Glutahione - The mother of all antioxidants

🌟 Glutathione's Key Functions

• Master Antioxidant: Protects cells from oxidative stress and free radical damage.

• Detoxification: Supports liver function, helping to eliminate toxins and waste more efficiently.

• Metabolic Regulation: Helps maintain healthy mitochondrial function, which is crucial for burning fat and energy production.

• Immune System Support: Enhances immune responses, reducing inflammation that can slow down metabolism.

⚡ Benefits of Glutathione for Weight Loss

• Improves Fat Metabolism: By supporting mitochondria, glutathione can enhance your body’s ability to burn fat for energy.

• Reduces Inflammation: Lower inflammation helps improve insulin sensitivity, making it easier to manage blood sugar and prevent fat storage.

• Enhances Detox Pathways: A cleaner, healthier liver processes fats more efficiently and prevents metabolic slowdown.

• Boosts Energy Levels: Better cellular energy leads to increased activity and exercise performance, key factors in weight management.

• Balances Hormones: Proper hormone balance, supported by reduced oxidative stress, can help regulate appetite and fat storage.

Unlocking Weight Loss with Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)

Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) has emerged as a promising adjunct in weight management, offering benefits that extend beyond appetite suppression. Here's how LDN contributes to weight loss:

Reducing Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is closely linked to weight gain and metabolic disorders. LDN exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by modulating the immune system and reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This reduction in inflammation can enhance insulin sensitivity and support metabolic health, facilitating weight loss.

Improving Thyroid Function

The thyroid gland regulates metabolism, and its dysfunction can lead to weight gain. LDN may improve thyroid function by reducing inflammation and modulating immune responses, particularly in autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis. By promoting a healthier thyroid, LDN supports metabolic processes essential for weight management.

Curbing Cravings

LDN has been found to reduce food cravings and appetite by influencing the body's hunger signals. This effect can lead to decreased caloric intake, supporting weight loss efforts.

Enhancing Sleep Quality

Adequate sleep is vital for weight management, as poor sleep can disrupt hormones that regulate appetite and metabolism. LDN has been reported to improve sleep patterns, which may indirectly aid in weight loss by promoting hormonal balance and reducing late-night cravings.

Incorporating LDN into a comprehensive weight loss plan that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise may enhance outcomes.

Introducing Macimorelin

Macimorelin is primarily used as a diagnostic agent for adult growth hormone deficiency (AGHD), but its effects on growth hormone (GH) secretion may have potential benefits for weight loss, sports fitness, and overall wellness. Here’s a breakdown of its potential benefits:

Weight Loss

• Increases Growth Hormone Secretion – Stimulates GH release, which can support fat metabolism.

• Boosts Fat Loss – Growth hormone is known to enhance lipolysis (fat breakdown).

• May Improve Metabolic Rate – Potentially helps increase energy expenditure.

• GLP-1 Pairing - This pairs well with patients on GLP-1 medications to assist in muscle preservation

Fitness

• Enhances Muscle Recovery – GH plays a role in muscle repair and recovery post-exercise.

• Supports Lean Muscle Growth – Increased GH levels can contribute to muscle protein synthesis.

• Improves Energy Levels – May help with endurance and performance through better recovery and metabolism.

Overall Wellness

• Supports Anti-Aging Benefits – GH is linked to improved skin elasticity, bone density, and overall vitality.

• May Improve Sleep Quality – Growth hormone release is associated with deep sleep cycles.

• Enhances Cognitive Function – Some studies suggest GH has neuroprotective and cognitive benefits.

Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide

Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are medications used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity, but they have important differences in their mechanisms, effectiveness, and side effects. Here’s how they compare:

1. Mechanism of Action:

• Semaglutide:

  • Works as a GLP-1 receptor agonist. GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) helps increase insulin secretion, reduce glucagon release, slow gastric emptying, and promote a feeling of fullness.

• Tirzepatide:

  • Acts as a dual agonist of both GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors. GIP also enhances insulin secretion and may help in fat metabolism, making tirzepatide potentially more effective in managing blood sugar and promoting weight loss.

2. Indications:

• Semaglutide:

  • Approved for treating type 2 diabetes and for chronic weight management in overweight or obese individuals with related health conditions.

• Tirzepatide:

  • Approved for type 2 diabetes treatment and is being studied for weight management, with early results indicating it might be more effective for weight loss than semaglutide.

3. Efficacy:

• Blood Sugar Control:

  • Both drugs are effective at lowering blood sugar, but tirzepatide may offer slightly better results due to its dual action.

• Weight Loss:

  • Tirzepatide has shown greater weight loss in clinical trials compared to semaglutide, likely because of its combined GLP-1 and GIP effects.

