Testosterone dietary supplements: myths and reality - Yes Global продукция

Testosterone dietary supplements: myths and reality

Section 1: Testosterone — key hormone and its value

1 Determination and role of testosterone. Testosterone is the main male sex hormone, androgen, playing a key role in the development and maintenance of male physiological characteristics. It is synthesized mainly in the testicles (in men) with Leydig cells and to a lesser extent in the adrenal glands in both men and women. Testosterone refers to steroid hormones derived from cholesterol. Its chemical formula is C19H28O2.
- Main functions:
  - The development of male sexual characteristics: The growth of the genitals, the development of secondary sexual characteristics (hair growth on the face and body, coarsening of the voice), the formation of a male type of physique.
  - Reproductive function: Spermatogenesis (sperm production), maintenance of libido (sex drive), erectile function.
  - An anabolic function: Protecting protein synthesis, muscle growth, increase in bone density.
  - Influence on metabolism: Regulation of blood glucose, fat metabolism, maintenance of the energy balance.
  - Cognitive functions: Influence on mood, concentration, memory.
2 Physiological levels of testosterone and their fluctuations. The level of testosterone in the blood varies depending on the age, time of day, individual characteristics and health status. The normal range for men is approximately 300-1000 ng/dl (nanograms for deciliter). In women, the level of testosterone is much lower, usually in the range of 15-70 ng/DL.
- Daily vibrations: The level of testosterone reaches the peak in the morning (usually between 7 and 10 hours) and gradually decreases during the day.
- Age changes: The level of testosterone gradually decreases with age, starting about 30 years. This decrease occurs by about 1-2% per year. A significant decrease in testosterone with age is called late hypogonadism (or andropause).
- Individual factors: Genetics, lifestyle (nutrition, physical activity, sleep), level of stress, the presence of chronic diseases can affect the level of testosterone.
3 The causes and consequences of a low level of testosterone (hypogonadism). Hypogonadism is a condition in which testicles (or ovaries in women) do not produce enough testosterone.
- The reasons for hypogonadism:
  - Primary hypogonadism: Problems with the testicles themselves. They can be caused by genetic diseases (for example, Cleinfelter syndrome), testicular injuries, infections (for example, orchitis), exposure to radiation or chemotherapy.
  - Secondary hypogonadism: Problems with the pituitary gland or hypothalamus (parts of the brain that control the production of testosterone). Can be caused by pituitary tumors, head injuries, taking certain drugs (for example, opioids, anabolic steroids), chronic diseases (for example, HIV/AIDS).
  - Age hypogonadism: A natural decrease in testosterone levels with age.
- The consequences of hypogonadism:
  - Libido decrease and erectile dysfunction.
  - Reducing muscle mass and strength.
  - Increase fat mass, especially in the abdomen.
  - Fatigue and decrease in energy.
  - Depression, irritability, decrease in concentration.
  - Bone loss (osteoporosis).
  - Increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
  - Deterioration of sperm quality and decrease in fertility.
4 Diagnosis of testosterone deficiency. Diagnosis of hypogonadism includes an assessment of symptoms, physical examination and blood test for testosterone levels.
- Symptoms Assessment: The doctor asks for symptoms such as a decrease in libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, decrease in muscle mass, increased fat mass, depression. Special questionnaires are used to assess the severity of symptoms.
- Physical examination: The doctor evaluates the development of secondary sexual characteristics (hair growth, testicular size), the presence of gynecomastia (increase in the chest glands), measures blood pressure and other indicators.
- Blood test for testosterone levels: The general level of testosterone in the blood is determined. It is recommended to analyze in the morning when the level of testosterone is at the peak. With a low level of general testosterone, it may be necessary to determine the level of free testosterone and other hormones (LH, FSH, prolactin) to identify the cause of hypogonadism.
- Additional research: In some cases, additional studies may be required, such as a spermogram, an MRI of the pituitary gland, genetic tests.

