led to a significant increase in the level of testosterone and muscle force in men engaged in strength training. However, it is important to note that studies with Ashvaganda are often carried out using standardized extracts with a high vitanolide content, and the effect may depend on the dosage and quality of the extract.
3.1.3. The eurecoma is long -leaved (Tongkat Ali):
The eurecoma is long-leaved (Tongkat Ali)-a plant growing in Southeast Asia. Some studies show that Tongkat Ali can increase the level of free testosterone, improve libido, erectile function and muscle mass. The mechanism of action of Tongkat Ali can be associated with the inhibiting of aromatase and an increase in the level of LH. However, most studies with Tongkat Ali were carried out in small samples or using various extracts, which complicates the generalization of the results. It is also important to consider that the quality and composition of the Tongkat Ali extracts can vary significantly depending on the manufacturer.
3.1.4. Catchitry (FenuGrek):
Penalty (fenugrek) is a plant used as a spice and a drug. Some studies show that the fencing extract can increase the level of testosterone, libido and improve muscle strength. It is believed that the saponins contained in the penalty area stimulate the production of LH and testosterone. However, evidence of the effectiveness of the fencing for increasing testosterone is limited, and further studies with large samples and standardized extracts are needed.
3.1.5. Vitamin D:
Vitamin D is important for the health of bones, immunity and can affect the level of testosterone. Studies show that vitamin D deficiency is associated with a lower level of testosterone. Taking vitamin D additives can increase the level of testosterone in men with vitamin D deficiency. However, vitamin D does not necessarily increase the level of testosterone in men with a normal level of vitamin D. It is recommended to take blood test to vitamin D and take additives only in case of deficiency.
3.1.6. Zinc:
Zinc is necessary for the production of testosterone and spermatogenesis. Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels. Taking zinc additives can increase the level of testosterone in men with zinc deficiency. However, the use of zinc in large doses can be toxic and cause side effects. It is recommended to receive zinc from food (meat, seafood, nuts, seeds) and take additives only in case of deficiency.
3.1.7. D-asparaginic acid (DAA):
D-paragine acid (DAA) is an amino acid that is believed to stimulates the production of LH and testosterone. Some studies show that the DAA can increase testosterone levels in men with low testosterone levels or in barren men. However, other studies did not show the significant influence of DAA on testosterone levels in healthy men. In addition, prolonged use of DAA can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels. Further research is needed to determine the effectiveness and safety of the DAA.
3.2. A placebo effect and a subjective assessment of the effectiveness of dietary supplements.
It is important to consider the placebo effect when assessing the effectiveness of dietary supplements. A placebo effect is an improvement in the state of health caused not by an active substance, but by the belief that the treatment is effective. In research with a placebo effect, the effect can be significant, especially when assessing subjective indicators, such as libido, mood and energy level. In order to separate the true effect of dietary supplements from the placebo effect, it is necessary to conduct randomized controlled studies using the placebo-control group. A subjective assessment of the effectiveness of dietary supplements can be distorted due to bias, expectations and other factors. Therefore, it is important to rely on objective indicators, such as the level of testosterone in the blood, muscle mass and strength, when evaluating the effectiveness of dietary supplements.
3.3. The quality of research and methodological restrictions.
Many dietary supplements have methodological restrictions that make it difficult to generalize the results. These restrictions include:
* **Небольшой размер выборки:** Исследования с небольшим размером выборки могут не иметь достаточной статистической мощности для выявления значимых эффектов.
* **Недостаточный контроль:** Исследования без плацебо-контрольной группы не могут отделить истинный эффект БАДа от плацебо-эффекта.
* **Различные дозировки и составы:** Различные исследования могут использовать разные дозировки и составы БАДов, что затрудняет сравнение результатов.
* **Неоднородные группы участников:** Исследования с участием неоднородных групп участников (например, мужчины с разным уровнем тестостерона, разного возраста и с разными заболеваниями) могут приводить к противоречивым результатам.