4. Dosage and Administration:

• Semaglutide:

  • Available as a weekly injection or as an oral tablet.

• Tirzepatide:

  • Administered as a once-weekly injection. There is no oral form**.

5. Side Effects:

• Semaglutide:

  • Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. It often reduces appetite, which aids in weight loss.

• Tirzepatide:

  • Similar side effects to semaglutide, but with potentially higher rates of gastrointestinal issues due to its dual action.

6. Long-Term Data:

• Semaglutide:

  • Has more long-term data on its efficacy and safety, given its longer time on the market.

• Tirzepatide:

  • Being newer, has less long-term data available, but early results are promising.

Title: Harnessing the Healing Power of BPC-157: A Breakthrough for Lower Back Pain Relief

Introduction

Lower back pain is a common ailment that affects millions of people worldwide, often resulting from a variety of causes including injury, poor posture, or age-related degeneration. While conventional treatments like pain medications and physical therapy can provide temporary relief, there is a promising new peptide on the horizon that holds potential for long-lasting recovery: BPC-157. In this blog post, we will explore the science behind BPC-157 and how it may offer a natural and effective solution for alleviating lower back pain.

Understanding BPC-157

BPC-157, or Body Protection Compound-157, is a synthetic peptide derived from a naturally occurring protein found in the human stomach. This remarkable compound has been garnering attention for its impressive healing properties, particularly in the realm of musculoskeletal injuries.

How BPC-157 Works

BPC-157 operates by stimulating the body's natural healing processes at a cellular level. It exerts its effects by enhancing angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels), collagen production, and accelerating tissue regeneration. Additionally, BPC-157 has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties, making it a powerful tool in combating pain associated with various injuries.

BPC-157 and Lower Back Pain

1. **Reducing Inflammation**: One of the primary culprits of lower back pain is inflammation. BPC-157's potent anti-inflammatory effects can help alleviate pain by mitigating the inflammatory response in the affected area.

2. **Promoting Tissue Repair**: Lower back pain often arises from strained or damaged muscles, ligaments, or discs. BPC-157 promotes rapid tissue repair, allowing for a quicker recovery process and reducing pain associated with these injuries.

3. **Improving Blood Flow**: Proper blood circulation is crucial for the healing process. BPC-157's ability to enhance angiogenesis ensures that injured tissues receive the necessary nutrients and oxygen for optimal recovery.

4. **Alleviating Nerve Compression**: In some cases, lower back pain may be attributed to nerve compression or impingement. By facilitating tissue repair and reducing inflammation, BPC-157 can help alleviate pressure on nerves, providing relief from associated pain.

5. **Enhancing Overall Mobility**: As lower back pain subsides, individuals often experience improved mobility and flexibility, enabling them to engage in daily activities without discomfort or limitations.

Safety and Considerations

While BPC-157 shows significant promise, it is important to note that research is still ongoing, and it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen. Furthermore, obtaining BPC-157 from reputable sources and following recommended dosages is crucial to ensure safety and efficacy.

Conclusion

For those suffering from lower back pain, the potential benefits of BPC-157 are certainly promising. This groundbreaking peptide offers a natural approach to pain relief by harnessing the body's innate healing mechanisms. As research advances, we can expect even more insights into the full range of BPC-157's capabilities.

Ultimately, if you are considering BPC-157 as part of your pain management strategy, consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized guidance and monitor your progress. With careful consideration and expert guidance, BPC-157 may well be the key to unlocking a pain-free, active life.

Mots-C: Unveiling the Hidden Elixir for Weight Loss, Mitochondrial Efficiency, and Enhanced Athletic Endurance

Mots-C: Unveiling the Hidden Elixir for Weight Loss, Mitochondrial Efficiency, and Enhanced Athletic Endurance

Introduction

In the ever-evolving world of health and fitness, researchers are continuously exploring novel avenues to optimize weight loss, boost mitochondrial function, and enhance athletic performance. One promising candidate that has recently garnered attention is Mots-C, a lesser-known peptide with profound potential benefits. This blog post aims to shed light on the science behind Mots-C and its implications for weight management, mitochondrial efficiency, and athletic endurance, drawing evidence from clinical studies.

Mots-C: Unraveling the Science

Mots-C, short for Mitochondrial-derived peptide-c, is a small protein encoded in the mitochondrial DNA. Initially discovered in 2015, this enigmatic peptide has since captivated researchers due to its seemingly multifaceted effects on human physiology. Studies have shown that Mots-C may play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, mitochondrial function, and cellular energy production.

