Anabolic Health

Category: Supplements

  • 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

  • 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

  • CBD Oil for Weight Loss: The Honest Evidence on Direct vs Indirect Effects

    CBD Oil for Weight Loss: The Honest Evidence on Direct vs Indirect Effects

    Who would have thought that something that many people use to relax could be used to boost performance? Marijuana has so many astounding health benefits that professional athletes including those from the UFC are now turning to weed as a potent training tool. We’re not staying that you should buy weed though. Here’s what we’re saying: You can get the health benefits of marijuana without smoking it, by taking CBD oil. This article talks about CBD oil for weight loss and athletic performance.

    Human-Body_Benefits-of-CBD-Oil

    CBD Oil vs. THC

    Marijuana contains different kinds of cannabinoids such as THC and cannabidiol. THC is the substance that causes the psycho-active effects. It’s what makes you high.

    Cannabidiol, on the other hand, is beneficial for a person’s mental and physical health. It is taken to help with anxiety disorders, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and even schizophrenia. It doesn’t make you high.

    Cannabidiol extracts are sold in the market in the form of CBD oil which is legal in many states (the situations in which it isn’t legal is a topic for a whole other discussion).

    Frustrated young business man

    CBD Oil Helps Manage Stress

    Stress kills your motivation to exercise. It also impairs concentration and motor coordination. That’s why training while stressed can be a bad idea.

    According to the results of a study published in the Journal of Neuroscience, exposure to stress can affect the way your cerebellum processes information. Cerebellum is the same area responsible for motor control.

    CBD oil has amazing benefits for stress management. People who take weed for performance enhancement will have to put up with the THC content. THC can cause anxiety and trigger the release of cortisol into the blood stream as a stress response. CBD Oil has the opposite effect – it can significantly reduce cortisol levels in the bloodstream.

    ​CBD Promotes Post-Workout Recovery

    Weight loss and bodybuilding are not easy to accomplish because not only do you have to work out hard – you also have to make sure that your body gets enough rest. This is the period in which your body starts to repair tissue and build muscle cells, so it is literally impossible to get ripped if you do not get enough sleep.

    What makes this worse is that some athletes or bodybuilders use stimulants in order to boost performance, which makes it more difficult for them to sleep.

    If you’re struggling with getting restful sleep, CBD oil can be beneficial. It doesn’t work as a sedative so don’t expect to get conked out after taking it. When taken in very small amounts, CBD can act the way that caffeine does, stimulating daytime alertness and preventing sleep. But when normal doses are taken (moderate to high), it can have therapeutic benefits, including restful sleep.

    CBD interacts with various receptors and chemicals in the brain, and can help the body with various functions including sleep-wake cycles. It can also help manage anxiety, which is one of the reasons behind sleep problems.

     

    So if you are training because you want to lose weight but you find it difficult to cut down on food, or if you experience cravings far too often, it’s worth trying CBD.

    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.Male before and after. Weight loss

    CBD Helps With Weight Loss

    CBD works in two ways to help with weight management – appetite suppression and insulin sensitivity.

    Ironically, CBD has the opposite effect of high-THC weed. You won’t be getting the munchies when you take some. Some studies show that it even has the opposite effect – it can help suppress your appetite.

    Yet another benefit of CBD oil for weight loss is that it promotes insulin sensitivity. The way your body responds to insulin is a crucial aspect of metabolism. Even if you work out a lot and you try to cut down on your diet, you might still have a hard time burning fat if you have poor insulin sensitivity.

    Insulin is the hormone that regulates energy usage. It’s what triggers the process that ultimately gets your cells to accept glucose (which is taken from the carbs you eat) and use it for energy.

    Ideally, your insulin levels should be low most of the time. When you’ve eaten a large meal, that’s the time your body produces insulin. This way, your cells could be instructed to use up what you’ve eaten for energy, or to store it.

    People with high insulin sensitivity have body chemistry that encourages the body to store excess glucose in the muscles or the liver as glycogen so that it’s ready when needed. Those with low insulin sensitivity tend to just store excess glucose in fat cells.

    What’s worse is that people with low sensitivity also tend to have problems with working out because they have low energy — the glucose is not efficiently delivered into muscle cells and is instead stored as fat.

    CBD intake is associated with low insulin levels. So if you’ve hit the infamous weight loss plateau, it might be high-time to try CBD oil.