* **Отсутствие долгосрочных исследований:** Большинство исследований БАДов имеют краткосрочный характер, и недостаточно данных о долгосрочной эффективности и безопасности БАДов.
* **Предвзятость:** Исследования, финансируемые производителями БАДов, могут быть подвержены предвзятости.
* **Отсутствие стандартизации БАДов:** Качество и состав БАДов могут варьироваться в зависимости от производителя, что затрудняет сравнение результатов исследований.When evaluating scientific research of dietary supplements, it is important to consider these methodological restrictions and interpret the results with caution.
Chapter 4: Safety of dietary supplement to increase testosterone
4.1. Possible side effects and risks associated with the intake of dietary supplements.
The reception of dietary supplements positioned as “testosterone booster” carries potential risks and side effects. It is important to remember that since dietary supplements are not adjusted as strictly as drugs, their safety and effectiveness may not be carefully checked.
4.1.1. General side effects:
- Gastrointestinal disorders: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bloating and other digestive problems are one of the most common side effects of dietary supplements.
- Allergic reactions: The skin rash, itching, edema of the face, lips, tongue or throat, as well as shortness of breath, can be signs of an allergic reaction to one or more dieters in Bad.
- Headaches and dizziness: Some dietary supplements can cause headaches, dizziness or a change in blood pressure.
- Insomnia: Some stimulating ingredients in dietary supplements can violate sleep.
- Interaction with drugs: Bades can interact with medicines that you take by prescription or without a prescription, which can change the effectiveness of drugs or increase the risk of side effects.
4.1.2. Specific risks associated with specific dietary supplements:
- TRIBULUS TERRSTIS: In rare cases, side effects were reported, such as an increase in prostate and gynecomastia (breast augmentation).
- Ashwaganda: It can cause digestive disorders, drowsiness and, in rare cases, problems with the liver. Pregnant and lactating women should be avoided.
- The eurecoma is long -leaved (Tongkat Ali): Some studies on animals showed possible toxic effects on the kidneys and liver at high doses. Additional studies are needed in public.
- Catchitry (FenuGrek): It can cause digestive disorders, a decrease in blood sugar and a change in urine smell.
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D intake in high doses can lead to hypercalcemia (an increased level of calcium in the blood), which can cause nausea, vomiting, weakness and damage to the kidneys.
- Zinc: Taking zinc in large doses can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, a decrease in immunity and copper deficiency.
- D-asparaginic acid (DAA): Some studies reported side effects, such as irritability, headaches and a decrease in libido with prolonged use.
- Yohimbe: It can cause anxiety, an increase in blood pressure, a rapid heartbeat and insomnia. People with heart diseases, anxiety disorders or kidney problems should be avoided.
- Arimistane (Androsta-3.5-dien-7.17-dion): It can cause suppression of estrogen, which can lead to joint pain, a decrease in libido and other problems.
4.2. The interaction of dietary supplements with drugs and other dietary supplements.
The interaction of dietary supplements with drugs and other dietary supplements is a serious problem that can lead to undesirable side effects or a decrease in treatment effectiveness.
4.2.1. Interaction mechanisms:
- Pharmacokinetic interaction: Bad can affect absorption, distribution, metabolism or excretion of the drug, which can change the concentration of the drug in the blood.
- Pharmacodynamic interaction: Bad can enhance or weaken the effect of the drug, acting on the same receptors or mechanisms of action.
- Additative effect: Bad and the drug can have similar side effects, which leads to an increase in the risk of side effects when used together.
4.2.2. Examples of interaction:
- Anticoagulants (warfarin): Bades containing vitamin K (for example, green vegetables) can reduce the effectiveness of warfarin, since vitamin K promotes blood coagulation. Bades, such as fish oil, garlic and ginger, can enhance the effect of warfarin and increase the risk of bleeding.
