Does ephedrine boost you

Shinies, but in real life!

2016.06.16 21:53 Shinies, but in real life!

The term "shiny" originates from Pokémon. It is a term used to describe a pokémon that is a completely different color from all others in their species. We have taken that idea and expanded it to include objects, plants, food, and people! All color morphs are accepted providing they are atypical from the norm of that species, breed, or type.
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2012.01.11 21:47 vanillaworkaccount Bad Art

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2020.08.13 12:44 LewisJones91 IncreaseYTWatchTime

Post your YouTube videos here and other members of the community can either watch or just pop it on in another tab in the background to help boost your watch time! Help out your fellow YouTubers, open the videos in a new tab and help their watch time increase!
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2024.03.20 11:29 Fragrant_Tutor8631 CrazyBulk Clenbutrol (Legal clen) review: Best legal steroid for cutting or hype?

Quick summary
So, as seller of bodybuilding supplements, I have a knack of reviewing these legal steroids/peds.
CrazyBulk's Clenbutrol, draws people in by the hype of it being a safe, legal alternative to Clenbuterol. I've been on the hunt for something to kick my fat loss into overdrive myself, without making me feel like I'm on the verge of a heart attack, lol !
With its main sell being Bitter Orange Extract (synephrine) for that metabolic boost and a mix of other ingredients like Guarana for energy, it sounds like a good choice overall. Especially since it's supposed to play nice with other supplements for those custom cutting stacks (Testo-Max, Winsol etc.). All in all, decent option but somewhat overpriced.
However, let's be real for a minute. While it won't turn you into a jittery mess (stimulants side effects) (thank goodness for small mercies), I can't say it can compete with more hardcore fat burners like Steel 3 epi andro!
If you're new to fat burners or super sensitive to stimulants, then yeah, Clenbutrol might seem like a nudge in the right direction. But for those of us who've been around the block with supplements, it felt a bit like bringing a knife to a gunfight.
The synephrine kick? Just good enough but don't expect miracles.
And as for breaking through plateaus, it can help a bit but for some people, I reckon shaking up your routine would do more than this.
It's not that Clenbutrol is bad per se, it's just that for the price tag, I was expecting something... more. I reckon it would stack very well with HyperGH 14x, though !! (My favorite legal HGH for cutting) and complementing it well with stimulants effects for energy & motivation for weight loss.
For folks looking for a mild boost without the legal worries or harsh side effects of more Hardcore supplements like STEEL supplements 3 epi andro etc.,, CrazyBulk's Clenbutrol might be worth a shot. But if you're expecting dramatic results or something to match the might of real Clenbuterol, you might want to keep your expectations in check or look into other alternatives.

Who Clenbutrol is best for ?

Introduction to Clenbutrol
This so-called miracle worker claims to be your ticket to a chiseled body without the scary side effects of its steroid counterpart, Clenbuterol. But let's get real here – can a supplement truly offer steroid-like benefits without the drawbacks? I embarked on this journey with a healthy dose of skepticism, and here's the unfiltered scoop on Clenbutrol from someone who's navigated these waters.

What is Clenbutrol?

Clenbutrol claims to be the gym buddy you never knew you needed, promising to torch fat, boost your metabolism, and keep your muscle gains safe from the fat-loss tsunami. All this, and it's supposedly as natural as your morning green smoothie.
Produced by CrazyBulk, Clenbutrol positions itself as a legal steroid, but without the scary stuff. Now, the unique selling point (USP) here is that Clenbutrol isn't flying solo; it's part of a band, ready to be stacked with other CrazyBulk 'legal steroids' for maximum shredding. We're talking about a team-up with Winsol, Anvarol, and Trenorol for the cutting phase.
But here's the kicker: it's not just a standalone product. One of Clenbutrol's unique selling points is that it can be stacked with other CrazyBulk "legal steroids" for enhanced cutting cycles. They suggest stacking it with Anvarol (an alternative to Anavar), Winsol (a Winstrol alternative), and Trenorol (mimicking Trenbolone) for what they claim to be ultimate cutting.
This sounds all well and good, but if you're a skeptic like me, you're probably wondering whether stacking these supplements actually brings the results they promise, or if it's just a way to get you to buy more products.
Honestly, while the idea of a natural supplement that can give you a steroid-like effect without the downsides is appealing, I've found myself questioning the real-world efficacy. Can a bunch of natural ingredients really replicate the effects of powerful steroids? And more importantly, can they do so in a way that's worth the cost, both in terms of money and effort?
Let's be real: the fitness supplement industry is notorious for overpromising and underdelivering. And while the concept of safely stacking supplements for better results isn't new, the effectiveness of such strategies is often exaggerated.
If you're diving into Clenbutrol and considering stacking it for cutting, I'd urge you to temper your expectations. Supplements can certainly aid your fitness journey, but there's no magic pill (or stack of pills) that can replace hard work, proper diet, and a well-rounded exercise routine.

Ingredients

Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide)

With a serving of 63 mg, providing 315% of the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA), Vitamin B3 plays a crucial role in metabolism and energy production, potentially aiding in the body's ability to burn fat. It supports the conversion of food into usable energy, making it a key ingredient for those looking to optimize fat burning processes.

Garcinia Cambogia (50% Hydroxycitric Acid)

At 450 mg per serving, Garcinia Cambogia is rich in Hydroxycitric Acid (HCA), which is thought to block the enzyme involved in fat storage. HCA may also increase serotonin levels, potentially reducing appetite and food intake, aiding in weight management efforts without a specific RDA percentage.

Bitter Orange Extract (6% Synepherine)

Another 450 mg serving, this time of Bitter Orange Extract, contains Synepherine, a compound believed to boost metabolism and increase fat burning. Its mechanism is similar to that of ephedrine, though purportedly with fewer side effects, making it a significant addition for those targeting fat loss.

Guarana Extract (22% Caffeine)

Guarana Extract comes in at 342 mg per serving and is a potent source of caffeine (about 75 mg), known for its ability to enhance fat oxidation and increase metabolic rate. The energy-boosting effects of caffeine can also improve exercise performance, further supporting weight loss efforts.

My thorough evaluation of Clenbutrol as a fat burner

Appetite Suppression: 3/5

If you're like me and your snack cravings hit you like a freight train at midnight, you might find Clenbutrol kinda helpful but not a game-changer. The Garcinia Cambogia does seem to take the edge off the hunger, but don't expect it to be a silver bullet. You'll probably still eyeball that last slice of pizza; it just might be a tad easier to say no.

Metabolism Boost: 4/5

Alright, here's where things start heating up. With ingredients like Bitter Orange Extract and a decent dose of Vitamin B3, I did feel like my metabolism got a bit of a kickstart. It's not like I turned into a calorie-burning furnace overnight, but there was a noticeable uptick in how quickly I felt I was digesting meals and bouncing back from cheat days.

Energy Enhancement: 4/5

Now, for the part I was actually impressed with: the energy kick. Thanks to the Guarana Extract (yep, the stuff that's in energy drinks), I found myself with a pretty solid boost during my workouts. It wasn't jittery or anything, just a good, steady stream of "Let's do this!" kind of vibe. Perfect for those mornings when getting out of bed feels like climbing Everest.

Stimulant-like Effects: 4/5

So, if you're in the market for something to light a fire under you without sending you to jitter city, Clenbutrol's got your back. The Guarana Extract packs a punch similar to your morning coffee, minus the shakes and crash. It's like having that extra gear when you need it, keeping me focused and on the ball without feeling like my heart's about to beat out of my chest.

Fat Burning: 3/5

Let's get real, the fat burning aspect isn't like waving a magic wand over your muffin top and watching it disappear. The combo of Garcinia Cambogia and Bitter Orange Extract seems to help, especially with consistent exercise and dieting, but don't expect miracles. It's more of a gentle nudge in the right direction rather than a full-on shove.

Safety Profile: 3/5

Now, diving into the safety aspect, Clenbutrol feels like it's on the safer side of the spectrum, especially when you stack it against the wild west of supplements out there. However, with any product rocking stimulants like Guarana and Bitter Orange Extract, it's wise to tread carefully and listen to your body. If you've got a sensitive system or pre-existing health conditions, I'd say proceed with caution and maybe have a chat with your doc first.

User Reviews: 3/5

Scouring the internet for real talk on Clenbutrol was like going on a blind date – you never quite know what you’re gonna get. Some users were all in, singing praises, while others were left wondering what the fuss was about. It’s a mixed bag – some find it a boost to their routine, while others shrug it off as just another bottle on the shelf.

Price ($64.99): 2/5

Dropping nearly 65 bucks on this bottle felt like a gamble. Sure, if it turned me into Thor, I’d say it’s worth every penny. But for results that felt more like a gentle nudge rather than a superhero transformation, it’s a steep ask. It’s in the "splurge" category for sure, especially if you’re looking to make it a staple in your routine.

Real Users' Experiences and Reviews

If you've been eyeing Clenbutrol, thinking it's the golden ticket to your dream body, hold up. I've scoured forums, reviews, and testimonials, and let me tell you, it's a mixed bag. Some users swear by it, claiming it's the secret sauce to their fitness regimen, while others feel it's more of a placebo than a powerhouse.
A friend of mine, let's call him Dave, jumped on the Clenbutrol bandwagon with hopes high enough to reach Mount Everest. A month in, and the most significant thing he lost was his patience (and maybe a bit of cash). On the flip side, another gym buddy, Sarah, noticed some improvements in her stamina and a slight decrease in her snack cravings, but nothing to write home about.
Here's the deal: while some users report feeling more energized and noticing a slight uptick in their weight loss, the consensus isn't exactly glowing. The benefits seem to vary wildly from person to person, with some questioning if it's the supplement or their intensified gym routine that's making the difference. Satisfaction? It's as varied as a box of chocolates; you never know what you're gonna get.
In essence, diving into Clenbutrol expecting life-changing results might set you up for disappointment. It's not the miracle worker it's hyped up to be, and the real MVPs of any transformation story seem to be good ol' diet and exercise. Shocking, I know.

How to Use Clenbutrol for Best Results

Alright, let's say you've decided to give Clenbutrol a shot, skepticism and all. Here's the skinny on making the most out of it: stick to the recommended dosage like glue. The instructions suggest taking three capsules about 45 minutes before your workout. Timing is key here – too close to your workout, and you might not feel the full effect; too far, and you might as well be taking sugar pills.
But let's cut to the chase – if your diet and exercise routine are more inconsistent than your internet connection, no amount of Clenbutrol is going to save the day.
It's not a magic pill that allows you to out-eat a bad diet or underperform in the gym. I tried following the guidelines to the letter, hoping for some noticeable changes.
And while I might've felt a bit more pep in my step, it was my sweat and dedication in the gym, along with turning down that extra slice of pizza, that made the real difference.
The bottom line? Clenbutrol might play a supporting role in your fitness journey, but it's not the lead actor. Your diet and exercise are the true stars of the show. Thinking that Clenbutrol alone will get you to your goals is like hoping a single raindrop will fill a bucket – optimistic, but unrealistic.

Clenbutrol vs Burn-XT

Clenbutrol brings to the table a unique blend with 63 mg of Vitamin B3 for energy metabolism, 450 mg each of Garcinia Cambogia for appetite control and Bitter Orange Extract for a metabolic boost, and 342 mg of Guarana Extract for a caffeine-driven energy kick. This composition makes Clenbutrol a solid choice for those prioritizing natural stimulants and metabolic enhancers, alongside appetite suppression benefits.
On the flip side, Burn-XT sports a different arsenal with 700 mg of Acetyl L-Carnitine for fat transport and energy, 450 mg of Green Tea Leaf Extract rich in antioxidants and promoting thermogenesis, 270 mg of Caffeine Anhydrous for a strong energy boost, along with 50 mg of Capsimax Cayenne Pepper for its thermogenic properties, and 5 mg of Bioperine to enhance absorption. Burn-XT’s formula is tailored for those seeking a high dose of direct energy sources and fat oxidation aids, with a keen focus on increasing caloric burn and enhancing energy for rigorous workouts.
In essence, if you're leaning towards a supplement that offers a mix of appetite suppression, natural energy, and a metabolic kick without too much direct caffeine, Clenbutrol could be your go-to. However, if your main goal is maximizing fat burn, enhancing energy levels with a more straightforward stimulant approach, and optimizing nutrient absorption, then Burn-XT might serve your needs better.

Clenbutrol vs Instant Knockout Cut 2.0

Clenbutrol focuses on a blend that includes Vitamin B3 for metabolic support, Garcinia Cambogia and Bitter Orange Extract for their potential roles in appetite suppression and metabolic enhancement, and Guarana Extract for a natural source of caffeine. This makes Clenbutrol suitable for those interested in a combination of metabolism boosting, appetite control, and a moderate level of stimulant-based energy.
Instant Knockout Cut 2.0, on the other hand, offers a more comprehensive approach towards not just metabolism and energy, but also nutrient absorption and satiety. It includes a high dose of Glucomannan for appetite suppression, a substantial amount of Green Tea Extract for metabolism, and Caffeine Anhydrous paired with L-Theanine for a balanced energy lift without the jitters. The addition of Vitamin D3, B6, and B12 supports overall well-being and energy metabolism at a cellular level. The presence of Cayenne Powder and Black Pepper Extract not only aids in metabolism but also enhances the bioavailability of other nutrients.
For those prioritizing appetite suppression with a strong, clinically significant dose of Glucomannan and a holistic approach to weight loss, including mood and energy support through vitamins and amino acids, Instant Knockout Cut 2.0 emerges as the preferable choice. Clenbutrol remains a solid option for individuals focusing on thermogenic fat burning, natural stimulants for energy, and those looking for a supplement that includes specific metabolic enhancers like Garcinia Cambogia and Bitter Orange Extract.

The Benefits of Clenbutrol

Thermogenic Fat Burning

Clenbutrol boasts about turning up your body's thermostat to melt away fat like a snowman in July. This thermogenic process supposedly uses fat as fuel for this fiery furnace. Sounds hot, right? But let's cool down for a sec. The actual burn might feel more like a lukewarm breeze than a blazing inferno. The idea that a pill can selectively torch fat while you binge-watch your favorite series is, frankly, a bit hard to swallow.

