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There are so many factors that go into getting a good nights sleep, and balanced hormones is one of them. Hormones, such as testosterone, are intricately tied to sleep. If your testosterone is too high or too low, it can affect how well you sleep, how long you stay asleep, how easily you fall asleep, and even if you experience certain sleep disorders like sleep apnea.

And even more frustrating, if your testosterone levels disrupt your sleep, your hormone levels may drop even more, creating a vicious cycle, Cameron Rokhsar, M.D., FAAD, FAACS with New York Cosmetic Skin & Laser Surgery Center, tells Sleepopolis.

Fortunately, there are some solutions to help you break the cycle read on to uncover the connection between testosterone and sleep, and how you can overcome the associated challenges.

There is a circular connection between testosterone and sleep. That means that having too high or too low testosterone levels can disrupt your sleep, but it also means that if youre not sleeping enough, it can decrease your testosterone levels too which will then further disrupt your sleep.

Sleep deprivation can cause a significant decline in testosterone production, Dr.Tun Min, General Practitioner in the UKs National Health System, tells Sleepopolis. For instance, Min references a study done by the University of Chicago which found that in young healthy men, sleeping less than five hours a night decreases their testosterone level by 15 percent in only one week.

The study was a small one, involving only ten men, but it did demonstrate how much of an impact sleep can have on testosterone levels, even on a small scale.

Additionally, a 2021 systematic review and meta-analysis of available studies done by Sleep Medicine found that serum testosterone (the amount of testosterone that can be measured in the blood) in males significantly decreased after only 24 hours of total sleep deprivation, and decreased even more so after the 40-48 hour sleep deprivation mark.

Normal testosterone levels vary by sex and also by age for males. That means that a male in their 20s will have a normal testosterone level that is higher than a male in their 40s.

In males, normal testosterone levels range from 300-1,000 ng/dL, with the highest levels seen during the teenage years, notes Rokhsar. Anything under 300 ng/dl (nanograms per deciliter) is considered to be low testosterone levels, according to the American Urological Association (AUA).

According to the AUA, normal serum testosterone levels for males are:

Female testosterone levels tend to be more steady. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), normal serum testosterone levels for females are:

Testosterone levels also decline naturally as we age. For instance, the Journal of the American Medical Association explains that men will see a normal 1-2 percent decrease in testosterone levels every year starting around the age of 30 or 40.

Min adds that because testosterone is primarily produced in the ovaries of premenopausal women, levels will decline rapidly after menopause. Like men, serum testosterone levels vary widely [in women], and it is important to correlate clinical symptoms with [hormone] levels to determine true deficiencies, he says.

High testosterone levels can absolutely disrupt your sleep. And if youre someone who is using steroids, Rokhsar warns that high testosterone levels due to the misuse of anabolic steroids have been linked to reduced sleep time, insomnia, and waking up more often during the night.

Harvard Health notes that excess testosterone isnt a very common issue in males, but if it does occur, it can lead to symptoms such as:

In females, excess testosterone can be associated with:

Low testosterone is connected to poor sleep, but the exact relationship isnt 100 percent clear. Low testosterone levels could cause disruptions in sleep, or it could be that sleep disruptions themselves could lead men to develop lower testosterone levels.

For instance, a 2018 study in the American Journal of Mens Health found that men who are sleep-deprived defined as regularly sleeping less than 5 hours per night have lower testosterone levels than males who get enough sleep.

The study found that sleep duration, independent of age, exercise amount, and body mass, was positively associated with testosterone levels. Men who slept for less than four hours had 60 percent lower total testosterone than men who slept for more than eight hours, says Rokhsar.

And while the study cant show if men arent getting enough sleep because they have low testosterone to begin with or if having low testosterone levels causes them not to sleep well or if its both it does show there is a connection between poor sleep and low testosterone.

Its important to note that women have naturally lower levels of testosterone and dont seem to be affected in the same way as men with low testosterone levels.

The AUA explains that in males, symptoms of low testosterone include:

Symptoms of low testosterone are broad and can be similar to symptoms of many other conditions, says Rokhsar, so its important to speak to your doctor about any symptoms you are experiencing to get accurately diagnosed and treated appropriately. For instance, the AUA notes that using opioids, having certain medical conditions, damage to the testicles, diabetes, and obesity can all lead to low testosterone levels.

Moreover, aging and the natural decline of total testosterone could affect sleep too. Older people report finding it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep, which could be linked to lower testosterone levels as well, says Rokhsar.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has a well-studied link to low testosterone levels. There is a clear connection between testosterone levels and sleep apnea, says Rokhsar. He explains that testosterone levels usually peak at the time of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, but people with sleep apnea will have reduced REM sleep, reduced deep sleep time, increased nighttime awakenings, and sleep fragmentation all of which can yield low testosterone production.

He also notes that low testosterone levels appear to be linked to lower-quality sleep and fewer deep sleep cycles. And in general, he says that as testosterone goes down, the hormone cortisol increases. This can cause an increase in stress, which can negatively impact sleep quality, Rokhsar adds.

But again, the link between low testosterone and sleep apnea isnt entirely clear on causation. While we know that males with OSA have definitively lower levels of testosterone, the studies that show this note its not immediately clear if males develop OSA as a result of having low testosterone levels or if OSA causes testosterone levels to drop.

The study in Worlds Journal of Mens Health also explained that treating OSA did not seem to raise testosterone levels, but giving males who had OSA and low testosterone levels testosterone treatment therapy did seem to improve their sleep apnea symptoms, as well as other associated symptoms like erectile dysfunction.

However, the study also noted that for some men, hormonal therapy with testosterone actually made OSA worse, so its not a clear-cut answer.

Rokhsar points out that many different sleep disorders and difficulties are associated with reduced testosterone levels. These include:

These disorders can all cause testosterone levels to drop, which will then further impact sleep.

First things first: It is essential to recognize the relationship between sleep and testosterone levels and take steps to improve your sleep quality, says Rokhsar. So if you know you have low testosterone levels, its to your advantage to do everything you can to prioritize sleep in your life.

So how exactly do you prioritize sleep? Well, you can start by assessing your current sleep hygiene practices and making changes as needed. Rokhsar suggests starting by:

Low testosterone can be diagnosed through a simple blood test, says Rokhsar, so its important to start by talking to your doctor. Symptoms of low testosterone can overlap with many other medical conditions, so youll want to rule out all other conditions first.

Additionally, certain medical conditions can cause low testosterone, so you may need to address the root cause of your testosterone levels to fix the problem.

Because testosterone levels are different for every person and will be impacted by many different factors, such as medical conditions, medications, your age, and body type, you will need to work with a doctor to develop an individual treatment plan for you. Low testosterone levels can be treated through testosterone replacement therapy, which can be administered in various forms, including injections, gels, patches, or pellets, Rokhsar explains.

If you are frequently waking up at night, find yourself gasping for air at night, or wake up feeling extremely tired, it may also be worthwhile to talk to your doctor about getting checked for sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea is directly connected to low testosterone levels, and the condition has many other negative health impacts. Treating sleep apnea can improve both your sleep quality and other health factors at the same time.

Having excess or low testosterone levels can impact sleep quality, duration, and the ability to fall asleep in both males and females. However, low testosterone in males in particular is associated with poor sleep as well as actual sleep disorders, including sleep apnea.

A doctor can confirm your testosterone levels with a simple blood test, so if you suspect you have a problem with your testosterone levels or are having difficulty sleeping, its important to start by talking to a doctor. They can test your testosterone levels and rule out other conditions that could be contributing or causing your symptoms.