    CBD Suppresses Inflammation

    If you’re working out, your body will be locked in a battle against inflammation. Inflammation is just part of how the body responds to injury. It’s your immune system’s way of defending itself against harm, and inflammation is part of the healing process.

    When you train to build muscles, to lose weight, or to boost athletic performance, many parts of your body will experience trauma at a cellular level. In fact, weight lifting is the best way to build muscles because it causes tiny tears in the muscle fibers which the body proceeds to repair, resulting to the development of bigger and better muscles.

    Inflammation, however, is what causes so many chronic diseases. It also shortens our lifespan. CBD can help with this because it helps remove inflammation caused by wear and tear injury (which is the kind of injury that you experience when working out).

    With CBD, you can recover more comfortably, and you can train for longer periods.

    The One Problem You Have to Deal With: Absorption

    The problem with CBD oil is that it has terrible absorbability. What you can do to enhance absorption is to add black pepper and turmeric to your diet. There is so much food that tastes better when you add those spices but admittedly, it can get tiring. You can also just look for supplements that already contain those two substances.

    For the longest time, marijuana had this reputation as something that only slackers use, but the truth is, it contains substances that have benefits for your mental and physical wellbeing. And today, you don’t even have to smoke weed just to get the benefits.

    It’s not illegal to buy and use CBD oil in many states, but be sure to source it from those that are known to provide high quality CBD extracts.

    CBDPure Hemp Oil Extract

    CBDPure Hemp Oil Extract

  • Vitamin D and Testosterone: The Pilz 2011 RCT, Mechanism, and Honest Dosing Protocol

    Vitamin D and Testosterone: The Pilz 2011 RCT, Mechanism, and Honest Dosing Protocol

    The Vitamin D testosterone relationship has been clearly established before-it clearly benefits testosterone levels and helps when it comes to fertility and sperm motility. The vitamin isn’t just for T though, as it’s considered an “overall health” vitamin.

    What Really Is Vitamin D?

    Despite the word “vitamin” in its name, vitamin D is technically a prohormone. This sets it apart from other vitamins because it can be produced by the body (though, to be clear, you can still get it from food).

    Known as the “sunshine vitamin”, vitamin D is made by the body (the skin to be precise) following a period of sun exposure, especially in the morning.

    It’s a fat-soluble vitamin, meaning it is stored in the fatty tissues and in the liver. Unlike water-soluble vitamins, vitamin D residue takes longer to be eliminated from the body because of its fat-soluble nature.

    The vitamin comes in two common types: D3 or cholecalciferol and D2 or ergocalciferol. D3 is mainly produced by the skin, while D2 is found in food and in supplements (though D3 is also commonly found these days as well)

    The top benefits of taking vitamin D include maintaining bone health and density, and regulating insulin levels. It also makes it easier for you to increase your muscle mass.

     

    Serum Vitamin D and your Testosterone levels are intricately linked; low Vitamin D equates to low T.

    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.

    A Testosterone Advantage

    As revealed in a study, taking vitamin D regularly for a year can result in up to a 25% increase in testosterone levels. Study participants were divided into two groups;

    The first group received 3,332 IU (international units) of Vitamin D daily. On the other hand, the second group received a double-blind placebo-controlled dose (meaning nada).

    Results showed that year-long supplementation had boosted calcifediol concentrations in the body. Calcifediol is a prehormone that the liver produces when processing vitamin D3.

    Like most of our readers, you’re probably more interested in ways to increase testosterone. Well, these numbers might just satisfy your curiosity.

    • Total testosterone levels increased from 10.7 ± 3.9 nmol/L to 13.4 ± 4.7 nmol/L
    • Bioactive testosterone levels increased from 5.21 ± 1.87 nmol/L to 6.25 ± 2.01 nmol/L
    • Free testosterone levels increased from 0.222 ± 0.080 nmol/L to 0.267 ± 0.087 nmol/L

    Another study links Vitamin D with the stimulation of Leydig cells under the influence of luteinizing hormone (LH), resulting in enhanced testosterone production. Leydig cells are known to be “T-factories” and are found in the testes.

    Man Jumping in Sun Rays

    On Hormones and Fertility

    Given all these, it isn’t surprising at all that vitamin D appears to be involved in male steroidogenesis by significantly stimulating the production of testosterone.