Boosting Stamina and Energy

Next up, Clenbutrol promises an energy surge rivaling your triple-shot espresso, propelling you through workouts with the vigor of a toddler on a sugar rush. But here's a dose of reality: the stamina boost often feels more like a gentle nudge rather than a rocket launch. Yes, there's a bit more pep in your step, but if you're expecting to transform into the Energizer Bunny, you might end up feeling more like a regular rabbit – slightly faster, but definitely not battery-powered.

Appetite Suppression

Now, onto the hunger games. Clenbutrol claims to wield the power to suppress your appetite, making calorie-cutting as easy as pie – which, ironically, is exactly what you're trying to avoid. In theory, feeling fuller should help you bid adieu to snacking. However, in practice, your mileage may vary. Some days, the hunger pangs might be less noticeable, but on others, it's like your stomach is a bottomless pit, screaming for a snack. So, while there's some truth to the appetite suppression claims, it's not the all-powerful solution it's made out to be.

Preservation of Lean Muscle Mass

One of the more grounded claims is Clenbutrol's ability to safeguard your hard-earned muscles from becoming collateral damage in your war on fat. There's some merit here – focusing on muscle preservation is crucial. However, don't expect this supplement alone to be your muscle's knight in shining armor. It's more of a sidekick, offering a bit of help, but the real heroes are your diet and workout regimen.

No Risk of Androgenic Side-Effects

Finally, the safety card. Clenbutrol is heralded for having no androgenic side effects, setting it apart from its steroid counterparts. Sure, avoiding the risk of turning into a pimple-covered, mood-swinging version of yourself is a big plus. But let's not put Clenbutrol on a pedestal just yet. While it's commendable that it sidesteps these nasty side effects, don't forget this is more about what Clenbutrol doesn't do rather than what it does. It's akin to celebrating a firework that doesn't explode – safe, but somewhat underwhelming.

Comparing Clenbutrol with Clenbuterol

Alright, let's break this down. Clenbuterol – the OG that Clenbutrol mimics – has a rep that's as shady as an alleyway at midnight. Originally, it wasn't even meant for gym rats; it was a drug to help asthmatic horses. Yes, horses. Then, bodybuilders caught wind of its fat-burning side effect and thought, "Hey, why let the horses have all the fun?" Fast forward, and it's infamous for risky side effects like heart palpitations, excessive sweating, and shaking hands that could double as a personal fan. Not to mention, it's as illegal for bodybuilding as spray-painting graffiti on the local police station.
Enter Clenbutrol, the "legal" brother that promises similar gains without turning you into a jittery mess or a lawbreaker. But here's the kicker: while it waves the flag of safety and legality, don't expect it to perform miracles. It's like comparing a wild tiger to a house cat; they might look similar, but one's a lot less likely to tear you to pieces.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Clenbutrol safe?

As safe as crossing the street with your eyes open. It's made from ingredients that won't have you experiencing a heart-pounding rave in your chest. But as with crossing the street, it's best to look both ways – consult a doctor if you're unsure.

Does it actually work?

It's like asking if a diet soda will help you lose weight. Maybe, if you're not washing down a triple cheeseburger with it. Clenbutrol can give you a nudge, but don't ditch your gym membership just yet.

Where can I buy it?

Hang tight; we're getting to that.

Where to Buy Clenbutrol and Its Pricing

Want to give Clenbutrol a whirl? Stick to the yellow brick road leading directly to CrazyBulk's official website. It's the only way to ensure you're not getting duped by some knock-off that's as effective as a sugar pill.
As for the damage to your wallet, it's not exactly chump change. A month's supply will set you back about the same as a fancy dinner for two. And if you're planning to stack it with other products, prepare for your bank account to take a hit. Sure, they offer bundles that promise savings, but remember, the best savings often come from investing in fresh produce and a gym membership.
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2023.11.20 06:51 Bubzoluck [30 min read] Goal 1: Lose Weight, Goal 2: Keep it Off - A look at how fat is stored in the body and the agents used for weight loss PART 2

[30 min read] Goal 1: Lose Weight, Goal 2: Keep it Off - A look at how fat is stored in the body and the agents used for weight loss PART 2
Missed part 1? Click here!

Undereducated about the Unknowns

I know, I know. So far this hasn’t been a very positive post and for a condition that effects a large proportion of people, I don’t want to scare anyone. Like always, my goal is to educate and that is why I go into detail about these things—for some people they need to know the why before they understand the solution. As such, let’s go into the way we approach Obesity and weight loss and see how we solve it. Short answer: it's very difficult, not easy, and requires lots of encouragement and motivation for everyone involved but the payoff is huge. As a pharmacist working in addiction and psychiatry, part of my job is to recommend agents to assist someone’s treatment. Because of my background I feel that I have a unique perspective on medical issues because I am the drug expert and so I can balance the drug benefit with the side effects of other drugs OR complications of other conditions. That being said, no size fits all and everyone needs a different approach.
Currently I work with many individuals with weight loss challenges due to behavioral conditions (such as Binge Eating Disorder), their medication regimens, or genetics. One of the most important aspects of recommending a weight loss agent is understanding the mechanism of why that person’s calorie intake is more than their calorie expenditure. This section refers to a person who may not be aware of what goes into a proper calorie intake and how to balance intake and output. In a sense this is the field of Nutrition and is where Dieticians come in (please note that registered Dieticians are medical professionals with a degree in Nutrition which enables them to perform medical nutrition counseling and diagnose or treat nutritional illnesses. Depending on the state, a nutritionist does not have a license to practice Medical Nutrition).

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  • The essentials of Nutrition come down to the idea of Energy Balance or how energy is taken into the body, generated, and then expended. A positive energy balance is when more energy is taken in and then stored resulting in weight gain while a negative energy balance is where less energy is taken in than used so fat stores must be used. Remember that the goal of eating food is to make energy which is represented by the molecule ATP (produced by the Mitochondria!). However, depending on the kind of activity done, we may not have enough stored ATP in the body to cover the activity and thus have to use other means of ATP production.
    • When we are at rest, the activities we do such as swiping your thumb on a screen and moving your eyeballs to read do rapidly deplete the amount of stored ATP—this is why you can sit all day without feeling winded. If we perform a more intense activity, such as walking, the stored ATP is used incredibly quickly (lasts <10sec) and we have to use Aerobic Metabolism to create ATP while doing the activity. Aerobic Metabolism utilizes oxygen to make ATP and is incredibly efficient which enables us to do low-impact activities for an extended period, like walking down a hallway. As the impact level of the activity increases or the length of time increases the body switches from Aerobic Metabolism to Anaerobic Metabolism which is ATP production when oxygen is not available. This isn’t to say that your muscles have 0 oxygen when you are running but more that oxygen demand (moving the muscle) is much higher than oxygen supply (oxygen capacity of red blood cells). As such, the body utilizes Anaerobic Metabolism which produces ATP for energy but also Lactic Acid which causes that muscle pain after exercising.

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  • To make it simple, Aerobic Metabolism is used in low-impact activities while Anaerobic is used short bursts of high-impact (like a 2-min workout) OR prolonged high impact activity (like crossfit or HIIT exercises). Now that we understand that, we can see what kind of energy source is used in what kind of metabolism. As you can see, Fatty Acids are part of Aerobic Metabolism but only after about 1.5-2hrs of activity. What this means is that in order to burn fat you need to burn your Liver glucose stores (called Glycogen) first and then you can start burning fat. So the 20 minute treadmill run while great for raising your mood and improving blood vessel health may not touch the fat in your belly.
  • This brings us to the other aspect of Nutrition—diet. Now this is where the lack of words to describe the science is cumbersome. Someone’s food intake, aka their diet, is different from dieting (cutting out certain foods) which is different from following a Diet (capital D), a more strict set of food guidelines. I don’t have the training to discuss what is a good Diet but I can talk about what are the necessary components of what makes up a good diet (lower case d). In general, it is all about ensuring you have the essential nutrients and reduce the intake of weight gaining foods. Essential nutrients like Vitamins, Minerals, Trace Elements, essential Amino Acids are required from our food in order to live and there are lots of sources online about which foods create balanced meals that fit your preferences. What is nonessential is carbohydrates, proteins, and fats (except omega-3 fatty acids). Yeah, kinda weird to think that the main components of our foods are nonessential but what that means is that we can change it up as needed to fit your current need.
    • Carbohydrates are a group of macromolecules that consist of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen and are very energy rich. Carbs come in two flavors: nondigestible and digestible. Nondigestible carbs are the dietary fiber we need to ensure that our stools can form solidly and move along the intestines. There are lots of types of fibers but the one for weight specifically is Viscous Fiber which forms a gel in the intestines to reduce sugar and fat absorption. Unprocessed oats, flaxseeds, asparagus, beans, and Psyllium Husk are great sources of Viscous Fiber which help reduce the amount of fat and sugar we take in from our food. Digestible carbs on the other hand are the sugar we normally think, the sweet stuff like glucose, sucrose, fructose, and starches. All digestible carbs can result in weight gain but it all depends on the amount you eat. The essential of a diet is not what you eat but how much you eat; so yes you can have some cake one day but you should abstain for the next few days.
    • Unsurprisingly the fat we eat can be absorbed into the body and used to make fat that is stored. Animal products and processed foods are highest in fats that are likely to be stored while plant based fats and oils are less likely to be stored (more likely to be immediately used as energy).
    • Finally proteins which are not required for weight loss but are essential for muscle gain and the best way to promote further energy expenditure after exercise is to promote muscle synthesis. Essentially, when we exercise the muscle is damaged either by the flexing of the muscle or by the lactic acid produced and so needs to recover with protein in our diet. In order to use the protein the body needs to spend energy which can be done in the form of using more stored fat. Thus, eating protein while trying to lose weight can provide additional benefits.
    • So what does this all mean in terms of the exercise we were talking about before? Well remember that in order to burn fat someone needs to exercise about 1.5 hours to burn through stored glucose stores. Now this can be really cumbersome but the way around this is to starve the Liver of glucose to rebuild those glucose stores. By keeping a low-carb diet, your liver wouldn’t be able to use dietary glucose to rebuild the Glycogen stores and instead have to use more fat! As such, keeping the amount of glucose in your diet low aids in getting to the 1.5 hours sooner and can facilitate using fat as a main energy source when you are at rest.
  • Now diet and exercise is all well and good but there is a big factor here that we have to consider: ability to diet and exercise. Yes physical ability is a major aspect but this is why this section is titled Undereducated—for individuals who are lower socioeconomic status (SES) they have a harder time achieving the necessary diet and exercise goals to find significant weight loss. Is this because they are uneducated? No, most Obese people of any SES know that eating better and exercising will make them lose weight, but performing those actions uses another major commodity: time. Unfortunately, those of lower SES face several challenges that make it extremely difficult to lose weight: often they are working lower wage jobs meaning that more time is spent working and less time available for exercise. Combine this with the higher cost of living, especially when caring for children, and lower SES correlates heavily with buying cheaper foods which are often not the most nutritious. If a parent has to feed 4 children with a few dollars, they will use sources of food that maximize the value of that dollar—this means processed foods filled with salt and fat to make them taste good. This is part of the benefit of food stamp programs which enable lower earning families to purchase more nutritious foods. But this is where the undereducated part comes in.
    • For many people they think that a weight loss meal is salad, and while its not wrong, its a lot of what is in the meal. Part of my work in college working in a food kitchen was helping families understand how to maximize the benefit of the canned or frozen vegetables and fruits they have access to rather than feeling that healthy food is only fresh produce. A person can accomplish the same nutritive goals on frozen or canned vegetables as they can on fresh or raw foods and often on a smaller budget. I highly encourage those who are on a limited budget to get in touch with their local food bank—often they can connect you with a dietician who can guide you through how to cook nutritious meals on a small budget and for a large family. Please know that diet and exercise is extremely possible even with added time constraints.

And a quick buck was made

Okay I think we have come to the part that people were really waiting for—the drugs! Please take this next section as educational only and to merely inform you of the thinking behind weight loss agents. You must talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medications including herbals, supplements, or illicit substances. The first group of medications we will look at are those with an FDA approved indication for weight loss:

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  • First up we have Orlistat, a medication that does not require a prescription in the United States to use. Orlistat is an inhibitor of stomach and pancreas Lipases, a type of enzyme responsible for breaking down dietary fats. This means that when someone takes Orlistat the fats they eat are unable to be broken down for absorption and instead stay in the stool for excretion. When used correctly, about ¼ to ⅓ of dietary fat isn’t absorbed and there is a sizeable reduction in LDL (bad cholesterol). While its nice its over the counter, Orlistat has some…major drawbacks. The biggest is it’s tolerability—because Orlistat prevent fat digestion, most of the fat stays in the intestines causing oily stools, urgent diarrhea, and smelly flatulence. In its official documentation the term “explosive diarrhea” is used. Now, to avoid these unfortunate side effects a person should meals that are high in fat (no more than 30% of their daily recommended fat amount). Now this begs the question: is Orlistat effective in losing weight because of how it works or because people avoid fat like its poison to prevent explosive diarrhea? Either way someone should expect to lose around 15 lbs at 6 months of regular use which is nothing to sneeze at.
    • Speaking of over the counter weight loss aids we should talk about a few. One of the biggest ingredients included in these supplements is Caffeine. Caffeine is thought to work by increasing someone’s metabolic rate or in other words to increase the amount of energy someone uses while at rest. Part of this is because the heart is working harder (Caffeine increases heart rate) but there is some more systemic effects that are not explained by simple increased fight or flight effects. I can’t find the source I heard this from, because I believe I learned it during a seminar, but somewhere near 65% of OTC weight loss supplements have some form of Caffeine in them. Caffeine can be listed by itself or be hidden in an herb like green tea, yerba mate, green coffee beans, kola, guarana, yaupon, and dozens more. I'm not anti-caffeine, I drink plenty of it everyday but these supplements often have people exceeding the safety limit of caffeine by combining these herbs together. Caffeine can worsen anxiety, put significant strain on the heart, and isn’t recommended for pregnant women. Just be careful!