Leproult R, Van Cauter E. Effect of 1 week of sleep restriction on testosterone levels in young healthy men. JAMA. 2011;305(21):2173-2174. doi:10.1001/jama.2011.710.

What is Low Testosterone? UrologyHealth.org. Published 2023. Accessed April 13, 2023. https://www.urologyhealth.org/urology-a-z/l/low-testosterone.

Vesper Hubert W. Serum Total Testosterone Concentrations in the US Household Population from the NHANES 20112012 Study Population. Clin Chem. 2015 December ; 61(12): 14951504. doi:10.1373/clinchem.2015.245969.

Wittert G. The relationship between sleep disorders and testosterone in men. Asian J Androl. 2014;16(2):262-265. doi:10.4103/1008-682X.122586.

Testosterone What It Does And Doesnt Do. Health.Harvard.edu. Published August 29, 2019. Accessed April 13, 2023. https://www.health.harvard.edu/medications/testosteronewhat-it-does-and-doesnt-do.

Abu-Samak MS, Mohammad BA, Abu-Taha MI, Hasoun LZ, Awwad SH. Associations Between Sleep Deprivation and Salivary Testosterone Levels in Male University Students: A Prospective Cohort Study. Am J Mens Health. 2018;12(2):411-419. doi:10.1177/1557988317735412.

Insomnia in Older Adults: Tips to Master Sleep as We Age. SMB.org. Accessed April 13, 2023. https://www.sbm.org/healthy-living/insomnia-in-older-adults-tips-to-master-sleep-as-we-age?gclid=CjwKCAjw0N6hBhAUEiwAXab-TRHBLE4MKtHXRLCuB-TNflxwMQyXjlVpXIxLwP929ICocpj2NgkyAxoC7L4QAvD_BwE.

Kim SD, Cho KS. Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Testosterone Deficiency. World J Mens Health. 2019;37(1):12-18. doi:10.5534/wjmh.180017.

Rokhsar, Cameron. MD, FAAD, FAACS New York Cosmetic Skin & Laser Surgery Center. Personal interview April 5, 2023.

Min, Tun. General Practitioner in the UKs National Health System. Personal interview April 5, 2023.

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Chaunie Brusie is a mom of five, a native Michigander, and a Registered Nurse turned writer and editor. She specializes in health and medical writing. Her work has appeared everywhere from The New York Times to Glamour to Parents magazine.

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Testosterone and Sleep - Sleepopolis

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The following is the summary of Decreased Testosterone Levels Precede a Myocardial Infarction in Both Men and Women, published in the January 2023 issue of Cardiovascular Disease by Faresj et al.

This study compares a large random sample of the general population with middle-aged men and women to examine the possible impact of the hormone testosterone on the risk of myocardial infarction. Testosterone levels in hair were evaluated using radioimmunoassay 1 month and 3 months before an ST-elevation or non-ST-elevation acute myocardial infarction. In addition, middle-aged men and women (n=168) with a history of myocardial infarction had their mean testosterone levels evaluated (the acute myocardial infarction [AMI] cases).

The (n=3,150) people were measured once to serve as controls; they were all roughly the same age. No significant difference in hair testosterone levels between AMI patients and controls was identified 3 months before AMI in either sex. However, testosterone levels were dropping (P<0.001) in both men and women in the month leading up to AMI, with a drop from 2.84 to 2.10 pg/mg in men and from 1.43 to 1.10 pg/mg in women. Although traditional cardiovascular risk factors were investigated as potential confounders, they did not affect this trend.

Additionally, a second control group (n=205) from the general population was used to compare the AMI cases. A trend of declining testosterone levels was noticeable for men exclusively, even in the tiny control group. There may be some natural, physiologic change in testosterone levels over time, and this control group was tiny. The results of this study suggest that low testosterone levels play a role in the pathophysiological processes leading up to myocardial infarction, suggesting that this association deserves further study.

Source: sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0002914922010682

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Reduction in Testosterone Levels in Men and Women Due to ... - Physician's Weekly

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When it comes to mens health, testosterone is a big deal. It helps build muscle, strengthens bones, and keeps the libido humming. But as men age, their testosterone levels naturally decline, leading to all sorts of health problems. Thats why many men are turning to natural supplements like Tongkat Ali to rev up their hormone production. But does it really work? A 2016 survey found that 43% of men over 40 have tried it, so lets dive into the science and see what the verdict is.

Elm & Rye Tongkat Ali Supplements

Double Wood Supplements Tongkat Ali Extract 200 to 1 for Men

Nutricost Tongkat Ali

Ultra6 Nutrition Testosterone Booster

Earth Elixir Fadogia Agrestis 600mg and Tongkat Ali 500mg Supplements

Dorado Nutrition Fadogia Agrestis 600mg & Tongkat Ali 400mg Performance Blend

Thalacy 1600mg Fadogia Agrestis Tongkat Ali Supplement

Naturebell Fadogia Agrestis 600mg Complexed with Tongkat Ali 400mg

aSquared Nutrition Fadogia Agrestis 1000mg & Tongkat Ali 400mg

VEGATOT Ultimate Testo Support

Rainbow Nutrients Fadogia Agrestis 15,000mg + Tongkat Ali

Gorilla Mind Sigma Testosterone Booster

Vital Herbal Ultra Fadogia Agrestis 10:1 Extract with Tongkat Ali Capsules

Looking to tap into your full potential? Look no further than Tongkat Ali, a powerful Southeast Asian plant with a centuries-old reputation for health and vitality. Also known as Eurycoma longifolia, this natural remedy delivers a wide range of benefits, from boosting libido to enhancing athletic performance and improving male fertility. The secret is in its natural ability to increase testosterone levels, giving you the energy and drive you to need to reach your goals. Ready to see what Tongkat Ali can do for you? Give it a try today and discover the limitless potential within.

Are you looking for a natural solution to improve your testosterone levels? Look no further than Tongkat Ali! This powerful supplement has been studied extensively, with some exciting findings. According to the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, Tongkat Ali can increase testosterone levels significantly after just five weeks of use. And if that wasnt impressive enough, research published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology suggests that Tongkat Ali may also improve semen quality, making it a game-changer for infertile men.

Unlocking the mystery surrounding Tongkat Ali and testosterone levels has proven to be a complex puzzle for researchers. While some studies have suggested that this plant extract can help boost testosterone, a recent study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found no significant increase in testosterone levels among resistance-trained male athletes taking Tongkat Ali supplements. So, what does this all mean? Well, it seems that the jury is still out on whether or not Tongkat Ali can actually help increase testosterone. More research is needed before we can confidently say whether or not this plant extract is truly effective in this regard.

Looking to try Tongkat Ali? While its generally safe, its good to be aware of potential side effects. Some people may experience insomnia or anxiety, while others may have gastrointestinal problems. Plus, if youre taking other medications, make sure to check with your healthcare provider before adding Tongkat Ali to your routine. Stay safe, and happy supplementing!

These are our top recommendations for those looking for the best tongkat ali and testosterone supplements:

(Elm & Rye | Penguin, sponsored) Elm & Rye Tongkat Ali Supplements are an amazing way to help boost your bodys natural testosterone levels.

Elm & Rye Tongkat Ali Supplements are an amazing way to help boost your bodys natural testosterone levels. Testosterone plays a major role in establishing muscle, facilitating improved energy levels and cognitive functions, and even increasing libido for those seeking a stronger bedroom experience. With tongkat ali root extract being one of the key ingredients of the supplements, consuming them can give your body proper nourishment and help you with achieving your fitness goals. Not only are Elm & Rye supplements derived from natural sources and designed with safety in mind but they have also been proven to bring about visible improvements in both physical and mental health.

