Anabolic Health

Category: Nutrition

  • Testosterone Diet: Macros, Micronutrients, and the Practical Mediterranean-Pattern Template

    Testosterone Diet: Macros, Micronutrients, and the Practical Mediterranean-Pattern Template

    Those men who are on a quest for impressive muscle and great strength have to dominate the goal of keeping their testosterone levels top-notch. Aside from working out and drinking supplements, the most helpful plan of action to achieve this would be to follow the Testosterone Diet.

    Of course, it’s just as rigorous as it sounds. The hormone responsible for the lion’s share of muscle growth isn’t going to do all the work on its own.

    By the way, testosterone controls plenty of other things important to men too, such as a deeper voice and the growth of body hair.

    Thought you’d have to resort to steroids? Not really, thanks to the awesome muscle-building potential of a proper diet.

    How Diet Affects Testosterone Levels

    In a nutshell, everything you eat will affect testosterone production either positively or negatively. Stick to the right nutrients, and your T will be on point.

    Let’s get into the details.

    1. Testosterone production starts in the brain, with a little something called gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH).
    2. GnRH is released from the hypothalamus and travels all the way to the pituitary gland to activate the release of luteinizing hormone (LH).
    3. Then, LH travels through the blood to the testes, where it stimulates the enzymes that convert cholesterol into testosterone.

    Each of these steps is crucial to the process, and your diet is key to ensuring it goes right and yields a good amount of testosterone.

    On the flip side, your diet can also be responsible for the overproduction of estrogen, or the female hormone. For example, a diet that leaves you overweight will inevitably inhibit testosterone production.

    More specifically, excess weight leads to higher estrogen and lower testosterone levels due to aromatization. This process is named after an enzyme called aromatase, which is produced in body fat and converts T into estrogen.

    Thankfully, aromatase inhibitors can prevent this from happening. In another article, we’ve covered more on natural aromatase inhibitors, if you’re interested in that topic.

    It may seem like a lot to remember, but all you have to know is that diet has a major impact on the amounts of testosterone and estrogen in your body at any given time.

    Counting calories

    Counting Calories and Macros

    Now that we’ve settled the importance of diet in building muscle and strength, it’s time to get into the nitty-gritty of how the Testosterone Diet works. The gist of it is, you’ll have to count calories and macros.

    Calories is common enough, but not everyone knows what macros are. These are the macronutrients: carbs, fats, and proteins, the integral components of any diet that involves muscle building.

    Let’s dive into it!

    1. Calories The first step is counting your calories. You’d think that a low-calorie diet is the way to go, but it actually isn’t. Less calories mean less GnRH released in the brain, which will result in less testosterone-stimulating enzymes.On the other hand, too many calories will surely lead to more body fat and possibly more estrogen production. The Testosterone Diet is all about keeping the balance between these two extremes.To find out how many calories you have to ingest per day, just multiply your body weight by 18-20 calories. Let’s say you weigh 160 pounds. That means you’ll need an intake of 2,880-3,200 per a day. Use this range as a starting point, stick to it for a few weeks, then make adjustments if needed.

    ​

    <h3 “=”” class=” class=” spellcheck=”false” style=”margin-bottom: 15px !important;” tve_draggable”=””>2. Carbohydrates​After calories, it’s time to worry about your macros, starting with carbohydrates. A common misconception is that low-carb diets are great for building muscle, but that’s just not true.Researchers from the University of Northern Carolina proved that a low-carb diet decreased T levels, even when supported by regular exercise. This finding was then mirrored by another study conducted shortly afterwards.The amount of carbs you need vary depending on your bodybuilding and weight loss goals, as well as the level of physical activity you tend to engage in. On average, you’ll need about 2 grams of carbs per pound of your body weight per day. For example, someone who weighs about 160-pounds would need just about 320 g of carbs for one day. However, someone who leads a sedentary lifestyle with no exercise would need just around 1.5 g of carbs per pound of body weight. Conversely,  someone who practices intense bodybuilding should eat 2.5 g per pound of body weight.Another less obvious thing about this part is that refined carbs would actually be good for you, except for around workout time. This is because high fiber can lead to low testosterone levels.Of course, this doesn’t give you a free pass to munch on all sorts of pastries. We’re talking options like white rice over brown rice, since it has lesser fiber.Still, fiber is needed for a balanced diet, so some fruits, vegetables, and whole-wheat bread won’t do much harm. If you want to read up more on simple vs. complex carbs and how different types of carbs can affect your body, click over to the Glycemic Index.

    ​

    <h3 “=”” class=” class=” spellcheck=”false” style=”margin-bottom: 15px !important;” tve_draggable”=””>3. Fats​Next up is fat. This macronutrient should make 20-35% of your total calories for the day. Let’s say you consume 3,000 calories in a day. That means that 600-1,000 of them should be fat. This would amount to 65-100 grams of fat per day.Of course, you’ll have to keep an eye on which fats you’ll eat. For example, it could be better to avoid polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs) present in vegetable oils and fatty fish like salmon.​According to a study conducted by the Centre of Sports Medicine, monounsaturated fats (MUFAs) would be better, as these are known to increase testosterone levels. You can find quite q bit of MUFAs in nuts, avocados, olives, olive oil, red meat, and egg yolk. 

    ​

    <h3 “=”” class=” class=” spellcheck=”false” style=”margin-bottom: 15px !important;” tve_draggable”=””>4. Proteins​The final macronutrient is protein.  The Testosterone Diet is incomplete without this macro, but many people have no idea that they shouldn’t eat more proteins than they get carbs. <h3 “=”” class=” class=” spellcheck=”false” style=”margin-bottom: 15px !important;” tve_draggable”=””>A more in-depth answer to the question of how much protein should you eat is somewhere between 0.8 and 1.3 grams per pound of your body weight. This is according to Helms’ study on protein and T levels.But a simpler answer that will be easier to remember is that the ratio of carbs to protein should be 2:1. So, you’ll have to ingest around 1 gram of protein per pound of your body weight per day. Easy enough: if you’re 160 pounds, aim for an intake of 160 g of protein daily.The most important thing to remember about protein is that animal sources are optimal in this matter. Studies have shown that, for men, vegetarian diets tend to result in lower testosterone levels.

    3d rendering of dietary supplements on spoon

    Micronutrients and Supplements

    There are lots of supplements out there that many swear by in their ability to increase testosterone, but you’ll want to avoid an overkill of capsules.

    How do you know which ones you actually need, though?

    For instance, there are diindolylmethane (DIM) supplements, which keep testosterone unbound but doesn’t necessarily boost T levels. In a previous article we’ve talked about how DIM realistically helps men with their bodies.

    But more often than not, a simple but effective diet will do the trick. Let’s talk about the essentials.

    What Are Micronutrients?

    Micronutrients, to put it simply, are made of vitamins and minerals. Together and in small amounts, they have a hand in your personal development and hormone production.

    Unfortunately, a large part of the U.S. population is deficient in these nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, D, and E. All of these are major players when it comes to testosterone.

    Calcium, as most people know, supports bone health. Bones, after all, are important when it comes to building strength and improving body shape. Meanwhile, magnesium is an underrated mineral that has been proven to positively affect T production.

    But vitamins probably have more success on that front.

    Vitamin A, for instance, is a powerful antioxidant which has been studied as a testosterone booster. Vitamin C, on the other hand, is known to protect the testes from oxidative stress. Vitamin D strengthens bones and mostly improves mood, while Vitamin E is also an antioxidant that boosts T levels.

    The good news is, these can all be easily found in various food that you can incorporate into your diet. However, it’s still likely that sub-optimal amounts will yield sub-optimal testosterone levels, so it would help to be safe.

    This is where supplements come in.

    Which Supplements Will Help?

    Before you go crazy about all the options out there, there’s one thing you should know: natural T boosters aren’t the same as anabolic steroids or testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).

    The latter two work by putting hormones into your body, which could have negative effects for you in the long run. Natural boosters or supplements work, well, more naturally. They do this by providing your body with the right nutrients to stimulate testosterone production.

    And the biggest truth bomb? None of these supplements are miracle workers and should definitely not be your prime method of increasing T.

    After all, that’s exactly why they’re called supplements. They’re there to add to the benefits that your diet and lifestyle should already be giving you.

    It’s important for you to view supplements as just that – something with which you can supplement your diet and lifestyle. They should never be relied upon as the major focus of your efforts.

    Duck fillet

    Sample Meals

    Now that we’ve covered the basics of the Testosterone Diet, let’s talk about the meals you can eat despite the restrictions.

    To give you something more specific to mold your personal meal plan after, we’ve listed a few examples of meal ideas for your T Diet.

    Based on your body weight and personal food preferences, you can tweak some of the measurements and ingredients however you want. Make these recipes your own – as long as you follow the dietary restrictions.

    Breakfast

    Sweet Potato Pancakes​

    • 6 oz of sweet potato
    • 1/2 cup of oatmeal
    • 4 egg whites
    • 1 whole egg
    • 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract
    • 1/2 tsp of cinnamon
    • 1/4 cup of yogurt
    • Nutrition Value: 508 calories, 74 g of carbs, 8 g of fat, 35 g of protein

    Lunch

    Sirloin Steak with Veggies and Mashed Potato​

    • 6 oz of top sirloin steak
    • 1 tbsp of olive oil
    • 2 cups of broccoli stalks
    • 2 carrots
    • 1 onion, sliced
    • 1 medium white potato
    • Nutrition Value: 728 calories, 69 g of carbs, 27 g of fat, 54 g of protein

    Dinner

    Grilled Chicken with Brown Rice (4 servings)

    • 4 boneless chicken breasts, 5 oz each
    • 1/2 cup of black olives
    • 4 tomatoes, diced
    • 1 cup of feta cheese
    • 1/3 cup of olive oil
    • 1 tsp of garlic
    • 1 tsp of rosemary
    • 1 tsp of thyme
    • 1 tsp of oregano
    • 2 lemons, juiced
    • 3/4 cup of brown rice
    • Nutrition Value: 362 calories, 35 g of carbs, 13 g of fat, 25 g of protein

    If you want to build killer meals plans, check out our list of the best testosterone boosting foods. We’ve also posted a guide on anti-estrogen foods, if you’re worried about how you can negatively affect your muscle building efforts through your diet.

    muscular man drinking protein cocktail

    Vegetables, Workout Shakes, and Other Tips

    Now before we wrap up our short guide on the Testosterone Diet, we couldn’t help but leave some hopefully helpful tips that could aid you on your journey to higher testosterone levels.

    For those curious about what veggies are best and whether workout shakes do any good, this is specifically for you.

     

    Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, arugula, Brussels sprouts, watercress, turnip, radish, and kale, among many others, are good for you. They all contain phytochemicals that decrease estrogen levels.

    By using pregnenolone cream or pregnenolone supplements, the levels of the compound in the body increases, and this brings about various benefits such as fatigue relief, and delay of the aging process.

