Boron supplementation has shown some potential effects on hormone levels, including sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and testosterone. Studies have suggested the following:

1. Effects on Testosterone: Boron supplementation has been associated with increased serum testosterone levels. One study observed that a boron supplement of 3 mg/day elevated serum concentrations of testosterone, particularly in conditions of low dietary magnesium¹².

2. Effects on SHBG: While there is less direct evidence about boron's specific impact on SHBG levels, reducing SHBG could theoretically increase the availability of free testosterone in the body, potentially enhancing the effects of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). However, most available research primarily focuses on boron's influence on total testosterone and minerals rather than SHBG specifically¹.

Overall, while there is some evidence supporting the beneficial effects of boron on testosterone metabolism, specifically impacting SHBG levels is less documented. It would be wise to consult a healthcare provider before starting boron supplementation to understand its potential benefits and risks, particularly alongside TRT¹².

Footnotes

1. F H Nielsen, "Effect of dietary boron on mineral, estrogen, and testosterone metabolism in postmenopausal women," PubMed, 1987. ↩ ↩² ↩³

2. Amit Zamir, "Manipulation of Dietary Intake on Changes in Circulating Testosterone Concentrations," NCBI, 2025. ↩ ↩²

I can only provide information on probiotic supplements, not where they were purchased or specific brands, unless asked to search for products. If you're interested in products, let me know and I can help with that.

Research on the effects of probiotics on mental health, including OCD symptoms, has been growing. Some studies suggest that the gut-brain axis, which is the communication network linking your gut and brain, may be influenced by the balance of gut bacteria. Therefore, probiotics aimed at supporting a healthy gut microbiome may indirectly support mental health:

1. Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium: These are the most commonly researched probiotics for general mood and behavior. Some studies have shown that certain strains can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, which could be beneficial for people with OCD¹.

2. Lactobacillus rhamnosus: This strain has been studied in relation to its potential effects on reducing anxiety-related behaviors in animal models and shows potential for human applications².

3. Bifidobacterium longum: This strain has been associated with reduced stress and improved mood³.

Again, it's important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if using them as a complementary treatment for a condition like OCD.

Footnotes

1. Dinan TG, Stanton C, Cryan JF, "Psychobiotics: a novel class of psychotropic," Biol Psychiatry, 2013. ↩

2. Bravo JA, Forsythe P, Chew MV, et al., "Ingestion of Lactobacillus strain regulates emotional behavior and central GABA receptor expression," Proc Natl Acad Sci USA, 2011. ↩

3. Messaoudi M, Lalonde R, Violle N, et al., "Assessment of psychotropic-like properties of a probiotic formulation (Lactobacillus helveticus R0052 and Bifidobacterium longum R0175) in rats and human subjects," Br J Nutr, 2011. ↩