Testosterone dietary supplements: side effects and contraindications
I. Understanding testosterone and his role
Testosterone is the main male sex hormone that plays a key role in the development and maintenance of many physiological functions. It belongs to a group of steroid hormones called androgens, and is mainly produced in testicles in men and in small quantities in ovaries in women, as well as adrenal glands in both sexes.
A. Physiological functions of testosterone:
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Development of sexual characteristics: Testosterone is responsible for the development of primary and secondary sexual characteristics in men. Primary sexual characteristics include the development of the genital organs (penis and testicles) in the process of intrauterine development and during puberty. Secondary sexual characteristics include hair growth on the face and body, deepening the voice, increasing muscle mass and the development of bone tissue.
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Reproductive function: Testosterone is necessary for spermatogenesis (sperm formation) in testicles. It stimulates the cell cells that support the development of sperm. The low level of testosterone can lead to a decrease in libido, erectile dysfunction and infertility.
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Muscle mass and strength: Testosterone is an anabolic hormone that stimulates the synthesis of protein and contributes to the growth of muscle mass and strength. It increases the size of muscle fibers and improves recovery after physical exertion.
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Bone density: Testosterone plays an important role in maintaining bone density. It stimulates the formation of bone tissue and prevents its destruction. The low level of testosterone can lead to osteoporosis and an increase in the risk of fractures.
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Fat distribution: Testosterone affects the distribution of fat in the body. It helps to reduce the amount of fat in the abdomen and increase the amount of muscle mass. The low level of testosterone can lead to an increase in the amount of fat in the abdomen and the development of metabolic syndrome.
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Energy and mood: Testosterone affects the level of energy and mood. It helps to increase energy, improve mood and reduce fatigue. The low level of testosterone can lead to fatigue, depression and irritability.
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Red blood cells: Testosterone stimulates the production of erythropoetin, hormone, which stimulates the formation of red blood cells in the bone marrow. The low level of testosterone can lead to anemia.
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Cognitive functions: Studies show that testosterone can affect cognitive functions, such as memory and attention. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these effects.
B. Factors affecting testosterone levels:
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Age: The level of testosterone usually reaches a peak aged 20-30 years, and then begins to gradually decline by about 1-2% per year after 30 years. This is due to natural changes in the endocrine system.
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Health status: Some diseases, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome and chronic diseases, can negatively affect testosterone levels.
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Medicines: Some drugs, such as opioid analgesics, glucocorticoids and antidepressants, can reduce testosterone levels.
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Life: An unhealthy lifestyle, including lack of physical activity, malnutrition, chronic stress and lack of sleep, can negatively affect testosterone levels.
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External factors: The effect of certain chemicals, such as endocrine destroyers (bisphenol A, flulates), can affect the level of testosterone.
C. Symptoms of low level of testosterone (hypogonadism):
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Libido decrease and erectile dysfunction: One of the most common symptoms of low level of testosterone is a decrease in sexual attraction and difficulties with achieving or maintaining an erection.
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Fatigue and energy reduction: The low level of testosterone can cause a feeling of fatigue, weakness and decrease in energy.
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Reducing muscle mass and strength: Since testosterone is an anabolic hormone, its disadvantage can lead to a decrease in muscle mass and strength.
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Increase fat mass: The low level of testosterone can contribute to an increase in fat mass, especially in the abdomen.
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Depression and irritability: The lack of testosterone can negatively affect the mood, causing depression, irritability and a decrease in motivation.
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Reduced bone density: The low level of testosterone can increase the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
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Breast enlargement (gynecomastia): In some cases, the low level of testosterone can lead to breast augmentation in men.
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Infertility: Testosterone is necessary for spermatogenesis, so its deficiency can lead to infertility.
II. Testosterone dietary supplements: review and ingredients
Bades (biologically active additives) for testosterone are a wide range of products designed to increase testosterone levels or mitigate symptoms associated with its deficiency. They usually contain a combination of vitamins, minerals, plant extracts and other substances, which are claimed, have properties that contribute to the increase in testosterone. It is important to understand that the effectiveness and safety of these additives can vary greatly, and scientific evidence in support of their use is often limited.
