Choosing Effective Supplements to Reduce Stress Without Affecting Libido
In this chat, the user seeks advice on stress-reducing supplements that do not cause anhedonia or loss of libido. The assistant suggests options like ashwagandha and magnesium, detailing the best forms of each for stress relief and overall well-being, including KSM-66 and Magnesium Glycinate.
I need something which will help me with reducing the stress without getting anhedonia and losses in libido
Here are several supplements that may help reduce stress without causing anhedonia or loss of libido:
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Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha is well-researched for reducing stress by improving perceived stress scores and lowering cortisol levels1. It's also noted to have benefits for sleep and anxiety.
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Magnesium: Magnesium supplementation has shown rapid recovery from major depression and can help in reducing anxiety and stress2.
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Passionflower: Passionflower has been used for its anxiolytic effects and can be as effective as some prescription medications for anxiety, without the severe side effects3.
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Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia): This supplement has been shown to reduce stress hormones and improve psychological mood states in moderately stressed individuals, while also supporting libido4.
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Spinach Extracts: Extracts from spinach have demonstrated anti-stress and anti-depressive effects by lowering blood corticosterone and increasing brain glutamate and glutamine levels5.
If you are interested in product recommendations for any of these supplements, please let me know, and I can search for products that match your needs.
Footnotes
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Mayo Clinic, "Can ashwagandha supplements really provide stress relief?" Mayo Clinic Press, 2024. ↩
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George A Eby et al., "Rapid recovery from major depression using magnesium treatment," PubMed, 2020. ↩
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Shaheen E Lakhan et al., "Nutritional and herbal supplements for anxiety and anxiety-related disorders: systematic review," PMC, 2010. ↩
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Shawn M Talbott, "Effect of Tongkat Ali on stress hormones and psychological mood state in moderately stressed subjects," PMC, 2013. ↩
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Hyeonwi Son et al., "Anti-Stress and Anti-Depressive Effects of Spinach Extracts," PMC, 2018. ↩
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Okay so which type of magnesium would be the best and which kind of ashwagandha?
Selecting the right form of magnesium and ashwagandha can significantly influence their effectiveness and absorption in your body.
Magnesium
When it comes to magnesium, different forms can provide varying levels of bioavailability. Here are some of the best forms:
- Magnesium Citrate: Highly bioavailable and commonly used for relieving constipation.
- Magnesium Glycinate: Known for its calming effects, it is a good choice to help reduce stress and improve sleep. It is also gentle on the stomach.
- Magnesium Threonate: Known for its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, which may help in cognitive functions and reduce brain-related stress.
- Magnesium Malate: This form is often used for managing conditions like fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue due to its high absorption rate.
For stress reduction and overall mental well-being, Magnesium Glycinate and Magnesium Threonate are excellent choices.
Ashwagandha
The effectiveness of ashwagandha supplements can also depend on the extraction method and concentration. Here are some common forms:
- KSM-66: This is a full-spectrum root extract considered to be one of the highest quality forms of ashwagandha. It's standardized to a high concentration and known for its efficacy in stress relief and anxiety reduction.
- Sensoril: This is another trademarked form of ashwagandha that includes both root and leaf extract. It's often used for its adaptogenic properties and can help with overall well-being.
- Organic Root Powder: While not as concentrated as standardized extracts, it's a cleaner form and can still be effective when taken in appropriate amounts.
For stress reduction, KSM-66 is generally recommended due to its high concentration and extensive research backing its efficacy.
If you need specific product recommendations, please let me know, and I can search for products containing these types of magnesium or ashwagandha.