(Double Wood | Penguin, sponsored) With the help of Double Wood Supplements Tongkat Ali Extract and some simple lifestyle changes, you can regain hormonal balance and feel more energized and vital than ever before.

Are you feeling a lack of energy and vitality due to a decrease in testosterone levels? Look no further than Double Wood Supplements Tongkat Ali Extract 200 to 1. This all-natural supplement has a rich history in traditional Asian medicine and is designed to help support normal hormone balance in men, including testosterone. Responsibly cultivated from the tongkat ali root, this supplement boasts a potent extraction ratio of 200:1 to ensure only the most premium quality is delivered to customers. With the help of Double Wood Supplements Tongkat Ali Extract and some simple lifestyle changes, you can regain hormonal balance and feel more energized and vital than ever before. Dont miss out on this opportunity to improve your overall well-being!

(Nutricost | Penguin, sponsored) Say goodbye to mediocre results and hello to a better you!

Are you looking to take your athletic performance to the next level? Perhaps youre looking for ways to enhance your libido or overall health. Look no further than Nutricost Tongkat Ali! This powerful supplement has been shown to not only boost testosterone levels but also reduce stress and improve cognitive ability. With tongkat ali in your routine, you can feel confident that your testosterone levels are where you want them to be. Say goodbye to mediocre results and hello to a better you!

(Ultra6 | Penguin, sponsored) Say goodbye to synthetic supplements and hello to sustained and healthy metabolic functioning with Ultra6s testosterone booster.

Looking to boost your energy levels and strength? Ultra6 Nutrition might have the solution for you with its advanced testosterone booster. Formulated with natural ingredients like tongkat ali extract, this innovative formula aims to increase testosterone production without any harmful side effects. So say goodbye to synthetic supplements and hello to sustained and healthy metabolic functioning with Ultra6s testosterone booster. Plus, its metered delivery system ensures optimal absorption levels, making it the ideal choice for those seeking a natural and effective way to enhance their performance.

(Earth Elixir | Penguin, sponsored) Get ready for an herbal power-up with this supplement!

If youre looking to boost your energy and get a performance edge, tongkat ali and fadogia agrestis could be the answer. With Earth Elixirs supplement containing 500mg tongkat ali extract and 600mg fadogia agrestis powder, you can take advantage of tongkat alis natural testosterone-boosting properties while also gaining from the African plants powerful nootropic effects. While tongkat ali is often used to enhance libido and fertility in men, these ingredients alongside other beneficial herbs can help improve cognition, focus, and endurance, and may even enhance mood. Get ready for an herbal power-up with this supplement!

(Dorado Nutrition | Penguin, sponsored) Pushing your workouts to new heights just got easier with Dorado Nutritions incredible performance-enhancing blend, featuring the powerful combination of Fadogia Agretis and Tongkat Ali extracts.

Pushing your workouts to new heights just got easier with Dorado Nutritions incredible performance-enhancing blend, featuring the powerful combination of Fadogia Agretis and Tongkat Ali extracts. Boost energy levels naturally and increase testosterone for unbeatable results, while unlocking an array of additional benefits, such as enhanced muscle growth and increased dopamine production. Perfect for athletes and bodybuilders alike, Dorado Nutrition has the ultimate solution for reaching your fitness goals. Dont settle for anything less than the best with this incredible blend!

(Thalacy | Penguin, sponsored) Say goodbye to synthetic supplements and try Thalacy for a natural boost to mens health.

Do you want a natural way to increase your testosterone levels? Thalacy 1600mg Fadogia Agrestis tongkat ali Supplement might be your solution. This supplement contains the powerful Southeast Asian herb, tongkat ali, known for its ability to optimize male health and libido. But thats not all - when combined with Ashwagandha root extract, this product can also boost testosterone production. With consistent use, you may experience the improved physical drive, higher energy levels, and stronger muscles. Say goodbye to synthetic supplements and try Thalacy for a natural boost to mens health.

(Naturebell | Penguin, sponsored) Naturebells Fadogia Agrestis 600mg Complexed with Tongkat Ali 400mg supplement is a great way to maximize your bodys natural production of testosterone.

Naturebells Fadogia Agrestis 600mg Complexed with Tongkat Ali 400mg supplement is a great way to maximize your bodys natural production of testosterone. By combining tongkat ali, a natural aphrodisiac, and fadogia agrestis powder extracted from West African shrubs, Naturebells supplement is one of the best ways to naturally raise your testosterone levels. This supplement is designed to offer you the best ingredients scientifically proven to boost testosterone healthfully and consistently. The tongkat ali in this complex can help improve mental focus and physical performance, while the fadogia agrestis encourages increased strength and endurance.

(aSquared | Penguin, sponsored) Dont settle for feeling tired and sluggish - try this powerful supplement today and experience the benefits of tongkat ali for yourself!

Looking to boost your energy, increase muscle mass, and support healthy testosterone levels? Look no further than aSquared Nutritions Fadogia Agrestis 1000mg & Tongkat Ali 400mg supplement! This powerful formula is specially designed for busy modern men who need a simple solution to maintain hormonal balance. Tongkat Ali, also known as Eurycoma Longifolia Jack, has been used for centuries in traditional Asian medicine and is renowned for its ability to boost free testosterone. With regular use, youll notice increased strength, stamina, and energy, allowing you to tackle the day with ease. Dont settle for feeling tired and sluggish - try this powerful supplement today and experience the benefits of tongkat ali for yourself!

(VEGATOT | Penguin, sponsored) Introducing VEGATOT 8 IN 1 Ultimate Testo Support a game-changing supplement for mens health.

Introducing VEGATOT 8 IN 1 Ultimate Testo Support a game-changing supplement for mens health. Say goodbye to low energy levels and hello to a better, stronger you. Packed with the goodness of irresistible tongkat ali, this natural supplement has been proven to increase testosterone production and improve male libido. Not just that, it also contains vitamin D and zinc, essential vitamins that support overall health and beef up testosterone levels. VEGATOT 8 IN 1 Ultimate Testo Support is the ultimate blend that can help you achieve your fitness goals with ease. Get ready to feel more energized, stronger, and ready to take on the world!

(Rainbow Nutrients | Penguin, sponsored) Rainbow Nutrients Fadogia Agrestis 15,000mg + Tongkat Ali is a combination of powerful herbal ingredients designed to support mens health.

Rainbow Nutrients Fadogia Agrestis 15,000mg + Tongkat Ali is a combination of powerful herbal ingredients designed to support mens health. The Fadogia Agrestis extract helps optimize testosterone levels, while tongkat ali is a well-known traditional herb for supporting a healthy sex drive. Taking this supplement on a daily basis could help men feel their best. Those looking to maximize their potential and increase their libido should consider this unique blend of nutrients as part of their daily routine.

(Gorilla Mode | Penguin, sponsored) Gorilla Mode Sigma Testosterone Booster is a supplement designed to help increase testosterone levels in men.

Gorilla Mode Sigma Testosterone Booster is a supplement designed to help increase testosterone levels in men. It features tongkat ali, a traditional Malaysian herb that has been used for thousands of years to boost testosterone production. Clinical studies have shown tongkat ali to be effective in helping to elevate testosterone levels naturally and safely, which can lead to improved body composition, increased muscle mass, and strength, enhanced sexual performance and libido, improved mood, and better overall well-being. Combining tongkat ali with a well-rounded fitness regimen may be the perfect way to ensure that your body has the resources it needs to reach its goals.