Section 2: Dad for testosterone: review and classification

1 Definition and classification of dietary supplements. Bades (biologically active additives) are products designed to supplement the diet and contain one or more food ingredients (vitamins, minerals, amino acids, herbs, etc.). Bades are not medicines and are not intended for the treatment of diseases.
- Classification of dietary supplements for testosterone:
  - Plant extracts: They contain plant extracts, which are believed to increase testosterone levels. Examples: Tribulus Terrrestris, Tongkat Ali Tongkate, Casteen City Council.
  - Vitamins and minerals: Contain vitamins and minerals necessary for the normal production of testosterone. Examples: vitamin D, zinc, magnesium.
  - Amino acids: Contain amino acids involved in the synthesis of testosterone. Examples: D-asparaginic acid.
  - Progormones: Substances that turn into testosterone or other anabolic hormones in the body. Progormones are often prohibited or limited to sale due to side effects.
  - Combined products: Contain a combination of several ingredients, such as plant extracts, vitamins and minerals.
2 The main ingredients in dietary supplements, positioned as «testosterone booster».
- Tribulus Terrestris (Tribulus Teretstris): The plant used in traditional medicine to increase libido and improve sports results. It is believed that the tribulus stimulates the production of luteinizing hormone (LH), which, in turn, stimulates the production of testosterone.
  - Scientific data: Research in humans show conflicting results. Some studies have not revealed a significant influence of the tribulus on testosterone levels or muscle mass. Other studies showed a slight increase in libido and an improvement in erectile function.
- Tongkat Ali (Tongkat Ali) / Eurycoma Longifolia: A plant growing in Southeast Asia, used to increase libido, improve sports results and reduce stress. It is believed that Tongkat Ali increases the level of testosterone, reduces the level of cortisol (stress hormone) and improves sperm quality.
  - Scientific data: Some studies in humans have shown that Tongkat Ali can increase testosterone levels in men with low testosterone or in older men. There is also data on improving sperm quality and reducing stress levels.
- Fenugreek (Coshenian City Council): The plant used in cooking and traditional medicine. It is believed that the fences increase the level of testosterone, improves libido and increases muscle mass.
  - Scientific data: Some studies in humans have shown that fencing extract can increase the level of free testosterone and improve libido. Additional studies are needed to confirm the effect on the muscle mass.
- D-ASPARTIC ACID (D-asparaginic acid): Amino acid participating in the production of hormones, including testosterone. It is believed that D-asparaginic acid stimulates the production of LH and testosterone.
  - Scientific data: Some studies in humans have shown that D-asparaginic acid can increase the level of testosterone in men with low testosterone levels or in barren men. In other studies, there was no significant impact on testosterone levels.
- Vitamin D (vitamin D): An important vitamin that plays a role in many body functions, including testosterone production.
  - Scientific data: Studies have shown the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and low testosterone levels. Vitamin D intake can increase the level of testosterone in men with vitamin D. deficiency.
- Zinc (zinc): The mineral necessary for the normal production of testosterone and spermatogenesis.
  - Scientific data: Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels. Taking zinc can increase the level of testosterone in men with zinc deficiency.
- Magnesium (Magn): A mineral involved in many body functions, including testosterone production.
  - Scientific data: Studies have shown the relationship between magnesium deficiency and a low level of testosterone. Magnesium intake can increase the level of testosterone, especially in physically active people.
- Boron (pine): A trace element that can affect the level of testosterone and estrogen.
  - Scientific data: Some studies have shown that boron can increase the level of free testosterone and reduce estrogen levels in men. Additional studies are needed to confirm these results.
- DIM (Diindolylmethane): The connection contained in cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage), which can affect the metabolism of estrogen.
  - Scientific data: It is believed that DIM can help to balance the level of estrogen and testosterone, although there is no direct evidence of increasing testosterone.
3 Action mechanisms: how dietary supplements supposedly affect the level of testosterone. The mechanisms of action of dietary supplements aimed at increasing testosterone levels vary depending on the ingredient. Some dietary supplements can stimulate the production of LH, which, in turn, stimulates the production of testosterone. Other dietary supplements can block the binding of testosterone with globulin connecting sex hormones (GSPG), thereby increasing the level of free testosterone. Some dietary supplements can reduce the level of cortisol, stress hormone, which can suppress testosterone production. Some dietary supplements may contain nutrients necessary for the normal production of testosterone. It is important to note that many alleged mechanisms of action are not proved in clinical studies.
4 Bad regulation: regulatory framework and quality control. The regulation of dietary supplements varies significantly in different countries. In most countries, dietary supplements are regulated as food products, and not as medicines. This means that dietary supplement manufacturers are not required to prove the efficiency or safety of their products before launching on the market. However, manufacturers are required to comply with certain quality and safety standards, such as GMP (good manufactoring practice). In some countries, there are more stringent rules for regulating dietary supplements requiring evidence of efficiency and safety. It is important for consumers to be careful when choosing dietary supplements and choose products from reliable manufacturers who comply with quality standards. It is necessary to pay attention to the availability of quality certificates and laboratory tests. It should be borne in mind that the responsibility for the quality and safety of dietary supplements mainly lies with the manufacturer.