Weight Loss: A Metabolic Marvel

Clinical studies have investigated the potential impact of Mots-C on weight loss and metabolic regulation. A study conducted by Lee et al. (2016) on mice revealed that elevated levels of Mots-C led to improved insulin sensitivity and enhanced glucose metabolism, ultimately resulting in reduced body weight and fat mass. While more research is needed to fully understand its effects on human metabolism, these findings suggest that Mots-C holds significant promise in the battle against obesity.

Mitochondrial Efficiency: Fueling the Powerhouse

The mitochondria, often referred to as the cell's powerhouse, play a central role in energy production. Mots-C appears to influence mitochondrial function, promoting efficiency and cellular health. In a study conducted by Kim et al. (2018), researchers observed that Mots-C treatment increased mitochondrial oxygen consumption and ATP synthesis, enhancing overall cellular energy production. By enhancing mitochondrial function, Mots-C has the potential to improve overall energy levels and endurance.

Enhanced Athletic Endurance: Unleashing the Hidden Potential

Athletes and fitness enthusiasts are always on the lookout for ways to enhance their performance. Mots-C may offer a groundbreaking solution. Research conducted by Liu et al. (2019) demonstrated that Mots-C administration in mice led to increased exercise endurance, attributed to enhanced mitochondrial function and improved metabolic efficiency. While human trials are yet to be conducted, these preliminary findings hint at the possibility of Mots-C being a game-changer in the athletic world.

Conclusion

Mots-C, the mitochondrial-derived peptide, holds incredible promise as a catalyst for weight loss, improved mitochondrial efficiency, and enhanced athletic endurance. Preliminary studies on animals have indicated encouraging results, but further research is required to fully understand its effects and potential side effects in humans. As with any emerging scientific breakthrough, caution and rigorous investigation are essential before adopting Mots-C as a supplement or therapy. Nevertheless, the findings so far make Mots-C a fascinating subject of exploration in the quest for better health and athletic performance.

References:

1. Lee, C., Zeng, J., Drew, B. G., Sallam, T., Martin-Montalvo, A., Wan, J., … & Cohen, P. (2015). The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance. Cell metabolism, 21(3), 443-454.

2. Kim, K. H., Son, J. M., Benayoun, B. A., & Lee, C. (2018). The mitochondrial-encoded peptide MOTS-c translocates to the nucleus to regulate nuclear gene expression in response to metabolic stress. Cell metabolism, 28(3), 516-524.

3. Liu, C., Li, S., Liu, T., Borjigin, J., & Lin, J. D. (2019). Transmitochondrial mice with severe mtDNA damage develop repetitive head-shaking behavior. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 116(33), 16030-16035.

Hollywood’s New Secret to Losing Weight is a Diabetes Injection

Last month, Variety reported that the drug had become a crucial part of many celebrities preparation before making public appearances.

It was even said by an anonymous source that it was so prevalent that it was comparable to getting a star's hair or makeup done before an event.

What this medicine does is help patients adhere to a reduced-calorie diet. With obesity, you always need lifestyle changes plus the medicine.” Semaglutide is part of a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists, or glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists. It increases insulin secretion, which is good for diabetes. But at higher doses, it acts on centers in the brain and suppresses appetite. It is important to use this medication in conjunction with lifestyle intervention. Additionally, semaglutide has been shown to be cardioprotective — they prevent heart attacks, and they protect kidney function as well, which is important for diabetics.

We have not seen this degree of weight loss with any previous medication,” said lead study author Dr. Timothy Garvey in a statement. “More than 50% of trial participants are losing 15% of their body weight, and anywhere between a third and 40% of participants are losing 20% of their body weight.”

Side Effects:

1. nausea

2. diarrhoea

3. vomitting

4. abdominal pain

5. decreased appetite

The gastrointestinal side effects may be experienced by 10% of people using semaglutide. The feeling is similar to the sensations felt if a person really over eats.

Thymosin Alpha 1

Thymosin Alpha-1 is a protein which consists of 28 amino acids. Thymosin Alpha-1 is believed to be a significant component of Thymosin Fraction 5 responsible for the activity of that preparation in repairing immune function. It has been found to improve cell-mediated immunity in humans. Thymosin Alpha-1 plays a vital role in the control of immunity, tolerance, and inflammation. It manages immune response via an initial action on the cells of the innate immune system and thus acts as an endogenous regulator of both inflammatory and adaptive immune responses. Thymosin alpha-1’s immunomodulatory activities are centered primarily on the augmentation of T-cell function.