(Vital Herbal | Penguin, sponsored) Herbal Ultra Fadogia Agrestis 10:1 Extract with Tongkat Ali capsules is a great way to support both physical and mental well-being.

Herbal Ultra Fadogia Agrestis 10:1 Extract with Tongkat Ali capsules is a great way to support both physical and mental well-being. A combination of tongkat ali and testosterone, these supplements can help the body produce necessary hormones in the right amounts, providing helpful energy and better focus all day. They can even work as mood enhancers and natural stress relievers. Plus, its an easy way to supplement important nutrients! With all that said, incorporating this herbal capsule into your daily routine may be just what you need to power through this challenging season.

Did you know that almost half of the American men are worried about their testosterone levels? Its true! And its not just a national trend - the global market for Tongkat Ali supplements is booming. In fact, experts predict it will reach a whopping $125 million by 2027. While the link between Tongkat Ali and testosterone needs further study, its clear that lots of guys are eager to find natural ways to stay healthy and strong. So why not join them and give it a try?

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Tongkat Ali and testosterone: what the science says - Salt Lake Tribune

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Obesity in boys may be linked to shrunken testicles and result in a higher risk of infertility for young men, Italian researchers report.

In their study of boys ages 2 to 18 who were referred to the Unit of Pediatric Endocrinology at the University of Catania in Sicily for weight control, researchers found that those with normal insulin levels had as much as two times higher testicular volume than boys with elevated insulin levels.

In the boys who were overweight or had obesity, hyperinsulinemia (insulin resistance) tended to lower testicular volume compared to other boys, researchers said.

This testicular hypotrophy, researchers said, is known to increase risk of infertility in men.

Testicular volume does have a direct relationship to semen profiles and tends to be a good predictor of hormonal function, Dr. Alex Robles, a fertility expert at the Columbia University Fertility Center in New York, told Medical News Today.

There is data that infertile men on average have a smaller testicular volume compared to fertile men, he added. We can see this in men taking exogenous anabolic steroids as well. These individuals stop producing their own endogenous testosterone which will reduce testicular size/volume and sperm production.

Although the prevalence of childhood obesity is increasing worldwide, the impact of obesity and associated metabolic disorders on testicular growth is not well known, said Rossella Cannarella, a research assistant at the University of Catania in Italy and a co-author of the study published in the European Journal of Endrocrinology.

We found that being overweight or obese was associated with a lower peri-pubertal testicular volume. In addition, obesity-related comorbidities, such as hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance, have been found to influence testicular volume in pre- and post-puberty, she added.

Therefore, we speculate that more careful control of body weight in childhood could represent a prevention strategy for maintaining testicular function later in life, Cannarella said.

Male infertility is estimated to contribute to about half of all cases of couple infertility, but the reasons for it are often unclear.

Other studies have shown a decrease in sperm concentration and count over the past 40 years.

At the same time, the rate of childhood obesity has risen sharply. An estimated 60% of children ages 2 to 19 will be obese by age 35.

There is a fairly significant link between obesity and fertility, especially in females, said Robles. Obesity and excess fat mass can disrupt all of the hormones necessary for the growth and development of an egg and subsequent ovulation. Similarly in men, obesity can disrupt the hormones that help the testicles produce testosterone. Low testosterone is linked to decreased sperm production and decreased sperm quality.

Dr. Jagdish Khubchandani, a professor of public health at New Mexico State University, told Medical News Today that the study has promise in highlighting the link between obesity, metabolism, and testicular volume.

However, Khubchandani said that while the study was well-controlled and included a good range of markers for obesity and metabolism, the population studied was small and because it is cross-sectional no cause-and-effect relationship can be established among testicular size, obesity, and infertility risk.

If the only good finding is an association found in this study, we have many prior studies that show how obesity may affect fertility, Khubchandani said.

Like the study authors, Khubchandani noted that sperm count has declined across much of the world in the past few decades.

Obesity has increased at the same time, he said. But we cannot claim that the two are related. What mediates or moderates this relationship? Or, is it the food and environment that independently influence obesity, metabolism, and reproductive health?

Although this was a retrospective review, said Robles, the findings are plausible based on what we know about obesity, hormonal regulation, and testosterone levels.

With that said, more research is needed to know if these results can be replicated and if weight loss is an effective treatment option for improving testicular volume, he said.

Obesity is a pandemic, a leading killer across the world, and linked to most prevalent health problems across the world, said Khubchandani. Early childhood interventions could address many of these issues, including the ones discussed in this study.

Robles added that past research shows that losing weight can be a potential treatment option for improving the hormonal health of obese men by restoring natural testosterone levels, which in turn can increase testicular volume and sperm production.

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Male infertility: How obesity in boys can increase the risk - Medical News Today

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Men might suffer from testosterone insufficiency in a variety of ways. A sudden drop in testosterone levels will significantly impact mens health, affecting their physical strength and mental clarity. Men in their 30s, 40s, and 50s have muscle loss and weakness due to low T-Levels.

Natural testosterone supplements, such as Nugenix Total-T, have been demonstrated to increase testosterone levels considerably. Other products are being introduced regularly, and supplements like TestoPrime and Hunter Test provide the same benefits as Nugenix Total-T without adverse effects. Lets discuss how these products address testosterone deficiency in men and whether they are genuinely beneficial. This review will also review the advantages of the TestoPrime and Hunter Test and why you should use them.

Nugenix is an all-natural free testosterone booster that contains six important components that help men maintain healthy levels of free testosterone. Aside from increasing testosterone, this supplement may help men feel stronger and have more sexual desire.

Over-the-counter testosterone boosters, such as Nugenix, are considered safer than hormone replacement treatment, making them a popular natural option among many men.

Adaptive Health, formerly Direct Digital, manufactures this free testosterone booster.

Adaptive Health is a nutritional health industry pioneer known for creating a diverse portfolio of nutritional health brands such as Nugenix, Sleep Answer, and OxyRub.

After acquiring Healthy Directions in December 2017, the company, which has operations in Bethesda, Charlotte, and Boston, rebranded.

It has a solid reputation for developing clinically proven treatments that are also distributed on a global scale.

Nugenix rebranded its product Nugenix Total T, which was developed as a dietary supplement to assist men in secreting more testosterone. Nugenix may or may not benefit lean muscle mass development, but it does result in considerable increases in male testosterone levels, as proven by multiple studies.

Nugenix Total T is a product that claims to help you reach your fitness objectives. Natural components and antioxidants in the product are supposed to improve cognitive function, raise energy levels, and reduce inflammation. Caffeine is also present, which is supposed to help you stay focused and motivated.

Nugenix Total T comes in both capsules and tablets. People who want to consume the supplement with food should use capsules; tablets can be taken without food. The product is in two versions, each with a 60-day money-back guarantee.

Nugenix Total-T contains a variety of substances that enhance overall health but can potentially create adverse effects in certain people. The list of ingredients includes antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin are included in the antioxidant combo.

Vitamins C and E fight free radical damage, while zinc supports immune system function. The mineral combination also contains copper, magnesium, manganese, and potassium. There are a few artificial elements in the Nugenix mix as well. This pill contains preservatives and ingredients that are in striking contrast to what many other natural testosterone boosters supply.

Nugenix Total T is the perfect supplement for you if you want to boost your muscle size and strength. This device was created to assist people in reaching their fitness objectives by boosting their strength, size, and endurance.

Nugenix Total T is considered a high-quality, thoroughly tested, and proven effective supplement. This products components have been proven to help boost muscle size and strength. Furthermore, this supplement is suitable for people of all ages.