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  • One supplement that used to be on the market in the US and is now banned is Ephedra. Ephedra is preparation of the chinese herb Ma Huang which contains the alkaloid Ephedrine and Pseudoephedrine. Both chemicals are part of the stimulant class of medications and when used in large enough doses will cause appetite suppression. Essentially these chemicals stimulate the fight or flight region of the nervous system which suppress the urge to eat. This is actually the reason why stimulants like Amphetamine (Adderall) and Methylphenidate (Ritalin) are used off-label to treat Binge Eating Disorder and help weight loss. Suppressing the urge to eat helps the person eat correct portion of food or prevent binge episodes thus reducing calorie intake. One OTC product that was extremely popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s was Hydroxycut which heavily marketed itself on TV and on the unregulated internet. In 2003 the Missouri Attorney General sued the company over their claims that Hydroxycut was “clinically proven” to burn fat but the case was settled out of court. Later in 2003 the NYT uncovered hidden documents that showed Hydroxycut knew its product didn’t work and have tampered with documents in another lawsuit in Oklahoma to show otherwise. Regardless, the usage of Hydroxycut wasn’t significantly hampered but due to its widespread use and unscrupulous advertising, the FDA banned Ephedra in 2004 after 155 deaths were attributed to the herb. It was the first time a supplement was banned in the US. Hydroxycut then switched to using Hydroxycitric Acid which required a lower dose than the Ephedra based formulations. The company failed to advertise the change in dosing and dozens of cases of serious liver failure resulting in liver transplant were reported and at least one death (19yo male). Hydroxycut is now mostly Caffeine.

https://preview.redd.it/m15fi14yyf1c1.png?width=806&format=png&auto=webp&s=4517fd0e1941338b3eb9c9c35d885cf963b3d597
  • Similar to the stimulants is Bupropion which is combined with the opiate antagonist Naltrexone in the product Contrave. Bupropion is an antidepressant that causes a raise in Dopamine and Norepinephrine in the brain while Naltrexone works by preventing endorphins from binding to the opioid receptor in the brain. Together its thought that Contrave works in Hypothalamus to reduce pro-eating stimulation as well working in the Mesolimbic Dopamine Circuit to reduce the reward feedback someone feels when eating. In a sense, the drugs work by causing someone to be less hungry and then reduce the pleasurability of eating. Contrave can be incredibly useful in people who are mindless snackers (such as eating large quantities of food when not paying attention) or for binge eating disorder. The benefit of using this medication over the stimulants like Adderall or Ritalin because it helps treat the cause of the Obesity (overeating) rather than just preventing the symptom (weight gain). Generally people see around a 25lb weight loss around 6 months.
    • Similar to Contrave is another combination product: Phentermine and Topiramate in the branded product Qsymia. This combo pill utilizes the stimulant Phentermine which comes from the same class as Adderall and Methylphenidate to suppress appetite and Topiramate, originally an anti-epilepsy medication that is thought to suppress appetite, increase satiety, and reducing pleasure from eating. Qsymia produces similar results to Contrave.

https://preview.redd.it/99xetdlyyf1c1.png?width=860&format=png&auto=webp&s=b0743068c48b595de6c0353dbe89eab81043b381
  • Okay, this brings us to a very controversial medication in the pharmacy world: GLP-1 agonists. If you remember from earlier I described how White Fat releases the appetite-suppressing hormone Leptin due to the stomach and intestine releasing GLP-1. GLP-1 is released when the GI tract detects carbohydrate or fat rich foods and their release triggers a cascade resulting in long term appetite suppression. LIkewise it is believed that the very common side effect of nausea and vomiting reduces the desire to eat. So in a lot of ways, they are working the same as the stimulants are—reducing appetite but not really touching the reason for overeating. GLP-1 agonists like Semaglutide (Wegovy) and Liraglutide (Saxenda) are used primarily for their influence on Insulin in Type 2 Diabetics to help lower blood sugar levels and reduce A1c, a marker of overall health in Diabetes. In diabetes, the clinical benefits of GLP-1s cannot be understated on the heart, kidney, liver and many other organs. In non-Diabetes weight loss? Well…don’t get me wrong they do work—people usually see a 15 lb loss at about 6 months but they miss the mark in the same way that the stimulants do. They prevent symptoms but don’t really help the underlying cause for why someone might be Obese.
    • The other aspect that I am always weary of is when drugs become “popular” in the media and especially with celebrities. Many celebrities and social media influencers are touting the benefits of GLP-1 agonists, i.e. the weight loss, but the consequence of this fad is that Diabetics who rely on this drug are unable to get it anymore. There is a massive shortage in GLP-1 agonists for people who could use another agent with similar efficacy but are using GLP-1s due to the social media presence. Likewise the weight loss isn’t sustained—at about 1 year the weight loss plateaus and after stopping only around 50% maintained the weight loss. Compare this to the other agents we’ve talked about who had a sustained weight loss around 80% and the choice is clear. Another aspect I have against these drugs for weight loss is the use of a side effect as a selling point—the rate of nausea is about 44% which means that someone is making themselves sick in order to lose weight. This is not a life I would put my patients on.
Finally, I have to talk about the pills mills, or I guess injection stations since the GLP1s are injectable medications, that have popped up around Wegoxy and Saxenda. Weight loss is an extremely tough, emotional, and sometimes unbearable process. For some individuals it is the worst trigger to think about and I really do feel for the people who have tried good eating and exercising but are unable to do it. This is why I believe that weight loss agents should be used just prior to or at the same time diet and exercise routines are implemented. While the drugs are effective, the true power in sustained and increased weight loss is by learning to eat properly and exercise consistently. That being said, I am the kind of person who is results driven and to be encouraged to lose weight I would need to see the pounds come off first before I would feel comfortable starting a diet or exercise. For some its that initial loss due to the drug that pushes them to go for the walk around the block, take the stairs, or choose an apple over a bakery item. I believe in the drug’s ability as much as I believe in the initial push to get the process going. But, and this is the sticking point for me, the process should be an active collaboration between the patient and the healthcare provider. I don't think giving a weight loss agent with a) educating the person on how to diet and exercise, b) follow up on the challenges of implementing those lifestyle modifications, and c) allowing weight loss despite a sedentary lifestyle is okay. I want the best for my patients and sometimes that means giving a boost in the beginning, guiding through the process, and encouraging when things get tough.
One of the trends we are seeing right now is telehealth doctors prescribing GLP-1s. Telehealth is awesome because it connects people to healthcare providers when local doctors aren’t available—but in these cases it is just a formality for a drug to be prescribed. Weight loss needs to be a concerted effort on both people and unfortunately those only prescribing GLP1 agonists are doing it to make money at the expense of the patient. This was the same for doctors that prey on men searching for erectile dysfunction medications, the same for doctors preying on people who believe they have ADHD but haven’t gotten a formal neurologist or psychiatrist and are put on unnecessary stimulants, and now it is the same for weight loss. Drug companies are using social media influencers to push drugs on people—imagine if that was OxyContin. There are dozens of online health clinics and telehealth companies whose sole goal is to get people on high cost drugs to make money. I’d hate to see a wave of pancreatitis and gallstones because due diligence wasn’t being applied.
Okay, I’m off my soapbox. Regardless, weight loss is a difficult topic because there is no easy solution. There is no drug that cures Obesity and it takes time and effort to have the sustained benefit that people are looking for. Remember that weight loss is the first goal, the second is preventing the weight from coming back. Drugs do the first, diet and exercise do the second. Both work together.
Cheers!
submitted by Bubzoluck to SAR_Med_Chem [link] [comments]


2023.11.14 18:02 Mikey-506 Dopamine Enhancement Guide

ECA Stack - Dopamine Enhancing Routine/Cycle
ECA, which stands for Ephedrine, Caffeine, and Aspirin, is a combination of these three compounds commonly used for its potential synergistic effects on fat loss and neural stimulation. Avoid the use of Ephedrine if at all possible, if you do decide to use it, please do additional research and talk to a professional before you make the decision. Caffeine alone should suffice, and with the techniques outlined below the natural dopamine production will be much more beneficial, maintainable and with far fewer risks or side effects.
ECA Stack – Dopamine / Energy Level Boosting Effects
The ECA stack is a combination of ephedrine, caffeine, and aspirin that is often used as a dietary supplement or performance-enhancing aid. It is named after the initials of its components. The stack is believed to promote weight loss, enhance energy levels, and improve athletic performance. Let's take a closer look at each component and their effects, particularly in relation to dopamine.
Ephedrine, a sympathomimetic amine, acts as a stimulant and bronchodilator. It affects various neurotransmitters in the brain, including dopamine. Ephedrine increases dopamine release by acting as a substrate for the dopamine transporter (DAT) protein. It competes with dopamine for uptake by the DAT, resulting in increased dopamine levels in the synapse and prolonging its effects. Additionally, ephedrine can stimulate dopamine release by activating adrenergic receptors and promoting the release of dopamine from the presynaptic neuron. The increased dopamine levels can lead to increased alertness, enhanced mood, and potential euphoria.
Caffeine, a naturally occurring stimulant, is known for its effects on alertness and wakefulness. It primarily works by blocking adenosine receptors in the brain, which inhibits the sleep-promoting effects of adenosine. This blockade indirectly affects dopamine levels by reducing the inhibitory effect of adenosine on dopamine release. Consequently, caffeine increases dopamine release in certain brain regions, leading to heightened arousal, improved mood, and enhanced cognitive function. However, it's important to note that caffeine's effects on dopamine are relatively mild compared to drugs that directly target dopamine receptors and transporters.
Aspirin, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), primarily acts on the prostaglandin pathway and has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. While aspirin does not directly interact with dopamine receptors or transporters, it can indirectly influence dopamine levels through its effects on other neurotransmitter systems. For instance, by inhibiting prostaglandin production and reducing inflammation, aspirin may indirectly impact dopamine signaling. Additionally, the relief of pain achieved through aspirin's analgesic properties can affect dopamine release and potentially influence mood and motivation.
The ECA stack, as a combination of ephedrine, caffeine, and aspirin, is believed to work synergistically to enhance its effects. Ephedrine and caffeine can both increase dopamine levels, resulting in increased alertness, improved mood, and heightened energy. Aspirin, while not directly affecting dopamine, can indirectly support dopamine function by reducing inflammation and promoting comfort.
Interactions with other Medication
  1. Blood Pressure Medications: Ephedrine and caffeine can both increase blood pressure and heart rate. If you are taking medications for high blood pressure, such as beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers, combining them with the ECA stack may interfere with the effectiveness of these medications or lead to excessive cardiovascular stimulation.
  2. Stimulant Medications: The combination of ephedrine and caffeine in the ECA stack can have stimulant effects on the central nervous system. If you are taking other stimulant medications, such as amphetamines or methylphenidate, combining them with the ECA stack may increase the risk of side effects, such as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and nervousness.
  3. Antidepressants: Some antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), can affect the metabolism and clearance of ephedrine and caffeine. Combining these medications with the ECA stack may increase the risk of adverse effects, including serotonin syndrome, high blood pressure, and rapid heart rate.
  4. Anticoagulants/Antiplatelet Medications: Aspirin, one component of the ECA stack, is an antiplatelet medication that can thin the blood and increase the risk of bleeding. Combining aspirin with other anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications, such as warfarin or clopidogrel, may potentiate the blood-thinning effects and increase the risk of bleeding complications.
  5. Thyroid Medications: Ephedrine, a sympathomimetic amine, can potentially interact with thyroid medications, such as levothyroxine. Ephedrine may increase the release of thyroid hormones or interfere with their metabolism, leading to altered thyroid function and potential side effects.
Suggested Routine to naturally boost dopamine levels

  1. Morning:

  1. Daytime:

  1. Afternoon:

  1. Evening:
  1. Night:
Dopamine Enhancing Dietary Overview

  1. Proteins: Foods rich in proteins provide the necessary building blocks for dopamine synthesis. Include lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, tofu, legumes, and dairy products in your diet.
  2. Tyrosine-rich foods: Tyrosine is an amino acid involved in dopamine synthesis. Foods such as almonds, avocados, bananas, eggs, chicken, and turkey are good sources of tyrosine.
  3. Leafy greens: Dark leafy greens like spinach, kale, and collard greens contain high levels of folate. Folate is important for neurotransmitter synthesis, including dopamine.
  4. Fruits and vegetables: Berries, particularly blueberries, are rich in antioxidants and may have neuroprotective effects, promoting brain health. Other fruits and vegetables, such as oranges, tomatoes, and bell peppers, provide essential vitamins and minerals that support dopamine function.
  5. Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are rich in nutrients like magnesium, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for brain health and neurotransmitter function.
  6. Dark chocolate: Dark chocolate contains compounds like flavonoids and phenylethylamine (PEA), which may help enhance mood and support dopamine release. Choose dark chocolate with a high cocoa content (70% or higher) and consume in moderation.
  7. Green tea: Green tea contains an amino acid called L-theanine, which has been shown to have a positive impact on dopamine levels and brain function. It can promote relaxation while enhancing alertness.
  8. Turmeric: Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It may help protect dopamine-producing neurons and support overall brain health.
  9. Probiotic-rich foods: Emerging research suggests a link between gut health and dopamine production. Including fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir in your diet can support a healthy gut microbiome, which may indirectly influence dopamine levels.
  10. Water: Staying hydrated is essential for optimal brain function, including neurotransmitter synthesis and release. Make sure to drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day.
Several vitamins play a role in the synthesis, regulation, and function of dopamine in the brain.