Thymosin Alpha-1 has been used to treat diseases:

• Immune Dysfunction

• Hepatitis B virus (HBV)

• Hepatitis C virus (HCV)

• Certain types of cancers

• Arthritis

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

• Chronic Fatigue

• Lyme's Disease

• HIV/AIDS

• Autoimmune diseases

Link to Studies

The 5 WORST Exercise Mistakes That Are Destroying Your Metabolism, Ruining Your Body & Aging You Faster

Shockingly, not all exercises are good for you. In fact, if you’ve been doing cardio workouts to try and slim down, I have some alarming news…

Steady-state cardio (like jogging, spinning or doing the elliptical) increases the production of a stress hormone called cortisol.  Cortisol causes your body to gain weight… especially around your stomach and makes it even more difficult to burn-off stubborn fat.

Have you ever noticed that no matter how much cardio you do, you just can’t seem to lose anymore weight…?  It’s because doing steady-state cardio is the fastest way for your body to hit a plateau and slow your metabolism down to a crawl.

Even worse, too much cardio speeds aging!  When you put your body under prolonged stress, you start producing free-radicals, which damages your cells and causes inflammation…and inflammation is what makes you OLD.  Yikes!

Next I’ll show you how to sky-rocket your metabolism to melt fat away so you can get insane results in less than half the time of your regular cardio workout! (Once you learn this effective method, you’ll kick yourself for not doing it all along!

But first, here are the 5 WORST exercise mistakes you MUST stop making (if you want to burn off stubborn body fat - and KEEP it off - so you can get lean & ripped fast…

Mistake #1: Repeating The Same Workouts Over & Over

Repeating the same workout routine over and over is a surefire way to STOP getting results. We’re creatures of habit and we tend to stick to things we’re familiar with and good at. But when it comes to working out, if you want to make progress and keep seeing changes in your body, you’ve got to start switching things up.

You see, your body has an amazingly ability to adapt quickly and when it does, that’s when you hit the dreaded plateau and you STOP making progress.

In a few minutes, I’m going to tell you exactly how often you need to change up your workout routine so you can keep your body guessing, which will keep your metabolism running on high so you can kiss that spare tire goodbye…

Mistake #2: Doing Isolated Exercises

Doing isolated exercises (like bicep curls and tricep extensions) will NOT help you build lean muscle and get toned & fit.  When you do these “isolated” exercises, you’re only working one muscle at a time.  The problem is that these exercises do very little to increase your metabolism.

Here’s why:  In order to boost your metabolism, your heart rate has to be raised to a certain level.  But when you’re only working ONE muscle at a time, it’s virtually impossible to recruit enough muscle fibers to increase your heart rate significantly, so you’ll never be able to spike your metabolism or maximize your calorie burn.

If you want to slim down and tone up fast, you need to do exercises that stimulate as many muscles as possible at the same time.  On the next page, I’ll show you the most effective exercises that target every inch of your body—so you can replace flab with lean, defined muscle.

Mistake #3: Doing Crunches & Sit-Ups To Get Flat Abs

When you do ab-targeted exercises (like sit-ups, crunches or side bends), your muscles get sore, which makes you think you’re strengthening your abs.  There you are, crunching away thinking it’s only a matter of time before you’ll be looking beach ready with your rock-solid core.

…Yet weeks after you’ve religiously been doing your ab routine, your belly looks just as bloated and soft as it did before.  All that time and pain for nothing!

Here’s the TRUTH…

Your abs were not designed to crunch, twist, and bend.  In fact, it’s the complete opposite!  The real role of your abdominal muscles is toprevent your mid-section from crunching, twisting, and bending.  That’s right, your abs are a stabilizing force designed to resist movement in order to protect your spine.

So even though you “feel the burn” when you do crunches and sit-ups, you’re actually putting unnecessary pressure on your back, causing much more harm than good.  These ab-targeted exercises can cause lower back injuries by forcing your spine to flex too much, and they do very little to actually strengthen your abs.

The key to getting sculpted abs is to burn off that stubborn layer of belly fat that’s hiding them. In the next few minutes, I’ll show you how to burn away the “ab flab” while stimulating all 6 of your abdominal muscles simultaneously — so you can finally carve out those lean, ripped abs.

Mistake #4: Using Gym Machines

Those big, shiny machines sure make the gym look high-end, but truthfully, the only thing they’re good for is for sitting down while you tie your shoes or catch your breath!

The problem is this: Machines alter the way your body naturally moves, restricting your range of motion. This severely limits your ability to fully activate all of your muscles fibers, which means less fat burning and less muscle toning.

Worse yet, machines can cause muscular imbalance and excessive strain on your joints, leading to nagging injuries down the road.

If you want fast results, you MUST incorporate exercises that allow your body to move naturally with full range of motion so you can skyrocket your metabolism and put fat-burning on autopilot.