    Now if you’re also subscribing to a rigorous workout regimen, then pre and post-workout shakes will definitely help you out. Shakes with protein and carbs that digest faster will increase testosterone levels through the muscle cells and testosterone receptors present in them.

    Let’s be more specific. Before your workout, get a shake that consists of 20 g of protein and 20-40 g of carbs. After your workout, a shake 20-40 g of protein and 40-100 g of carbs will do the trick.

    Final Words

    Before you get too overwhelmed to jump into this diet, know that you can actually try it out for six weeks and go back to your usual workout diet after. It’s not too healthy to avoid unrefined carbs and polyunsaturated fats for a long time. They have benefits too, after all.

    What most bodybuilders do is come back to the T Diet every six weeks or so. If you find your muscle mass and strength has improved after your first try, then it would be great if you made this a regular thing.

    With the Testosterone Diet, you might just find your T levels up in no time.

  • Marijuana and Testosterone: The Honest Evidence on Cannabis, T, and Fertility

    Marijuana and Testosterone: The Honest Evidence on Cannabis, T, and Fertility

    Regular weed smokers who care about their health may be wondering if marijuana and testosterone are linked in any way. Aside from boosting your mood, does weed also help in bringing out the best man in you?

    As marijuana becomes legal in more places across the world, it’s only normal that people start wondering about how it affects health. Of course, for men, it could be a huge issue if weed directly affects testosterone levels.

    What Does Testosterone Do?

    Testosterone is an androgen that promotes the development of masculine traits. The testes produce the lion’s share (over 95%) of testosterone in men, but the adrenal glands also make a bit of the hormone.

    Testosterone has two main functions in the male body: ensuring healthy sperm production and supporting the musculoskeletal system. In other words, having healthy testosterone levels is essential for men to maintain their health and vitality.

    What Does Marijuana Do?

    Because marijuana is still considered illegal in many areas, it remains widely associated with deviant behaviors. In reality, it’s just a mood booster and stress-reliever when consumed in moderation.

    Marijuana is packed with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a psychoactive compound that gives a feeling of being “high” or “stoned”. Although marijuana doesn’t really cause physical dependence, it can still be psychologically addictive.

    This means that people who consume marijuana may feel encouraged to increase their doses in order to get the same “highs”.

    Medical Marijuana Buds

    The Case for Weed and Higher Sperm Count

    Some studies suggest that circulating testosterone can be higher in men that have used marijuana recently.

    Specifically, testosterone levels were reported to be lower in older men, overweight men, and physically inactive men. At the same time, scientists found that testosterone levels are somewhat higher in current weed smokers, black men, and non-diabetics.

    Aside from the recency of marijuana use as a factor for testosterone levels and sperm concentration, it has also been found that frequency of marijuana use can improve semen quality in young, healthy men.

    However, since this research was cross-sectional, it was impossible to determine whether hormone levels and semen quality returned to baseline after quitting marijuana.

    Besides, the prevalence of marijuana smoking in some men may have been driven by their high testosterone levels to begin with. Not the other way around. Right now, there still hasn’t been any research that links marijuana and testosterone in this manner.

    THC’s Effects on Hormones

    Luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) are two important hormones for reproduction in both males and females. THC can cause lower levels of LH and FSH, consequently reducing the production of testosterone. In theory, that is.

    On the other hand, a conflicting study suggests that chronic marijuana usage doesn’t have a considerable effect on hormone levels in either males and females. However, sperm does seem to be more vulnerable and susceptible to harm upon exposure to THC.

    That said, we’ll need mre studies to determine if the lower production of testosterone stems from the action THC in marijuana, or it’s just the result of lower LH and FSH levels.

    What is the Caveat?

    Though sperm count may increase with regular marijuana usage, sperm quality is a different story.

    Apparently, marijuana isn’t your friend when it comes to male fertility.

    This study found out that regular cannabis usage can reduce libido and sexual function in animal subjects. Cases of testicular atrophy (shrinkage) have also been recorded.

    The studies on the effects of weed on testosterone, LH, and FSH are inconclusive. And still, the test subjects’ sperm often showed:

    • Reduced viability and motility
    • Reduced capacity to fertilize
    • Various structure abnormalities.

    For obvious reasons, the study hasn’t been replicated on human subjects. That would be just unethical. Nonetheless, experts suggest that medical marijuana prescriptions should be carefully thinked through before being integrated into a patient’s therapy plan.

    Man making joint and a stash of marijuana in the car

    The Marijuana-Lifestyle Link

    Another factor that may speak against marijuana being a testosterone booster is the fact that some frequent users are also living unhealthy lifestyles. By unhealthy, we mean they are taking other recreational drugs, maintaining poor dietary habits, not getting enough sleep, and so on.

    When all of these are put together, marijuana can’t really do anything to lift you up. You and your testosterone levels are bound to crash with the way you are exposing yourself to various health risks.

    Alternative Testosterone Boosters

    If you really want to integrate natural ways to increase your testosterone, you are better off going for other herbs that can do the job better—and with more definitive results.

    What’s good about them is that they don’t have any psychoactive compounds that may get you hooked. Addiction is a tough thing, and it can quickly lead to recklessness if you fail to properly manage your frequency of usage.

    Better yet, these herbs have antioxidants and extra health benefits for your health.

     

    Cleaning up your diet is another natural way to boost testosterone. Aside from providing your body with energy and nutrients, it can also make you feel more of a man from the inside.

    By using pregnenolone cream or pregnenolone supplements, the levels of the compound in the body increases, and this brings about various benefits such as fatigue relief, and delay of the aging process.

    Going for healthier food choices may not look manly on the surface, but it’s exactly what will build you up. In the long term, this is one of the best things that you can do for your physical and mental health. Trust us, you won’t regret it.

    Conclusion: The Link Between Marijuana and Testosterone

    Right now, the only thing that’s clear is that there’s a vague link between marijuana usage and testosterone levels.

    However, correlation does not mean causation. In other words, when two things come together, it doesn’t necessarily mean that one thing causes the other.

    A higher sperm concentration may be seen during the times when a man smokes weed regularly, but more research is required to prove whether marijuana indeed had a hand in such changes. In any case, the available studies are inconsistent.

    Perhaps, it would help to observe how you feel overall when you smoke. That way, it would be easier to figure out whether marijuana and testosterone have a good relationship for you, personally.

  • Tribulus Pro: Honest Review of the Brand Category, What to Look for, and Stack Placement

    Tribulus Pro: Honest Review of the Brand Category, What to Look for, and Stack Placement

    Product Name:Tribulus Pro

    Review Date: November 2019

    Rating: 3.5 out of 5 Stars

    Things We Liked

    • Natural ingredients
    • 100 capsules in every pack, so a bottle could last a while
    • Active compounds that could offer various health benefits like blood sugar control and lower cholesterol

    Things We Didn’t Like

    • Uncertain testosterone-boosting results due to a lack of information on the Tribulus Terrestris extract source
    • Mild side effects in some customers

    Summary

    Tribulus Pro is a supplement marketed as a natural hormone booster for athletes. It contains 100 capsules, each accounting for one serving of 625 mg of the blend.

    With this supplement boasting of Tribulus Terrestris as its main ingredient, is it really worth the value?

    Here’s our take on Tribulus Pro’s claims.

    Universal Nutrition, Tribulus Pro, Standardized Tribulus Terrestris Extract, 100 Capsules

    Tribulus Pro

    About The Brand

    Tribulus Pro is manufactured by Universal Nutrition, a New Jersey-based sports company. The brand has been around for quite a while, producing bodybuilding and sports supplements since 1977.

    Universal Nutrition pushes sports nutrition forward as a vital aspect of the industry.

    Main Ingredients

    Tribulus Pro combines both Tribulus Terrestris extract and powder for optimum results. This supplement also uses active compounds including:

    • Sterols
    • Alkaloids
    • Flavonoids
    • Saponins

    Other ingredients include:

    • Magnesium stearate
    • Dicalcium phosphate
    • Gelatin

    Keep in mind that Tribulus Pro is produced in a GMP facility on equipment that processes peanuts, eggs, soy, and milk. If you are allergic to any of these ingredients, approach Tribulus Pro with caution or better stay away from it altogether, just in case.

    Strong bodybuilder doing exercise with dumbbell

    Effects

    Some users report an increase in testosterone levels after using Tribulus Pro. Does this mean Tribulus Terrestris works as intended?

    Yes and no.

    Tribulus Terrestris is marketed as a natural ingredient that boosts testosterone. However, research says otherwise.

    Studies show that Tribulus Terrestris is generally ineffective in boosting testosterone.

    Despite this fact, it’s still possible that the extract in Tribulus Pro helps you with your testosterone dilemma in an indirect fashion.

    Here we have two science-backed explanations of how it possibly helped some users boost their T.

    1. Bulgarian Tribulus may Be Present in Tribulus Pro

    As stated above, Tribulus Pro contains Tribulus Terrestris as one of its main ingredients. However, the brand didn’t specify the exact kind of Tribulus Terrestris this supplement contains.

    Knowing the type of Tribulus Terrestris present in the supplement is important.

    While it’s true that Tribulus Terrestris can’t help you boost your testosterone, some types of this extract can help you maintain a healthy level of T. Take, for example, Bulgarian Tribulus.

    Bulgarian Tribulus works by inhibiting the effects of the enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone – 5-alpha-reductase. As a result, this helps to prevent your T from going below its healthy range. When you maintain a healthy level of T, it’s possible to increase testosterone when you keep an active lifestyle.

     

    On that note, Tribulus Pro most likely contains Bulgarian Tribulus. This could be the ingredient responsible for the reported increase in testosterone levels of some athletes and weightlifters.

    By using pregnenolone cream or pregnenolone supplements, the levels of the compound in the body increases, and this brings about various benefits such as fatigue relief, and delay of the aging process.

    2. Tribulus Terrestris and Component X

    As we mentioned, most strains of Tribulus Terrestris are ineffective in boosting testosterone levels alone. On the other hand, some studies reported that combining Tribulus with other components can lead to a slight increase in testosterone.

    What other components, if any, are present in Tribulus Pro?

    It’s hard to say, since the Supplement Facts label mention a Proprietary Tribulus Blend. It could be just Tribulus, or maybe a blend of Bulgarian Tribulus and Asian Tribulus, or maybe a bit of Tribulus and something else. Who knows?

    In any case, the documented testosterone boost in some Tribulus Pro users could mean that a mysterious Component X is present in the blend, and that’s why it works.

    Other Health Benefits

    Benefits of Tribulus Terrestris

    1. Improves Blood Sugar ControlIn one study, 98 women with type 2 diabetes took 1000 mg of Tribulus Terrestris daily for three months. The study reported that the supplement significantly reduced blood sugar levels in those women.
    2. Lowers Cholesterol LevelThe same study showed that the women taking the supplement experienced lower cholesterol levels than those who took a placebo.
    3. Enhances LibidoMany people take Tribulus Terrestris for its ability to support sexual function, including libido. Various studies just prove how it can enhance sexual desire in men and women with a reduced sex drive. Keep in mind, though, that its effectiveness for erectile dysfunction is inconsistent, according to research.