  1. Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine): Vitamin B6 is involved in the conversion of the amino acid L-tyrosine into dopamine. It is a co-factor for the enzyme aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase, which helps convert L-tyrosine to L-DOPA, a precursor of dopamine.
  2. Vitamin B9 (Folate): Folate is important for the synthesis and metabolism of neurotransmitters, including dopamine. It participates in the conversion of L-DOPA to dopamine through its role in one-carbon metabolism.
  3. Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin): Vitamin B12 is involved in the formation of myelin sheaths, which protect nerve cells, including dopaminergic neurons. It also plays a role in the synthesis and maintenance of neurotransmitters, including dopamine.
  4. Vitamin D: Vitamin D receptors are found in various brain regions, including those involved in dopamine synthesis and regulation. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to altered dopamine signaling and neurotransmission.
  5. Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect dopamine neurons from oxidative stress. It is involved in the biosynthesis of dopamine by acting as a cofactor for the enzyme dopamine β-hydroxylase.
  6. Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects dopamine neurons from oxidative damage. It helps maintain the integrity and function of dopaminergic neurons.
Other Considerations: Enhance and Maintain dopamine levels

  1. Regular exercise: Engaging in aerobic exercises like running, swimming, or cycling can stimulate dopamine release and promote overall brain health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
  2. Get enough sleep: Quality sleep is essential for proper neurotransmitter function, including dopamine regulation. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to support optimal brain health.
  3. Manage stress: Chronic stress can negatively impact dopamine levels. Explore stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or engaging in hobbies and activities you enjoy.
  4. Listen to music: Listening to music you love can induce pleasure and increase dopamine release. Choose music that uplifts your mood and makes you feel good.
  5. Set and achieve goals: Accomplishing goals, both big and small, can activate the brain's reward pathways and boost dopamine levels. Break larger goals into smaller, achievable tasks to experience a sense of accomplishment along the way.
  6. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness exercises, such as meditation or mindful breathing, can help improve dopamine receptor sensitivity and enhance overall well-being.
  7. Spend time in nature: Being in nature has been shown to have a positive impact on mood and overall brain health. Take walks in green spaces, go hiking, or simply spend time outdoors to potentially increase dopamine levels.
  8. Socialize and connect: Engaging in meaningful social interactions, spending time with loved ones, and nurturing relationships can stimulate dopamine release and promote feelings of happiness and well-being.
  9. Seek pleasurable experiences: Engage in activities that bring you joy and pleasure, whether it's playing a musical instrument, dancing, painting, or engaging in hobbies you are passionate about. Enjoying pleasurable experiences can enhance dopamine release.
  10. Limit excessive dopamine-depleting behaviors: Certain behaviors like excessive consumption of alcohol, drug use, and excessive gambling can deplete dopamine levels over time. Moderation and balance are key.
Combating Weight Loss (If Needed)
While there are numerous meal replacement brands available worldwide, here are 10 well-known and popular brands that offer carb-intensive meal replacement options:

  1. Soylent: Soylent offers a range of meal replacement products, including their original formula, which provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
  2. Huel: Huel offers complete meal replacements in powder form, with options that include a significant amount of carbohydrates, sourced from oats and other ingredients.
  3. Ample: Ample provides meal replacement shakes made from real food ingredients, including carbohydrates from sources like oats, sweet potato, and tapioca.
  4. Garden of Life: Garden of Life offers meal replacement powders and shakes that are rich in carbohydrates, often derived from organic whole food sources like oats, quinoa, and fruits.
  5. Orgain: Orgain produces organic meal replacement shakes that contain carbohydrates from ingredients such as brown rice, fruits, and vegetables.
  6. Kate Farms: Kate Farms offers plant-based meal replacement shakes that provide a balance of macronutrients, including carbohydrates from organic pea protein and brown rice.
  7. Vega: Vega offers a range of plant-based meal replacement shakes and powders that contain carbohydrates from sources like organic sprouted brown rice and organic quinoa.
  8. Ensure: Ensure is a well-known brand that offers meal replacement shakes designed for nutrition and energy, with carbohydrate-rich options available.
  9. SlimFast: SlimFast offers a variety of meal replacement shakes and bars, including carb-conscious options that provide a controlled amount of carbohydrates for those watching their carb intake.
  10. Atkins: While primarily known for their low-carb products, Atkins also offers meal replacement shakes and bars with a focus on controlled carbohydrate intake.
submitted by Mikey-506 to PsychogenicShivers [link] [comments]


2023.08.24 04:07 Mikey-506 Dopamine Enhancement Guide - For you mobile zombies and coffee fiends

Feelings drained, that coffee/energy drink not hitting like it use to? Do you wake up wanting to murder someone until you have your pot of coffee?
I developed a guide to enhance dopamine levels naturally and un-naturally, stop relying on your phone to feel alive, cultivate other methods of dopamine production or just add some synthetic adrenaline (Ephedrine) to spice things up (Be sure to cycle this supplement). This guide can help you lose weight while boosting energy levels and overall mood, if weight is not an issue in your life meal replacement suggestions were added to the end of this post and will compensate as increase in dopamine stimulation will suppress apatite.

ECA Stack - Dopamine Enhancing Routine/Cycle
ECA, which stands for Ephedrine, Caffeine, and Aspirin, is a combination of these three compounds commonly used for its potential synergistic effects on fat loss and neural stimulation. Avoid the use of Ephedrine if at all possible, if you do decide to use it, please do additional research and talk to a professional before you make the decision. Caffeine alone should suffice, and with the techniques outlined below the natural dopamine production will be much more beneficial, maintainable and with far fewer risks or side effects.
ECA Stack – Dopamine / Energy Level Boosting Effects
The ECA stack is a combination of ephedrine, caffeine, and aspirin that is often used as a dietary supplement or performance-enhancing aid. It is named after the initials of its components. The stack is believed to promote weight loss, enhance energy levels, and improve athletic performance. Let's take a closer look at each component and their effects, particularly in relation to dopamine.
Ephedrine, a sympathomimetic amine, acts as a stimulant and bronchodilator. It affects various neurotransmitters in the brain, including dopamine. Ephedrine increases dopamine release by acting as a substrate for the dopamine transporter (DAT) protein. It competes with dopamine for uptake by the DAT, resulting in increased dopamine levels in the synapse and prolonging its effects. Additionally, ephedrine can stimulate dopamine release by activating adrenergic receptors and promoting the release of dopamine from the presynaptic neuron. The increased dopamine levels can lead to increased alertness, enhanced mood, and potential euphoria.
Caffeine, a naturally occurring stimulant, is known for its effects on alertness and wakefulness. It primarily works by blocking adenosine receptors in the brain, which inhibits the sleep-promoting effects of adenosine. This blockade indirectly affects dopamine levels by reducing the inhibitory effect of adenosine on dopamine release. Consequently, caffeine increases dopamine release in certain brain regions, leading to heightened arousal, improved mood, and enhanced cognitive function. However, it's important to note that caffeine's effects on dopamine are relatively mild compared to drugs that directly target dopamine receptors and transporters.
Aspirin, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), primarily acts on the prostaglandin pathway and has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. While aspirin does not directly interact with dopamine receptors or transporters, it can indirectly influence dopamine levels through its effects on other neurotransmitter systems. For instance, by inhibiting prostaglandin production and reducing inflammation, aspirin may indirectly impact dopamine signaling. Additionally, the relief of pain achieved through aspirin's analgesic properties can affect dopamine release and potentially influence mood and motivation.
The ECA stack, as a combination of ephedrine, caffeine, and aspirin, is believed to work synergistically to enhance its effects. Ephedrine and caffeine can both increase dopamine levels, resulting in increased alertness, improved mood, and heightened energy. Aspirin, while not directly affecting dopamine, can indirectly support dopamine function by reducing inflammation and promoting comfort.
Interactions with other Medication
  1. Blood Pressure Medications: Ephedrine and caffeine can both increase blood pressure and heart rate. If you are taking medications for high blood pressure, such as beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers, combining them with the ECA stack may interfere with the effectiveness of these medications or lead to excessive cardiovascular stimulation.
  2. Stimulant Medications: The combination of ephedrine and caffeine in the ECA stack can have stimulant effects on the central nervous system. If you are taking other stimulant medications, such as amphetamines or methylphenidate, combining them with the ECA stack may increase the risk of side effects, such as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and nervousness.
  3. Antidepressants: Some antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), can affect the metabolism and clearance of ephedrine and caffeine. Combining these medications with the ECA stack may increase the risk of adverse effects, including serotonin syndrome, high blood pressure, and rapid heart rate.
  4. Anticoagulants/Antiplatelet Medications: Aspirin, one component of the ECA stack, is an antiplatelet medication that can thin the blood and increase the risk of bleeding. Combining aspirin with other anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications, such as warfarin or clopidogrel, may potentiate the blood-thinning effects and increase the risk of bleeding complications.
  5. Thyroid Medications: Ephedrine, a sympathomimetic amine, can potentially interact with thyroid medications, such as levothyroxine. Ephedrine may increase the release of thyroid hormones or interfere with their metabolism, leading to altered thyroid function and potential side effects.
Suggested Routine to naturally boost dopamine levels

  1. Morning:

  1. Daytime:

  1. Afternoon:

  1. Evening:
  1. Night:
Dopamine Enhancing Dietary Overview

  1. Proteins: Foods rich in proteins provide the necessary building blocks for dopamine synthesis. Include lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, tofu, legumes, and dairy products in your diet.
  2. Tyrosine-rich foods: Tyrosine is an amino acid involved in dopamine synthesis. Foods such as almonds, avocados, bananas, eggs, chicken, and turkey are good sources of tyrosine.
  3. Leafy greens: Dark leafy greens like spinach, kale, and collard greens contain high levels of folate. Folate is important for neurotransmitter synthesis, including dopamine.
  4. Fruits and vegetables: Berries, particularly blueberries, are rich in antioxidants and may have neuroprotective effects, promoting brain health. Other fruits and vegetables, such as oranges, tomatoes, and bell peppers, provide essential vitamins and minerals that support dopamine function.
  5. Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are rich in nutrients like magnesium, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for brain health and neurotransmitter function.
  6. Dark chocolate: Dark chocolate contains compounds like flavonoids and phenylethylamine (PEA), which may help enhance mood and support dopamine release. Choose dark chocolate with a high cocoa content (70% or higher) and consume in moderation.
  7. Green tea: Green tea contains an amino acid called L-theanine, which has been shown to have a positive impact on dopamine levels and brain function. It can promote relaxation while enhancing alertness.
  8. Turmeric: Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It may help protect dopamine-producing neurons and support overall brain health.
  9. Probiotic-rich foods: Emerging research suggests a link between gut health and dopamine production. Including fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir in your diet can support a healthy gut microbiome, which may indirectly influence dopamine levels.
  10. Water: Staying hydrated is essential for optimal brain function, including neurotransmitter synthesis and release. Make sure to drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day.
Several vitamins play a role in the synthesis, regulation, and function of dopamine in the brain.

  1. Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine): Vitamin B6 is involved in the conversion of the amino acid L-tyrosine into dopamine. It is a co-factor for the enzyme aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase, which helps convert L-tyrosine to L-DOPA, a precursor of dopamine.
  2. Vitamin B9 (Folate): Folate is important for the synthesis and metabolism of neurotransmitters, including dopamine. It participates in the conversion of L-DOPA to dopamine through its role in one-carbon metabolism.
  3. Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin): Vitamin B12 is involved in the formation of myelin sheaths, which protect nerve cells, including dopaminergic neurons. It also plays a role in the synthesis and maintenance of neurotransmitters, including dopamine.
  4. Vitamin D: Vitamin D receptors are found in various brain regions, including those involved in dopamine synthesis and regulation. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to altered dopamine signaling and neurotransmission.
  5. Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect dopamine neurons from oxidative stress. It is involved in the biosynthesis of dopamine by acting as a cofactor for the enzyme dopamine β-hydroxylase.
  6. Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects dopamine neurons from oxidative damage. It helps maintain the integrity and function of dopaminergic neurons.
Other Considerations: Enhance and Maintain dopamine levels

  1. Regular exercise: Engaging in aerobic exercises like running, swimming, or cycling can stimulate dopamine release and promote overall brain health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
  2. Get enough sleep: Quality sleep is essential for proper neurotransmitter function, including dopamine regulation. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to support optimal brain health.
  3. Manage stress: Chronic stress can negatively impact dopamine levels. Explore stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or engaging in hobbies and activities you enjoy.
  4. Listen to music: Listening to music you love can induce pleasure and increase dopamine release. Choose music that uplifts your mood and makes you feel good.
  5. Set and achieve goals: Accomplishing goals, both big and small, can activate the brain's reward pathways and boost dopamine levels. Break larger goals into smaller, achievable tasks to experience a sense of accomplishment along the way.
  6. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness exercises, such as meditation or mindful breathing, can help improve dopamine receptor sensitivity and enhance overall well-being.
  7. Spend time in nature: Being in nature has been shown to have a positive impact on mood and overall brain health. Take walks in green spaces, go hiking, or simply spend time outdoors to potentially increase dopamine levels.
  8. Socialize and connect: Engaging in meaningful social interactions, spending time with loved ones, and nurturing relationships can stimulate dopamine release and promote feelings of happiness and well-being.
  9. Seek pleasurable experiences: Engage in activities that bring you joy and pleasure, whether it's playing a musical instrument, dancing, painting, or engaging in hobbies you are passionate about. Enjoying pleasurable experiences can enhance dopamine release.
  10. Limit excessive dopamine-depleting behaviors: Certain behaviors like excessive consumption of alcohol, drug use, and excessive gambling can deplete dopamine levels over time. Moderation and balance are key.
Combating Weight Loss (If Needed)
While there are numerous meal replacement brands available worldwide, here are 10 well-known and popular brands that offer carb-intensive meal replacement options:

  1. Soylent: Soylent offers a range of meal replacement products, including their original formula, which provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
  2. Huel: Huel offers complete meal replacements in powder form, with options that include a significant amount of carbohydrates, sourced from oats and other ingredients.
  3. Ample: Ample provides meal replacement shakes made from real food ingredients, including carbohydrates from sources like oats, sweet potato, and tapioca.
  4. Garden of Life: Garden of Life offers meal replacement powders and shakes that are rich in carbohydrates, often derived from organic whole food sources like oats, quinoa, and fruits.
  5. Orgain: Orgain produces organic meal replacement shakes that contain carbohydrates from ingredients such as brown rice, fruits, and vegetables.
  6. Kate Farms: Kate Farms offers plant-based meal replacement shakes that provide a balance of macronutrients, including carbohydrates from organic pea protein and brown rice.
  7. Vega: Vega offers a range of plant-based meal replacement shakes and powders that contain carbohydrates from sources like organic sprouted brown rice and organic quinoa.
  8. Ensure: Ensure is a well-known brand that offers meal replacement shakes designed for nutrition and energy, with carbohydrate-rich options available.
  9. SlimFast: SlimFast offers a variety of meal replacement shakes and bars, including carb-conscious options that provide a controlled amount of carbohydrates for those watching their carb intake.
  10. Atkins: While primarily known for their low-carb products, Atkins also offers meal replacement shakes and bars with a focus on controlled carbohydrate intake.
submitted by Mikey-506 to CampbelltonNB [link] [comments]


2023.06.14 18:30 Mikey-506 ECA Stack - Dopamine Enhancing Routine/Cycle

ECA Stack - Dopamine Enhancing Routine/Cycle
ECA, which stands for Ephedrine, Caffeine, and Aspirin, is a combination of these three compounds commonly used for its potential synergistic effects on fat loss and neural stimulation. Avoid the use of Ephedrine if at all possible, if you do decide to use it, please do additional research and talk to a professional before you make the decision. Caffeine alone should suffice, and with the techniques outlined below the natural dopamine production will be much more beneficial, maintainable and with far fewer risks or side effects.
ECA Stack – Dopamine / Energy Level Boosting Effects
The ECA stack is a combination of ephedrine, caffeine, and aspirin that is often used as a dietary supplement or performance-enhancing aid. It is named after the initials of its components. The stack is believed to promote weight loss, enhance energy levels, and improve athletic performance. Let's take a closer look at each component and their effects, particularly in relation to dopamine.
Ephedrine, a sympathomimetic amine, acts as a stimulant and bronchodilator. It affects various neurotransmitters in the brain, including dopamine. Ephedrine increases dopamine release by acting as a substrate for the dopamine transporter (DAT) protein. It competes with dopamine for uptake by the DAT, resulting in increased dopamine levels in the synapse and prolonging its effects. Additionally, ephedrine can stimulate dopamine release by activating adrenergic receptors and promoting the release of dopamine from the presynaptic neuron. The increased dopamine levels can lead to increased alertness, enhanced mood, and potential euphoria.
Caffeine, a naturally occurring stimulant, is known for its effects on alertness and wakefulness. It primarily works by blocking adenosine receptors in the brain, which inhibits the sleep-promoting effects of adenosine. This blockade indirectly affects dopamine levels by reducing the inhibitory effect of adenosine on dopamine release. Consequently, caffeine increases dopamine release in certain brain regions, leading to heightened arousal, improved mood, and enhanced cognitive function. However, it's important to note that caffeine's effects on dopamine are relatively mild compared to drugs that directly target dopamine receptors and transporters.
Aspirin, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), primarily acts on the prostaglandin pathway and has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. While aspirin does not directly interact with dopamine receptors or transporters, it can indirectly influence dopamine levels through its effects on other neurotransmitter systems. For instance, by inhibiting prostaglandin production and reducing inflammation, aspirin may indirectly impact dopamine signaling. Additionally, the relief of pain achieved through aspirin's analgesic properties can affect dopamine release and potentially influence mood and motivation.
The ECA stack, as a combination of ephedrine, caffeine, and aspirin, is believed to work synergistically to enhance its effects. Ephedrine and caffeine can both increase dopamine levels, resulting in increased alertness, improved mood, and heightened energy. Aspirin, while not directly affecting dopamine, can indirectly support dopamine function by reducing inflammation and promoting comfort.
Interactions with other Medication
  1. Blood Pressure Medications: Ephedrine and caffeine can both increase blood pressure and heart rate. If you are taking medications for high blood pressure, such as beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers, combining them with the ECA stack may interfere with the effectiveness of these medications or lead to excessive cardiovascular stimulation.
  2. Stimulant Medications: The combination of ephedrine and caffeine in the ECA stack can have stimulant effects on the central nervous system. If you are taking other stimulant medications, such as amphetamines or methylphenidate, combining them with the ECA stack may increase the risk of side effects, such as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and nervousness.
  3. Antidepressants: Some antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), can affect the metabolism and clearance of ephedrine and caffeine. Combining these medications with the ECA stack may increase the risk of adverse effects, including serotonin syndrome, high blood pressure, and rapid heart rate.
  4. Anticoagulants/Antiplatelet Medications: Aspirin, one component of the ECA stack, is an antiplatelet medication that can thin the blood and increase the risk of bleeding. Combining aspirin with other anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications, such as warfarin or clopidogrel, may potentiate the blood-thinning effects and increase the risk of bleeding complications.
  5. Thyroid Medications: Ephedrine, a sympathomimetic amine, can potentially interact with thyroid medications, such as levothyroxine. Ephedrine may increase the release of thyroid hormones or interfere with their metabolism, leading to altered thyroid function and potential side effects.
Suggested Routine to naturally boost dopamine levels

  1. Morning:

  1. Daytime:

  1. Afternoon:

  1. Evening:
  1. Night:
Dopamine Enhancing Dietary Overview

  1. Proteins: Foods rich in proteins provide the necessary building blocks for dopamine synthesis. Include lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, tofu, legumes, and dairy products in your diet.
  2. Tyrosine-rich foods: Tyrosine is an amino acid involved in dopamine synthesis. Foods such as almonds, avocados, bananas, eggs, chicken, and turkey are good sources of tyrosine.
  3. Leafy greens: Dark leafy greens like spinach, kale, and collard greens contain high levels of folate. Folate is important for neurotransmitter synthesis, including dopamine.
  4. Fruits and vegetables: Berries, particularly blueberries, are rich in antioxidants and may have neuroprotective effects, promoting brain health. Other fruits and vegetables, such as oranges, tomatoes, and bell peppers, provide essential vitamins and minerals that support dopamine function.
  5. Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are rich in nutrients like magnesium, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for brain health and neurotransmitter function.
  6. Dark chocolate: Dark chocolate contains compounds like flavonoids and phenylethylamine (PEA), which may help enhance mood and support dopamine release. Choose dark chocolate with a high cocoa content (70% or higher) and consume in moderation.
  7. Green tea: Green tea contains an amino acid called L-theanine, which has been shown to have a positive impact on dopamine levels and brain function. It can promote relaxation while enhancing alertness.
  8. Turmeric: Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It may help protect dopamine-producing neurons and support overall brain health.
  9. Probiotic-rich foods: Emerging research suggests a link between gut health and dopamine production. Including fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir in your diet can support a healthy gut microbiome, which may indirectly influence dopamine levels.
  10. Water: Staying hydrated is essential for optimal brain function, including neurotransmitter synthesis and release. Make sure to drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day.
Several vitamins play a role in the synthesis, regulation, and function of dopamine in the brain.

  1. Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine): Vitamin B6 is involved in the conversion of the amino acid L-tyrosine into dopamine. It is a co-factor for the enzyme aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase, which helps convert L-tyrosine to L-DOPA, a precursor of dopamine.
  2. Vitamin B9 (Folate): Folate is important for the synthesis and metabolism of neurotransmitters, including dopamine. It participates in the conversion of L-DOPA to dopamine through its role in one-carbon metabolism.
  3. Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin): Vitamin B12 is involved in the formation of myelin sheaths, which protect nerve cells, including dopaminergic neurons. It also plays a role in the synthesis and maintenance of neurotransmitters, including dopamine.
  4. Vitamin D: Vitamin D receptors are found in various brain regions, including those involved in dopamine synthesis and regulation. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to altered dopamine signaling and neurotransmission.
  5. Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect dopamine neurons from oxidative stress. It is involved in the biosynthesis of dopamine by acting as a cofactor for the enzyme dopamine β-hydroxylase.
  6. Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects dopamine neurons from oxidative damage. It helps maintain the integrity and function of dopaminergic neurons.
Other Considerations: Enhance and Maintain dopamine levels

  1. Regular exercise: Engaging in aerobic exercises like running, swimming, or cycling can stimulate dopamine release and promote overall brain health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
  2. Get enough sleep: Quality sleep is essential for proper neurotransmitter function, including dopamine regulation. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to support optimal brain health.
  3. Manage stress: Chronic stress can negatively impact dopamine levels. Explore stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or engaging in hobbies and activities you enjoy.
  4. Listen to music: Listening to music you love can induce pleasure and increase dopamine release. Choose music that uplifts your mood and makes you feel good.
  5. Set and achieve goals: Accomplishing goals, both big and small, can activate the brain's reward pathways and boost dopamine levels. Break larger goals into smaller, achievable tasks to experience a sense of accomplishment along the way.
  6. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness exercises, such as meditation or mindful breathing, can help improve dopamine receptor sensitivity and enhance overall well-being.
  7. Spend time in nature: Being in nature has been shown to have a positive impact on mood and overall brain health. Take walks in green spaces, go hiking, or simply spend time outdoors to potentially increase dopamine levels.
  8. Socialize and connect: Engaging in meaningful social interactions, spending time with loved ones, and nurturing relationships can stimulate dopamine release and promote feelings of happiness and well-being.
  9. Seek pleasurable experiences: Engage in activities that bring you joy and pleasure, whether it's playing a musical instrument, dancing, painting, or engaging in hobbies you are passionate about. Enjoying pleasurable experiences can enhance dopamine release.
  10. Limit excessive dopamine-depleting behaviors: Certain behaviors like excessive consumption of alcohol, drug use, and excessive gambling can deplete dopamine levels over time. Moderation and balance are key.
Combating Weight Loss (If Needed)
While there are numerous meal replacement brands available worldwide, here are 10 well-known and popular brands that offer carb-intensive meal replacement options:

  1. Soylent: Soylent offers a range of meal replacement products, including their original formula, which provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
  2. Huel: Huel offers complete meal replacements in powder form, with options that include a significant amount of carbohydrates, sourced from oats and other ingredients.
  3. Ample: Ample provides meal replacement shakes made from real food ingredients, including carbohydrates from sources like oats, sweet potato, and tapioca.
  4. Garden of Life: Garden of Life offers meal replacement powders and shakes that are rich in carbohydrates, often derived from organic whole food sources like oats, quinoa, and fruits.
  5. Orgain: Orgain produces organic meal replacement shakes that contain carbohydrates from ingredients such as brown rice, fruits, and vegetables.
  6. Kate Farms: Kate Farms offers plant-based meal replacement shakes that provide a balance of macronutrients, including carbohydrates from organic pea protein and brown rice.
  7. Vega: Vega offers a range of plant-based meal replacement shakes and powders that contain carbohydrates from sources like organic sprouted brown rice and organic quinoa.
  8. Ensure: Ensure is a well-known brand that offers meal replacement shakes designed for nutrition and energy, with carbohydrate-rich options available.
  9. SlimFast: SlimFast offers a variety of meal replacement shakes and bars, including carb-conscious options that provide a controlled amount of carbohydrates for those watching their carb intake.
  10. Atkins: While primarily known for their low-carb products, Atkins also offers meal replacement shakes and bars with a focus on controlled carbohydrate intake.
submitted by Mikey-506 to Psychogenic [link] [comments]


2023.04.22 05:48 Bubzoluck [30 min read] Miss the First Wave? Well the Next One is Coming -- Discussing Methamphetamine and a New Epidemic

[30 min read] Miss the First Wave? Well the Next One is Coming -- Discussing Methamphetamine and a New Epidemic
Hello and welcome back to SAR! Today we talk about a very tricky topic—the Methamphetamine Epidemic. Methamphetamine is a highly addictive stimulant that has recently seen a rise in the United States (as well as other Western countries) that is slowly starting to take over Opiates as the illicit substance of choice for substance abuse. Meth isn’t a new recreational drug, we saw the first wave in the 1990s, but in the current Opiate Epidemic viewpoint we hold we now have different approaches to an addictive and destructive drug. There have been some approaches that have worked and many that haven’t and in order move forward we should acknowledge both. As always I try to stay incredibly neutral on these current topics because unlike Pellagra from 1910, we are seeing the effects of Meth right here, right now. See this post as a springboard to learn more and educate yourself on what is currently going on and if you are inspired considering getting involved yourself. So let’s chat about Amphetamines, Stimulants, and Meth!

Meth by any other name is still just as… sweet? Addictive?


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Methamphetamine is one drug part of a larger drug class called Amphetamines which are considered Stimulants. Stimulants, which include other non-Amphetamines like Cocaine, Caffeine, Khat, and Nicotine all cause feelings of increased energy, euphoria, and confidence which are the main reasons they are used or misused. Methamphetamine comes in several forms and each one has different properties and reasons why its used. Powdered Meth, commonly called Crank, is fine enough that it can be snorted or applied to the inner lower lip for a quick ‘bump.’ Crystal Meth is a smokeable form or injectable form of Meth that causes a more potent reaction due to the higher dose. Less popular is Base which is an oily form that is melted down and injected or sometimes swallowed.
  • The onset and duration of Methamphetamine's rush (the intense euphoria feeling) is entirely dependent on what form is used and how it enters the body. Snorting has an onset within 5 minutes and usually lasts about 30 minutes; IV injection happens within one minute and lasts 10-20 minutes; smoking has an instant effect and lasts for about 5-10 minutes. It should be noted that the rush that someone feels is seconds long the quicker the onset is meaning that someone needs to take multiple hits to continue the euphoric rush. The high, which is the mind/body altering feelings after the rush can last anywhere from 4 to 24 hours with most people landing around 12 hours.

“I’ll be your master, you’ll be my slave. Don’t fear being lonely, I'll walk with you to your grave.”