    Steroidogenesis is the process of producing androgens (or other steroid hormones), which help with the development of male sexual organs (during puberty) as well as secondary sex characteristics.

    The testes, prostate glands, and spermatozoa (mature sperm cells) all have vitamin D receptors (VDRs) that specifically receive vitamin D in the male reproductive tract.

    Vitamin D also contributes to sperm quality, with higher blood levels ofthe vitamin positively associated with enhanced sperm motility. This suggests a role for vitamin D in maintaining reproductive health.

    Shields You from Disease

    Aside from getting higher testosterone levels, improving your hormonal balance, and making you more virile, vitamin D supplementation lowers your risk of developing certain illnesses.

    Higher blood Vitamin D levels is associated with reduced incidence of hypogonadism , as wasmade clear in a cross-sectional study conducted on European middle-aged men ranging in age between 40-79 years old.

    Another study foundthat vitamin D inhibits the growth of prostatic epithelial cells, preventing prostate cancer. Research also suggests that vitamin D supplementation lowers the risk for both Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

    About Sources and Choices

    Now that you’re aware of the benefits that this vitamin provides, you might be thinking of one particular question—what are the best ways of getting more vitamin D?

    Food

    Not many natural food sources contain the vitamin. Still, if you want to meet your daily requirements through dietary means, you should probably consider these:

    Sun Exposure

    The National Institutes of Health recommends 5 to 30 minutes of sun exposure, ideally between the hours of 10 AM to 3 PM. This allows the body to produce a sufficient amount of vitamin D.

    Supplements

    Vitamin D can also be taken in supplement form. As you’d expect, it isn’t hard to find supplements that either contain just vitamin D or have it combined with micronutrients and other testosterone boosters.

    Our favorite dietary supplement for Vitamin D is made with the purest ingredients and doesn’t contain gluten. It even has a metered dispenser that allows for easy dosing.

    Vitamin D Dietary Supplement

    Vitamin D Dietary Supplement

    Getting the Correct Dosage

    According to the National Institutes of Health, 600 IU or 15 mcg of vitamin D is recommended for men aged 18-70 years old, while 800 UI or 20 mcg is recommended for men 70 years and older.

    Because vitamin D requirements vary by age and health status, it would be best to visit your doctor or pharmacist before taking vitamin D supplements or loading up on food rich in the prohormone in order to establish your optimal dosage.

    Getting too much of it may cause side effects such as insomnia, stomachache, and in some cases, fatigue and toxicity. Vitamin D toxicity symptoms include anorexia, weight loss, polyuria, and heart arrhythmias.

    In addition, don’t ever forget that overexposure to sunlight will increase your chances of developing skin cancer. So, be sure to stay within the prescribed exposure durations.

    Not Just Another Vitamin

    A good vitamin D status is tied to healthy testosterone levels. By getting enough of the vitamin, you’ll enjoy improved masculinity and enhanced virility—all while safeguarding yourself from many health maladies.

    With lots of studies proving the benefitsof ensuring you meet your Vitamin D requirements, there is no reason why you shouldn’t pay more attention to it.

  • How to Use CBD Oil for Anxiety: Evidence-Based Dosing, the Shannon 2019 Trial, and Honest Stack Placement

    How to Use CBD Oil for Anxiety: Evidence-Based Dosing, the Shannon 2019 Trial, and Honest Stack Placement

    Almost 44 million people in the US are struggling from mental health issues in a given year. That is 1 in every 5 adults. The most common mental illnesses that affect the US are related to depression and anxiety disorders. It’s no surprise that many people now want to know how to use CBD oil for anxiety.

    The common course of treatment is to take pharmaceutical drugs such as antidepressants and antipsychotics. However, recent studies have shown that a chemical compound found in Cannabis sativa called cannabidiol can help relieve several symptoms of anxiety and depression.

    In this article, you will learn how cannabidiol helps our body achieve “internal balance” and ways on how to use CBD oil for anxiety and depression.

    Human-Body_Benefits-of-CBD-Oil

    What Is Cannabidiol?

    Cannabidiol or CBD is a chemical compound that can be extracted from cannabis plant, commonly known as marijuana or hemp. It is one of the cannabinoids that can be found in the plant.

    Because of the negative notions that come with the word “hemp” and “marijuana”, it was only in the recent years that many people have given thought in the positive benefits that the plant can give, thanks to clinical studies.