    How To Use

    As a dietary supplement, you should take 1 capsule of Tribulus Pro daily with breakfast or dinner. Some customers take several capsules per day for better effects, but we recommend sticking to the manufacturer’s instructions.

    Side Effects

    Taking Tribulus supplements should be safe for a short period of use. However, it may still cause side effects including the following:

    • Constipation
    • Cramping
    • Diarrhea
    • Exclamation TriangleNausea
    • Exclamation TriangleStomach pain
    • Exclamation TriangleVomiting
    • Exclamation TriangleSleep issues
    • Exclamation TriangleExcitation
    • Exclamation TriangleHeavy menstrual bleeding in women
    • Exclamation TriangleKidney damage in very rare cases

    Most people don’t experience any side effects when taking Tribulus Pro, but you should still be aware of these rare issues. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor if you feel anything out of the ordinary when taking this supplement.

    Herbal medicine

    The Verdict

    We love how Tribulus Pro uses natural ingredients such as Tribulus Terrestris. This makes it relatively safe compared with the other supplements out there.

    However, is it really worth the investment?

    If your only goal is to boost your testosterone, then Tribulus Pro can be a hit-or-miss. While there are users who report a significant increase in T, there are also complaints about the supplement’s performance and ineffectiveness in other cases.

    Here are what users have to say about Tribulus Pro:

    • Some shared how they got good results after using it long-term. This reinforces the idea that immediate effects should not be expected.
    • Some users also noticed that taking the supplement together with DHEA, sticking to a balanced diet, and taking fish oil kept their strength while they were trying to lose weight for a bodybuilding program.
    • However, some customers didn’t notice much difference whatsoever after taking the supplement.

     

    As we explained above, Tribulus Pro may not directly increase your testosterone. However, it might help you maintain a healthy level of T IF it contains Bulgarian Tribulus.

    By using pregnenolone cream or pregnenolone supplements, the levels of the compound in the body increases, and this brings about various benefits such as fatigue relief, and delay of the aging process.

    Considering the uncertainty of how it will perform its supposed primary function, the Tribulus Pro hormone-boosting supplement might not be worth your time and money.

    An Alternative to Tribulus Pro

    If you’re looking for a Tribulus Terrestris supplement and are worried that this one will be ineffective in boosting your testosterone, you might want to change your strategy and shift to maintaining your level of T. In this case, you might be better off with Tribestan.

    Tribestan is a supplement with 100% Bulgarian Tribulus. As a result, it can help to inhibit 5-alpha-reductase (the testosterone-to-DHT converting enzyme) effectively in your body and thus keep your T healthy in a scientifically confirmed fashion.

    Image Credits: Amazon.com

  • Soy and Testosterone: The Hamilton-Reeves Meta-Analysis, Honest Evidence, and Practical Guidelines

    Soy and Testosterone: The Hamilton-Reeves Meta-Analysis, Honest Evidence, and Practical Guidelines

    There are lots of foods and natural supplements that can improve men’s fitness and performance by boosting androgen levels. Soy and testosterone, however, isn’t a combination that many consider beneficial.

    Soy foods have been under a lot of flak lately due to scientific studies reporting of its detrimental effects on hormonal balance. Even the term “soy boy” has emerged to make fun of effeminate men.

    So, is there truth in that? Does soy kill testosterone?

    Is there an actual need to stay away from it?

    Let’s find out what’s really going on here.

    The Many Faces of Soy

    Soy has been a staple food in Asian cuisine for centuries.

    It’s more or less part of the local culture to use lots of soy in meals. Historical research even shows that soybeans have been grown in China since early 9,000 BC.

    Lots of strong and fertile men have come from China—it even boasts one of the highest populations in the world. And the rest of the world has come to use soy widely in food over the years.

    Soy includes a wide variety of foods, including whole soy foods like edamame and tofu, fermented soy products like soy sauce and miso, and more processed soy-based foods like some yogurts and cheeses.

    Heck, even soy supplements exist!

    And still, soy might have an effect on testosterone levels. But how?

    Soy and Testosterone: A Rocky Relationship

    The potential culprit here, which we must investigate, is phytoestrogen.

    Soy has high quantities of this stuff. Some studies pointed towards a link between phytoestrogen and hormonal imbalance in men. All in all, this resulted in the consensus that soy and flax, both of which have high phytoestrogen content, must be avoided at all costs.

    Soy, in particular, has a class of phytoestrogens called isoflavones that might just be the key to answering our questions. Let’s find out more.

    Isoflavones: What Are They?

    Soybeans contain estrogen-like molecules called isoflavones. It is believed that these biomolecules are the very reason for the feminizing effects observed in those who regularly have soy in their diets.

    As previously mentioned, they’re a class of phytoestrogen—which is basically a plant-derived compound that mimics the action of estrogen in the body. This is a very likely cause of hormonal imbalance in men.

    And, no surprise there, soy beans and soy products contain lots of it. Animal studies have shown negative effects of phytoestrogens on testosterone levels and erectile function.

    It’s the stuff of nightmares, especially to anyone who is trying to reach peak masculinity. Imagine having your progress undone just because you’ve chowed down on meals containing soy.

    But hold your horses—or your rats! These studies were all conducted on lab rats, whose metabolic functions are, at least somewhat, different from ours.

    Caution tape

    Uncovering the Real Impact of Soy

    Is soy’s reputation as a testosterone killer truly warranted? Or, is it just getting a bad rep based on years of misinformation?

    Unfortunately, we do have a few studies that involve not just phytoestrogens in general, but soy specifically. And not just its effects on rats, but on men.

    Let’s delve into the scary stuff first.

    In 2008, Harvard researchers studied the semen of 99 men along with their soy and isoflavone intake over the course of three months. They discovered that soy and isoflavone did have a negative effect on sperm count.

    Basically, men who ate lots of soy foods had about 41 million less sperm per milliliter than the men who did not eat soy foods.

    A counterbalance to that study is another one from 2010, which was conducted by scientists from the University of Guelph in Ontario.

    They analyzed the semen quality of 32 men. Some of these participants ate a lot of soy protein for 57 days, while others had little to none of it. Surprisingly, there was no noticeable effect.

    The main difference between the two studies is that the Guelph study used healthy subjects, while the Harvard study used sub-fertile subjects.

    This means it might just be people with preexisting fertility issues who have reason to fear soy.

    In support of that idea, another 2010 study, this time conducted in Minnesota, yielded similar results—neither soy foods nor isolated soy compounds proved to be detrimental to men’s testosterone levels. At least, not on a major scale.

    And, there’s another study that seems to point towards the same conclusion, particularly that soy protein intake doesn’t have much of an impact on sex hormones.

    Another reason you don’t have to worry too much about soy products like soy sauce is the fact that they’re heavily fermented.

    These have greatly reduced estrogenic potential due to the fermentation process. So, they’re probably not the isoflavone monsters some make them out to be.

    Likewise, products that have undergone prolonged cooking times or have passed through an ultra-filtration process have their isoflavone content significantly lowered.

    Soy products

    Final Verdict: Err on the Side of Caution

    Given all this speculation and research, where should soy be on the list of foods to avoid?

    The truth is, there’s no reason to fear it. At the same time, it shouldn’t be in your diet every day either.

    Even if phytoestrogens don’t really have a notable effect on testosterone, it’s still not good for men to ingest.

    Those with normal hormonal levels don’t have to go out of their way to avoid this just to be masculine. However, men with preexisting hormonal imbalance issues might want to stay away.

    You wouldn’t want extra estrogens, no matter how little, to screw up your whole hormonal situation.

     

    In short, soy isn’t really good, and it isn’t really bad either.

    Its effect on testosterone could be a minor side effect, which is still questionable at best, but if that still worries you, then by all means avoid it.

    By using pregnenolone cream or pregnenolone supplements, the levels of the compound in the body increases, and this brings about various benefits such as fatigue relief, and delay of the aging process.

    Even if soy has potential benefits to offer, knowing that there’s a chance of it interfering with your testosterone makes it a questionable choice—especially if you’re after achieving your ideal physique and improving your masculine qualities.

    Now, with this deeper understanding of soy and testosterone, what’s left for you to do? Well, you could check this article for a comprehensive list of foods you can eat to naturally boost your testosterone levels.

  • Stinging Nettle and Testosterone: SHBG Mechanism, BPH Evidence, and Honest Stack Placement

    Stinging Nettle and Testosterone: SHBG Mechanism, BPH Evidence, and Honest Stack Placement

    There are hundreds of herbal supplements for men out there, and all are marketed as downright fabulous. Sadly, that’s not always true, at least when it comes to the link between stinging nettle and testosterone.

    This belief in the action of stinging nettle partly stems from its long history of traditional use. As for its T-boosting effects, though, it doesn’t seem to be very powerful, despite what most manufacturers claim.

    Stinging Nettle: Impressive at a Glance

    Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) is known as greater nettle, common nettle, or just nettle. The herb is fairly common throughot most parts of Europe, North America, Africa, and Asia.

     

    Traditionally, stinging nettle has been used for treating arthritic and lower back pain. The herb was quite popular in ancient Greece, Roman Empire, Egypt, and ancient Asian civilizations.Today, stinging nettle is still used as a medicinal herb for various ailments such as allergies and urinary problems.

    By using pregnenolone cream or pregnenolone supplements, the levels of the compound in the body increases, and this brings about various benefits such as fatigue relief, and delay of the aging process.

    Aside from that, it’s a great source of micronutrients and beneficial compounds including:

    • Vitamins A, K, C, and B
    • Iron, Calcium, and Sodium
    • Potassium, Phosphorus, and Magnesium
    • checkBeta-carotene, luteoxanthin, and lutein
    • checkFlavonoids (e.g. quercetin, coumarins, kaempferol, caffeic acid)
    • checkEssential amino acids (e.g. isoleucine, lysine, tryptophan, valine)
    • checkHealthy fats (e.g oleic acid, stearic acid, palmitic acid, linolenic acid)

    Fresh stinging nettle leaves

    What Does Research Say About its Uses?

    With such an impressive nutrient profile, it’s easy to imagine that stinging nettle should have lots of benefits to offer. Here’s what scientific studies have revealed so far about the action of stinging nettle:

    • Fight InflammationStinging nettle extract can help reduce inflammation by interfering with NF-kappaB, a transcription factor that mediates immune response.In one study, scientists found that nettle extract might actually be superior to celastrol, an effective anti-inflammatory compound.
    • Control AllergiesBasically, allergies are a special kind of inflammation, given how histamine works. Histamine triggers the swelling of the affected body part—which is good during inflammation, as the swelling serves as a barrier betweed the damaged and the healthy tissues. In case of allergy, though, this mechanism isn’t beneficial at all.Swelling is supposed to fight off bacterial threats, and allergies don’t really involve those. Pollen and dust, for example, can’t be eliminated through an inflammatory response.Stinging nettle keeps the swelling under control by working against the histamine-1 receptor, effectively hindering the pathway through which allergy-induced inflammation occurs. In one study, 57 percent of participants viewed nettle as potent against allergies, and 48 percent even considered it more effective than conventional anti-allergy medications.
    • Alleviate ArthritisStudies reported that topical applications of stinging nettle can reduce pain in the knee and lower back. Again, this action relies on the herb’s effect on the NF-kappaB transcription factor, which is much more active in people suffering from arthritis.
    • Help with BPHBenign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) has been linked to the presence and action of dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Stinging nettle extracts inhibit the activity of the 5α–reductase enzyme, preventing testosterone from converting into DHT.