- Antidepressants (SIOS): Bades, such as St. John’s wort, can interact with the antidepressants of the SIOS (selective inhibitors of the reverse capture of serotonin) and cause serotonin syndrome, a state characterized by anxiety, excitement, increased heartbeat and other symptoms.
- Diabetes Medicines: Dietary dietary supplements, such as fences and chrome, can reduce blood sugar, which may require adjusting the dose of drugs for diabetes.
- Belongation medicines: Dietary supplements containing caffeine or other stimulants can increase blood pressure and reduce the effectiveness of drugs for blood pressure.
- Bades to increase testosterone: The joint use of several dietary supplements to increase testosterone can increase the risk of side effects and hormonal imbalance.
4.2.3. Recommendations:
- Tell your doctor: Be sure to tell your doctor about all the dietary supplements that you accept, including dosages and the reasons for their reception.
- Consult with the pharmacist: The pharmacist can check potential interactions between dietary supplements and the medicines that you take.
- Be careful: Be especially careful when taking several dietary supplements or drugs at the same time.
- Follow side effects: Carefully follow your well -being and inform your doctor about any new or unusual symptoms.
4.3. Contamination and fakes: risks when buying dietary supplements.
Contamination and fakes are serious problems associated with the purchase of dietary supplements. Since dietary supplements are not adjusted as strictly as medicines, they are more susceptible to contaminations by harmful substances and fakes, when the product does not contain the declared ingredients or contains them in improper dosage.
4.3.1. Contamination:
Bades can be polluted by various harmful substances, such as:
- Heavy metals: Lead, mercury, cadmium and arsenic can fall into dietary supplements from contaminated soil, water or industrial equipment.
- Pesticides: Bades containing plant ingredients can be contaminated with pesticides used in the cultivation of these plants.
- Bacteria and fungi: Bades can be polluted by bacteria (for example, salmonella or E. coli) or fungi during production, storage or transportation.
- Anabolic steroids and other drugs: Some dietary supplements, especially those that are advertised to increase muscle mass or improve sports results, can be intentionally contaminated with anabolic steroids or other drugs.
4.3.2. Fakes:
Dad fakes may include:
- Lack of declared ingredients: The dietary supplement may not contain the declared ingredients or contain them in a much smaller quantity than indicated on the label.
- Replacing ingredients: The dietary supplement may contain other ingredients that are not indicated on the label, including cheap substitutes or potentially dangerous substances.
- Incorrect dosage: The dietary supplement may contain an incorrect dosage of the declared ingredients, which can be ineffective or even dangerous.
4.3.3. Risks:
Contamination and fakes of dietary supplements can represent serious health risks, including:
- Poisoning: Pollution with heavy metals, pesticides or bacteria can lead to poisoning.
- Allergic reactions: Replacing ingredients can cause allergic reactions in people with allergies to these ingredients.
- Hormonal imbalance: Anabolic steroid pollution can cause hormonal imbalance and side effects.
- Lack of effectiveness: Fake dietary supplements may not have any effect, which can lead to disappointment and loss of money.
- Interaction with drugs: Pollution of drugs can interact with other drugs that you take and cause side effects.
4.3.4. Recommendations:
- Buy from reliable sellers: Buy dietary supplements only from reliable sellers, such as well -known pharmacies or healthy meals.
- Look for quality certificates: Look for dietary supplements that are certified by independent organizations such as NSF International, USP or Informed-Sport. These organizations check dietary supplements for compliance with quality and safety standards.
- Check the labels: Carefully read dietary supplements and check the list of ingredients, dosage and manufacturer information.
- Beware of suspiciously cheap offers: If the price of dietary supplements seems too low, it can be a sign of fake.
- Report suspicious products: If you suspect that the dietary supplement is fake or polluted, inform the appropriate regulatory organization about it.
4.4. Who should avoid taking dietary supplement to increase testosterone?
Some people should avoid taking dietary supplement to increase testosterone due to increased risk of side effects or interaction with other health or medicines.
*4.4.1. Categories of people who should avoid admission of dietary supplements to increase testost