In a minute, I’ll explain the 6 primary movements that are the foundation of these exercises…and I’ll also fill you in on the best types of weights to use for your workouts (no big, clunky gym machines required!).

Mistake #5: Doing Loooong Workouts

Longer workouts do NOT equal better or faster results. If you’ve been slaving away at the gym and your body isn’t visibly changing, you can’t do more of the same thing and expect a different result.

When it comes to getting lean and fit, your body responds to quality over quantity. I’m going to tell you the #1 way to super-charge your workouts—this simple, yet overlooked method is the single fastest way to getting lean and ripped while cutting your workout time almost in half.  This technique will open up a can of whoop-ass on your workout!

by  Shin Ohtake, Fitness & Fat Loss Expert, Author of MAX Workouts

Keep Yourself Away From This Oil: It’s More Dangerous Than a Sugar!

Generally people believe that adding this oil in order to prepare their meals is healthy. But that actually is wrong!

Although soy seems to be desirable alternative to most foods due to their advertised health benefits, the truth is quite different. In fact, soybean oil can do more harm than profit.

Soybean oil, as well as all soy products, are derived from soybeans. Still, most manufacturers do not mention soybean is toxic in nature.

In order to become edible, soybeans require large treatment.

In addition, too much soy can provoke the body to produce steroid hormones, increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and early puberty in girls and delayed physical maturation in boys.

Another shocking fact is that there is big production of GMO soybeans all over the world which makes it impossible to completely avoid them.

It is quite surprising that soy milk is recommended for infants instead of breast milk from their mothers. This actually is the biggest absurdity.

However, soy industry and soy producers are powerful people who will never admit what lies behind those products and what actually we are buying.

What is IGF-1 and why is it important?

The primary purpose of IGF-1 is to stimulate cell growth. Every cell in the human body can be affected by IGF-1, but cells in muscle, cartilage, bone, liver, kidney, skin tissue, lungs, and nerves tend to be most positively affected.

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Several scientific tests have been conducted to determine the benefits of IGF-1 and thus have prompted companies to seek approval from the Federal Drug and Administration for substances that can increase the body's IGF-1 levels. IGF-1 can also stimulate a decrease in body fat, an increase in lean muscle mass, improved skin tone and restful sleep. IGF-1 has also been documented to increase the rate and extent of muscle repair after injuries or strains. Not only do muscles recover more quickly, they also tend to return stronger and healthier than ever when levels of IGF-1 in the bloodstream are at their highest.

Many believe that (IGF-1) is the key factor in muscle growth. It is released from the liver during times of high insulin and high GH (growth hormone) levels. I will repeat, to stimulate the production if IGF-1, GH levels and insulin must be high simultaneously. This is the problematic part because when insulin levels are high, GH is normally kept low.

This is another reason why insulin levels must be consistently controlled. Insulin levels must be raised at specific times to promote enhanced growth and IGF-1 production. For example, to make IGF-1 work for you after a hard workout of 45 minutes your GH levels will be very high so If you then eat a high carb/high protein meal, you will cause a rise in insulin levels, which will cause the release of IGF-1.

IGF-1 is not released during times of low insulin levels. Low insulin and low IGF-1 levels are the primary reasons it is difficult to gain muscle on low-carb diets. It should be noted to that low pro­tein intake also causes a decrease in IGF-1 levels. 

One must be careful not to have too much supplemental IGF-1 in the body or side effects can occur. When too much synthetic IGF-1 is present one can experience jaw pain, facial, hand, and heart swelling. Heart swelling can lead to higher blood pressure and heart failure. Synthetic IGF-1 stays in the body longer than natural IGF-1 and because IGF-1 produces growth cells it can lead to muscle and organ overgrowth. References to bodybuilders and power lifters with abnormally large stomachs have been linked to overuse of IGF-1 because their internal organs have grown too large. Lastly, if free roaming IGF-1’s stay in the body too long there has been evidence to show that it can produce different cancers.

So, in a nutshell, IGF-1 is a great hormone that your body produces naturally. It is an amazing compound that helps with cellular growth and repair throughout the body. It helps our bodies grow to their natural state as well as aids in the building and repairing of muscles. But one must be careful when using synthetic IGF-1 for bodybuilding purposes, not to over do it. In my opinion the side effects of overuse do not outweigh the results. Again, the saying “You can’t have your cake and eat it too!” comes to mind.