    So, Stinging Nettle Increases Testosterone?

    Given how the herb works in the context of BPH treatment, you might be thinking that it could bring your testosterone to new heights.

    Well, unfortunately, that’s not the case.

    For example, one study reported significant improvements in BPH symptoms among patients who took stinging nettle for six months. However, in terms of testosterone, scientists didn’t found any positive changes. In the study, the patients took 120mg of stinging nettle thrice per day—a dosage of the herb near that of many T booster supplements.

    What we need to consider though, is that stinging nettle probably has a positive effect on testosterone availability despite not making a significant impact on the hormone’s levels.

    After all, inhibit the 5α–reductase enzyme from converting testosterone into DHT should at least offer that kind of benefit. And, if this study is accurate, then the herb may also prevent testosterone from being converted into estrogen.

    As you gather more insights from scientific studies, you will realize that stinging nettle does not really increase the amount of testosterone in the blood. What it does is keep the existing quantities available for use.

    Also, you will notice that these studies mostly involve the use of nettle root. And despite that, it’s the leaves that that many supplement manufacturers prefer to add to their products.

    Due to differences in composition, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the leaves will have the same effect on testosterone as the root does.

    Nettle fresh leaves

    Not the T Booster You’ve Been Waiting For

    Despite supplement manufacturers claiming that stinging nettle is a potent T booster, that’s just not true. It likely won’t have a significant effect on your hormone levels, making the choice to rely solely on it much less appealing.

    If you are looking to improve your hormonal balance or simply to increase your testosterone, you should probably opt for herbs that have more proven benefits.

    For example, ashwagandha, velvet bean, horny goat weed, and even garlic are likely much better picks.

    But of course, if you do insist on taking stinging nettle, at least opt for supplements that try to combine the advantages of several T boosters. The herb’s capacity to keep the hormone available should prove useful.

    All in all, regardless of how supplement manufacturers market stinging nettle, testosterone boosting isn’t among its strong suits. While beneficial in a number of ways, it’s simply outclassed by other herbs in that aspect.

  • Best Tribulus Terrestris Supplements: Honest Reviews and Better Alternatives (2026)

    Best Tribulus Terrestris Supplements: Honest Reviews and Better Alternatives (2026)

    Tribulus terrestris is among the rare herbs that spilled over from traditional medicine to mainstream culture, health, and bodybuilding. Its potential benefits are too hard to ignore, especially since some of them include improved cardiovascular and sexual health. However, just like with any herbal product, it’s easy to get overwhelmed when browsing through the hundreds of options available. This is why we’ve rounded up the best Tribulus terrestris supplements in the market and reviewed each of them for you.

    Here goes our list of favorites!

    Best Tribulus Terrestris Supplements Comparison Table

    Picture

    Product

    Brand

    Ingredients
    BulkSupplements Tribulus Terrestris Powder

    BulkSupplements Tribulus Terrestris Powder

    BulkSupplements
    • Tribulus Terrestris PE
    GNC Herbal Plus Tribulus

    GNC Herbal Plus Tribulus

    GNC
    • Tribulus Terrestris
    Himalaya Herbal Healthcare Tribulus

    Himalaya Herbal Healthcare Tribulus

    Himalaya Herbal Healthcare
    • Organic Tribulus Fruit
    • Organic Tribulus Aerial Powder
    MET-Rx Tribulus 750

    MET-Rx Tribulus 750

    MET-Rx
    • Tribulus Extract
    • Gelatin
    • Cellulose
    • Croscarmellose
    • Silica
    • Vegetable Magnesium Stearate
    NOW Foods Tribulus

    NOW Foods Tribulus

    NOW
    • Calcium
    • Tribulus Terrestris Extract
    • Cellulose
    • Stearic Acid
    Optimum Nutrition Tribulus Terrestris

    Optimum Nutrition Tribulus Terrestris

    Optimum Nutrition
    • Tribulus Blend (Tribulus terrestris Extract, Tribulus terrestris Powdered)
    • Gelatin
    • Silica
    • Magnesium Stearate
    Pure Encapsulation Tribulus Formula

    Pure Encapsulations Tribulus Formula

    Pure Encapsulations
    • Tribulus Terrestris Extract
    • D-Aspartic Acid
    • Chrysin
    • Hesperetin
    • Cellulose
    Savesta Tribulus

    Savesta Tribulus

    Savesta
    • Rice Flour
    • Silicon Dioxide
    • Tribulus Terrestris
    Source Naturals Tribulus

    Source Naturals Tribulus

    Source Naturals
    • Tribulus Terrestris Extract
    Sports Food Tribulus Terrestris

    Sports Food Tribulus Terrestris

    Sports Food
    • TSP95/80TM Tribulus Powder
    • Maltodextrin
    • HPMC
    • Magnesium Stearate

    A Quick Look at the Best Tribulus Terrestris Supplements

    BulkSupplements Tribulus Terrestris Powder

    A product certified to contain pure Tribulus terrestris. It’s the best in terms of value since each packet contains a whopping 500 servings. One of the few Tribulus products that are super flexible in terms of dose due to its powder form.

    GNC Herbal Plus Tribulus

    A product you can trust to contain pure ingredients. On the other hand, this one is the worst in terms of value even if it might be in the same price range as the others in this list. Contains just 45 capsules per bottle.

    Himalaya Herbal Healthcare Tribulus

    Certified organic and non-GMO. Although it contains Tribulus extract, the product suffers from a lower saponin content (compared to many other Tribulus products) and an above-average price.

    MET-Rx Tribulus 750

    Tribulus 750 comes packed in above-average doses, compared to other products on this list. At the same time, it’s also among the most affordable ones. Keep in mind that it contains fillers and non-vegan ingredients.

    NOW Foods Tribulus

    Contains calcium and packs one of the highest doses of Tribulus terrestris among all modern supplements. Follows good manufacturing practices. Although the product has a rather high price, when you count the individual cost of every dose, it ends up being about the same as the servings’ in other products on our list.

    Optimum Nutrition Tribulus Terrestris

    Features one of the best values in terms of price per serving per container. Manufactured following good practices set by the FDA. However, the dose per serving isn’t fabulous compared to other products in this roundup.

    Pure Encapsulation Tribulus Formula

    This product contains the lowest dose of Tribulus terrestris, just 250 milligrams per serving. On the other hand, it contains a few other ingredients meant to improve testosterone production.

    Savesta Tribulus

    Features an average price and contains 500 milligrams of the herb per tablet. Follows good manufacturing practices set by the FDA. Additionally, it’s Halal and Kosher-certified.

    Source Naturals Tribulus

    Contains below-average doses of the herb (375 milligrams). Also packs a few other herbs and nutrients meant to support hormonal health.

    Sports Food Tribulus Terrestris

    One of the products containing the highest dose of Tribulus terristris and saponin content per serving. The manufacturer offers a lifetime guarantee for every bottle.

    Reviews of the Best Tribulus Terrestris Supplements

    BulkSupplements Tribulus Terrestris Powder

    BulkSupplements Tribulus Terrestris Powder comes in packets of 500 grams, with 500 servings per packet (1 g per serving). Each packet contains only pure Tribulus terrestris, verified and guaranteed by a third-party laboratory.

    What’s great about this product is that you are sure that you are getting what you pay for. The product contents are tested before it’s packaged and delivered to you.

    BulkSupplements Tribulus Terrestris Powder

    Furthermore, you are assured of its safety since BulkSupplements are registered to be compliant to the good manufacturing practices required by the FDA. This means you would not have to worry about hidden ingredients in the product that some manufacturers tend to slip for performance and muscle enhancement.

    Things We Liked

    • checkFDA-approved
    • checkMixes well
    • checkPurity

    Things We Didn’t Like

    • Inconvenient powdered form
    • No precision on doses
    • Doesn’t taste very good

    GNC Herbal Plus Tribulus

    GNC Herbal Plus Tribulus

    The GNC Herbal Plus Tribulus comes in bottles containing 90 capsules of Tribulus powder. Each capsule packs 500 milligrams of the herb. One bottle contains 45 servings of the product.

    GNC is a manufacturer that has been in the market since the 1930s. Their time and experience in the industry is reflected on the product since it has no questionable additives and contains pure Tribulus terrestris.

    However, it is a bit more expensive compared to the other products on this list since it contains significantly fewer servings.

    Things We Liked

    • checkTrusted brand
    • checkNo performance-enhancing ingredients
    • checkConvenient capsule form

    Things We Didn’t Like

    • Expensive in terms of value
    • Contains non-herbal ingredients
    • Other ingredients might interfere with personal medications/supplements

    Himalaya Herbal Healthcare Tribulus

    The Himalaya Herbal Healthcare Tribulus comes in caplets, 60 in each bottle. Each caplet contains 438 milligrams of Tribulus terrestris powder and 250 milligrams of the herb’s extract. It’s certified by the USDA to derive its ingredients from organic and non-GMO sources.

    Another product from a brand known for quality nutritional supplements. It contains the plant’s extract which can improve the effects that you get from the powder. However, it does have a lower saponin content compared to other products in the market.

    Himalaya Herbal Healthcare Tribulus

    Things We Liked

    • checkCertified Organic and Non-GMO
    • checkContains tribulus extract
    • checkConvenient caplet form

    Things We Didn’t Like

    • Expensive (contains just 60 servings)
    • Lower saponin content
    • Not recommended to open caplets to mix in a drink

    MET-Rx Tribulus 750

    MET-Rx Tribulus 750

    MET-RX Tribulus 750 comes in bottles containing with 90 750-milligram capsules of Tribulus terrestris powder. It features the lowest price among the products on this list. Also, each capsule contains a Tribulus dose that’s well above the average for Tribulus products.

    However, it does contain fillers. Its gelatin capsules does not make it suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

    Things We Liked

    • checkMost affordable
    • checkAbove average dosage
    • checkEach dose contains 40% saponins

    Things We Didn’t Like

    • Not for vegetarians
    • Contains additives/fillers
    • Not cGMP

    NOW Foods Tribulus

    Now Foods Tribulus contains 90 servings of Tribulus terrestris. Each serving is a tablet containing 1,000 milligrams of the powder, with 45% saponins, and 130 mg of calcium. Made of vegan-friendly and gluten-free ingredients. Of course, it’s also free of the most common food allergens.

    Like other NOW Foods supplements, this one is manufactured following good manufacturing practices set by the FDA.

    This product seems to be on the higher end of the price range compared to others on the list. But, in terms of value, each capsule is priced about the same as each serving of the other products.