A. The common ingredients in dietary supplements for testosterone:
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D-asparaginic acid (DAA): The amino acid, which is claimed, increases the production of testosterone by stimulating the pituitary gland. Some studies have shown a slight increase in testosterone levels in men with a low level, but other studies have not revealed a significant effect.
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Tribulus Terrestris Tribulus: A plant traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. It is assumed that it increases the level of testosterone by stimulating the production of luteinizing hormone (LH). However, most studies do not confirm its effectiveness in increasing testosterone in people with a normal level.
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Fenugreek (Fenugreek): A plant whose seeds contain compounds, which are claimed to increase the level of testosterone and libido. Some studies have shown that the fencing extract can improve the sexual function and testosterone level in men.
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Zinc: The mineral necessary for many physiological processes, including testosterone production. Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels. Taking zinc can help increase the level of testosterone in people with zinc deficiency.
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Vitamin D: Fatable vitamin, which plays an important role in bone health, immune function and hormonal regulation. The low level of vitamin D can be associated with a low level of testosterone. Vitamin D intake can help increase testosterone levels in people with vitamin D.
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Magnesium: A mineral that plays an important role in more than 300 enzymatic reactions in the body. It can affect the level of testosterone, regulating the release of gonadotropin-rilying hormone (GNRG).
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Damiana (Turnra Diffusa): A plant that is traditionally used as an aphrodisiac. It is assumed that it can increase testosterone levels and improve sexual function. However, scientific data on Damian’s effectiveness are limited.
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Eurycoma Long -leaved (Eurycoma Longifolia) (Tongkat Ali): A plant growing in Southeast Asia. Some studies have shown that long -leaf euricomas extract can increase testosterone levels, improve sexual function and increase muscle mass.
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Diindolilmetan (DIM): The compound formed during the breakdown of Indol-3-carbinol, which is contained in cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and cabbage. It is assumed that DIM can help balance estrogen levels and help increase testosterone levels.
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Chrysin (Chrysin): Flavonoid contained in honey, propolis and some plants. It is assumed that it can inhibit aromatase, an enzyme that turns testosterone into estrogen.
B. Action mechanisms (alleged):
The mechanisms of action by which dietary supplements for testosterone allegedly increase the level of testosterone, vary depending on the ingredient. Some of the alleged mechanisms include:
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Pituitary stimulation: Some ingredients, such as D-asparaginic acid, allegedly stimulate the pituitary gland, which leads to an increase in LH production. LH, in turn, stimulates the testicles to produce testosterone.
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Aromatase inhibiting: Some ingredients, such as Chrysin, allegedly inhibit aromatase, an enzyme that turns testosterone into estrogen. This can lead to an increase in testosterone levels and a decrease in estrogen levels.
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Increase in LH production: Some ingredients, such as tribulus terrestrates, allegedly increase the production of LH, which stimulates the testicles to produce testosterone.
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Reducing the level of globulin connecting sex hormones (GSPG): GSPG binds testosterone in the blood, making it inactive. Some ingredients, such as BIn, allegedly reduce the level of GSPG, which leads to an increase in the level of free (active) testosterone.
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Improving blood flow: Some ingredients, such as L-arginine, allegedly improve blood flow, which can improve the delivery of nutrients to testicles and promote testosterone production.
C. The effectiveness of dietary supplements for testosterone: Review Review:
It is important to emphasize that scientific evidence of the effectiveness of dietary supplements for testosterone is often limited and contradictory. Many studies are small sizes, short duration and poor -quality design. As a result, it is difficult to draw unequivocal conclusions about their effectiveness.
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D-asparaginic acid (DAA): Some studies have shown that the DAA can increase the level of testosterone in men with a low level of testosterone, but other studies have not revealed a significant effect. Some studies also showed that prolonged use of DAA can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels.
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Tribulus Terrestris Tribulus: Most studies do not confirm the effectiveness of the tribulus of the terrestris in increasing testosterone levels in people with normal testosterone levels. However, some studies have shown that it can improve sexual function in men with erectile dysfunction.
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Fenugreek (Fenugreek): Some studies have shown that the fencing extract can improve the sexual function and testosterone level in men. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these effects.
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Zinc: Taking zinc can help increase the level of testosterone in people with zinc deficiency.
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Vitamin D: Vitamin D intake can help increase testosterone levels in people with vitamin D.