Section 3: Scientific data: The effectiveness of dietary supplements for testosterone

1 A review of scientific research: what is the science of the most popular dietary supplements. Scientific data on the effectiveness of dietary supplements, positioned as «testosterone booster», are often contradictory and ambiguous. Many studies have small samples, methodological disadvantages or are funded by dietary supplements. It is important to critically evaluate the results of research and take into account all the available data.
- TRIBULUS TERRSTIS: Most studies have not revealed a significant influence of the tribulus on testosterone levels or muscle mass. Some studies have shown a slight increase in libido and an improvement in erectile function.
- Tongkat Ali: Some studies have shown that Tongkat Ali can increase testosterone levels in men with low testosterone or in elderly men. There is also data on improving sperm quality and reducing stress levels.
- Fenugreek: Some studies have shown that the fencing extract can increase the level of free testosterone and improve libido.
- D-paraginic acid: Some studies have shown that D-asparaginic acid can increase testosterone levels in men with low testosterone levels or in barren men. In other studies, there was no significant impact on testosterone levels.
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D intake can increase the level of testosterone in men with vitamin D. deficiency.
- Zinc: Taking zinc can increase the level of testosterone in men with zinc deficiency.
- Magnesium: Magnesium intake can increase the level of testosterone, especially in physically active people.
- Brown: Some studies have shown that boron can increase the level of free testosterone and reduce estrogen levels in men.
2 Meta analyzes and systematic reviews: generalized results and conclusions. Met-analyzes and systematic reviews summarize the results of several studies and allow you to get more reliable conclusions about the effectiveness of dietary supplements. However, even meta analyzes can be limited by the quality of the studied studies. Most meta-analyzes dedicated to dieter for testosterone came to the conclusion that evidence of their effectiveness is limited and additional studies are necessary. Some meta-analyzes have shown that individual ingredients (for example, vitamin D, zinc, tongat Ali) can be effective for increasing testosterone levels in certain groups of people (for example, in men with vitamin D or zinc, in elderly men).
3 Criticism of research: methodological problems, placebo effect, conflict of interest. A critical assessment of research is important for understanding the real effectiveness of dietary supplements. Many studies have methodological problems, such as small sample size, lack of a control group (placebo), inadequate research design. A placebo effect can play a significant role in the research of dietary supplements, especially when it comes to subjective indicators such as libido and fatigue. A conflict of interests (for example, financing research by dietary supplements) can affect research results. When evaluating research, it is important to pay attention to these factors.
4 The role of placebo-controlled research. The placebo-controlled research is the «gold standard» to evaluate the effectiveness of drugs and dietary supplements. In such studies, participants are randomly distributed into two groups: one group receives an active dietary supplement, and the other group receives a placebo (dummy). Neither participants nor researchers know who receives an active dietary supplement, and who is a placebo (double blind research). The placebo-controlled studies allow you to separate the real effect of the dietary supplement from the placebo effect. The disadvantage of placebo-controlled studies is a serious restriction on assessing the effectiveness of many dietary supplements for testosterone.