    Contrary to popular belief, not everything about marijuana can make you high. CBD is a cannabinoid that does not have psychoactive effects. It is extracted from the leaves, flowers, and stalks of the plant which is unlike the common hemp oil in the market which is extracted from the seed.

    CBD and THC

    Marijuana has been studied for years because of its ability to ease symptoms of anxiety, lessen pain, and stop seizures from occurring.

    CBD, although sometimes mistaken as THC, the other cannabinoid found in hemp, are very different from each other. THC or tetrahydrocannabinol is responsible for the “high” in marijuana while CBD is much safer and have more benefits.

    CBD and THC both affect the endocannabinoid system but in different ways. The endocannabinoid system was discovered during studies of how cannabis affects our body, and surprisingly. It was found that our body naturally does process and produce certain cannabinoids.

    The endocannabinoid system mainly affects a person’s mood, appetite, memory, and pain-sensation. THC binds directly to the cannabinoid receptors of the system which results to the feeling of being “high”. On the contrary, CBD still stimulates the cb receptors, albeit indirectl, which is why you get to reap the benefits without getting stoned.

     

    If you are struggling from social anxiety disorder or your mind just shuts down at the thought of public speaking, cannabidiol oil can be beneficial.

    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.ssential oil made from medicinal cannabis

    Effects of CBD and Other Uses

    Cannabidiol oil helps in relaxing your nerves and lowers your levels of stress. It can also lessen the occurrence of panic attacks. This is the main purpose why many people nowadays are using CBD oil.

    Alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety disorders are the most common reasons for the consumption of CBD. But aside from that, there are also other beneficial effects in using CBD that are backed up by researches and studies.

    Other effects and uses of CBD include the following:

    1. Anti-inflammatory
    2. Antidepressant
    3. Antipsychotic
    4. Anti-seizure
    5. Cancer preventive
    6. Pain reliever

    This makes it sound like CBD oil is miracle oil, right? But that’s not all. It also has fewer side effects unlike some pharmaceutical drugs.

    Commonly reported side effects of cannabidiol oil include changes in appetite, weight loss or gain, feelings of tiredness, and diarrhea. The benefits of CBD clearly outweigh the side effects though.

    Cannabidiol Oil and Anxiety Disorders

    Unlike most antidepressant drugs, CBD oil reduces risk for suicide and helps improve sleep. There are now a lot of studies that strongly supports that CBD can be used as a form of treatment for anxiety disorders such as PTSD or post-traumatic stress disorder, general anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, OCD or obsessive-compulsive disorder, and panic disorder.

    In a study done in 2011, 24 patients who have social anxiety disorder and never been treated were tested. One set were given CBD while the other set is given placebo. They don’t know if they were given the placebo or the CBD.

    As the results have shown, after undergoing simulation public speaking test (SPST), the set of people who were given the placebo were significantly more anxious than the set of people who received CBD treatment.

    This is just one of the studies that connect the intake of CBD and lessened anxiety symptoms.

    Choosing the Best Product

    You can think of it as a dietary supplement. With just the right concentration of the substance in your body, the best effects can be achieved. This is why it is highly recommended to be taken daily.

    So, whether you’re a constant consumer of CBD or just about to start trying it out, you should only use CBD oil products that are of good quality and have already been tested and are certified to be organic.

    CBDPure is the most recommended CBD oil in the market. The product came from organically raised hemps that are grown free from any forms of contaminant. It is also laboratory tested and is guaranteed to have no presence of pesticides and residual solvents.

    CBDPure Hemp Oil Extract

    CBDPure Hemp Oil Extract

    It is available in 100mg, 300mg, and 500mg bottles. It is also considered to be the best product with regards to quality and price since it is 100% pure CBD oil.

    If you’re wondering how to use CBD oil for anxiety, there are a lot of ways it can be done. Whether it’s eating or vaping, you can find a way to include it in your daily regimen that best suits you. Here are some examples of how you can use CBD oil:

    • Add ½ teaspoon (or as indicated by the product) of CBD oil on smoothies or fruit juices
    • Infusing it with tea
    • Additional ingredient in baking
    • Direct intake by administering the oil under the tongue
    • Use as vape oil for vape pen

    Other recipes that include CBD oil as an ingredient are available on the internet. Users of CBD oil have come up with a lot of ways to creatively add CBD in their food.