    NOW Foods Tribulus

    Things We Liked

    • checkNon-GMO
    • checkHigh saponin content
    • checkHigh dose per capsule

    Things We Didn’t Like

    • Average value
    • Large tablets
    • Contains additives

    Optimum Nutrition Tribulus Terrestris

    Optimum Nutrition Tribulus Terrestris

    Each bottle of Optimum Nutrition Tribulus Terrestris contains 100 capsules. Each capsule contains 625 milligrams of standardized powder, 40% saponins. Manufactured following good manufacturing practices.

    Keep in mind, though, that it contains fillers and isn’t suitable for vegetarians. If that doesn’t bother you, this is a quite reliable Tribulus product for most men out there.

    Things We Liked

    • check40 percent saponins
    • checkGMP certified
    • checkLow price

    Things We Didn’t Like

    • Average doses
    • Contains fillers
    • Not for vegetarians

    Pure Encapsulation Tribulus Formula

    Each bottle of Pure Encapsulation Tribulus Formula contains 30 capsules with 250 mg of Tribulus each.

    That’s quite below the average for similar products. Furthermore, it’s among the (if not THE) most expensive products on this list. So why we still like it?

    The only reason is that it packs a few other ingredients that may improve testosterone production, so the results may be still worth it for many men.

    Pure Encapsulation Tribulus Formula

    Things We Liked

    • checkContains other ingredients for good testosterone production
    • checkNon-GMO
    • checkVegan

    Things We Didn’t Like

    • Low dose of the herb
    • Not for those seeking a pure product
    • Expensive

    Savesta Tribulus

    Savesta Tribulus

    Savesta Tribulus contains 60 tablets, each with 500 mg of the herb. It has a budget-friendly price and follows good manufacturing practices set by the FDA.

    The manufacturer also guarantees the purity and potency of their products.

    Halal, Kosher, vegan-friendly.

    All in all, it’s a great choice for those looking for an affordable Tribulus product to get started.

    Things We Liked

    • checkPrice
    • checkHalal
    • checkKosher
    • checkVegan and non-vegan option

    Things We Didn’t Like

    • Below average doses
    • No laboratory testing
    • Not manufactured in the US

    Source Naturals Tribulus

    Each bottle of Source Naturals Tribulus contains 30 capsules with 375 milligrams of Tribulus terrestris. Manufactured in the United States and independently audited for the manufacturing practices.

    This Tribulus supplements contain other herbs and minerals as part of the manufacturer’s Bio-Alignment strategy. That’s great and all, but probably not suitable for those interested in only Tribulus itself.

    Source Naturals Tribulus

    Things We Liked

    • checkCertified GMP
    • checkVegan-friendly
    • checkNo fillers

    Things We Didn’t Like

    • Poor reviews on their Bio-Alignment strategy
    • Low doses per capsule
    • Contains other ingredients

    Sports Food Tribulus Terrestris

    Sports Food Tribulus Terrestris

    One bottle of Sports Food Tribulus Terrestris contains 90 capsules. Each capsule contains 1000 milligrams of Tribulus Terrestris.

    Manufactured by a young brand established less than ten years ago. This Tribulus product has the highest saponin content on this list, thanks to the brand’s refining process.

    Keep in mind, though, that there are numerous customer reviews indicating that bottles contain less than the 90 capsules indicated.

    Things We Liked

    • checkHigh doses per serving
    • check95% saponins
    • checkLifetime guarantee

    Things We Didn’t Like

    • Contains fillers
    • Non-vegan
    • Not FDA-approved
    • Exclamation TriangleHistory of bad reviews

    The yellow flower of devils thorn (Tribulus terrestris plant)

    What are the Benefits of Tribulus Terrestris?

    Tribulus Terrestris is a small leafy plant that has been a staple component in the traditional healing doctrines of various cultures around the world. Specifically, its root and fruits have been used in Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East for a wide range of health conditions.

     

    Traditionally, Tribulus has been extensively used to improve libido, enhance urinary tract health, and soothe inflammation.

    By using pregnenolone cream or pregnenolone supplements, the levels of the compound in the body increases, and this brings about various benefits such as fatigue relief, and delay of the aging process.

    But what does modern science say about this herb’s healing power?

    Here’s what we know so far:

    1. Enhance Libido

    Studies confirmed an improvement of libido among males with reduced sexual drive after taking the herb. We’re talking about a boost as high as 79 percent after two months of consuming 750 to 1,500 milligrams of Tribulus terrestris per day.

    Together with this increase, the studies also observed enhanced sexual desire, arousal, and satisfaction during sexual activities among men and women.

    Although the herb can enhance male libido, it has mixed results on erectile dysfunction. This suggests that Tribulus terrestris doesn’t have any physiological effects on erectile function. However, it has an indirect effect by improving libido, and that may enhance erection in males.

    2. Protect Blood Vessels from Damage

    Three months of Tribulus supplementation can improve blood sugar and cholesterol levels. This decline indicates that the herb can help in preventing blood vessel damage caused by high blood sugar and cholesterol. In some cases, it even prevents high blood cholesterol from occurring in the first place.

    The only shortcoming in studies looking into this benefit is that they have no clue why Tribulus terrestris has such an effect. Because of this, medical researchers cannot firmly state that the plant has this protective effect on the blood vessels.

    3. Improve Sperm Count

    A randomized placebo study has found that Tribulus terrestris can improve the sperm count of males suffering from low sperm count. The participants took the supplement for 60 days and their sperm quality was measured before and after supplementation. The study found an 8% increase in sperm count compared to those who took a placebo.

    4. Support Kidney Health

    Tribulus terrestris can decrease urea levels in the blood. This was observed after twenty days of supplementation among healthy and active individuals. In general, this effect could indicate that Tribulus supports kidney function since it improves the kidney’s rate of eliminating the compound from the body.

    Keep in mind that although the four mentioned benefits were proven, the claim that Tribulus can improve muscle gain and lean muscle mass composition has yet to be fully established. According to various studies, it failed to show any difference in double-blind placebo studies.

    However, this could be because the strain that the study used was the Asian variety, which has been confirmed to be NOT effective in increasing testosterone levels. On the other hand, Bulgarian Tribulus has been proven to increase testosterone in animals. This difference can be attributed to the absence of certain active compounds in Asian strains. There are more steroidal saponins in the European variety and these work by stimulating the release of luteinizing and follicle-stimulating hormones which in turn regulate sex hormone production.

    Conclusion

    Out of all the best Tribulus terrestris supplements in the list, BulkSupplements Tribulus Terrestris Powder is our pick. No product can compare to the amount of servings it has. Given that these products are in the same price range, each serving of the other products are just too expensive.

    This product is also certified and tested to only contain Tribulus Terrestris without any other additives. This makes it suitable if you are only looking to supplement with the herb and nothing more. Also, with this product you can be sure it doesn’t contain any hidden ingredients that might be banned by anti-doping committees or other similar structures.

    BulkSupplements Tribulus Terrestris Powder

    BulkSupplements Tribulus Terrestris Powder

    Image credits: Amazon.com

  • Tribestan: The Sopharma Bulgarian Tribulus Product, Honest Evidence Review, and Stack Placement

    Tribestan: The Sopharma Bulgarian Tribulus Product, Honest Evidence Review, and Stack Placement

    Product Name:Tribestan

    Review Date: August 27, 2019

    Rating: 5 stars

    Things We Liked

    • 100% pure Bulgarian Tribulus Terrestris
    • Elevates testosterone levels naturally, increases muscle mass, and enhances muscle strength
    • Promotes recovery, improves mood and sleep
    • checkHelps treat ED and low sperm count

    Things We Didn’t Like

    • Keep away from pregnant women, as it may cause serious side effects
    • Can cause heavy menstrual bleeding
    • Can decrease blood sugar levels if intake is left unchecked

    Summary

    Most Tribulus products contain Asian Tribulus. Why is this little fact so important? Well, Asian Tribulus can improve erectile dysfunction (ED) and increase libido, but that’s all it can do. It does NOT increase testosterone.

    Tribestan, on the contrary, contains the extract of Bulgarian Tribulus, the only variety of the plant that can boost testosterone levels according to studies.

    As a result, Tribestan can help any man solve his sexual problems and improve his androgen profile along the way. Still feeling skeptical about this product?

    Read on to learn the details!

    tribestan

    Tribestan

    tribestan sopharma

    About The Brand

    Tribestan Worldwide markets Tribestan®, with Daniel Davies as the CEO and founder of the company. Sopharma Pharmaceuticals manufactures Tribestan. The company operates special farms where they grow Bulgarian Tribulus, the main component of the blend.

    Tribestan® was launched to the public in 1970 and for many years, it has been used by professional athletes in Europe to boost physical performance and enhance physique.

    At first, the drug was available only in Bulgaria but already by 1985 it started to be exported to other countries.

    Well, Sopharma Pharmaceuticals developed a patented technology for extracting protragracillin and protodioscin. These two phytochemicals are the active compounds in Bulgarian Tribulus that define its powerful action.

    Over the years, many companies have tried to imitate Tribestan’s formula. However, unlike Tribestan, they use the Indian and Chinese Tribulus varieties that can’t boost T levels. By adding small amounts of Bulgarian Tribulus extract, they were able to dishonestly market their products as a testosterone-boosting, and thus mislead consumers.

    Tribestan®, on the other hand, uses purely Bulgarian Tribulus in the manufacture process of their supplement.

     

    The product has passed standard laboratory tests in the US, including clinical trials and liquid chromatography. For decades, it has been utilized by prominent professional sportsmen, such as Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson.

    By using pregnenolone cream or pregnenolone supplements, the levels of the compound in the body increases, and this brings about various benefits such as fatigue relief, and delay of the aging process.

    Main Ingredients

    Saponins, such as protodioscin, and protogracillin, are the main components of Tribestan. These are the exact compounds that naturally boost testosterone levels.

    In general, every 500 mg tablet contains the following ingredients:

    • Cabosil
    • Polyplasdone
    • Microcrystalline Cellulose
    • checkPolyvinilpirolidone
    • checkMagnesium Stearate
    • checkFilm Coating
    • checkSaponins
    • checkFlavonoids

    Saponins are plant compounds found in herbs like fenugreek and Tribulus terrestris. According to a study from November 2016, saponins from Tribulus terrestris may increase serum levels of corticosterone, testosterone, and insulin growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) after training. Furthermore, they may boost time to exhaustion.

    Even after overtraining, the subjects who received 120 mg/kg of saponins experienced dramatically increased free testosterone levels.

    A handful of Chinese science researchers took a closer look at the many compounds in Tribulus Terrestris and identified various chemical structures such as flavonoids, proteins, and amino acids.

    Among the various bioactive compounds from the plant, flavonoids and steroidal saponins are the most important.

    To date, 108 kinds of saponins have been isolated from the Tribulus terrestris for study, with protogracillin and protodioscin, being the most important in maintaining testosterone levels.