It would help if you took the prescribed dosage of Nugenix Total T to achieve the greatest benefits. Drink lots of water while taking this product to avoid any undesirable side effects.

The following are some favorable and negative user comments regarding Nugenix Total T.

Cons

Some ingredients are available in excessive dosages, which are rumored to cause unwarranted side effects:

There are conflicting user video reviews for the Nugenix supplement, asserting that the testosterone booster is beneficial. Yes, a few negative Nugenix reviews lead us to better supplements.

For now, we shall rely on what customers have said about Nugenix on various web platforms.

It did not live up to my personal expectations; I expected it to do something. It had no effect. As far as Im concerned, it was a failure.- Paul.

I havent seen any real results nor feel any stronger in the gym. Im sure it has certain advantages, but I wouldnt advocate it.- Gregory

The company makes claims that it cannot back up. Instead, consult your doctor.- Adam. S

I didnt notice, but other guys my age were curious about how I was getting so much energy.- Kurt.

Many buyers stated that Nugenix was Not Useful, and the website claims are merely superficial. According to others, Nugenix became the top energy booster because it worked partially in individuals specifically seeking these benefits.

According to Nugenix reviews, the supplement contains synthetic ingredients that can harm some people. Furthermore, some components, such as zinc, are present in smaller concentrations than required to get the full benefits of a testosterone booster. Each dose contains only 1 mg of zinc instead of the recommended daily amount of 11 mg.

Furthermore, the product lacks vitamin D, which is required for testosterone production. A lack of vitamin D. commonly causes low testosterone levels. Furthermore, Nugenix lacks d-aspartic acid, an amino acid proven effective in raising testosterone levels in men.

Ashwagandha, another essential ingredient in many other testosterone boosters, is also absent in the Nugenix Total-T formula. While ashwagandha is readily available as a separate supplement, it is disappointing that it is not included in the Nugenix Total-T supplement, especially considering its price.

Nugenixhelps unlock the production of testosterone in men by providing vital nutrients. It is necessary because most people lack the necessary vitamins in their daily diet. Testosterone, commonly known as the male hormone, creates male features and looks after fertility and other essential functions.

Nugenixcan typically take up to 30 days to show visible results compared to other testosterone-boosting supplements. It is relatively slow or also depends on the consumers metabolism.

Usually, the recommended dosage forNugenixis three capsules in a day. Always consult a doctor to learn the exact dosage depending on your body.

Studies show no notable advantage of taking testosterone boosters unless combined with a proper exercise regimen and diet plan. Also, if the supplement contains vitamins and other nutrients, it can be helpful for three months without a gap.

Usually,Nugenixis recommended to be taken with a glass of water (240-350 ml). They must be taken on an empty stomach to get the best results.

If you start takingNugenix, regular exercise can be excellent for boosting testosterone levels. Resistance training is particularly beneficial in increasing testosterone production in the body. You can also try lifting weights, high-intensity interval training, and dumbbells for faster results.

Nugenix review: Best alternatives to Nugenix

Suppose you find that the side effects ofNugenixare too overwhelming for your body. You must look for alternatives that are a lot safer. Luckily there is an abundance of testosterone boosters in the market, and one can easily cruise that perfectly suits their needs. Products like the Hunter Test and Testo Prime enhance testosterone levels.

TestoPrime is one of the most preferred, all-natural testosterone booster supplements that is intended to assist men in increasing their bodys natural testosterone production. The pill comprises natural substances that help boost energy levels, muscle mass and strength, libido, and overall well-being. Testosterone is a hormone primarily focused on developing and enhancing male physical traits like muscle mass, bone density, and body hair in males.

It is essential for controlling sexual function and mood. Testosterone levels naturally fall with age, and some men may suffer a decline in testosterone levels earlier than others. This drop in testosterone may cause various symptoms, including decreased energy, muscular mass and strength, low libido, and mood swings. TestoPrime attempts to assist men in battling these symptoms by enhancing their bodys natural testosterone production.

The supplement is easily absorbed by the body, helping to improve nutrition and metabolism while naturally increasing testosterone levels. TestoPrime is worth considering for guys who have tried numerous diets and fitness programs without results in developing muscle or testosterone.

Users notice enhanced digestion, metabolism, hair growth, mood, fat-burning, muscular gain, and muscle strength after filling their bodies with testosterone. The mixture also raises blood nitric oxide levels, which boosts oxygen utilization throughout the body.

Hunter Test boosts testosterone by combining vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and herbal extracts. Nutrients of high-quality increase energy, muscle mass, sex drive, and mental sharpness. Roar Ambition, a well-known brand offering other sports and health supplements, manufactures Hunter Test.

All goods are made in FDA- and cGMP-certified labs in the United States and the United Kingdom. Although dietary supplements are not FDA-regulated, Hunter Test is manufactured by FDA guidelines. Hunter Test seeks to restore masculinity by increasing testosterone levels. To reduce side effects, it solely uses organic and clinically approved substances.

Hunter Test is an all-natural testosterone booster that contains minerals, amino acids, vitamins, and botanical extracts. The premium nutrients may improve your libido, strength, vitality, and mental clarity. Roar Ambition, the testosterone booster manufacturer, produces other sports and health products.

The high-quality supplement is manufactured in both the United Kingdom and the United States, keeping in mind the strict cGMP and FDA laboratory testing criteria. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) typically fails to regulate dietary supplements. Despite this, Hunter Test is prepared in accordance with FDA guidelines. Hunter Test aims to enhance testosterone levels to help men reclaim their masculinity. The supplement uses only natural, scientifically-approved ingredients to minimize side effects to a minimum.

Everyone should be very well aware that testosterone levels go down with age. As a result, people start experiencing low energy and also see a decrease in muscle mass. It is also associated with anxiety, mood swing, and irritation. It is best to start taking a test they dont boost to avoid these conditions.Nugenixis a popular choice for boosting testosterone levels in men.

However, there are certain side effects of taking this supplement. The underdosing is too much to ignore.Nugenixlacks vital ingredients which are present in a testosterone booster.

On the other hand, Hunter Test and Testo Prime are completely safe for consumption and have no noticeable side effects. These can provide great results when taken regularly. According to experts, these supplements are perfect for freeing up bound testosterone. The best part is that they can do it discreetly without causing any harm to the body.

As can be understood from the above discussion, there are cheaper and better options forNugenix.The alternatives suggested in thisNugenix revieware equally potent and cause little harm to the body.Nugenixis likely to have a tough time surviving in the market.

Here Is Some Health Related Article

Best Testosterone Booster Supplements for Males Over 40

Best Natural Testosterone Booster Supplements In Australia

Best Weight Loss Pills for Women in 2023

Best Non-Stimulant Fat Burners 2023

Best Natural Steroids for Weight Loss 2023

Disclaimer:

This is a partnered post. The information provided in this post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. The views and opinions expressed in any referenced product or service do not necessarily reflect those of Network18. Network18 does not vouch for the efficacy or safety of any products mentioned in this post. The reader is advised to conduct their own research and due diligence before purchasing or using any product. Network18 shall not be held responsible for any negative consequences that may arise from the use of any product mentioned in this post.

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Nugenix Review 2023. Does Nugenix Work? Try World Best Alternative - Firstpost

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Probiotics are live microorganisms, including bacteria and yeasts, found in some foods, supplements, and skin care products. They may have health benefits, but when, how, and who should use probiotics is not yet well understood.

The types (strains) of probiotics that may aid mens health (such as for testosterone levels) or womens health (such as for vaginal health) are also controversial.