    Since CBDPure does not contain artificial flavorings, adding it as an ingredient won’t alter the taste of the food as much as other CBD oil. However, among all the other ways on how to use CBD oil for anxiety, administering it directly under the tongue is easier and more preferable.

  • CBD and Testosterone: The Honest Animal vs Human Evidence and Practical Stack Placement

    CBD and Testosterone: The Honest Animal vs Human Evidence and Practical Stack Placement

    In the US, there’s a fairly new reason why men are taking CBD testosterone. Yes, some of those who want to naturally support the hormone are going for this non-psychoactive cannabinol.

    For the cautious though, there’s always the question of whether it really works for that purpose. After all, there are cases in which men suffered from low testosterone production after enjoying weed.

    Health-Benefits-of-CBD-Oil

    Clearing a Misconception

    Before we continue, let’s make one thing clear—weed and Cannabidiol (CBD) are definitely not the same thing. CBD is just one of the many compounds in Cannabis plant, hemp, or weed.

    CBD is extracted from hemp plants, specifically those kinds known to have high amounts of the compound. It’s only with this specific quality that pure CBD hemp oil can be profitably produced, especially when yield is considered.

    Currently, there are more than 80 different types of cannabinoids discovered in hemp. And among these cannabinoids is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)—which, as you might have heard, is responsible for the “high” often associated with weed.

    If you’re going to take CBD cannabinoid oil, you really won’t have to worry about that the ill effects of that psychoactive compound. You won’t be introducing THC into your system and you’ll be targeting other cannabinoid receptors.

    Simply put, CBD and THC are compounds that are entirely different yet somewhat related, mainly due to their source.

    Lowered Hormone Levels

    Now, let’s clear up another misguided notion—that CBD lowers the male hormone’s levels. As mentioned, some of those who’ve been smoking marijuana for therapeutic purposes have noticed a drop in their testosterone levels.

    This isn’t among the effects of CBD, but is instead caused by THC. The psychoactive compound prevents the hypothalamus from secreting sufficient amounts of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH).

    GnRH facilitates the release of two other important hormones, namely luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). This matters since LH signals for the secretion of testosterone, while FSH initiates sperm production.

    Does this mean that the effects of cannabidiol are all positive? Truth be told, the compound hinders testosterone production—which is why some choose to avoid it while working on their hormonal balance.

    Should You Follow Suit?

    We believe that you shouldn’t avoid CBD just because of that effect. Despite slowing the pace at which the male hormone gets produced, cannabidiol offers a remarkable benefit—it keeps testosterone from getting oxidized in the liver.

    When CBD gets oxidized, it’s broken down or, in other words, rendered useless—this is likely among the reasons why despite affecting hormone production, the compound doesn’t have an impact on serum testosterone.

    Aside from keeping your testosterone intact while in the liver, CBD products offer an assortment of perks that could enhance the hormone’s levels as well as improve your overall health. Here are a few good examples:

    Depressed Man Portrait

    Reduces Anxiety and Stress

    One of the best reasons to take this cannabinoid lies in is its capacity to reduce both stress and anxiety. These two are synonymous with elevated levels of cortisol—a hormone that has an inverse relationship with testosterone.

    So, whenever you feel stressed out or anxious, the androgen’s levels actually plummet. Things only become worse when these periods of stress and anxiety are prolonged or become a seemingly normal part of your daily life.

    By staying relaxed with the help of CBD, you protect your sex hormones from the effects of cortisol. What’s more, the cannabinoid compound doesn’t just keep you calm—it also interferes with the production of the stress hormone.

    It’s so potent against stress and anxiety that it’s being considered for use against post-traumatic stress disorder.

    Accelerates Weight Loss

    It’s also possible to overcome obesity through CBD and testosterone. If you’re currently not happy with your body and you’re trying to keep yourself from eating too much, the compound’s appetite-suppressing effect will prove valuable.

    As for testosterone, well, if you have enough of it in your system, you’ll get to enjoy faster muscle growth and reduced fat accumulation. This is why men with low androgen levels are much more likely to become obese.

    Reverses Brain Damage

    Yes, cannabidiol can reverse brain damage. Although they’ve only tested this in relation to excessive alcohol consumption, it does highlight the possibility that CBD can help in treating neurodegenerative diseases.