Read more http://uspeptides.com/articles/what-igf-1-does-in-the-body/

New Study Appears to Suggest Benefits from Testosterone in Elderly Men

Salt Lake City, UTMuch has been written about testosterone side effects and especially adverse reactions that affect the heart. While testosterone therapy is indicated for individuals with severe testosterone depletion (hypogonadism), the recent advent of testosterone as a pathway to the fountain of youth has resulted in numerous men who arguably are not in medical need of testosterone supplementation, allegedly suffering debilitating cardiovascular injuries such as testosterone stroke, amongst other adverse reactions.

But now there is a study that appears to suggest that elderly men with low testosterone and pre-existing coronary artery disease can benefit from testosterone through a reduction of risk for cardiovascular events, including stroke, heart attack and death.

The multi-year study was conducted by the Intermountain Medical Center Heart Institute, based in Salt Lake City, Utah. The research team was to have presented their findings this past Sunday (April 3, 2016) at the American College of Cardiology’s 65th Annual Scientific Session.

“The study shows that using testosterone replacement therapy to increase testosterone to normal levels in androgen-deficient men doesn’t increase their risk of a serious heart attack or stroke,” said cardiologist Brent Muhlestein, MD, co-director of cardiovascular research at the Intermountain Medical Center Heart Institute. “That was the case even in the highest-risk men - those with known pre-existing heart disease.”

The study appears to add a new chapter to everything we know about testosterone supplementation beyond the FDA-approved indication for hypogonadism. Prevailing wisdom suggests that testosterone overload can result in an over-production of red blood cells, which can thicken the blood and lead to testosterone side effects such as testosterone stroke. While the US Food and Drug Administration has always maintained there was some risk with use of testosterone supplementation, the benefit was nonetheless thought to outweigh the risk for those men suffering from severe depletion of testosterone - which by itself can have serious health consequences.

The difficulty with the current testosterone supplementation environment - the advent of the so-called “Low-T” condition - is the use of testosterone as a response to low libido or sagging energy that is a natural byproduct of aging. Clever marketing on the part of testosterone manufacturers has appealed to men’s vanity, with the result that thousands of men who otherwise do not have medically supported or diagnosed testosterone depletion are taking testosterone without knowing that an over-abundance of testosterone in an otherwise healthy man could result in a testosterone heart attack, and even testosterone death.

Many a testosterone lawsuit has been founded on that very premise.

The Intermountain Medical Center study makes no attempt to discount the risks of testosterone therapy in otherwise healthy, middle-aged men. And, in fact, The new study corroborates the findings of a 2015 Intermountain study, which found that taking supplemental testosterone didn’t increase the risk of experiencing a heart attack or stroke for men who had low testosterone levels and no prior history of heart disease.

However, the research nonetheless appears to suggest a benefit for elderly men with pre-existing cardiac disease.

A total of 755 participants at hospitals within the Intermountain Healthcare system were studied over a period of years. Study participants ranged in age from 58 to 78 and all suffered from some form of severe coronary artery disease.

According to Science Daily (4/3/16), study authors concluded that after one year, 64 patients who weren’t taking testosterone supplements suffered major adverse cardiovascular events, while only 12 who were taking medium doses of testosterone and nine who were taking high doses did.

After three years, 125 non-testosterone-therapy patients suffered major adverse cardiovascular events, while only 38 medium-dose and 22 high-dose patients suffered similar reactions.

“Although this study indicates that hypo-androgenic men with coronary artery disease might actually be protected by testosterone replacement, this is an observational study that doesn’t provide enough evidence to justify changing treatment recommendations,” Dr. Muhlestein said. “It does, however, substantiate the need for a randomized clinical trial that can confirm or refute the results of this study.”

While the aforementioned is useful information for those men of advanced years with pre-existing coronary disease, it nonetheless takes nothing away from testosterone side effects lawsuits filed by otherwise healthy, middle-aged men with no history of cardiovascular issues, whose use of testosterone supplements proved to have negative impacts on their health. Many plaintiffs suggest they were not made aware of the potential dangers of testosterone supplementation, and allege a testosterone heart attack or testosterone stroke was brought on needlessly.

April 7, 2016, 10:30:00AM. By Gordon Gibb

GAC Performance Injections

Glutamine 25mg/ml is one of the most common amino acids in human muscle and the most abundant protein in muscle tissue. The amino acid is needed to synthesize protein and transporting nitrogen between tissues. Glutamine is needed by the body in times of extreme physical activity and when your immune system is fighting off an illness. Claims: Improve rapid water absorption, stimulation of muscle protein synthesis and muscle tissue growth, increased immune system and prevention of infection, reduction in muscle soreness and improved muscle tissue repair, and helps burn more fat while preserving the muscles and minimizing discomfort. Intense training will drop plasma glutamine levels and low levels of glutamine have been a contributing factor in athletic overtraining syndrome and an increased risk for infection that effects athletes during training and competition. Validity: Glutamine is thought to be relatively safe and well tolerated, yet is not recommended for those with kidney disorders. Excessive doses may cause gastrointestinal problems. 