This article will present some of the evidence for and against using probiotics to support various health conditions.

d3sign / Getty Images

Probiotics are sold in many formulations and products. How they may benefit health is an active area of study, but there arent many conclusions available yet.

The human body has many different types of microorganisms that live on and inside it, called the microbiome. A probiotic supplement aims to change the makeup of the microbiome to provide some health benefits. The challenge is in knowing which probiotic is helpful and for which health problem.

There is little in the way of guidance available on who should take probiotics and when. However, people taking antibiotics, having a gastrointestinal infection, or having digestive symptoms (such as diarrhea or constipation) may want to talk to a healthcare provider about starting a probiotic.

Some people may have diarrhea after taking antibiotics for an infection. This is because an antibiotic may kill the good bacteria of the gut microbiome along with the bacteria causing the infection. This results in dysbiosis, which is an imbalance in the gut microbiome. Its not yet known exactly which probiotic might work best to prevent diarrhea after a course of antibiotics.

C. diffis a type of bacteria that can infect the digestive system and cause severe diarrhea and other complications. There has been some study into using probiotics to prevent these infections, but there is little information on which strains of bacteria would work best against it.Its recommended that probiotics only be used in clinical trials for activeC. diff infections.

H. pyloriis a bacterium that can cause an infection in the stomach. Treatment includes antibiotics and other medications. Probiotics are being studied in preventing symptoms that may happen after H. pylori treatment. Its not yet known which types of probiotics and in what dosage and combination might work best.

Babies born prematurely can develop necrotizing enterocolitis in their digestive system, which can be life-threatening. Probiotics are being studied to help prevent this condition. Because preterm infants are so fragile, a major concern is in the reliability and purity of probiotics on the market for this age group.

The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) recommends certain probiotics that can be used in babies born before 37 weeks or in low birth weight babies (those weighing less than 5 pounds, 5 ounces).

The microflora is the bacteria on the skin. Infections can develop at incision sites or elsewhere in the body after surgery. Probiotics may be used to try to prevent infections, but theres not much evidence for their use.

An infection causing diarrhea that occurs after consuming contaminated food or drink is referred to as traveler's diarrhea. Preventing this infection with probiotics has been the subject of a few studies. There is some evidence thata probiotic yeast,Saccharomyces boulardii, may help prevent travelers diarrhea, but it is not yet settled science.

Diarrhea in children is a major cause of disease in the developing world. Probiotics have been studied for this use and are recommended by some experts in Latin America. However, only certain types and probiotics that have been clinically tested are recommended.

The AGA recommends that probiotics not be used for diarrhea from gastroenteritis (stomach flu") in children.

The studies on probiotics to treat the two main forms of IBD (Crohns disease and ulcerative colitis) have found no benefit. The AGA does not recommend probiotic use in people with IBD.

For people who have hadileal pouchanal anastomosis (IPAA) surgery (also called a j-pouch) for ulcerative colitis, a type of probiotic made up of several strains is sometimes recommended by healthcare providers. This combination of strains includes Lactobacillus paracasei subspecies (subsp.) paracasei, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus, Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum, Bifidobacterium breve, Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis, and Streptococcus salivarius subsp. thermophilus.

Results of clinical trials on how probiotics may help with the symptoms of IBS have been mixed. Some show benefit, while others show no improvement. For that reason, probiotics arent currently recommended for IBS.

Its thought that some inflammatory conditions or other diseases and conditions can lead to reduced levels of testosterone (a sex hormone mainly made in the testicles). Most of the studies so far have been in mice, but at least one study showed that there may be a connection between the gut microbiome, the use of probiotics, and maintaining testosterone levels. There is no guidance on how to use probiotics for testosterone levels.

The vagina contains microorganisms that can become out of balance. This could lead to infections, such as bacterial vaginosis. There is no guidance on who might benefit from vaginal probiotics. One 2020 study has shown thatLactobacillus rhamnosusGR-1 andLactobacillusreuteriRC-14 may help prevent or treat some cases ofbacterial vaginosis.

Prebiotics are different from probiotics. Prebiotics are plant fibers that arent digested by the gastrointestinal system. They are what probiotic organisms use for food. Both probiotics and prebiotics play a role in gut health.

It is generally thought in order to have an effect, probiotics should be taken at any time of day as long as they are taken daily for a certain period of time. The label on the probiotic supplement should give instructions on when and how to take it.

At least one study found that taking probiotics 30 minutes before a meal may help the live strains survive better in the digestive system. However, there have been other studies showing that taking probiotics with a meal or at a certain time of day do not have an effect.

One small 2017 study from Italy explored whether the time of day a probiotic is taken matters. The two strains studied wereBifidobacterium longumandLactobacillus rhamnosus. One group of study participants took the supplement before breakfast and another group took it after breakfast. The strains showed up in the same amounts in both groups. This discounts the importance of the time of day that taking a probiotic is most effective.

Reading the label on the probiotic supplement is key to understanding when to take it. There should be a daily dosage listed. There should also be a suggestion about taking it on an empty stomach, with milk, or with a small meal or snack. Following this guidance is important because it is based on the type and strain of the probiotics.

Probiotic supplements are usually only taken for a specific amount of timeusually days or, at most, weeks. There isnt any evidence that they are any more helpful if taken every day for long periods of time. They can be expensive, so its important to get advice from a healthcare provider on how long to take them.

Probiotics are found in some foods, particularly fermented foods, which include:

Some foods may have probiotics added to them. It is difficult to know the actual probiotic content of a food because the microorganisms are living, and some may die between the production of the food and when it is eaten.

In general, kefir and yogurt are the foods that have the highest amount of probiotic organisms in them. Its important to look for the words live cultures on the label so that its clear the food contains microorganisms.

For people who live with celiac disease and must avoid gluten, probiotic choices can be tricky. One study showed that many probiotic supplements may contain gluten.

Probiotics are generally considered safe in people who are in good health. However, adverse effects from probiotics are possible. In addition, probiotics may not be safe for people who live with serious health conditions.

Probiotic use may be risky in infants, especially those born prematurely or with serious health conditions. People who are critically ill, immunocompromised, or those who have cancer may be at risk for harmful effects from probiotics.

Probiotics, in general, are not federally regulated because they are sold as dietary supplements and not drugs in the United States. For this reason, they may contain materials or strains that are unintended or not listed on the label. There is a risk of undesirable genetic materials in the probiotics transferring to the person receiving them.

Potential adverse effects of probiotics on the digestive system include:

Rashes and acne have also been reported. In some people, these effects may lessen or go away if the probiotics are taken regularly.

For lessening the digestive symptoms of probiotics, lowering the dose and then increasing it slowly may help. In addition, staying hydrated by drinking enough water may also be helpful in some cases.

Probiotics come in many forms. Those taken orally include chewable tablets, freeze-dried capsules, powders, or liquids. They may be found in drug, vitamin, and health food stores as a supplement but might also be included in foods.

Probiotic supplements may contain more than one strain of microorganisms. For most people, the list of bacterial strains on the label will not have much meaning.

For this reason, theWorld Gastroenterology Organisation recommends that healthcare providers give people clear instructions on choosing a probiotic. The probiotic recommended should be based on evidence that it may be helpful for a particular condition. Trying a probiotic that hasnt been shown to have an effect may not be useful.

Some of the common bacterial strains in probiotics include species of:

Some of the common types of yeasts that are in probiotics are:

Non-yeast fungi can also be considered probiotics, and common types include:

The label for a probiotic supplement should contain the number of colony forming units (CFU) in the product. A higher number does not always mean that the product is better or more effective.