    What does this have to do with male health though? Neurodegenerative diseases (such as Alzheimer’s disease) are frequently linked with erectile dysfunction, which definitely has an effect on a man’s quality of life.

    Aside from that, not having enough testosterone in your system makes your brain more susceptible to oxidative damage—and that’s the kind of damage that could very well lead to the development of neurological disorders.

    Fights Inflammation

    CBD is known to reduce swelling. In fact, patients suffering from chronic pain and inflammation take it orally to get relief, while those with swollen joints or muscles typically use it in cream form.

    What makes the compound so potent against inflammation is that it works in multiple ways. Aside from getting rid of unneeded immune cells, it also suppresses the very chemicals that run the inflammatory pathway.

    Are There Any Side Effects?

    Just like any other product, CBD can cause side effects when taken in excessive amounts. Taking high doses might lead to even more problems with your hormone levels.

    The best way to avoid side effects when taking CBD is to consult your doctor first. Beside, you might be asked to undergo a testosterone test to find out what causes your hormonal imbalance.

     

    Aside from protecting your testosterone, CBD (cannabidiol) offers anti-inflammatory effects, has neuroprotective properties, reverses brain damage, and reduces anxiety disorders. It’s even used against prostate cancer.

    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.

    The Challenge in Choosing

    Anyhow, it’s not difficult to find cannabidiol oil products on the market today. The only challenge you’ll probably face is choosing the right one in order to get the exact results you want.

    Make sure that you get something free from any sort of impurity or contamination. Also, go for those that are guaranteed to only contain cannabidiol, and not have any trace of THC.

    Feel free to try various CBD products, but we recommend CBDPure. Since it’s made of pure hemp oil extract to provide high-quality CBD, testosterone and health improvements are practically guaranteed.

    CBDPure Hemp Oil Extract

    CBDPure Hemp Oil Extract

  • Vitamins for ED: D3, B-Complex, C, E, K2, and the Deficiency-vs-Adequacy Framework

    Vitamins for ED: D3, B-Complex, C, E, K2, and the Deficiency-vs-Adequacy Framework

    You probably don’t know about the natural ways to treat erectile dysfunction yet, but luckily there are certain vitamins for ED that can help you improve performance and achieve sexual satisfaction.

    Before we jump into the vitamins for erectile dysfunction though, we first need to fully understand ED—after all, not all cases of this condition have the same origin.

    Erectile dysfunction or impotence is one of the most common conditions that affect men, especially middle-aged men. By 2025, it’s estimated that about 300 million men will be affected by ED to some extent.

    It can caused by various physical issues, sometimes even psychological stress that can lead to poor self-esteem and relationship problems.

    Health conditions such as atherosclerosis and diabetes contribute to blockage of blood vessels, leading to ED. Some medications may even interfere with your nervous system, preventing proper sexual function.

    Hormonal imbalance could also lead to impotence and decreased sexual desire. Young men are not likely to experience hormonal conditions, given that their hormone production is within accepted norms.

    Interestingly, however, young men are quite susceptible to the psychological causes of erectile dysfunction. These include rejection, relationship problems, work-related stress, and depression.

    Our Supplement Picks

    Now that you’ve gained a basic understanding of ED, it’s time we have a look at the very best vitamins for treating the condition. Take note of what each vitamin provides and compare it to what’s causing your sexual dysfunction.

    Vitamin B-Complex

    There are different B vitamins that you can take as natural ED treatment, namely B1, B3, B6, and B12. They’re usually grouped together as B-complex vitamins and may also contain other members of the B family.

    Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) is known to improve nerve health and cellular energy, as well as contributing toincreased erectile strength.

    Vitamin B3 (Niacin) reduces cholesterol levels, which can help support normal blood flow. With proper blood circulation established, an erection can easily be achieved during intimacy.

    Taking vitamin B6 can help support the adrenal glands and reduce stress. This vitamin promotes better erectile function and improves sexual satisfaction as it enhances the neurotransmitters that stimulate mood.

    Vitamin B-Complex

    Vitamin B-Complex

    Vitamin B12, on the other hand, is important in maintaining overall sexual health. Not having enough of this vitamin can lead to erectile dysfunction and infertility, therefore it’s highly recommended to take this supplement daily.