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Eurycoma Long -leaved (Eurycoma Longifolia) (Tongkat Ali): Some studies have shown that long -leaf euricomas extract can increase testosterone levels, improve sexual function and increase muscle mass. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these effects.
III. Side effects of dietary supplements for testosterone
Like any other substances, dietary supplements for testosterone can cause side effects. The severity and type of side effects can vary depending on the ingredients, dose, individual sensitivity and the general state of human health. It is important to consider that many dietary supplements do not undergo a strict quality and safety test as drugs, which increases the risk of undesirable reactions.
A. General side effects:
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Digestive problems: Many dietary supplements can cause disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, bloating and abdominal pain. This is especially common when taking high doses or in the presence of sensitivity to certain ingredients.
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Headache: Some dietary supplements can cause a headache that can be mild or severe. Headache can be associated with changes in hormonal balance, vascular effect or other mechanisms.
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Irritability and mood changes: Bades affecting the level of hormones can cause mood changes, irritability, anxiety and even depression. This is due to the fact that testosterone and other hormones play an important role in the regulation of mood.
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Acne (URRI): An increase in testosterone level caused by some dietary supplements can stimulate the production of sebum, which leads to the appearance of acne.
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Insomnia: Some dietary supplements can cause insomnia or sleep disturbance. This may be due to the stimulating effect of some ingredients or with changes in hormonal balance.
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Breast enlargement (gynecomastia): Some dietary supplements can lead to breast augmentation in men (gynecomastia). This may be due to an increase in estrogen or with a violation of the balance between testosterone and estrogen.
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Hair loss: In some cases, dietary supplements that increase the level of testosterone can accelerate hair loss in men predisposed to baldness by male type.
B. Specific side effects depending on the ingredients:
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D-asparaginic acid (DAA): Possible side effects include headache, irritability, anxiety and mood changes. Some studies also showed that prolonged use of DAA can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels.
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Tribulus Terrestris Tribulus: Rare side effects include disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, insomnia and breast augmentation (gynecomastia).
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Fenugreek (Fenugreek): Possible side effects include disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, allergic reactions and a change in urine smell.
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Zinc: Taking high doses of zinc can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and copper deficiency.
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Vitamin D: Taking high doses of vitamin D can cause nausea, vomiting, weakness, constipation and increasing blood calcium (hypercalcemia).
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Eurycoma Long -leaved (Eurycoma Longifolia) (Tongkat Ali): Possible side effects include insomnia, irritability and anxiety.
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Damiana (Turnra Diffusa): Possible side effects include disorders of the gastrointestinal tract and headache.
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Yohimbe: Extremely dangerous and potentially fatal. Causes severe anxiety, panic attacks, high blood pressure, rapid heart rate, and even heart attacks. Avoid at all costs.
C. Serious side effects:
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Heart problems: Some dietary supplements can increase blood pressure, heart rate and risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as myocardial infarction and stroke. This is especially dangerous for people with existing heart diseases.
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Liver damage: Some dietary supplements can be hepatotoxic (toxic for the liver) and cause damage to the liver, which can lead to jaundice, liver failure and even death.
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Interaction with drugs: Bades can interact with drugs, which can enhance or weaken their effect, as well as cause undesirable side effects.
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Anaphylactic shock: In people with allergies to certain ingredients in dietary supplements, anaphylactic shock can develop, which is a life -threatening allergic reaction.
D. Side effects in women:
Although dietary supplements for testosterone are mainly intended for men, some women can use them to increase libido, increase muscle mass or improve energy. However, it is important to take into account that dietary supplements for testosterone can cause in women side effects associated with excess of androgens (male sex hormones), such as:
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Acne (URRI): An increase in testosterone levels can stimulate the production of sebum, which leads to the appearance of acne.
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Hirsutism (excess hair growth): Women may have excessive hair growth on the face, chest and other parts of the body.
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Voice loading: Increasing the level of testosterone can lead to loading the voice.
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Menstrual cycle violation: Changes in hormonal balance can cause irregular menstruation or amenorrhea (lack of menstruation).
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Cliter increase: In rare cases, an increase in testosterone levels can lead to an increase in the clitoris.