What is important is the CFU when the product is used, because it is the live microorganisms that convey the health benefits. When products expire, according to the date on the label, they may not have as many live CFUs.

Probiotics are a multibillion dollar industry, yet there is still a need for quality evidence on their use. Probiotic supplements may be helpful for some diseases and conditions. People will need guidance from healthcare providers on which strains or formulations to use.

Instructions on taking a probiotic, including what time of day, with a meal or between meals, and for how many days, should be included on the supplement label.

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Beginner Probiotics Guide: Everything to Know - Verywell Health

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FarmaKeio Outsourcing is proud to announce the release of its latest innovation, the only patented hormone pellet with triamcinolone developed in an FDA-registered 503B outsourcing facility. The pellet is set to provide a new and revolutionary solution to hormone replacement therapy for men and women.

SOUTHLAKE, Texas, May 10, 2023 (Newswire.com) - FarmaKeio Outsourcing (FKO), a leading pharmaceutical outsourcing facility in the United States, has been granted a patent to produce testosterone and triamcinolone subcutaneous hormone pellets. The patent includes 23 claims, issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), recognizingthe company's innovative approach to compounding hormone therapy and solidifying its position as a leader in the field of pharmaceutical development.

Unlike other hormone therapies, which may require frequent injections or daily pills, FarmaKeio Outsourcing's hormone pellets provide a sustained release of testosterone and triamcinolone, allowing patients to enjoy the benefits of these hormones for extended periods of time. These pellets are inserted subcutaneously and gradually release the hormone over several months, reducing the need for frequent dosing and allowing patients to focus on their daily lives.

"We are thrilled to receive this patent for our subcutaneous hormone pellets," said FarmaKeio Outsourcing's CEO, Dan DeNeui. "Our team has worked tirelessly to develop this innovative approach to hormone therapy, and we are excited to be able to offer this option to patients in need."

In addition to providing a more convenient method of hormone therapy, FarmaKeio's pellets offer a unique formulation that is not available from any other FDA 503B registered outsourcing facility in the US. This proprietary formulation has been carefully designed and tested and it represents a significant breakthrough in the field of hormone therapy.

"We believe that our hormone pellets have the potential to revolutionize the way that hormone therapy is delivered," said DeNeui. "By offering a sustained release of testosterone and triamcinolone, we can provide patients with a more consistent and reliable treatment option that can improve their quality of life."

The issuance of this patent is a significant milestone for FarmaKeio Outsourcing, and it reflects the company's ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in pharmaceutical development. As the demand for hormone therapy continues to grow, FarmaKeio is well-positioned to meet the needs of patients and healthcare providers alike with its cutting-edge hormone pellets.

"We are confident that our hormone pellets will become the gold standard for hormone therapy, and we look forward to working with healthcare providers and patients to make this technology available to as many people as possible," said Chief Operating Officer Cody Boatman.

The hormone pellet with triamcinolone is a groundbreaking new product that is set to revolutionize the hormone replacement therapy industry. With its unique combination of hormones and anti-inflammatory properties, it provides patients with a more comfortable treatment option. The pellet is an exclusive feature of The EvexiPEL Method, created and founded by Terri DeNeui, DNP, APRN, ACNP-BC, and is available exclusively through FarmaKeio Outsourcing, an FDA-registered 503B facility. With this new product, FarmaKeio Outsourcing is once again proving its commitment to providing innovative solutions to hormone replacement therapy.

About FarmaKeio Outsourcing

FarmaKeio Outsourcing is a leading FDA-registered 503B pharmaceutical outsourcing facility that specializes in providing specific custom compounded medications to healthcare providers and facilities across the United States. FarmaKeio Outsourcing is committed to providing innovative, patient-centered solutions that meet the unique needs of their clients.

FarmaKeio Outsourcing offers an unwavering commitment to quality, safety, and compliance, operating a state-of-the-art facility that is cGMP compliant and undergoes rigorous testing and quality assurance procedures to ensure the highest level of quality and safety.

FarmaKeio Outsourcing provides exceptional customer service and support, ensuring that their clients have access to the resources and expertise necessary to make informed decisions about patient care. FarmaKeio Outsourcing is a trusted partner for healthcare providers looking to offer the most innovative and advanced care solutions to their patients.

Source: FarmaKeio Outsourcing

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FarmaKeio Outsourcing Announces Patented Formulation of ... - Newswire

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By David Baron, MD, Past President of the Group for the Advancement of Psychiatry and member of the GAP Committee on Psychopharmacology

Doping, broadly defined as the use of a banned substance to gain an unfair competitive advantage in sports, has been a highly publicized and controversial topic for the past six decades. Yet, despite considerable effort by all stakeholders to level the playing field and create a fairor at least fairercompetitive environment, the issues only seem to have become more challenging and complicated.

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), the worlds premiere doping control agency, and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) have proclaimed that efforts to control doping have three primary goals: the health and safety of the athlete; fair competition; and maintaining the integrity of sports.

However, the case of the South African three-time world champion runner, Caster Semenya, highlights one of the most difficult challenges for the world of sport in trying to achieve these goals. To be clear, however, hers is not a doping case; she did not use testosterone supplementation to gain an unfair advantage, and potentially put her health at risk. In fact, Semenya was assigned female at birth and raised as a girl. However, she was born with a 46, XY DSD, known as a Disorder or Difference of Sexual Development (DSD), and historically referred to as an intersex condition. This results in a higher level of testosterone than is typical for normal women.

To address the issue of what constitutes normal and what should be considered doping, WADA adopted a program several years ago called the Biologic Passport. This establishes the baseline for each athlete and compares the level over time. Each athlete is their own control, and so a positive test is determined by the change from their original baseline, not the baseline measure itself.

Unfortunately for Semenya, because she naturally has higher-than-normal levels of testosterone, she has still been banned from competition1 in certain track distances, although not all. And as far as I can tell, no one is accusing her of doping, or taking testosterone to improve performance. It is just that her baseline levels are above the arbitrary limit for a female to compete in certain distances. Some people think this is a fair decision. However, the key words here are arbitrary limit. I am not persuaded that athletes like Semenya should be singled out for a higher level of scrutiny of their natural abilities than others.

I am speaking from the perspective of a former athlete, a coach, a sports medicine physician, a sports psychiatrist, an Olympic Doping Control officer, a founder of the World Psychiatric Association Section on Exercise, Psychiatry and Sport, a board member of the International Society of Sports Psychiatrists, and an NIMH representative regarding federal Drug-free workplace legislation. I have witnessed firsthand many athletes who have won the genetic lottery and have a distinct competitive advantage as a result of fatethat is to say, because of their genes and not because of pharmacology. There are many examples of natural traits that are well beyond the normal range," yet athletes who benefit from them are not banned from competition or forced to have corrective measures to level the playing field.

For example, is it normal for a woman to be over 6 feet 4 inches tall with a wingspan approaching seven feet? Is it normal for a swimmer to be born with nearly webbed feet that act as mother natures fins?

Or if they did not win the genetic lottery, some athletes can benefit from factors that are not related to their commitment, dedication, and desire to win. Is it fair that athletes from some rich countries get access to the best training, coaches, and equipment from a very early age? Is it an unfair advantage to be born in a country where one can have access to all the best sports science has to offer to improve performance?

In any of the above cases, it is clearly not fair. However, it is by no means cheating.

What to do? There are no easy answers. Although fair competition is fundamental to sport, it is not as black-and-white an issue as one might hope for. The issue of achieving fairness for all concerned will continue to be the most significant challenge moving forward.