    Vitamin D

    Vitamin D

    Vitamin D

    Vitamin D is essential for muscular support and healthy bones. It also boosts immune function and reduces heart disease and overall cardiovascular disease risk.

    For those with ED issues though, this vitamin increases testosterone levels while helping the body produce more nitric oxide. By taking vitamin D, you’ll maintain your hormonal balance as well as improve your overall sexual health.

    By the way, if you’re suffering from vitamin D deficiency, it’s likely that you’d have reduced nitric oxide and testosterone levels. So, you really should try to maintain the right vitamin D levels.

    Vitamin E

    A classic example of a fat-soluble vitamin, Vitamin E helps treat ED by improving blood circulation and overall mood. It also increases arousal and stimulates prostaglandin production;it may even help prevent prostate enlargement.

    As a powerful antioxidant, vitamin E increases nitric oxide in your body while strengthening your erections. With daily intake of this vitamin, it’s likely that you’ll get a noticeable improvement in your performance.

    Vitamin E

    Vitamin E

    Kyolic Aged Garlic Extract

    Kyolic Aged Garlic Extract

    Vitamin C

    Arguably the most popular among water-soluble vitamins, vitamin C improves the production of nitric oxide and fights off free radicals. It also makes sure that your immune system is at its best.

    Vitamin C reduces high blood pressure and raises testosterone levels. If you want to say goodbye to ED, this vitamin has been proven to improve blood flow to the penis and other body parts.

    You could take this vitamin with garlic to achieve even higher levels of nitric oxide. Also, it’s a great choice if you’re aiming for detoxification, improved digestion, and keeping inflammation under control.

    Citrulline

    Though not really a vitamin, citrulline is one of the most powerful dietary supplements in improving erection—and so we need to at least mention it here.

    Citrulline is converted into an amino acid called L-arginine, which in turn facilitates the creation of nitric oxide. This supplement addresses ED by relieving endothelial dysfunction and preventing blood vessel hardening.

    Perhaps you’re wondering why you shouldn’t just take L-arginine supplements. Well, that’s because you won’t be getting as much nitric oxide—and as you may have heard, nitric oxide is the main mediator of an erection.

    Citrulline

    Citrulline

    When ingested, almost 50 percent of L-arginine is converted to ornithine through the liver enzyme called arginase. Meaning, half of it won’t be converted to nitric oxide and will only be metabolized by the liver.

     

    Do keep in mind though, that vitamins and minerals alone cannot solve or prevent men’s health concerns such as Ed. You need to eat healthy every day and do enough exercise—yes, you’ll have to work to maintain overall health for them to deliver optimal benefits.

    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.

    Just a Few Reminders

    When it comes to fighting erectile dysfunction, it’s important to consider the possible side effects of medications. That’s why we recommend supplementation, especially if the problem’s just showing its earliest signs.

    Before taking any supplement, consult your doctor just to be sure. Although they don’t carry nearly as much risk as prescription ED drugs, they can still trigger side effects and cause issues when taken with certain medications.

    Vitamin B complex, for example, isn’t suited for those with gastrointestinal issues (such as ulcers in the stomach and colon). It’s also not recommended for people with allergies to iron or vitamins B, C, and E.

    Vitamin D, on the other hand, could prove to be dangerous to anyone who has excessive amounts of calcium in their blood. Diseases like tuberculosis and hyperparathyroidism cause elevated serum calcium levels.

    Despite being deemed safe in most cases, even vitamin C could cause problems under certain conditions—such as when there’s too much oxalic acid in the urine. And there’s also the possibility of allergies being triggered.

    Still, all things considered, you really don’t need to compromise your sex life and peace of mind just because of impotence. Improve your sexual performance naturally by taking the right vitamins for ED.

  • Natural Serotonin Antagonists: Receptor Pharmacology, Documented Compounds, and Honest Stack Placement

    Natural Serotonin Antagonists: Receptor Pharmacology, Documented Compounds, and Honest Stack Placement

    Referred to as the happy chemical, serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamin) is known to contribute to overall happiness and wellbeing—and that’s why many choose to take natural serotonin antagonists.

    A person suffering from major depression, for example, likely has decreased serotonin levels and activity, which results in low energy, loss of interest in daily activities, and low self-esteem.

    Even IBS patients tend to worry about the chemical. Constipation and low serotonin are linked, which is made worse by reduced serotonin sensitivity in the rectal region.