    For instance, athletic fatigue is measured by the levels of corticosterone and free testosterone in the body. Tribulus Terrestris has been used to bolster athletic ability through mimicking testosterone effects and increasing the production of cortisol, testosterone, and corticotropin.

    However, note that only the Bulgarian variety of the plant was discovered to have high levels of protodioscin. Samples from Vietnam and India do not contain saponins that can boost testosterone naturally.

    If a Tribulus supplement is sourced elsewhere other than eastern Europe, it probably contains low levels of protogracillin and protodioscin.

    Such products could be differentiated clinically from the supplements consisting of Tribulus leaf standardized extract (TLSE). This extract is obtained from the aerial parts of the plant, which contains furostanol and steroidal saponins.

    best tribulus terrestris

    Effects

    • Increased Testosterone Production Clinical and laboratory studies show that Tribestan can maintain and increase T levels after exercise or overtraining.
    • checkSolves Sexual ProblemsTaking Tribestan® can improve the sexual experience of men and women who have low libido. It also bolsters arousal, orgasm intensity, sexual comfort, libido, and lubrication. 
    • Treats Erectile Dysfunction (ED)As determined by David Kiefer, MD, a clinical assistant professor at the University of Arizona, Bulgarian Tribulus can improve ED and sexual satisfaction in men. 
    • Enhances Athletic Performance Taking Tribestan® by mouth enhances the exercise performance and body composition of athletes. 
    • checkHelps with Atopic Dermatitis (eczema)Taking Tribulus tablets, along with other herbal products like witch-hazel, may treat the condition and reduce its symptoms. 
    • checkEnlarged ProstateIn a study, men with enlarged prostate were given curry leaf and Tribulus supplements high in protodioscin. After 12 weeks, the size of their prostate decreased. 

    Side effects in men are uncommon. Generally, the product is safe for most people, but there is some evidence that it could cause heavy menstrual bleeding in women. As a result, it should be kept away from pregnant women too.

    All in all, Tribestan® has been tested for side effects in lab studies that lasted for up to 3 months. In rare cases, the participants reported excitation, mild muscle cramps, and mild sleep issues.

    How To Use

    Usually, Tribestan® is recommended in a starting dose of 2-3 tablets three times per day for 45 days. However, the optimal dosage depends on your body weight, so make sure to check the instructions.

    The recommended maintenance dosage is 1 tablet per day for 45 days.

    The Verdict

    Tribestan is made with carefully selected natural-occurring plant compounds that can boost your testosterone levels. Aside from that, it has been proven beneficial in the treatment of eczema, diabetes, ED, and enlarged prostate.

    This product has been tested and studied for nearly 50 years. Sopharma pharmaceuticals sources their Tribulus from a company-owned farm and uses exclusively the Bulgarian variety of Tribulus terrestris to manufacture Tribestan supplements. Each 500 mg contains 45% protodioscin and other saponins that can naturally increase the production of testosterone.

    Image Credits: Amazon.com

  • Best Multivitamins for Bodybuilding: Skyrocket Your Performance at the Gym

    Best Multivitamins for Bodybuilding: Skyrocket Your Performance at the Gym

    Although you’re getting nutrition from your diet, food alone cannot provide every micronutrient you require since you can only eat so much during the day—and that’s why you need the best multivitamins for bodybuilding.

    Given the sheer abundance of supplements though, with dozens or even hundreds being touted as the top choice by their manufacturers, you might have a hard time finding the finest options. Well, we came up with this product roundup to make choosing a lot easier.

    Best Multivitamins for Bodybuilding Comparison Table

    Picture

    Product

    Brand

    Ingredients
    Legion Triumph Daily Multivitamin Supplement

    Legion Triumph Daily Multivitamin Supplement

    Legion Athletics
    • Vitamin A
    • Vitamin C
    • Vitamin D
    • Vitamin E
    • Vitamin K1
    • Vitamin K2
    • Thiamin
    • Riboflavin
    • Niacin
    • Vitamin B6
    • Folic Acid
    • Vitamin B12
    • Biotin
    MuscleTech Advanced Daily Multivitamin

    MuscleTech Advanced Daily Multivitamin

    MuscleTech
    • Microcrystalline Cellulose
    • Croscarmellose Sodium
    • Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil
    • Magnesium Stearate
    • Silicon Dioxide
    Evlution Nutrition Vitamode

    Evlution Nutrition Vitamode

    Evlution
    • Vitamin A
    • Vitamin C
    • Vitamin D3
    • Vitamin E
    • Vitamin K1
    • Vitamin B3
    • Vitamin B6
    • Vitamin B12
    • Biotin
    JYM Sports Multivitamin Supplement

    JYM Sports Multivitamin Supplement

    JYM Supplement Science
    • Vitamin A
    • B-complex
    • Vitamin C
    • Vitamin E
    • Vitamin K
    • Iron
    • Selenium
    • Chromium
    Animal Pak Multivitamin

    Animal Pak Multivitamin

    Animal
    • Maltodextrin
    • Calcium Sulfate
    • Choline Citrate
    • Magnesium Stearate
    • Stearic Acid
    • Parsley
    • Goldenseal
    • Don Quai
    • Burdock
    • Alfalfa
    • Water Cress
    • Rice Bran
    • Cellulose
    • Rose Hips

    A Quick Look at the Best Multivitamins for Bodybuilding

    Legion Triumph Daily Multivitamin Supplement

    This contains a blend of phytonutrients designed to improve physical performance and recovery. However, it is the most expensive in terms of value for money.

    MuscleTech Advanced Daily Multivitamin

    The most affordable among the options here, MuscleTech’s offering contains amino acids, enzymes, herbs, and phytonutrients that support physical performance and recovery. It gives a noticeable energy boost.

    Evlution Nutrition Vitamode

    This one uses ingredients certified for potency and purity. It also contains an antioxidant blend to fight free radical damage, making it a great option as a daily multivitamin.

    JYM Sports Multivitamin Supplement

    This multivitamin from JYM Supplement Science contains Bioperine for improved micronutrient absorption. It contains high amounts of Vitamin B-complex, A, K2, and E.

    Animal Pak Multivitamin

    It has the best value in this product round up. It has a comprehensive formulation designed for a bodybuilder. Just make sure to avoid its powdered form since it can make you sick or bloated.

    If you are looking for a natural source of vitamins, these products are probably not for you. You might want to consider desiccated liver pills since it’s a great alternative to commercial supplements.

    Reviews of the Best Multivitamins for Bodybuilding

    Legion Triumph Daily Multivitamin Supplement

    Aside from having the entire micronutrient spectrum, Legion Triumph Daily Multivitamin contains a blend of 14 phytonutrients.

    These phytonutrients are added to the product to help boost physical performance, manage stress levels, improve sleep, enhance cognition and memory, and elevate mood.

    Legion added this blend of phytonutrients using peer-reviewed scientific research as basis. They also used a dose for each ingredient that would give the maximum safest effect.

    Legion Triumph Daily Multivitamin Supplement

    To illustrate, it contains ashwagandha root extract, Terminalia arjuna extract, Rhodolia rosea, and n-acetyl l-cysteine as a special blend for physical performance and recovery.

    Legion manufactures all their products in the United States.

    They follow certified good manufacturing practices set by the FDA and use facilities certified by NSF International. These certifications are regularly renewed to ensure quality, dose consistency, and purity.

    What’s more, Legion Triumph Daily Multivitamin is covered by a 60-day money back guarantee. Anyone who isn’t satisfied with the results can return the product and get a full refund.

    Keep in mind though, that this is not for people with medical conditions. Some health issues tend to react badly towards certain phytonutrients.

    Things We Liked

    • checkPhytonutrients to improve quality of sleep
    • checkScientific blend to boost physical performance and recovery
    • checkNSF-certified manufacturing facility
    • checkGood manufacturing practices (GMP) certification

    Things We Didn’t Like

    • Not for people with medical conditions
    • Rather expensive
    • Awful smell
    • Exclamation TriangleTotal of 8 capsules daily

    MuscleTech Advanced Daily Multivitamin

    MuscleTech Advanced Daily Multivitamin

    MuscleTech Advanced contains the standard 20 vitamins and minerals that you would find in any multivitamin. But, it has a special blend of ingredients that provides amino acid, herbal, enzymatic, and mineral support.

    The product’s herbal support matrix includes green tea leaf extract, saw palmetto fruit extract, American ginseng root extract, Echinacea root, ginkgo leaf, grape skin extract, green coffee bean, turmeric, and octacosanol.

    These ingredients enhance performance, recovery, and energy, as well as help maintain hormonal balance.

    Unfortunately, these same ingredients might turn some people off, given that they could react badly to medications or cause reactions in those allergic to them.

    Despite that, it’s true that the supplement is manufactured by one of the biggest names in the industry. It does not contain any banned substances and is certified for both purity and quality.

    People who’ve been taking it regularly tend to notice a boost in their energy. However, it’s been linked to episodes of cramps, nausea, jitteriness, and headaches.

    Things We Liked

    • checkBoosts energy
    • checkComplete blend of micronutrients
    • checkMade for bodybuilders
    • checkAmino acid support
    • checkEnzyme support

    Things We Didn’t Like

    • Not for average use
    • Some ingredients might cause drug interactions
    • Negative reactions

    Evlution Nutrition Vitamode

    Evlution Nutrition’s high performance multivitamin contains ingredients that have been tested for efficacy and authenticity. It’s manufactured in the United States with certified good manufacturing practices in place.

    What truly sets Evlution’s offering apart is that it’s specially blended to be suited for vegetarian. It also contains Vitamin D3 instead of D2 so the body can more effectively metabolize the nutrient.

    It has an antioxidant blend meant to support individuals with an active lifestyle. This blend helps the body fight free radical damage that can impair recovery and affect long-term health.

    Evlution Nutrition Vitamode

    Unlike the other products in this roundup, you can use it as a once-daily nutritional supplement. It does not contain any performance or digestion enhancer.

    However, despite being marketed towards bodybuilders, Vitamode does not contain any amino acids, added minerals, or fatty acids that support physical performance or muscular recovery.

    Things We Liked

    • checkGreat as a daily multivitamin
    • checkCertified by the FDA for good manufacturing practices
    • checkContains a blend of antioxidants to fight free radicals

    Things We Didn’t Like

    • Smell is far from pleasant
    • Lacks amino acids and fatty acids
    • Pricier than most other options

    JYM Sports Multivitamin Supplement

    Diamond CBD Oil

    JYM Supplement Science’s offering features high amounts of Vitamin B-complex. Its composition is like a combination of a multivitamin and a Vitamin B-complex capsule.

    Each dose also contains more Vitamin K2, Vitamin E, and Vitamin A than your typical daily multivitamin.

    Interestingly, the supplement contains Bioperine, which helps improve micronutrient absorption. This results in the body getting more out of the supplement and from food.

    However, the multivitamin does not contain calcium, magnesium, and zinc. These micronutrients play important roles in increasing bone mineral density, building muscle proteins, and balancing hormone production.