Section 4: Safety of dietary supplements for testosterone

1 Possible side effects and risks associated with the reception of dietary supplements. Bades, even if they are sold without a recipe, can have side effects and risks. Some dietary supplements can interact with medicines, cause allergic reactions or have a negative effect on health. Side effects vary depending on the ingredient and the individual characteristics of the body.
- TRIBULUS TERRSTIS: Possible side effects: digestive disorders, allergic reactions.
- Tongkat Ali: Possible side effects: insomnia, irritability. People with liver or kidney diseases should be avoided.
- Fenugreek: Possible side effects: digestive disorders, allergic reactions, decreased blood sugar. Pregnant women should be avoided.
- D-paraginic acid: Possible side effects: digestive disorders, headache.
- Vitamin D: Taking high doses of vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia (an increased level of calcium in the blood) and other side effects.
- Zinc: Taking high doses of zinc can lead to digestive disorders, copper deficiency and other side effects.
- Magnesium: Taking high doses of magnesium can lead to digestive disorders, diarrhea.
- Progormones: Progormones can cause serious side effects similar to anabolic steroids, including acne, hair loss, gynecomastia, liver damage, cardiovascular diseases. Progormones are often prohibited or limited to sale.
2 Interaction of dietary supplements with medicines and other dietary supplements. Bades can interact with medicines and other dietary supplements, enhancing or weakening their effect, or causing undesirable side effects. It is important to inform the doctor about all the dietary supplements, especially if you take drugs on the prescription.
- Examples of interactions:
  - Carpet and antidiabetic preparations: The fencing can enhance the effect of antidiabetic drugs and lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
  - Vitamin D and diuretics: Vitamin D can enhance the effect of diuretics and lead to hypercalcemia.
  - Zinc and antibiotics: Zinc can reduce the effectiveness of some antibiotics.
  - Bades affecting blood coagulation (for example, ginkgo biloba, garlic) and anticoagulants: Joint intake can increase the risk of bleeding.
3 Fakes and poor -quality products: how to avoid risk. The dietary supplement market is subject to falsification and sale of poor -quality products. Fake dietary supplements may contain incorrect ingredients, irregular doses, impurities or even harmful substances. To avoid risk, you should buy dietary supplements only from reliable sellers, pay attention to the availability of quality certificates and laboratory tests, check the packaging for the presence of fake signs.
4 Consultation with a doctor: when it is necessary. Before taking any dietary supplement, especially if you have any diseases or you take medicines, you need to consult a doctor. The doctor can evaluate your risks and benefits from the intake of dietary supplements, choose the right dose and reception scheme, as well as track your condition. Consultation with a doctor is especially important if there are the following conditions:
- Liver or kidney diseases.
- Cardiovascular diseases.
- Diabetes.
- Oncological diseases.
- Reception drugs.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Section 5: Alternative approaches to increasing testosterone levels