IV. Contraindications to receive dietary supplements for testosterone
There are certain health conditions and circumstances in which the intake of dietary supplements for testosterone is contraindicated. This is due to the fact that these additives can aggravate existing diseases or interact with drugs, which leads to undesirable side effects.
A. General contraindications:
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Prostate cancer: Testosterone dietary supplements can stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells.
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Breast cancer (in men): Testosterone dietary supplements can stimulate the growth of breast cancer cells in men.
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Benign prostate hyperplasia (DGPZH): Testosterone dietary supplements can aggravate the symptoms of DHCH, such as frequent urination and difficulty urination.
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Heart disease: Testosterone dietary supplements can increase blood pressure and risk of cardiovascular diseases.
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Liver diseases: Some dietary supplements for testosterone can be hepatotoxic (toxic for the liver) and aggravate liver diseases.
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Kidney diseases: Testosterone dietary supplements can provide an additional load on the kidneys and aggravate kidney diseases.
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Apnee in a dream: Testosterone dietary supplements can aggravate apnea in a dream, a condition in which breathing is interrupted during sleep.
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Increased cholesterol level: Testosterone dietary supplements can increase cholesterol, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
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Thrombosis of deep veins (TGV) or thromboembolism of the pulmonary artery (fella): Testosterone dietary supplements can increase the risk of blood clots.
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Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Testosterone dietary supplements are contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as they can harm the child.
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Age up to 18 years: Testosterone dietary supplements are not recommended for people under the age of 18, as they can disrupt normal development.
B. Specific contraindications depending on the ingredients:
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Allergies to the ingredients: People with allergies to any of the dieters of Bad should avoid its use.
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Interaction with drugs: People taking medications should consult their doctor before taking dietary supplements for testosterone in order to exclude the possibility of interaction between drugs.
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Thyroid diseases: Some dietary supplements can affect the function of the thyroid gland, so people with thyroid diseases should take these additives with caution.
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Diabetes sugar: Some dietary supplements can affect blood sugar, so people with diabetes should carefully monitor the blood sugar when taking these additives.
C. Special groups of people:
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Elderly people: Older people are more susceptible to side effects of dietary supplements and have a higher risk of serious complications.
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People with chronic diseases: People with chronic diseases, such as heart disease, liver, kidneys and diabetes, should be special when taking dietary supplements for testosterone and consult their doctor before using them.
V. The risks associated with the uncontrolled technique of dietary supplements for testosterone
The uncontrolled intake of dietary supplements for testosterone, that is, taking without consulting a doctor and without observing the recommended dosage, can be dangerous to health and lead to various negative consequences.
A. Inaccurate dosages and low -quality ingredients:
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Lack of standardization: Bades do not go through a strict quality and safety test, like drugs. This means that the dosage of the ingredients indicated on the label may not correspond to the actual content.
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Pollution: Bades can be polluted by heavy metals, pesticides, bacteria and other harmful substances.
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Poor ingredients: Manufacturers can use low -quality ingredients that do not have declared properties or can even be harmful to health.
B. Suppression of the natural production of testosterone:
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Hormonal balance violation: Reception of dietary supplements for testosterone can disrupt the natural hormonal balance in the body, which can lead to a decrease in the production of its own testosterone.
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Atrophy of the testicle: Long-term use of dietary supplements for testosterone can lead to egg atrophy, which is associated with the suppression of the production of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GNRG) and luteinizing hormone (LH).
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Infertility: The suppression of the natural production of testosterone and egg atrophy can lead to infertility.
C. Masks of the main causes of low level of testosterone:
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Incorrect diagnosis: The intake of dietary supplements for testosterone can mask the main causes of low level of testosterone, such as diseases, medication and an unhealthy lifestyle.
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Delay of the necessary treatment: Masks of the main causes of low level of testosterone can lead to a delay in the necessary treatment and the progression of the underlying disease.
D. Legal consequences (in sports):
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Forbidden substances: Many dietary supplements contain prohibited substances that can lead to disqualification of athletes.
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Risk of random doping: Athletes who take dietary supplements are at risk of random doping, even if they do not know that the dietary supplement contains prohibited substances.
VI. Alternatives for diets for testosterone
Instead of relying on dietary supplements to increase the level of testosterone, there are a number of safer and effective alternatives that include a change in lifestyle, medical interventions and other strategies.