    The manufacturer states that they offer this in a separate product due to the said nutrients interfering with the absorption of other micronutrients. That’s quite unfortunate, of course, given that it’s already among the pricier ones.

    Things We Liked

    • checkHigh Vitamin B-complex content
    • checkContains Bioperine for better absorption
    • checkPacked with Vitamins A, K2, and E

    Things We Didn’t Like

    • Quite expensive
    • Does not have calcium, magnesium, and zinc
    • May cause nausea and headaches

    Animal Pak Multivitamin

    What’s great about this product is that it has everything you’d need as a bodybuilder.

    Each packet has a multivitamin tablet, essential and branched-chain amino acid capsules, performance enhancers, as well as digestive and antioxidant supplements.

    It does not contain any banned ingredients. The performance-enhancing complex in the product use carnitine, milk thistle extract, and Animal Pak’s Uni-Liver to give a natural boost to your energy before a workout.

    Animal Pak Multivitamin

    You’re also assured of its quality since Animal Pak follows good manufacturing practices set by the USFDA. You will get exactly what’s specified on the product—nothing more, nothing less.

    In terms of value for money, this is the best out of all the supplements in this roundup. It might even help you save money compared to building a stack comparable to its contents.

    People are mostly satisfied with it due to its convenience and potency.

    Things We Liked

    • checkGreat value for money
    • checkComes in pill and powdered forms
    • checkComplete supplementation
    • checkNo banned ingredients
    • checkFollows good manufacturing practices

    Things We Didn’t Like

    • Limited flavor options for powdered form
    • Certain flavors are not for everyone
    • Powdered form can make some feel sick

    Handsome man with big muscles trains in the gym

    How Multivitamins Can Help Bodybuilders

    Your body requires more than just carbohydrates, protein, and fat. Micronutrients, the different vitamins and minerals, are essential in energy production, hormone balance, growth, repair, and immunity.

    Unfortunately, it’s difficult to get adequate micronutrients from all of your meals. This is partly due to these nutrients not being capable of withstanding heat, which is applied during food preparation.

    For bodybuilders, one missing component could be the difference between a good workout and one with maximum gains. This is why multivitamins are an important aspect of a bodybuilder’s nutritional regimen.

    Taking one ensures that their body is equipped to take on their training program and to build and maintain their physique. Besides, dieting bodybuilders may unknowingly develop micronutrient deficiency, highlighting the need for supplementation.

    And so, here are some micronutrients that can help bodybuilders realize their goals:

    Biotin (Vitamin B7)

    Biotin helps the body produce usable energy from carbohydrate, fat, and protein.

    Furthermore, it improves the utilization of glucose found in the bloodstream, muscles, and liver. This is essential if you want to have energy that lasts throughout a training session.

    Calcium

    Muscles are not the only tissues that adapt to progressively lifting heavier weights. Bone mineral density also increases so it can support the muscle tissues and the forces they exert.

    To increase bone mineral density, the body requires enough calcium to allot for growth.

    Calcium also plays a role in triggering muscle contractions during movement. If the body does not have enough of it, it can have difficulty in performing movements that it should normally be able to do.

    Phosphorus

    Phosphorus is what the body uses to store energy for highly intensive movements. Phosphorus is utilized by being part of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the main energy currency.

    This mineral also works together with calcium. If you were not taking enough of either of these two, your body would not be able to tap into the other effectively.

    Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)

    Riboflavin is a vitamin involved in breaking down carbohydrate, protein, and fat into their simpler forms of glucose, amino acids, and fatty acids. It is only in these forms that the body is able to utilize the mentioned macronutrients.

    Thiamine (Vitamin B1)

    Vitamin B1 makes it possible to convert glucose from carbohydrates into energy. That means two things: the vitamin can make you feel more energetic and can keep fat deposits at a minimum.

    Likewise, it helps maintain the health of the nervous system, which is crucial for proper nerve signaling and muscle contraction—both of which are of importance during the most intense physical activities.

    Vitamin C

    Not just an immunity enhancer, vitamin C is a necessary micronutrient for the production of collagen. And yes, collagen is actually vital in maintaining the function and health of joints.

    What’s more, collagen helps those doing resistance training experience a greater increase in muscle mass. This is due to it making muscle cells fuse faster and grow larger.

    Vitamin D

    Vitamin D plays a crucial role in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus.

    The skeletal muscles, on the other hand, use it to support the generation of power during contractions. It even aids in testosterone production, and that in turn allows for a muscular physique.

    Given the importance of these micronutrients, you might think that you can get away with just taking a stack of individual products. But, as you can see from vitamin D, these vitamins and minerals have synergistic effects.

    Furthermore, you’ll save both time and money by just taking them in the form of a multivitamin.

    The Verdict

    Animal Pak Multivitamin is the winner in this roundup of the best multivitamins for bodybuilding.

    It contains all the important micronutrients, each at a dose higher than in a normal daily multivitamin. It also offers great value since you’re getting the basic supplements that a serious bodybuilder would need to meet their goals.

    As we’ve mentioned, it contains a blend of natural ingredients for better physical performance to maximize every workout. And, it even has amino acids that support the formation of new muscle fibers.

    Animal Pak Multivitamin

    Animal Pak Multivitamin

    Having digestion enhancers and antioxidants as well, it becomes clear why Animal’s offering is so hard to beat.

    Simply put, whether you’re looking for convenience, completeness, value, or a combination of the three, it’s likely that you’ll consider Animal Pak as the best multivitamin for bodybuilding.

    Image credits: Amazon.com

  • Top 14 Testosterone Boosting Herbs for Men (Backed by Science)

    Top 14 Testosterone Boosting Herbs for Men (Backed by Science)

    If you’re looking for effective testosterone boosting herbs instead of artificial supplements, today is your lucky day. In this list, you’ll find 14 powerful herbs that can naturally enhance your body’s testosterone production.

    Testosterone is an essential hormone for both men and women. In females, testosterone affects fertility and sexual drive. In males, the hormone also stimulates the growth of secondary male traits, promotes building of muscle, and promotes general health.

     

    Testosterone regulates libido, fat distribution, bone mass, and muscle strength, as well as the production of red blood cells and sperms.

    By using pregnenolone cream or pregnenolone supplements, the levels of the compound in the body increases, and this brings about various benefits such as fatigue relief, and delay of the aging process.

    In early adulthood, a man’s testosterone level reaches its peak. Around age 30, testosterone production in men starts to decline. As a result, many middle-aged men suffer from testosterone deficiency, and this comes with unfortunate effects. Low T levels can result in inflammation, erectile dysfunction, and other conditions that impair a man’s quality of life.

    To summarize, testosterone-boosting herbs will be really beneficial for many men out there. Eager to take a look at our list?

    Let’s get started!

    Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera)

    Rennet, winter cherry, or ashwagandha is associated with an increase in testosterone and DHEA-S. DHEA-S also boosts T levels.

    This plant belongs to the nightshade family and is also known as Indian ginseng. It’s a staple medicinal herb in India and Sri Lanka.

    Recently, scientists have been trying to validate the traditional use of Ashwagandha in improving testosterone production.

    The testosterone levels of the subjects in this study rised by 15-22%. In addition, the wives of 14 participants became pregnant.

    ashwagandha

    In 2018, Ashfar Zomorrodi reported that ashwagandha can relieve stress and increase testosterone levels in fatigued individuals.

    By using pregnenolone cream or pregnenolone supplements, the levels of the compound in the body increases, and this brings about various benefits such as fatigue relief, and delay of the aging process.

    Rennet extract can reduce the amount of cortisol in the body. Cortisol is one of the body’s main stress hormones.

    The yellow flower of devils thorn (Tribulus terrestris plant) with leaf

    Tribulus (Tribulus Terrestris)

    Tribulus is a small leafy plant that grows in some parts of Europe, Africa, The Middle East, and Asia. However, only the European strains have testosterone boosting effects. This is because the Asian strains are missing some of the compounds such as Prototribestin and Tribestin that have hormonal profiles conducive for increased testosterone production.

    Maca (Lepidium Meyenii)

    The maca plant also has plenty of health benefits for men. For example, Maca can increase semen volume, improve sperm count and motility. In other words, it can enhance your fertility.

    In 2015, scientists published a study on ten healthy men and the impact of Maca on their reproductive potential. The results revealed that this healthy root effectively increased the men’s sperm quality after a short period of usage.

    Maca roots

    By the way, you can even grow this plant in your backyard.

    Just scatter the seeds on a plot or press each one into loam soil. As a rule, germination takes place after 2-3 weeks of planting. Maca will also grow in a round pot since it’s a compact plant.

    You can purchase seeds online or visit the nearest plant store.

    Fenugreek seed with sprout

    Fenugreek (Trigonella Foenum-Graecum)

    Fenugreek is a natural testosterone booster. It can increase the number of both total and free testosterone in the body.

    Fenugreek also reduces the production of aromatase, the enzyme that converts male sex hormones into estrogen.

    A 2016 study reported that this plant positively affects the quality of life and sexual function in men. The study involved 15 males and was conducted over 8 weeks. The participants took 500 mg of fenugreek extract per day.

    Other studies, including the lab study by Anuj Maheshwari in 2017, reported that fenugreek may improve energy levels, libido, and sexual performance by more than 50%.

    Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma Longifolia)

    Tongkat ali is a flowering plant. In southeast Asia, it has been a popular herbal remedy for centuries already. Recent studies suggest it can alleviate testosterone deficiency.

    The potential of Tongkat Ali to increase T levels in men is well-known. A 30-day study involving more than 70 elderly men revealed that taking 300 mg of Tongkat Ali extract daily can boost testosterone levels. 68 subjects experienced a significant improvement.

    tongkat ali herbal plant

    Aside from its effectiveness in treating bacterial infections, fever, and erectile dysfunction, oral intake of Tongkat extract and powder can relieve stress, improve muscle mass, and boost male fertility.

    By using pregnenolone cream or pregnenolone supplements, the levels of the compound in the body increases, and this brings about various benefits such as fatigue relief, and delay of the aging process.

    Tongkat Ali can also improve erectile function and enhance sexual arousal in humans and animals.

    mucuna pruriens

    Velvet Bean (Mucuna Pruriens)

    Velvet bean is the common name for Pseudarthria hookeri, Mucumu deeringiana, and Mucuna pruriens.

    Mucuna pruriens, in particular, is a tropical legume. It’s native to Southeast Asia and Africa. Today, mucuna is widely cultivated and regarded as a natural aphrodisiac.

    Although velvet beans are notorious for their itchiness, mucuna pruriens has many medicinal benefits and is widely used in herbalism. Recently, scientists looked into its effects on testosterone levels.

    On the basis of Rick Alleman Jr.’s 2011 study regarding the health benefits of velvet bean and Chlorophytum Borivilianum, Mucuna pruriens can increase the production of testosterone and growth hormone (GH).

    Yohimbe (Pausinystalia Johimbe)

    Yohimbe, like Mucuna pruriens, is also an aphrodisiac. Often, physicians prescribe it as a treatment for ED.