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Before we can start about the epidemic we have to understand the drug. Inside the brain we have several neurotransmitters that coordinate the generation, transfer, and termination of information. Now, the complexities of this neurotransmission is a little bit too broad for this post but we do have three neurotransmitters that we need to think about: Dopamine (DA), Serotonin (5-HT), and NorEpinephrine (NE). As you can see in the diagram on the right, all three of these neurotransmitters come from a common precursor molecule so we dub this triad the Monoamines since they contain a single amine group on the tail of a hydrophilic aromatic ring. Chemistry aside we can see broadly 4 mechanisms of Amphetamine drugs:
  1. Increasing the Release of Monoamines from their neuronal storage so that their signal is boosted
  2. Inhibits Monoamine Ruptake Inhibitors so that any released neurotransmitter is kept in the synapse causing the signal to be boosted.
  3. Reverses transporter exchange so any neurotransmitter that is removed from the signal is released again thus boosting the signal
  4. Weakly inhibits Monoamine Oxidase which prevents the breakdown of the neurotransmitters to have a longer lifespan and thus boost the signal.
If you can’t tell, the overall effect is BOOST THE DOPAMINE, NOREPINEPHRINE, AND SEROTONIN SIGNAL. But this effect of boosting NorEpi, Serotonin, and Dopamine is not unique; lots of drugs increase the concentrations of these neurotransmitters in the body and have a wide range of effects. Many antidepressants increase Serotonin or NorEpi concentrations and Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is a unique antidepressant in that it increases NorEpi and Dopamine. To explain Methamphetamine I want to take a novel approach—I want to pull Methamphetamine out of the nebulous environment of “street drug” and compare its effects to prescription drugs. Now keen readers know that there is a prescribed form of Methamphetamine called Desoxyn for ADHD but that would be a cheap comparison; its the same drug! So let’s dive in.

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  • Central Nervous System - Euphoria, Increased Energy, and Feelings of Power. Some of the main reasons why people misuse stimulants is their ability to increase energy, prevent sleepiness, conquer tasks, and of course the euphoria of a high. One of the most common forms of Amphetamine misuse in young adults ages 18-26 is buying prescription drugs like Adderall and Ritalin to help with studying in college. As I went over in my post about ADHD (link), this condition is not cause by a person having too much energy and so we take a drug to dampen that but rather that the person physically does not have the energy to focus. An analogy would be that it is incredibly hard to focus when you are tired, ADHD is similar except the person is not tired but doesn’t have the energy to focus. In a fatigued state the decision making region of the brain, the Prefrontal Cortex, lacks pro-focus neurotransmitters Dopamine and NorEpi. By administering stimulants we are boosting these neurotransmitters in the brain enabling the person to have enough energy to focus. Now its important to note that this effect of focusing is seen at clinical doses (i.e. prescription dose) but when someone is abusing stimulants for a high, they are taking 5 to 50 times the dose of someone taking their prescribed medication. This means we would see the effect of the medication at the lower dose but also the toxicities of taking the stimulant at these enormously high doses.

Ropinirole overlaid with Dopamine
  • One of the biggest effects of abusing Amphetamines is that Dopamine levels will sky rocket. In pop culture we see Dopamine as the happy chemical in the brain but the more accurate way to describe it as the Motivational Salience chemical or in other words it enhances the desirability of doing a task while simultaneously dampening aversion to that same task. We can see this in the Cognitive-Behavioral sense where doing a task becomes pleasurable which encourages us to do it again—taking Methamphetamine would make tasks a more pleasurable experience (the Dopamine concentration rise alone ensures that) and so it drives the brain to seek out those activities more.
    • A parallel to this are the Dopamine Agonists like Ropinirole (Requip), Pramipexole (Mirapex), and Rotigotine (Neupro) which are used primarily in the treatment of Parkinson’s Disease (oh look we have a post on it!). Parkinson’s is caused by the neurodegeneration of Dopamine neurons meaning that there are physically fewer neurons producing Dopamine in the brain. Other than its role in motivation, one of the other main functions of Dopamine receptors is in the initiation and progression of movements. As the illness progresses the number of Dopamine receptors being activated by Dopamine starts to decrease leading to the characteristic movement dysfunction we see in Parkinson’s. This is where the Dopamine Agonists come in—they directly bind to the Dopamine receptor and activate the receptor to replace the Dopamine production that is slowly disappearing.
    • At lower doses, drugs like Ropinirole works primarily with the Dopamine-2 receptor to improve movement but in people who are extra sensitive to the drug we start to see some unwanted side effects. When the drug works on the Dopamine-1 and Dopamine-5 receptors we start to see the feelings of euphoria and behavioral changes in the patient. It is well documented that people who take a Dopamine Agonist are at risk of developing addictions like shopping, gambling, and even sex after they start one of these drugs. Why? Well for similar reasons to an Amphetamine—the drug is activating the Dopamine receptor causing pro-motivation towards those rewarding behaviors thus reinforcing them. In fact there was a big lawsuit in 2012 in France when a patient sued the manufacturers of Ropinirole for his risky hypersexual behaviors and excessive gambling while he was taking the medication from 2003-2010. The behaviors immediately ceased upon discontinuation of the drug and this is why doctors and pharmacists must warn patients to watch out for these extreme behavioral changes.

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  • Central Nervous System - Feelings of Paranoia. As we have discussed, low doses of Amphetamines allows for an increase in Dopamine and NorEpi in the Prefrontal Cortex allowing them to focus but at abuse levels we see enormous concentrations. The effect of this excess Dopamine in this region of the brain, as well as elevation in the Hippocampus and Amygdala (emotional and fear regions of the brain) is the development of Anxiety and especially Paranoia. Part of this plays into the Reward Circuit of the brain and the addictiveness of the drug but the other is Methamphetamine-Induced Psychosis. Because reward and paranoia are so closely linked, the more someone chases the Euphoria of misuse the more paranoid they are likely to become. Someone can develop visual or auditory hallucinations that can be incredibly scary. All of these are incredibly distressing thoughts but because Methamphetamine can cause a significant withdrawal the person has almost no choice but to continue using the drug else they become incredibly sick.
    • A parallel to the Methamphetamine Psychosis is Schizophrenia—a severe mental illness marked by delusional thoughts, bizarre behaviors, and/or blunted emotions (and yes we do have a post on Schizophrenia found here). It is believed that Schizophrenia is caused by an excess of Dopamine in many different regions of the brain resulting in the wide range of symptoms we see. The hallmark symptom of Schizophrenia is Psychosis or thoughts that do not align with reality—this is where the stereotype that the government is watching the individual come from. The mainstay treatment of Schizophrenia are Antipsychotics (a.k.a Neuroleptics) which act as Dopamine-2 Inhibitors. These drugs block over stimulation of the Dopamine receptor thus preventing overactivation of the Dopamine systems in select regions in the brain to hopefully decrease Psychosis. In a way, Methamphetamine abuse can be seen as a drug-induced Schizophrenia that is very dose dependent.

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  • As discussed in the Schizophrenia post there are two generations of Antipsychotics: the first generation almost exclusively works on the D2 receptors while the later second generation focuses on D2 and a Serotonin receptor 5HT2a and Alpha-2 receptor (A2). Generally we find better efficacy with these later agents because of their broader effects which suggests that Schizophrenia may have some pathology in Serotonin and NorEpi circuits as well. Remember that Amphetamines also increase Serotonin and NorEpi concentrations so its no wonder why we see this drug-induced psychosis that mimics many symptoms of Schizophrenia.
  • Now, does this mean we should treat Methamphetamine use with D2 antagonists? When someone is currently using Amphetamines it would be a terrible idea because we would immediately precipitate withdrawal which is why doctors have to be careful when diagnosing true Schizophrenia vs Methamphetamine Psychosis. It is not hard to imagine a scenario in which a person is brought to the ER in an acute psychotic episode and pumped full of Haloperidol (Haldol) immediately causing a Methamphetamine withdrawal which thankfully is not fatal (unlike Alcohol withdrawal). That being said Antipsychotics do have a role in maintaining sobriety from using Methamphetamine and they are increasingly becoming a go-to treatment for helping people stay away from Meth.

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  • Cardiovascular - Arrhythmias, Hypertensive Crisis, and Heart Attacks. So far we have focused on Dopamine but now we are going to switch focus to the other main neurotransmitter NorEpi. NorEpi is a widely distributed neurotransmitter in the brain and in the rest of the body. We see the effects of NorEpi when the Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS) is activated such as during Fight or Flight; let me set the scene: you just get to class and discover that, shock, you forgot to wear trousers today! You are ass naked in the middle of the lecture hall and desperately need to get back to your dorm to put on the clothes that you somehow forgot. In addition to the stress hormones Cortisol and Epinephrine, the main effect we are going to see is NorEpi to take your wind-chilled butt all the way back home. All of the actions of the SNS are to ensure that you can MOVE QUICKLY to avoid whatever danger you are in (cue bear attack analogy that is normally talked about).
    • In the eyes we see the pupils dilate so that more light can enter to let you see more of your surroundings. Likewise blood is shunted away from the digestive tract (because this is no time for energy to be wasted on something so slow) to the muscles so they can get the extra oxygen delivered. This means that the stomach will secrete less acid, the intestines stop moving waste, and the mouth stops secreting saliva (which is why people get dry mouth when scared). In the lungs the airways dilate to allow more air to be inhaled to oxygenate the blood and the heart is stimulated to beat faster and harder to move that blood to where it's needed, the muscles. We also see smaller blood vessels near the surface of the skin constrict to shunt blood to more important places, like the muscles.

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  • Running home to get some pants is all well and good but, ahem, what about Methamphetamine? Well remember that Amphetamines cause an increased release and decrease reuptake (removal) of NorEpi in the central nervous system. This means that we are increasing NorEpi concentrations which would simulate Fight or Flight when we don’t need it.

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  • Even though Methamphetamine will cause a wide range of effects I want to focus specifically on the heart because the relationship between Methamphetamine abuse and Cardiotoxicity is huge. Let me not mince my words: abusing Methamphetamine is incredibly toxic to the heart. (A) Firstly remember that NorEpi causes constriction of blood vessels and we see that Methamphetamine also causes constriction. If the blood vessels that nourish the heart are constricted we see the development of a Myocardial Infarction or Heart Attack which is potentially fatal. This risk of a Heart Attack is cumulative and the risk of having a Heart Attack increases exponentially for every year that someone uses.
    • (C) Next we see the effect of NorEpi on regulating heart rate. The ability for the heart to contract and move blood across the body is an incredibly essential mechanism for us to stay alive. During Fight or Flight more NorEpi is released causing the heart to beat faster and harder so that more blood is moved per minute. Like any muscle the heart can get tired and become dysfunctional if it constantly pushed to its limits—luckily people don’t live in a constant Fight or Flight mode else they would see Cardiomyopathy or weakening heart muscle. With constant Methamphetamine use we see two effects: first the constant stimulation disrupts the very carefully coordinated electrical stimulation on the heart to cause a heart beat. The result is pretty significant arrhythmias or a bad heart beat sequence. Secondly constant stimulation on the heart causes thickening of the heart wall making it more stiff and harder to contract. A stiffer heart means it is less able to move blood in the body and may develop a clot that could potentially cause a stroke. This remodeling is irreversible most of the time and is a real long term consequence of abusing Methamphetamine.

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  • (D) We also see Methamphetamine being directly toxic to heart cells leading to induced cell death and necrosis. This means patches of the heart are dead and won’t be repaired even if the person stops using Meth. This process takes place by Methamphetamines binding to the Sigma-1 Receptor on the Mitochondrion (makes energy for the cell, but you already knew that) and the Endoplasmic Reticulum (remember this one from biology? It makes and stores proteins) which are essential for the continued survival of the cell. No Mitochondria or ER? Dead cell.

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  • Teeth and Skin — Meth Mouth and Crank Bugs. Now that we have talked about the effects of Dopamine and Norepinephrine we can talk about the most recognizable signs of Methamphetamine use. I want to talk about it not to shame a user but because it's important to understand the complications related to the teeth and skin to avoid serious infections and further health complications. Despite how shocking they appear, its important to know that these conditions don’t happen overnight and through repeated misuse they get worse. Let’s dive in.
    • “Meth Mouth” as it is known is the characteristic breaking, decay, and loss of teeth and gums in those who use Methamphetamine. The mouth (which is featured in this post about sugar) is both tough and sensitive to the different conditions we put it under—in a lot of ways it is incredibly dynamic to the very different kinds of things we put in it. For instance we can put exceptionally acidic foods like lemonade which wears away teeth, too hot food that burns the palate, and not brush for weeks at a time without dying. Seriously, humans have been neglecting their dental health for all of time except for 60 years ago and we made it! Well barely, there is a lot of evidence that says good oral health is good general health (seriously go brush AND FLOSS). Looking at the cause of mouth damage due to Methamphetamine is multifactorial with the outcome being more of AND than one or the other.