As sports fans, we marvel at the incredible accomplishments of elite athletes, often forgetting the blood, sweat, and tears that go into achieving what we observe. Like WADA, we expect fair competition, to maintain the integrity of sport and the ultimate determination of the champion. Cheating is not tolerated, but what is fair? Hopefully, the answer to this very complex and complicated question will be driven by science and thoughtful ethical considerations.

As highlighted in the award-winning Ted Lasso series, for some athletes, sport (soccer) is life. That level of dedication demands that those who determine fairness in sport deliver a gold-medal performance themselves.

More here:
When Mother Nature Does the Doping - Psychology Today

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While men put in a lot of effort to achieve ideal body/physique, they sometimes consume certain supplements or even steroids which helps induce muscle growth and strength but while maintaining physical strength and ensuring an increase in muscle mass, men do not realise that the testosterone they take to improve their appearance can adversely affect their fertility and overall health. According to health experts, when men use steroids to increase testosterone levels to build muscle strength, it can result in low sperm counts or even the absence of sperm.

Men often feel the pressure to maintain their physical appearance or achieve a certain level of fitness hence, they resort to the consumption of products like steroids which helps them attain the desired outcome of achieving muscle mass but in these situations, men fail to realize that the consumption of steroids harms a mans sperm health leading to fertility issues. Male infertility is an extremely sensitive issue for men to accept and for men, complications in fertility can be an unpleasant surprise which may result in increased stress levels and relationship strain due to the frustration of not being able to have a child.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Anindita Singh, Fertility Consultant at Nova IVF Fertility in Kolkata, revealed, While analysing the primary reasons behind infertility, it is observed that certain supplements especially anabolic steroids can cause fertility issues. Steroids are synthetic supplements or versions of testosterone which help enhance strength and muscle growth among men. Steroids that are consumed to promote muscle growth can lower sperm count or even result in the overall absence of sperm which shrinks the male testicles.

She highlighted, However, the adverse impact on sperm health due to the consumption of steroids can be treated depending upon the time duration. When the person stops using steroids, it takes approximately three months for the sperm count to recover. In cases where men have used steroids for a long period, the recovery duration may take a longer time, approximately a year or more. Besides male infertility issues, steroids can pose several other health issues ranging from acne, breast development, liver problems, heart attack, or stroke which may be irreversible.

Dr Priyanka Reddy, Consultant - Infertility Specialist at Motherhood Hospitals in Bangalore's HRBR Layout, shared how steroids affect the male reproductive system:

She asserted that besides fertility, other major adverse effects of steroids can result in side effects in the bodys system which may cause permanent damage namely-

Insisting that use of testosterone should be administered by a physician, Dr Anindita Singh said, The use of testosterone is appropriate only when it is prescribed and administered under the supervision of a reliable physician. In cases where men have low testosterone levels, a physician prescribes hormone-regulating medications which help create adequate levels of testosterone without affecting the fertility level of a man. While taking steroids to improve strength and muscle mass, a man must exercise caution and be aware of the consequences of using steroids on their fertility health along with the risks that cause an impact on both the short- and long-term health of an individual.

Talking about how the production of sperm levels can be recovered, Dr Priyanka Reddy said, Recovery of sperm production depends on how long the man has been consuming steroids which increases testosterone levels. The amount of damage in sperm production depends on the amount of dose undertaken as well. If the dose is in fewer quantities for a while, the production of sperm resumes within three months however if the dose is in larger quantities for a longer period, then, the recovery rate takes longer. Before taking any supplement or drug which assures increased muscle mass, energy, or libido, it is important to consult a doctor to recognise the reproductive risks associated with the use of the supplements.

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Steroids, supplements impact male infertility. Here's how to recover sperm count - Hindustan Times

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A transgender woman has documented the physical changes they underwent while undergoing eight months of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in a mesmerizing timelapse video.

Brendan McCann, from Fort Myers, Florida, took a selfie every day since starting treatment in August last year.

The 23-year-old, who uses non-binary they/them pronouns,decided to document their journey to give other trans people the 'confidence to start HRT.'

Brendan, a video journalist, said: 'The most rewarding part of my transition has been being able to share it with people and make a little piece of art out of it.'

The timelapse clip features a total of 226 images that showcase how Brendan's physical appearance noticeably changed over a period of eight months.

Speaking of the project, theysaid: 'I've done video production and timelapse photography for a while, so I've had a lot of fun putting these time lapses together and seeing people enjoy them.

'The main reason trans people share timelines of their changes with HRT online is that people who are considering starting often go looking to see "what will it do to me? I want to find someone who looked like me when they started."

'Many timelines don't start with a person who looks fairly masculine and still has a beard, so I felt it was important to have it start from the beginning.

'I've gotten messages from people telling me that my video gave them the confidence to start HRT and that's very special.

'I wish I had had a video like this while I was figuring stuff out.'

Brendan, who is originally from the UK but moved to America when they were two, has not socially transitioned yet, which is one of the reasons they are using their birth name.

Due to medical costs related to physically transitioning, Brendan will not be undergoing any surgery in the foreseeable future but plans on getting laser hair removal.

Feminizing hormone therapy is typically used by transgender women and nonbinary people to produce physical changes in the body that are caused by female hormones during puberty.

This hormone therapy, also called gender-affirming hormone therapy, helps better align the body with a person's gender identity.

Feminizing hormone therapy involves taking medicine to block the action of the hormone testosterone.

It also includes taking estrogen which lowersthe amount of testosterone the body makes.

Feminizing hormone therapy can be done alone or along with feminizing surgery.

Not everybody chooses to have feminizing hormone therapy.

It can affect fertility and sexual function, and it might lead to health problems.

Source:Mayo Clinic

Brendan said: 'Physical changes take a few months to really show up and they're very minor at first.

'They are also contingent on having decent levels of estrogen and suppressed testosterone, among other things.'

The keen photographer said it took about four months before their bloodwork came back with good levels that mimic female puberty, adding: 'My medical transition is basically just HRT, which is more common than you would think for trans people.'

Brendan has said that their experience as a trans person has been mainly positive.

'The most surprising thing has been how supportive people have been, both online and in person.

'Most of my friends and immediate family know and no one has really taken it badly.

'Being in a somewhat conservative part of Florida I was expecting more negativity.

'Even online, the TikTok algorithm has been very good at not showing my videos to too many transphobes.

'My comments sections are overwhelmingly positive and that surprised me,' they explained.

However, Brendan does have concerns over the local government passing bills and legislation that could limit access to medicine and physical resources for trans people.

They said: 'Desantis, the governor of Florida, has been ramping up attacks on transgender people in the medical board of Florida and with bills that aim to limit access to gender-affirming care.

'Minors already have a lot of barriers in the way of getting gender-affirming care even in states where the legislation is kind to them. So here it is almost impossible.

'DeSantis already got all trans healthcare taken off of Medicaid in the state of Florida, essentially banning it for the poor.

'He is looking to get private insurance to stop covering it and to put restrictions on who can prescribe treatment.

'They're also about to pass a 'bathroom bill' which will ban trans people from using bathrooms in buildings that receive state funding.

'I didn't expect these changes to come so quickly and at some point in the near future it might make it necessary for me to leave the state.

'For me personally, as a transfeminine person, transitioning using estradiol and testosterone blockers my medications are not scheduled substances, so it would be fairly easy for me to order them from reputable pharmacies overseas and import them.

'If an all-out ban went into place, a lot of people would have to jump to that while they try to leave the state.'

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Transgender woman reveals how HRT transformed their face - msnNOW

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