Exploring Supplements for Testosterone, Energy, Libido, Muscle, and Blood Sugar Control
A user seeks guidance on supplements to support testosterone, energy, libido, lean muscle, and blood sugar levels. Recommendations include Vitamin D, Fenugreek, Ashwagandha, Zinc, Cinnamon, Alpha-Lipoic Acid, and Chromium Picolinate, with citations for clinical studies.
No miracle effects expected but just want to support my test levels via supplementation assuming the others areas are in check (proper diet, sleep, low cortisol, and resistance training) I’m looking for more energy, increased libedo and lean muscle support. Additionally my blood sugar was 5.7 I wasn’t expecting blood work and had been binging a bit the night before with alcohol. Still want to work on that. I would love some suggestions I can focus research on before deciding if it is right for me.
For supporting testosterone levels, energy, libido, lean muscle, and blood sugar control, several supplements have been studied. Here's a summary of key findings:
Supplements for Testosterone, Energy, and Libido
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Vitamin D:
- Effect: Vitamin D supplementation has been shown to potentially increase testosterone levels. A study revealed significant increases in total testosterone, bioactive testosterone, and free testosterone levels with daily intake of 83 μg (3,332 IU) vitamin D for one year1.
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Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) Extract:
- Effect: Fenugreek has been noted to support healthy testosterone levels in men. Clinical trials indicate positive effects on both testosterone levels and libido2.
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Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera):
- Effect: Ashwagandha root and root/leaf extracts have been found to boost testosterone levels and enhance energy and libido. Research supports its use in improving stamina and muscle strength as well2.
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Tribulus Terrestris:
- Effect: Traditionally used for boosting testosterone and enhancing libido, but current evidence does not robustly support significant improvements in testosterone or physical performance in athletes3.
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Zinc:
- Effect: Zinc supplementation is critical for testosterone production. Excessive intake may cause issues, so it's best to stay within recommended dietary allowance (RDA) levels4.
Supplements for Blood Sugar Control
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Cinnamon:
- Effect: Known for its potential to regulate blood sugar levels; especially beneficial for people with borderline or slight elevation in blood glucose5.
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Alpha-Lipoic Acid:
- Effect: An antioxidant that has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and support blood sugar control5.
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Chromium Picolinate:
- Effect: Chromium helps in insulin action and has been noted to positively affect glucose metabolism5.
Conclusion
While vitamin D, fenugreek, and ashwagandha show promise for testosterone, energy, and libido, fenugreek and cinnamon can support blood sugar regulation. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplementation regimen to ensure they are appropriate for your specific health needs and conditions.
Would you like product recommendations for any of these supplements?
Footnotes
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S Pilz, "Effect of vitamin D supplementation on testosterone levels in men," PubMed, 2010. ↩
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Stephen J Smith, "Examining the Effects of Herbs on Testosterone Concentrations in Men: A Systematic Review," NCBI, 2020. ↩ ↩2
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Andrzej Pokrywka, "Insights into Supplements with Tribulus Terrestris used by Athletes," NCBI, 2014. ↩
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Chase G Clemesha, "Testosterone Boosting’ Supplements Composition and Claims Are not Supported by the Academic Literature," NCBI, 2019. ↩
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Carolyn A. Fairbanks, "Supplements for Blood Sugar Control," PubMed Central, 2013. ↩ ↩2 ↩3
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