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  • 1) Meth is acidic — Okay this is a bit of a misnomer because any chemist will tell you that an amine is very basic BUT bear with me. Acidic foods wreak havoc on the teeth because they erode the protective enamel on the teeth allowing for them to become very sensitive and potentially damaged. Meth itself is not acidic but Crystal Meth is manufactured via the Red, White, and Blue Method which uses primarily Red Phosphorus (usually sourced from matches or flares), Pseudoephedrine tablets (white in color), Iodine (blue in color) in addition to a whole list of unsafe and toxic solvents. This manufacturing process utilizes the strong acid Hydroiodic Acid which may be left in the final product thus eroding the teeth.“Meth mouth” typically begins with the yellowing of the user’s teeth and rapidly deteriorating enamel “flaking” off from the underlying tooth structure. Repeated use of the drug eventually leaves the user’s teeth looking grayish-brown or black stained, decayed to the gum line, and often non-restorable. The rapid destruction of tooth enamel is thought to be a result of the heated vapors released by toxic chemicals produced while smoking methamphetamine.
  • 2) Meth dries out the mouth — remember how I said that Methamphetamine turns on the Sympathetic Nervous System which turns off digestion? Well one of the effects is that the salivary glands stop producing saliva which dries out the mouth. Saliva is protective because it dilutes any acid in the mouth AND washes away bacteria on the teeth that could be doing damage.
  • 3) Meth users clench and grind their teeth — similar to another Amphetamine, Ecstasy, people who use Methamphetamine are activating Dopamine receptors that cause the muscles in the jaw the clench. Sometimes the person is clenching so hard that they can crack and break their teeth and if the teeth are already weakened from erosion then the likelihood of breaking is greater.
  • 4) Addicts are concerned with their next high not about dental health — probably most sadly is that the engrossing nature of Meth addiction is that it removes any motivation for anything other than the drug. Someone who is in the middle of their addiction is less likely to take care of their teeth because it's just not a priority for them.
  • Moving onto the skin we encounter “Crank Bugs.” Remember that Methamphetamine causes a hyper-Dopaminergic state that is similar to the pathology of Schizophrenia which can result in intense hallucinations. This can result in pretty significant disordered thinking, especially Delusional Parasitosis or the idea that the body is infested with parasites and bugs leading to severe agitation. A person using Methamphetamine may start to scratch their skin to remove the bugs from their skin which can lead to lesions that can become infected very quickly. If someone does not have the delusions they may still pick at their skin like a tic (which is also a hyper-Dopaminergic state) causing skin lesions. Like the teeth, someone using Meth is not likely to care about the lesions when they are looking for their next high. Likewise someone who chooses to inject Methamphetamine may have degradation of the tissue around the injection site. Also remember that Methamphetamine causes vasoconstriction of the blood vessels of the skin shunting blood away from it which means its not being nourished with oxygen and nutrients that it needs preventing adequate repair.

The next epidemic? Or just an old one becoming worse?

Whew, what a lot of information. What was this post about again? Oh yeah the Meth Epidemic as a whole not just what is Meth. Fly over the middle states in the US and you will see countless communities decimated by this drug and now that you know the effects of the drug you can imagine how devastating it is. Methamphetamine was originally discovered in 1893 from the precursor Ephedrine in 1893 but found popular use in WWII by Axis soldiers as a way to stay awake and fight despite fatigue during the war. It’s utility in the war wasn’t lost on militaries and the US used Amphetamines in both the Korean War and Vietnam War as an unofficial way of making sure soliders stayed alert. In fact during the Vietnam War, the US military adminsitered upwards of 225 million dextroamphetamine tablets to soldiers and up to 50% of personnel were taking the drug. By 1973 when America started to leave Vietnam, that number jumped to 70%.
  • The domestic use of Amphetamines in the US starts a bit differently than the military however. As I detailed in the ADHD post, the original use of Amphetamines was in the diagnosis of a type of encephalitis vs flu in children. By the 1950s Amphetamines were marketed towards housewives for weight loss, athletes and students for performance enhancers, and truck drivers to stay awake on long hauls. In 1959 the FDA banned Amphetamine inhalers to curb the rise in abuse and in 1962 we saw the first use of “Speed Freak” to describe users of Amphetamines. To combat the continued rise of Ampethamine misuse among biker gangs, the Controlled Substances Act of 1970 established Amphetamine-derivatives as Schedule II classified substances which designated them as highly addictive prescription drugs. In 1980 the federal government tightly regulated the movement and sale of Phenyl-2-Propanone (P2P), the original precursor, meaning that home Meth cooks had to turn to other sources to make Meth.

https://preview.redd.it/gd6ky9x3ycva1.png?width=586&format=png&auto=webp&s=5328d1cde387fe9d59ca01d221d87bd97cc10df3
  • In the early 1980s, Mexican Cartels, bike gangs, and home cooks turned to the drugs Ephedrine and Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) as a better precursor thus birthing the Red, White and Blue Method we talked about earlier. This enabled the DEA to regulate Ephedrine and Pseudoephedrine but big pharma companies pushed back against any regulation so the DEA compromised by regulating powdered Ephedrine and Pseudoephedrine but not finished tablets in the pharmacy in 1986. The switch to using Ephedrine tablets instead of powders was not difficult for home Meth labs and by 1993 the majority of home labs were using over the counter Sudafed tablets to make meth OR purchasing it in bulk from Mexico.
  • In 1993 legislation was passed to require pill sellers, like pharmacies, to register with the DEA to hopefully catch and stop any major diversion. Meth cooks switched to using Psuedoephedrine tablets which required flammable solvents to extract the ingredients from the tablet—the Meth task force said that 60% of explosions and fires in labs was due to this switch. In 1996 the DEA required all Pseudoephedrine to be sold in blister packs believing it would be too much hassle for people to acquire enough precursor. It did not and up to 73% of raided labs showed evidence of blister packs being used int he cook. FINALLY in 2004 Oklahoma was the first state to require the purchaser to show ID and sign at the register when buying Pseudoephedrine. By 2005, 35 other states passed similar laws and the federal government passed the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act of 2005 to move Pseudoephedrine behind the counter and require ID.

https://preview.redd.it/51qob315ycva1.png?width=644&format=png&auto=webp&s=48738279cb039e03b198041e5ba88c7b80cd60a5

https://preview.redd.it/2w9q1ys5ycva1.png?width=651&format=png&auto=webp&s=fd3b4f4c6c3498efa3f3678d985cafd5d3fb3b48

https://preview.redd.it/88h6j6l6ycva1.png?width=816&format=png&auto=webp&s=1a239203ab74dae70e358541622334df973a954a
  • When we look at the trends of Methamphetamine we see an alarming increase. In the last 10 years, especially since the beginning of the pandemic, we have seen a sharp increase in the use of Methamphetamine. Methamphetamine use remains incredibly high and the drug of choice in the Western half of the United States (West of the Mississippi River) while the East is mostly Fentanyl. When compared to other drugs, Methamphetamine remains one of the highest rated harmful drugs, and is one drug that is most likely to cause harm to the user. \

https://preview.redd.it/bildvr2aycva1.png?width=552&format=png&auto=webp&s=a5310732799dbbbec2df60d4b7f6497570e8715f
  • In just 20 years we have seen overdose and death due to Methamphetamine skyrocket as seen in this graph from Utah. Methamphetamine was associated with a 16,200% increase in mortality in urban Black users when compared against urban White users. Perhaps scariest is that the rate of Methamphetamine deaths independent of other drugs has sharply risen meaning that the Meth Epidemic is becoming a distinct issue outside of the Opiate Epidemic. This has led some public health officials to state that we are seeing the rise of a Second Wave, the first being in the 1990s to 2000s. Right now there is heavy lobbying in the US to combat Meth production inside and outside of the states but progress is extremely slow. Some states that instituted the electronic system to track Pseudoephedrine purchases by showing ID have seen no decrease in Meth use since the program started. So where does this leave us? Well we are stuck at the beginning of a second wave that we may not be prepared for because we have yet to recognize the danger that is looming. Should there be more done to combat the Meth Epidemic? Yes, no doubt but it's plotting the right course that is extremely tricky. And those solutions will have to wait for another post. Cheers!
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2023.03.08 14:34 williamthacker0 Red Boost Blood Flow Support Powder Reviews (HIGH ALERT) - What Customer Says About This Tonic Supplement?

Red Boost Powder Reviews (Updated 2023 Report) - Red Boost is a high potential blood flow supplement. It's in a powder form. Read this customer review before you order.

Red Boost Powder – What is it?

Red Boost is a powerful, all-natural remedy for all these problems. Red Boost was created by world-renowned scientists and medical professionals and does everything it takes to prepare men to perform. Red Boost goes even further than that. Supplements contain a variety of extremely healthy herbs that, when combined, provide many important health benefits.
It promotes vitality while revitalizing male libido to its highest potential. The main goal of Red Boost is to push you as far as possible so that you have a full connection with your partner. With the purchase of the Red Boost package, the days of lack of confidence and not looking your partner in the eye are completely over.
Red Boost pills claim to ensure balanced testosterone levels, which is important for your overall health and lifestyle. When it comes to maximum orgasm intensity, this is definitely unique.
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How Does Red Boost Powder Work?

For the human body to function properly, smooth muscle is necessary. Blood flow to a healthy and strong penis is thanks directly to these muscles. Smooth muscle health is directly related to physical health, mobility, and effortless performance.
Thanks to all-natural ingredients, Red Boost targets these muscles and improves both your performance as well as your health. Your duration will be longer as the smooth muscles become stronger. Additionally, this supplement helps increase levels of nitric oxide, which helps open up blood vessels to increase blood flow and maintain normal blood pressure.
The increased blood flow due to the dilation of blood vessels can help you achieve better orgasms. Red Boost also works against oxidative stress, the cause of poor male hormone quality.
Ingredients such as horny goat weed, which improves men's health and blood circulation, are found in Red Boost. This ingredient is also used to treat symptoms of dysfunction.

Ingredients in Red Boost

Nettle Root - In Europe, nettle root has a long history of aphrodisiac use. This herb includes substances called saponins that increase libido. Other herbs such as ginseng and yohimbe bark contain saponins. They work by stimulating testosterone synthesis. Stinging nettle root has a number of health benefits and may be helpful for men who have problems with libido. The chemical composition of nettle root has an effect on the pituitary gland of the brain. The hormones produced by this gland regulate the release of other hormones. Stinging nettle root stimulates the pituitary gland, increasing the levels of these hormones. Your body's testosterone levels are then increased by these substances. The hormone that promotes male activity is testosterone.
Horny Goat Weed - Another herbal medicine that has been used for many years to treat erectile dysfunction. is a type of horny goat weed (epimedium). In China and Japan, horny goat weed is a natural plant. Horny goat weed is known as "Yin Yang Huo" in Chinese medicine. It was originally applied to treat female infertility. Today, horny goat weed is commonly used to enhance your performance. In traditional Chinese medicine, horny goat weed is considered a tonic herb. It is said to strengthen the kidneys and liver. It is also said to promote longevity. It is said to reduce pain and inflammation. Horny goat weed also contains many flavonoids. Flavonoids are plant pigments that give plants their color. They are also responsible for their bright colors of fruits and vegetables.
Citrulline - Citrullineemia is a condition in which there is not enough citrulline in the body. Citrulline is an essential amino acid for proper muscle function. Without adequate amounts of citrulline, muscles cannot contract properly. As a result, people with this condition feel tired and weak. When you add citrulline, you get more citrulline in your system. Your body uses this extra citrulline to make arginine. Arginine is an amino acid necessary for normal growth and development. It is also needed to make nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is a gas that relaxes smooth muscle tissue. Smooth muscle tissue surrounds the walls of blood vessels. Relaxation of tissues increases blood flow.
Fenugreek - Fenugreek is one of the oldest herbs used in Ayurvedic medicine. It is commonly found in the wild throughout India and Pakistan. Fenugreek seeds contain high levels of saponins. Saponins are natural surfactants. They lower cholesterol levels and prevent clogged arteries. It is also known to improve performance. They work by increasing testosterone levels. Testosterone is the male hormone that drives your performance. Testosterone also improves your performance. This happens when blood rushes to the muscles. In a year, the veins around the muscle constrict. This prevents blood from flowing back. As a result, the muscle becomes engorged with blood.
Tongkat ali - it has been studied extensively. The results show that it improves functionality. Tongkat ali is a plant grown in Indonesia. It contains alkaloids called gelsemium alkaloids. Gelsemium alkaloid extract has been shown to improve function. Gelsemium alkaloid extract is similar to ephedrine. Ephedrine is another stimulant that increases blood pressure and heart rate. These effects increase arousal. Increased excitement leads to better performance.
Click to buy Red Boost Powder today from the company’s official website!

Red Boost Powder Benefits

The all-natural Red Boost blend promises a number of health benefits. The benefits of Red Boost are explained below, ranging from improved heart health and blood circulation to increased muscle mass and testosterone levels:
● Improve stamina
The main mechanism of Red Boost to improve performance is to increase your body's production of nitric oxide. Red Boost includes several organic ingredients. Some medications increase blood flow. It is well known for improving the body's nitric oxide production and smooth muscle function. Red Boost stimulates healthy, nutrient-rich blood flow to the pelvic area and surrounding smooth muscles.
● Improves heart and blood vessel health
By lowering cholesterol levels, the fenugreek seed powder in Red Boost contains a number of minerals, vitamins, and fiber that can improve heart health and keep your arteries healthy. In addition, this organic ingredient controls blood sugar levels. Vitamin Red Boost will help improve energy levels and maintain healthy blood flow and circulation along with L. Citrulline.
● Reduces oxidative stress and hypertension
Your blood pressure always seems to be at its peak, largely due to high levels of oxidative stress. Using natural and scientifically supported ingredients like Tongkat Ali, Red Boost helps reduce stress and anxiety. Stress reduction is important because acute anxiety and fear can sometimes lead to dysfunction by impeding blood flow around the pelvic area.
● It facilitates weight loss and suppresses appetite
Some of the ingredients used to create Red Boost help curb cravings and reduce cravings naturally. These ingredients help reduce oxidative stress near smooth muscle. Your energy levels go up and your metabolism speeds up.
In addition, weight loss increases male fertility and testosterone levels.
● Keep the prostate healthy
The stinging nettle root component of the Red Boost supplement increases testosterone levels and helps maintain prostate health. Stinging nettle root can also cause an increase in the release of endorphins.
● Promotes the growth of new cells
Red Boost's nutritional blend of organic compounds promotes the growth of new cells. These ingredients improve blood circulation throughout your body, allowing cells to receive more oxygen and other nutrients that aid their growth. A healthy body will also slow down the aging process.
Any Side Effects Reported About Red Boost Powder?
Red Boost has been carefully developed as a safe and reliable health supplement for men. This explains why there have been no reports of the use of the product causing serious side effects.
That's not to say minor side effects like nausea or headaches are uncommon. These negative effects can be caused by any supplement. However, the use of this product is unlikely to have any negative effects on you.
Unlike other supplements, Red Boost pills do not contain any synthetic or chemical additives. Therefore, serious side effects are unlikely. Red Boost is not recommended for men under 18, so keep in mind that this supplement has an over 18 age limit.
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How to use Red Boost Powder?