    For example, Yohimbe herbal supplements can treat sexual problems resulting from nerve pain, diabetes, and depression.

    Yohimbe bark

    Medications that contain yohimbine, the main active chemical of the plant, are mostly dietary supplements. However, some are also good for curing ED, improving sexual arousal, and increasing T levels.

    Horny Goat Weed epimedium

    Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium)

    In China, horny goat weed has been a popular herbal medicine for centuries. In general, it’s great for treating inflammation, erectile dysfunction, and low libido.

    For some men, horny goat weed is a natural alternative to drugs for ED.

    A 2008 lab study reported that epimedium blocks the enzyme that limits blood flow to the penis. The plant acts as a powerful phosphodiesterase inhibitor.

    Epimedium is used primarily in form of remedies for ED and pulmonary hypertension. Additionally, it has fewer side effects than prescription drugs when taken properly.

    Purple Passionflower (Passiflora Incarnata)

    Passiflora Incarnata is a powerful testosterone-boosting herb. Also, it’s a scientifically proven natural aphrodisiac.

    Passionflower extract can boost free testosterone levels. Specifically, it inhibits aromatase activity. Aromatase is an enzyme that transforms testosterone into estrogen.

    Passionflower

    In a study by Sharma and Dhawan, scientists noted that passionflower extract boosts circulating testosterone levels in males.

    Both young and elderly men took part in the research.. 50% of the subjects who were over 40-years-old had erectile dysfunction. This condition, too, was improved.

    pine bark extract

    Pine Bark Extract

    A 200-300 mg dosage of pine bark extract per day may improve T levels in the body. When paired with L-arginine aspartate, its testosterone boosting capabilities improve.

    In addition, it also contains proanthocyanidin, a natural compound, that improves ED and blood flow, enhances heart health, and lowers cholesterol.

    Like epimedium, pine bark extract inhibits PDEA-5 enzymes. This leads to a significant improvement in blood flow to the penis.

    As a testosterone booster, the extract stimulates sexual arousal, resulting in a better production of testosterone and luteinizing hormone (LH).

    Rhodiola (Rhodiola Rosea)

    Rhodiola rosea, roseroot, or golden root is a flowering plant from the Crassulaceae family. It’s native to the Arctic regions of North America, Asia, and Europe.

    In general, Rhodiola is a traditional medicine for anxiety, depression, and low T. It also features a wide range of general health benefits.

    Rhodiola rosea, roots with flowers

    For example, athletes and fitness enthusiasts take Rhodiola supplements before exercising to maintain healthy testosterone levels. Overtraining can reduce the production of testosterone.

    By using pregnenolone cream or pregnenolone supplements, the levels of the compound in the body increases, and this brings about various benefits such as fatigue relief, and delay of the aging process.

    This herb is an adaptogen, meaning that it helps the body adapt to stress. Additionally, its bioactive compounds signal the testicles to produce more testosterone.

    garlic

    Garlic (Allium Sativum)

    Garlic is not only for cooking, but it can also boost T levels. Great news, right?

    Researchers have discovered that garlic can increase testosterone production in animals on a high-fat diet. Most likely, this effect is universal for humans too.

    Saw Palmetto (Serenoa Repens)

    Saw palmetto extract is known to decrease inflammation, promote hair growth, support prostate health, and help regulate T levels.

    Clinical and lab studies revealed that the extract from the saw palmetto fruit can inhibit the 5-alpha reductase enzyme. The result is an increase in the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone, a potent androgen hormone.

    dried saw palmetto

    DHT gives increases hair growth on the chest, armpits, scalp, and pubic regions.

    Since the intake of the extract can increase DHT production, saw palmetto can also maintain T levels naturally.

    In a test-tube study, scientists observed that the efficacy of the extract was similar to finasteride in maintaining testosterone levels.

    Finasteride is a steroid utilized to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), low T, and hair loss.

    Additionally, a study on 40 subjects revealed that DHT levels increase by 30% after six months of daily intake of the extract.

    Drumstick herb tree or Malunggay tree

    Drumstick Tree (Moringa Oleifera)

    For thousands of years, parts of the drumstick tree have been used in traditional medicine. The plant contains bioactive compounds and healthy antioxidants.

    Specifically, the extract from the leaves can reduce inflammation, lower blood sugar levels, reduce cholesterol in the body, and cure low T.

    Moringa Oleifira can also improve semen quality and increase libido.

    Conclusion

    Herbalism, the study of using plants to cure diseases and conditions, has been practiced for thousands of years. Many herbs are natural aphrodisiacs and excellent sources of antioxidants, as well as testosterone-boosting compounds.

    In recent years, numerous studies were conducted to determine the efficacy of testosterone-boosting herbs in curing low T and ED.

    This led to the discovery of naturally occurring compounds and enzymes which can increase T levels. Plants rich in these compounds include the 14 powerful herbs we shared with you in this list. Long story short, if you want a natural herb to boost your testosterone, you have plenty of options. Now it’s your turn to act!

  • Ginger and Testosterone: The Mares 2012 Trial, Honest Mechanism, and Stack Placement

    Ginger and Testosterone: The Mares 2012 Trial, Honest Mechanism, and Stack Placement

    There are many supplements that can enhance male health and physical performance. One of them is a common spice with extremely powerful health benefits: ginger. 

    Today, we’ll take a good look at what makes ginger an amazing natural supplement and how it may affect your testosterone.

    Because yes, aside from being an anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving compound, ginger is actually a testosterone booster. This makes it an excellent choice for men who want to improve their physique without resorting to artificial products.

    Ginger as a Highly Beneficial Spice

    Ginger is widely used all around thanks to its pungent flavor, outstanding versatility, and many uses in traditional medicine. It can be consumed fresh, cooked, dried, or powdered.

    Much of ginger’s health benefits come from its content of phytochemicals like gingerol, gingerdiol, shogaol, and gingerdione. All of them have scientifically confirmed potential benefits for health.

    These compounds are biologically active nutrients that positively affect the human body. One possible effect includes—you guessed it—balancing hormonal levels. Testosterone levels, for example!

    It’s obvious that ginger is great for your health and fitness, but it shouldn’t be written off for those benefits only. Recent studies have shown that it can boost your bodybuilding progress and physical performance.

    By using pregnenolone cream or pregnenolone supplements, the levels of the compound in the body increases, and this brings about various benefits such as fatigue relief, and delay of the aging process.

    So, how does ginger do it?

    Fitness and Performance Benefits of Ginger

    The bioactive compounds packed in spices like ginger aren’t just for show. They combat many unhalthy events within the body, such as indigestion and morning sickness. In short, they help to create the ideal environment for the body to perform well.

    Powerful Healing Properties

    Ginger’s main bioactive compound is gingerol. Studies indicate it has many potential uses and health benefits. After all, it has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties that would come in handy for anyone.

    Lifestyle-based issues like diabetes and heart disease are examples of serious conditions that develop when the body can’t heal itself from harmful everyday factors (smoking, physical inactivity, poor diet, etc.) 

    No, ginger won’t make these factors less of a problem. However, it’ll combat some of their consequences (like inflammation and oxidative stress) that could cause the chronic conditions listed above.

    Another threat that may be minimized by ginger consumption is the growth of cancer cells and the aging and death of healthy cells. Ginger does this by reducing the formation of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), which are chemically reactive unstable molecules that contain oxygen.

    What does this have to do with fitness and performance, though? Well, antioxidants support muscle health and guard them from excess damage or strain, as seen in a study on arthritis in humans and one other study on rats.

    Male runner having problems in knee joint

    Pain Relief for Joints and Muscles

    Speaking of such studies, it may seem that ginger has more use for those suffering from arthritis and other chronic diseases, but bodybuilders and athletes have a lot to gain from this useful spice as well.

    Ginger’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties reduce joint and muscle pain that come with exercise and any physical exertion. Ginger is also a great vasodilator, which means it helps the body function properly by enhancing oxygen circulation in all organs and systems.

    All these properties come together quite well. One study proves this, with more than 30 volunteers consuming 2 grams of ginger each day for 11 days and later reporting a significant reduction in muscle pain and soreness when performing biceps and elbow exercises.

    Although ginger doesn’t make the pain and soreness disappear altogether, the day-to-day grind gradually becomes less painful. This can give way for harder and longer training sessions.

    How Does Ginger Boost Testosterone?

    But fitness and performance don’t revolve exclusively around muscle support and pain relief. An important hormone called testosterone plays a huge part in it too.

    Basically, testosterone is an androgenic steroid hormone that supports the development of male traits in the body. It’s synthesized from cholesterol and regulates all the organs and tissues in the body. In men, some major effects of healthy testosterone levels include effective muscle building, fertility, libido, and a masculine appearance in general.

    Research shows that ginger may affect testosterone. The question is, how?

    The Ginger-Testosterone Relationship

    In addition to the usual health benefits, ginger has been proven to increase sperm quality, promote fertility, and improve low testosterone levels.

    In one study, scientists gave ginger to rats to find out how the spice boosts testosterone. Most likely, this effect is based on the reduction of oxidative stress, as well as the increase of luteinizing hormone (LH) and healthy cholesterol level in the testes.

    Another study found that ginger increased testicular weight along with serum cholesterol and testosterone levels in healthy rats after daily intake for 8 days. Both studies used ginger rhizome powder.

    Most studies on the matter have been on rats, with only one human study accessible online. In a preliminary study conducted at the Tikrit University, 75 infertile men took ginger supplements daily for three months. The results showed a 17% increase in testosterone levels and a 16% increase in sperm count.

    All these studies are very promising in terms of the ginger-testosterone relationship. They have laid the groundwork for more widespread ginger use among those seeking a testosterone boost.

    However, despite ginger’s reputation as a herbal medicine that comes jam-packed with health benefits, more studies on humans must be conducted in order to establish ginger’s effectiveness on the testosterone front. ​

    In general, it’s a harmless natural supplement available all over the world.

    The least it could do is make your throat feel nice due to its zesty flavor. It could also boost your sex drive, as ginger is considered one of the top natural aphrodisiacs.

    Dried and fresh ginger root

    Proper Dosage of Ginger

    The usual dosage recommended by manufacturers and used by researchers is 2 grams daily, but this could vary between 1 to 4 grams. Ginger is usually taken as a powder or in capsules.

    Ginger is widely available all around, and it’s VERY affordable. For some $10 you could probably buy a supply that would last for several months. Most people take ginger supplements with a meal each day, while some split the dosage by taking one gram with breakfast and the other at dinner.

    If you have a sensitive stomach, start with a lower dosage. Ginger can be a gastric irritant with side effects of mild diarrhea and heartburn.

    Final Verdict

    Ginger is a well-known spice with excellent health benefits, from disease fighting to muscle support to joint and pain relief. Because it’s widely available and affordable, it’s a perfect candidate for a long-term supplement that can help with fitness and performance.

    Some studies reported that ginger may increase testosterone levels and sperm count. More of its effects on healthy humans have yet to be studied. Still, there’s no doubt that ginger and testosterone have a good relationship that may benefit you in the long run.