L-Arginine 100mg/ml is the biological precursor of nitric oxide

Claims: Many protein powders and energy shakes contain this amino acid, marketing it as a nitric oxide producing, muscle-building supplement. Nitric oxide, in theory, is thought to be useful to athletes as it opens the blood vessels allowing for greater circulation of oxygen to all the organs, muscles, and internal systems. Additionally, it is said to stimulate the release of human growth hormone which in turn will increase muscle growth and strength. Arginine is a protein synthesis and is necessary for the proper function of burning fat and is excellent in would healing and bone repair. Claims: Marketed to enhance muscle growth, strength, and to jump start the immune system.

L-Carnitine 250mg/ml is made from several amino acids in your body, mainly lysine and methionine. It is a vitamin-like substance important for fatty acid transport.  Claim: In theory, supplementing carnitine will increase glucose metabolism, VO2 max, and reduce lactate production during high intensity exercise. However, the most important claim resides in the fact that carnitine is a “fat burner”, increasing fat metabolism and decreases fatty build up. Endurance athletes use this supplement In order to spare muscle glycogen by the relying of fat oxidation. 

The formulation of the three together are believed to provide an energy producing, fat burning, & muscle building pathway to your goals.

As testosterone therapy gains popularity, medical controversy increases

Some information taking a look at both sides.

For the millions of men who’ve been taking testosterone — and the millions more who’ve probably been thinking about it — there’s some good news and some not-so-good news.

New research this month from the Kansas City VA Medical Center and Harvard Medical School found that this powerful male hormone may not raise risks of heart disease, as some previous studies had suggested...

Read more here: http://www.kansascity.com/news/business/health-care/article32704101.html#storylink=cp

Foods that can naturally boost testosterone levels

Is there really such a thing as a magic shot or pill?  For some, testosterone replacement therapy may be the closest thing.  However, appropriate balance should also incorporate specific lifestyle changes. The first step is evaluating diet.  A recent article by Onegreenplanet.org does a nice job of listing 5 Plant Based Foods that Boost Testosterone in the body. 

Bone mineral density & testosterone replacement therapy

Dr. Richard Yuan-Tud Chen reviews a case where a 70 year old patient's X-ray revealed a compression fracture in a vertebra in his lower spine.  A bone mineral density assessment confirmed that the patient had significant osteoporosis, which could have been due to some specific lifestyle choices.  Treatment included  a high-dose of vitamin D2 and testosterone injections to address his deficiency.  The patient reported overall improvements in quality of life  and his lower back pain disappeared.  

Does having children cause low testosterone?

Okay, you just had a couple of kids and you're really starting to feel the toll on your psyche.  That lethargic feeling from the non-stop hustle of changing kid's clothes, never ending pile of dishes, doing the school runs, and coaching soccer.   Oh, don't forget about your significant other, the Monday morning work meeting and all the other workplace performance metrics you are going to be measured by for your upcoming review.  Well, according to one study*, if that scenario represents a fraction of your life, you may have experienced a significant drop in testosterone.  The direct link isn't necessarily having children, but it is with how actively involved men are with daily parental duties.  

The sample size of the study was 624 men.  The original testosterone sample was taking from men that were 21 years of age.  A second testosterone sample was taken again when those same men reached age 26.  The study also noted that both samples were taken from the men in the morning, which is typically when the body's testosterone is at its peak.  Segmentation of the group was based upon those that didn't have children, Fathers that had children, but were NOT actively involved, and those fathers who spent more than 3 hours a day with parental duties.  

The data showed a strong causal link exists between high testosterone and mating success.  However, with success in mating and having children, the largest drop in testosterone came from those fathers actively involved in parental activities (26%-34% reduction in testosterone compared to non-fathers)!  One may hypothesize the reason for the decline is a nature vs nurture or as men move away from traditional hunter-gather roles to  more nurturing roles of present day.

Get your levels checked and live a more balanced life!

Adult growth hormone deficiency and why Sermorelin.

Maintaining a proper hormonal balance is a great way to head off some manifestations that we all experience with aging.  Adult growth hormone deficiency  is medical condition that exists when the body simply does not produce adequate levels of growth hormone.  This can be due to several causes, but primarily due to damage to the pituitary gland and genetic issues.  There are some instances where there is no obvious cause for the deficiency exists and that is said to be idiopathic.  