A. Change in lifestyle:
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Healthy nutrition: A balanced diet rich in protein, useful fats, complex carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals is necessary to maintain a healthy level of testosterone. Processed products, sugar and excessive consumption of alcohol should be avoided.
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Regular physical activity: Regular physical exercises, especially strength training, can help increase testosterone levels. It is recommended to combine strength training with cardio exercises.
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Sufficient sleep: The lack of sleep can negatively affect the level of testosterone. It is recommended to sleep 7-8 hours a day.
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Stress management: Chronic stress can increase the level of cortisol, stress hormone, which can suppress testosterone production. It is necessary to learn how to manage stress using methods such as meditation, yoga, tai-chi or just spending time in nature.
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Weight optimization: Obesity can reduce testosterone levels. Weight reduction can help increase testosterone levels.
B. Medical interventions:
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Putting therapy with testosterone (ZTT): ZTT is an effective method of increasing testosterone levels in men with hypogonadism (low testosterone level). ZTT can be carried out using injections, gels, plasters or tablets. ZTT should be prescribed and controlled by a doctor in order to minimize the risk of side effects.
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Treatment of the underlying diseases: Treatment of diseases, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome, can help increase testosterone levels.
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Correction of a deficiency of vitamins and minerals: Correction of a deficiency of vitamins and minerals, such as zinc and vitamin D, can help increase testosterone levels.
C. Alternative methods:
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Acupuncture: Some studies have shown that acupuncture can help increase testosterone levels.
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Plant remedies (under the supervision of a doctor): Some plant remedies, such as ashvaganda and ginseng, can have properties that increase testosterone levels. However, they should be used with caution and under the supervision of a doctor.
VII. Recommendations for the safe use of dietary supplements (if necessary)
If you still decide to take dietary supplements for testosterone, it is important to observe certain precautions in order to minimize the risk of side effects and ensure safety.
A. Consultation with a doctor:
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Discuss your goals and health status: Before starting to receive dietary supplements, it is important to discuss your goals and state of health with your doctor. The doctor will be able to evaluate your risks and benefits from taking dietary supplements, as well as exclude the presence of contraindications.
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Pass the examination: The doctor may prescribe an examination to determine your level of testosterone and exclude other diseases that can cause symptoms associated with a low level of testosterone.
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Get recommendations for the dosage and duration of the reception: The doctor will be able to recommend a safe and effective dosage of dietary supplements, as well as determine the duration of the reception.
B. The choice of quality products:
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Look for products that have undergone independent testing: Choose dietary supplements that have passed independent quality and safety testing. Look for products with certificates from organizations such as NSF International, USP and Consumerlab.com.
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Read the labels carefully: Read the labels carefully to find out the composition of the dietary supplement, the dosage of the ingredients and possible side effects.
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Avoid products with dubious ingredients: Avoid products containing dubious ingredients, such as synthetic steroids and other substances that can be harmful to health.
C. Dosage and monitoring:
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Follow the recommended dosage: Strictly observe the recommended dosage indicated on the label or recommended by the doctor. Do not exceed the dosage, as this can increase the risk of side effects.
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Start with a low dose: Start with a low dose to evaluate the tolerance of the dietary supplement, and gradually increase the dose, if necessary.
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Follow your condition: Follow your condition and mark any side effects. If you have any side effects, stop taking the dietary supplement and consult a doctor.
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Contactly undergo an examination: Contactly undergo an examination to control the level of testosterone and other health indicators.
D. Continuation of admission if necessary:
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In case of side effects: Stop taking the dietary supplement if you have any side effects, and consult a doctor.
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In the absence of effect: If you have not noticed any effect from taking Bad after several weeks or months, stop taking it and discuss with the doctor other possible options.
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Before the operation: Stop taking the dietary supplement a few weeks before the operation, as some ingredients can affect blood coagulation and increase the risk of bleeding.
This detailed article provides comprehensive information on testosterone boosters, their potential side effects, contraindications, and safer alternatives. It emphasizes the importance of consulting with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements and highlights the risks associated with uncontrolled use. The content is structured for easy reading and incorporates SEO-optimized keywords throughout.