    Of Receptors and Blockers

    Serotonin’s main function is transmitting messages between nerve cells. It assists in smooth muscle contraction and melatonin control (meaning it’s also responsible for regulating the body’s internal clock).

    To put it simply, a neurotransmitter receptor’s function is to receive messages from a neurotransmitter and make the brain (and the neurons) process the signal.

    A serotonin receptor antagonist (or simply, serotonin antagonist) works by blocking the receptor’s function and preventing the reuptake process (wherein a neurotransmitter is processed and then discarded).

    Since the serotonin receptors are being blocked, this would allow serotonin levels to remain high, resulting in increased interest in daily activities and elevated mood.

    One of most commonly prescribed serotonin antagonist drugs (or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) is Prozac. Other antidepressants work in a similar way so the benefits and the side effects are usually the same.

    These side effects include nausea and vomiting, dizziness, insomnia, dry mouth, nervousness, diarrhea, drowsiness, headache, sexual problems, and blurred vision.

    Taking the Natural Route

    Although prescribed serotonin antagonists are effective, some patients react negatively to them. Besides, these meds don’t always work as quickly as they should, making anxiety disorders more dangerous.

    More importantly, if you’re mainly after improving your physique, it wouldn’t be wise to take SSRIs. Especially since there are natural serotonin antagonists available, and here are some of the best so far:

    Panax Ginseng

    Considered to be a very potent serotonin antagonist, ginseng works by blocking serotonin 5-HT3 receptors and increasing serotonin levels in the hypothalamus.

    It even blocks serotonin increase during exercise. Plus, it inhibits both sodium and calcium channels, meaning it lowers blood pressure and widens the blood vessels during physical activity.

    Keep in mind, however, that there’s such a thing as ginseng allergy. Despite being rare, this allergy could prove to be fatal, especially if large amounts of the supplement has been ingested.

    Auragin Authentic Korean Red Ginseng

    Auragin Authentic Korean Red Ginseng

    Authentic Shilajit

    Authentic Shilajit

    Shilajit

    Of course, like the other supplements on this list, shilajit exhibits serotonin antagonism in the brain. What makes it special though, is its effect on sugar and cholesterol.

    Taking shilajit can lower both blood sugar and cholesterol levels, making it an excellent choice if you’re aiming to improve your overall health. And by the way, it has anti-oxidative properties, too.

    The challenge in taking shilajit though, is finding a product that’s properly processed and kept pure. You should look for something that’s guaranteed free of heavy metals.

    Vitex Agnus-Castus

    Aside from working as a natural serotonin antagonist, Vitex prevents prolactin from reaching excessive amounts. Note that when you have too much prolactin, your testosterone will surely suffer.

    In fact, high levels of prolactin can cause problems with both libido and erection—which shouldn’t be surprising given that it’s what gets released after orgasm (starting what’s called the refractory period).

    Unfortunately, Vitex does exhibit estrogenic activity, limiting its benefits for men with hormonal issues. Nonetheless, it works well with other serotonin and prolactin inhibitors.

    Gaia Herbs Vitex Berry Vegan

    Gaia Herbs Vitex Berry Vegan

    PrimaForce Yohimbine

    PrimaForce Yohimbine

    Yohimbe Bark Extract

    Despite being most commonly used as a sexual stimulant, yohimbe is a potent serotonin antagonist. It’s more than capable of giving you a lighter mood.

    Also, if you’re looking to lose weight, this supplement might prove to be quite useful as it blocks alpha-2 receptors. This keeps catecholamines unbound, which in turn accelerates fat metabolism.

    Be careful about combining this with caffeine, however, as studies have identified potential dangers on the cardiovascular system when these two are present in the body.

     

    Remember, when taking natural serotonin antagonists, your ultimate goal shouldn’t be just to increase the chemical’s activity—you must always aim for the right balance.

    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.

    Aiming for True Balance

    Although these natural supplements can be bought without prescription and are generally safer than synthetics, you should still consult with a doctor before taking any of them.

    You should do the same even if you’re merely thinking of taking tryptophan—the amino acid that plays a key role in serotonin synthesis. After all, tryptophan side effects do exist.

    Besides, as with anything, there’s always a need for moderation, which in most cases means preventing the chemical from becoming too abundant. Aiming to increase serotonin levels excessively could cause serotonin syndrome.