Symptoms:

• Increased abdominal fat
• Reduced vitality & energy
• Poor general health
• Reduced strength
• Depressed moods & anxiety

The test for GH deficiency:  Since GH is rapidly converted to IGF-1 (Insulin like growth factor - 1 or Somatomedin-C) and can not be easily measured directly.  The test for hGH is IGF-1 levels, with ideal ranges being between 200-300 ug/ml.  Growth hormone deficiency is then typically defined by IGF-1 levels below 160 ug/ml.

Due to the cost prohibitive nature and the legality of growth hormone, Sermorelin has become a viable option utilizing amino acids to stimulate the body's own natural production of growth hormone.  Dr. Novins explains that sermorelin is not growth hormone, but two naturally occurring amino acids that communicate with the pituitary gland to make additional growth hormone. Since the increased volume of human growth hormone (hGH) is produced by the body's own pituitary gland, the body will not allow too much hGH to be produced by Sermorelin GHRP6 than what it can safely process.  This eliminates the potential side effects that comes with over dosing of direct injections of hGH.  

The benefits of Sermorelin GHRP therapy may include an increase in lean muscle mass, stronger joints, connective tissue, and bone density, improved mood, mental state, energy, improved libido, increase in sleep quality, and a decrease in body fat.  The outward benefits that are clearly visible come in the form of an overall improvement in skin quality.

Patients are prescribed Sermorelin are able to safely administer subcutaneous injections in the privacy of their own home.

Balance your hormones... and Balance Your Life!

Gluten-Free Vietnamese-Like Pho

You are going to be amazed at how authentic this taste. 

Ingredients:

4oz lean chicken breast, chopped into very small pieces
1/2 tsp virgin coconut oil
1 large clove garlic (crushed)
1/2 tsp fresh ginger (crushed)
1 cup organic, low sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup water
1/2 tsp Coconut Aminos
1 squirt of siriacha sauces
1/2 package of Konjac Shirataki noodles (rinsed)
1/2 cup baby kale (chopped)
1/4 lime

Instructions:  Crush 1 large garlic clove and 1 tsp of fresh ginger.  Place 1/2 tsp coconut oil in a small saucepan, add garlic and ginger and saute until lightly browned.  Pour in 1 cup organic low sodium chicken broth and 1/2 cup water.  Stir in 1/2 tsp Coconut Aminios and a a little squirt of siracha.  Bring to a rolling boil.  Saute chicken breast briefly in nonstick pan, then add to broth and turn heat down to simmer, cooking chicken until no longer pink.  Rinse the Konjac Shirataki noodles in cold water in a colander for one minute (very important to get the smishy smell off!) and allow to drain in sink.  Chop the kale, mushroom and chives very small.  Place 1/2 of the drained noodles in a bowl and pour the broth and chicken over them.  Add the coopped veggies and squeeze in the lime juice.  Do not stir.  Cover for 5-10 minutes then enjoy!

Nutrition: 210 cal.  Fat 4.9g.  Saturated Fat 2.4g.  Cholesterol 76mg.  Carbs 15.3g.  Fiber 9.5g.  Sugars 0.4g.  Protein 32.9g.  Vitamin A 55% - Vitamin C 46% - Calcium 5% - Iron 11%

By Michelle Powell

Egg White Grab-n-Go "Muffins"

These are very healthy and incredibly convenient for grab-n-go options for the hectic mornings.  Total time is 45 min, they stay fresh in the fridge and reheat time is only 10-20 sec!  Make them on a Sunday and you are good for a few days.

Preheat oven to 350F

Ingredients:

One 32oz carton 100% Egg Whites
1 cup raw spinach, chopped OR 1 cup green bell pepper, chopped
6 slices lower sodium sliced deli ham, chopped
A small amount of chopped onion if desired
3 Tbs shredded parmesan cheese
Sea salt, pepper, garlic powder to taste
Frank's Hot Sauce

Directions: Line 6 regular size or 12 small size muffin cups in your muffin tin.  Divide entire carton of egg whites evenly into the muffin liners.  Mix in sea salt and any seasonings from recipe you desire.  Add in even amounts of spinach or bell pepper and deli-ham and onion if desired.  Top with shredded parmesan (1/4 Tb each for 12 or 1/2 Tb for 6) and a little Frank's Hot Sauce if desired.  Bake for 15-30 minutes depending on size.  Keep an eye on them and check them when golden brown.  These may be stored in an airtight container in fridge, then microwaved for 10-20 seconds on a paper towel.  Serving size is one large or two small muffins.  Calories per serving is approximately 130.  Add a small serving of fruit (remember to log those calories too!) to this and you have a nice grab-n-go breakfast prepared for a couple of days.  Enjoy!

By  Michelle Powell