1 Lifestyle and natural ways to increase testosterone levels. Changes in lifestyle can have a significant impact on testosterone levels. Natural ways to increase testosterone levels include:
- Healthy nutrition: A balanced diet rich in proteins, useful fats, complex carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals is necessary for the normal production of testosterone. Products, sugar, trans fats should be avoided.
- Physical activity: Regular physical exercises, especially strength training, can increase testosterone levels. It is recommended to combine strength training with cardio loads.
- Healthy sleep: A sufficient sleep (7-8 hours a day) is necessary for the normal production of hormones, including testosterone. A lack of sleep can reduce testosterone levels.
- Reducing stress: Chronic stress can increase the level of cortisol, stress hormone, which inhibits testosterone production. It is recommended to use stress control methods, such as meditation, yoga, breathing exercises.
- Maintaining a healthy weight: Obesity can reduce testosterone levels. Weight reduction can increase testosterone levels.
- Alcohol use restriction: Excessive alcohol consumption can reduce testosterone levels.
- Refusal of smoking: Smoking can reduce testosterone levels.
- Optimization of vitamin D level: Maintaining a sufficient level of vitamin D (by taking additives or staying in the sun) can increase the level of testosterone.
- Optimization of zinc level: Maintaining a sufficient level of zinc (by taking additives or using products rich in zinc) can increase the level of testosterone.
2 Diet and nutrition: Products that contribute to testosterone production. Some foods can contribute to testosterone production.
- Products rich in protein: Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, legumes. Protein is necessary for the synthesis of hormones, including testosterone.
- Products rich in useful fats: Avocado, nuts, seeds, olive oil, oily fish. Fats are necessary for the synthesis of testosterone.
- Cross -stained vegetables: Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower. They contain DIM, which can affect the metabolism of estrogen.
- Onions and garlic: Contain compounds that can stimulate LH production.
- Products rich in zinc: Oysters, red meat, poultry, nuts, seeds.
- Products rich in magnesium: Green sheet vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes.
- Products rich in vitamin D: Burnt fish, egg yolks, enriched products.
3 Physical exercises and their influence on hormonal background. Physical exercises, especially strength training, can increase testosterone levels and improve hormonal background.
- Power training: Stimulate the production of testosterone and growth hormone. It is recommended to use multi -sustainable exercises (for example, squats, deadlift, bench press).
- High -intensity interval training (HIIT): They can increase testosterone levels and improve metabolism.
- Cardio loads: They help maintain healthy weight and improve the general health. Excessive cardio loads should be avoided, which can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels.
4 Medication treatment of hypogonadism: when dietary supplements are ineffective. In cases where changes in lifestyle and dietary supplements are ineffective, drug treatment of hypogonadism may be required. Drug treatment includes replacement therapy with testosterone (ZTT). ZTT can be prescribed by a doctor after a thorough examination and exclusion of contraindications. ZTT is available in various forms: injections, gels, patchings, tablets. ZTT can be effective for eliminating symptoms of hypogonadism, such as a decrease in libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, decrease in muscle mass. However, ZTT also has side effects and risks that must be taken into account. ZTT is not recommended to use to increase testosterone levels in healthy men with a normal level of testosterone.

Section 6: Final recommendations

1 Key conclusions on the efficiency and safety of dietary supplements for testosterone. Most dietary supplements positioned as «testosterone booster» have limited evidence of effectiveness. Some ingredients (for example, vitamin D, zinc, tongkat ali) can be effective for increasing testosterone levels in certain groups of people (for example, in men with vitamin D or zinc deficiency, in elderly men). Bades can have side effects and risks, and can interact with medicines. Before taking any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor.
2 Recommendations for the choice of dietary supplements: what to pay attention to. When choosing dietary supplements, you should pay attention to:
- Manufacturer’s reliability: Choose products from reliable manufacturers who comply with quality standards (GMP).
- Quality certificates and laboratory results: Make sure the dietary supplement has undergone quality and safety.
- Composition: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement and make sure that it does not contain harmful ingredients or prohibited substances.
- Dosage: Follow the recommended dosage.
- Reviews: Read the reviews of other users about dietary supplements.
- Consultation with a doctor: Consult a doctor before starting a dietary supplement.
3 The priority of a healthy lifestyle: the basis for maintaining the optimal level of testosterone. A healthy lifestyle is the basis for maintaining the optimal level of testosterone. Balanced nutrition, regular physical exercises, healthy sleep, decreased stress and maintaining healthy weight can have a significant effect on testosterone levels and general health.
4 Prospects for future research in dietary supplements for testosterone. Additional studies are needed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of dietary supplements, positioned as «testosterone booster». Future studies should be placebo-controlled, have large sample size and use standardized protocols. It is also necessary to study the mechanisms of the action of dietary supplements and identify groups of people who can get the most benefit from their reception. Research should be independent and not financed by dietary supplements.

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