To get the most out of the Red Boost supplement, the manufacturer's website recommends users take two capsules. After a meal, the capsule can be taken with water or any other beverage.
Here, it's important to note that Red Boost's clinically proven formula works best when used regularly to promote blood circulation and overall well-being.
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What is the price of Red Boost?

Three different packages are offered to customers on the official Red Boost website:
● One bottle of Red Boost Powder is priced at $59.
● Three bottles of the Red Boost Powder are priced at $49/bottle. The total cost is $147.
● Six bottles supply of the Red Boost Powder, is priced at $39/bottle. The total cost is $234.
No buried subscriptions upon purchase; Payment must be made by credit card or PayPal. It is better to purchase the product through the official Red Boost website than any other app or website where you can find some similar fancy products. Indeed, the original site also offers some deals and discounts.
The official Red Boost website offers a pretty simple refund process. You can submit a return request within six months of purchasing the product if you do not experience any effects despite taking the medication consistently for 180 days.
Manufacturers will begin the full return process immediately and without any questions. You can try the product risk-free thanks to the manufacturer's solid money-back guarantee.

Final Words: Red Boost Powder Reviews

The information above shows how Red Boost supplements can help with dysfunction, low testosterone levels. Many Red Boost reviews claim that this supplement has improved user satisfaction and improved blood flow to the penile chambers.
Unlike other dietary supplements, Red Boost is made with 100% organic and scientifically proven ingredients, so there are no health risks.
However, consult your doctor and have a physical exam to rule out any serious medical conditions before using Red Boost. In this case, the supplement should be avoided.
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Disclaimer: The above is a sponsored post, the views expressed are those of the sponsoauthor and do not represent the stand and views of Editorial.
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2022.12.31 15:46 GuardHealthy8077 Alpilean Review Is Alpilean Legit And Worth Buying?

Alpilean Review Is Alpilean Legit And Worth Buying?

Alpilean Review Is Alpilean Legit And Worth Buying?

Alpilean Review
Alpilean is a weight-loss supplement containing six natural alpine ingredients that can help you lose weight without sacrificing. It is the best outcome on the market to assist your body in adjusting to a lower internal body temperature, allowing for a faster fat-burning process.
Have you been feeling discouraged lately after almost finishing a bottle of weight loss pills and not seeing any differences? Finding the right one that works well with your body type and weight loss goals can be tricky with supplements. Formulations for these supplements differ depending on the company, so it's essential to do your research before trying something new. Supplements that promote weight loss contain natural ingredients that help to boost metabolism or reduce appetite.
There are a lot of different supplements on the market, but only a limited number of them manage to deliver on their claims. Most supplement brands spend more money marketing their products than on including effective ingredients in their formulas.
Alpilean is a top-notch supplement in the same league as their best. According to Alpilean reviews, the supplement comes with a completely transparent ingredient label. The manufacturers also assure users that the product will help them lose weight without fail - and judging by the millions of happy users worldwide, it looks like Alpilean has more than delivered on that promise! It has outperformed many other popular and supposedly effective weight loss supplements.
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Alpilean is a step above most other supplements on the market due to its better formulation and higher-quality source ingredients - something that potential customers take into serious consideration. If you're curious about supplements and what they can do for you, keep reading this Alpilean review for all the answers you seek.

What is Alpilean?

Alpilean is a weight-loss supplement containing six natural alpine ingredients that can help you lose weight without sacrificing. It is the best outcome on the market to assist your body in adjusting to a lower internal body temperature, allowing for a faster fat-burning process. Alpilean is also safe because it contains no fillers, chemicals, or other compounds that can cause addiction or put your health at risk.
Alpilean weight loss supplements are GMO-free and have no negative side effects, making them completely safe for customers to use for the short or long term. Alpilean helps your body to continue aiding your weight loss efforts even when you are getting your beauty rest by revving up your metabolism while you sleep. Alpilean is made in a GMP-certified facility in the United States (US) of America.
MUST SEE: “Critical New Alpilean Weight Loss Report - They Will Never Tell You This”

How does Alpilean work?

Alpilean's innovative combination of six powerful alpine nutrients is unrivalled in promoting healthy weight loss - you won't find anything like it on the market. This custom blend of plant extracts is designed to give you temporary benefits that will help you achieve your weight loss goals. Alpilean Pills is the most effective weight loss product available, and it's perfect for those looking for an innovative approach to losing weight.
Alpilean Ice Hack tablets have an innovative design that makes them perfect for targeting and optimizing a low internal body temperature. The capsules combat unexplained weight gain and work by focusing on the internal body temperature. This breakthrough in nutrition kicks your sleeping metabolism into full mode, burning fat and increasing your energy levels. This supplement has six super ingredients that contain been proven effective in clinical studies.
Alpilean is most effective when used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Alpilean can help to raise your core body temperature, which will, in turn, increase your metabolism and help you to burn more calories. With continued use, you will notice that stubborn fat stores in your arms and stomach will gradually disappear. Alpilean is an efficient way to convert deep, stubborn fat into energy without changing your diet or exercise routine. When you see the new toned and slimmer figure in the mirror, you may be surprised at how quickly Alpilean works.
Even while you sleep, this unique, patented blend of natural ingredients will continue to work to dissolve fat. Alpilean products are safe for consumption and have already improved women's and men's lives between 18 and 80. Alpilean is designed to break down fat quickly, even under the toughest conditions.

What makes Alpilean Weight Loss a unique product?

Alpilean's formulation is designed to help users function at their best without excessive exercise or a restrictive diet.
As long as you take the supplement as directed, you can enjoy all the benefits that Alpilean offers.
Alpilean is a relatively new product, but it is already gaining popularity due to the thousands of satisfied customers who have experienced its benefits firsthand.
The Alpilean supplement was created by experts who spent years researching and testing various weight loss methods. This supplement combines novel ingredients with known weight loss ingredients, which are difficult to obtain in any other way. As a result, it is an effective means of reducing overall body fat percentage. There's a 60-day money-back guarantee, so if you're unsatisfied with the results, you can ask for a refund.
Alpilean is a dietary pill that can be taken by people of any age or gender, regardless of their current physical condition.
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Ingredient List of Alpilean:

Golden Algae: Alpilean contains Golden Algae, an effective ingredient in regulating the body's internal temperature, supporting liver and brain health, and naturally boosting the body's bone density. Golden Algae also helps control your appetite, which affects how your body processes the fat and helps regulate the beneficial bacteria in your gut.
Dika Nut: Deca Nut can help regulate body temperature, making it more comfortable to digest and helping to reduce bloating. It can also support healthy cholesterol levels, suppress appetite, normalize blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels, slow down the formation of fat cells, and stimulate fat breakdown. Plus, it can help control blood sugar levels.
Drumstick tree leaf: The Drumstick tree leaves are very effective in regulating internal temperature and contain a high level of antioxidants. That makes it an excellent source of many positive health effects, including maintaining normal blood sugar levels. The Moringa tree leaves also contain high chlorogenic acid statuses, which have been shown to help people lose weight by acting as a fat burner in the body.
Bigarade Orange: This ingredient helps reduce oxidative stress levels while supporting a healthy immune system. It also helps to target the internal temperature. Since synephrine is chemically related to ephedrine - which promotes weight loss - bitter orange is often included in modern weight loss formulations.
Ginger rhizome: Ginger is an essential ingredient with many positive health effects. It helps regulate body temperature, maintain the health of teeth and gums, and naturally supports muscle function. Ginger is also great for shedding excess weight.
Turmeric rhizome: There are many benefits of using turmeric, but some of the most notable ones include its ability to lower the core body temperature, successfully aiding in maintaining good skin and a healthy heart. Additionally, increasing your metabolism with turmeric can help you burn calories faster and reduce the amount of fat stored in the abdominal area.
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Pricing of Alpilean:

Alpilean Bonuses

  • Bonus: 1 kickstart detox ebook
This eBook is a comprehensive guide that walks subscribers through everything they need to know about detoxing and cleansing their bodies, including a diet that helps the body eliminate impurities and absorb nutrients more effectively.
Customers will also learn about twenty other detox teas, each of which can be prepared in just one minute. Cleanse Tea is easy to prepare and provides even greater benefits when combined with Alpine's other lifestyle settings.
  • Bonus: 2 Renew you
This guide is designed to help you change your mindset to lose weight more effectively than any other diet or weight loss strategy. This guide does not cover exercise or other tips for getting in shape; Rather, it focuses on reducing the stress that can arise with a new body. It provides instructions that you can follow to encourage yourself as you move from old anxiety to new confidence.

What Is The Alpilean Wellness Box? What Does It Contain?

Alpilean has come up with a wellness box which consists of five essential health formulas to help you burn fat fast and achieve your desired weight. The formulas in the wellness box target various health issues, making it a great way to improve your overall health.
  • Pure Alpilean MCT Oil
Alpilean MCT Oil is the first item in the Pure Wellness Box. It is a blend of highly concentrated triglycerides, caprylic and capric acids extracted from coconut oil. These increase the release of two hormones: peptides and leptin, which promote satiety within your body. Alpilean MCT Oil helps in effective weight loss and waist circumference. After the website, it works as a quick energy source, also good for brain functions.
  • immune boost
No one has discussed the importance of human immunity and goods as much as has been done in the last three years - and for a good reason. Immunity is important for maintaining normal bodily functions. Each Immune Boost capsule contains 1200 mg of immune-boosting nutrients, which increases the number of white blood cells in the body and helps to improve immunity.
  • BioBalance Probiotics
The number of good bacteria inside your body can significantly impact your overall health and well-being. Alpilean BioBalance Probiotics are designed to increase the number of good bacteria and eliminate bad bacteria, helping you to maintain a healthy balance. Each capsule contains at least 20 billion colony-forming units, making it an effective way to improve your health.
  • Deep sleep
Poor sleep can contribute to poor health and weight gain. It causes anxiety and many other mental health problems. A good restful night's sleep can help ward off stress and anxiety and be a game changer regarding fat burning. Alpilean Deep Sleep Capsules can help you a lot with that. You can read better about them on the website.
  • Ultra Collagen Complex
With age, our skin's moisture, elasticity, and glow all begin to diminish. To help keep your skin looking healthy and prevent sagging, many people turn to collagen supplements like Alpilean's Ultra Collagen Complex. This particular supplement is designed to support healthy collagen levels and boost your skin's antioxidants, which are essential for keeping your skin looking its best.
Alpilean Customer Reviews: Does Alpilean Really Guarantee Weight Loss for Everyone? What are Alpilean Before and After Results? See More Here!

Is Alpilean Safe?

Alpilean was developed by a team of highly experienced professionals, including nutritionists, scientists and medical experts, to create a weight loss supplement that was effective and safe for consumption.
The result of their hard work is an exceptional product that is now one of the most effective weight loss supplements available on the market and one of the safest. In fact, since its out, there have been no reports of serious side effects associated with the use of Alpilean.
Although no side effects have been reported, this does not mean that they cannot occur. Any supplement, including Alpilean, can cause stomach problems such as diarrhoea, indigestion and headache. However, the chances of experiencing these side effects are very rare.
Remember that although Alpilean is designed to maximize safety and effectiveness, it may not be right for everyone. If you encounter any side outcomes while using Alpilean, please stop taking the supplement and consult your doctor.
This product is not recommended for pregnant or lactating mothers due to unknown risks and is also not recommended for children under 18. If you have a severe medical condition or are taking prescription medications, always speak with your doctor before trying this or any other weight loss supplement.
Alpilean is a very low-risk supplement that will not adversely affect your health. If you are unsure whether this product is right for you, we recommend you consult a doctor to ensure it is safe.

Alpilean is Different from Other Weight Loss Pills

Alpilean works differently than any other weight loss diet pill available. It's a metabolism booster that helps burn fat more quickly and efficiently. In my experience, it's been extremely effective in helping me lose weight and keep it off. I suggest giving it a try if you want an edge in your weight loss journey!
With a focus on targeting low inner core body temperature, Alpilean has discovered the secret alpine ice hack and Himalayan-sourced superfood ingredients to put into a single, affordable formula. They back their product with a rock-solid money-back guarantee, making them a world-class company that offers an unbeatable product.

Final Verdict

Alpilean is a cutting-edge weight-loss supplement that uses a combination of powerful chemicals to stimulate the body's metabolic rate, leading to rapid and sustainable weight loss. This revolutionary supplement has helped over 215,000 people of all ages lose thousands of pounds and is backed by extensive scientific research. Alpilean is safe for both men and women and can help you finally achieve your weight loss goals. Try it today!

Frequently asked questions

1. Is it safe to use Alpilean?
Although there are many benefits to taking Alpilean, some people may be concerned about potential side effects. However, the creators of Alpilean have improved the formula to eliminate the possibility of adverse effects. In addition, Alpilean does not contain potentially dangerous fillers and synthetic additives that can harm your health.
The makers of Alpilean assure consumers that the dietary supplement is risk-free in all respects and does not cause unwanted side effects.
2. How do you take Alpilean to get the best results?
To get the most out of Alpilean, take one capsule daily with a glass of cool water. It will help optimize your low core internal body temperature, allowing the special combination of substances to dissolve stubborn fat even while you sleep. It is made feasible because the process takes place gradually over time.
3. Why is Alpilean effective for burning fat?
The term "Alpilean" is derived from the words "strange snow gait" and "alpine" - two methods of burning fat that have been studied for over 170 years. In 2022, researchers at Stanford University's School of Medicine discovered a new factor that may be responsible for weight loss in many people who are overweight or obese.
Overweight people often have trouble losing weight because of their low core body temperature. However, by taking advantage of ice tricks to raise their core body temperature, they can increase their metabolism, speed up fat burning and lose weight more easily.
4. What happens if Alpilean doesn't work as promised?
Regarding dietary supplements, not all products work the same for every person. It's important to keep this in mind because a supplement that works great for one person may not have the exact effect on another person.
Fortunately, the team behind Alpilean is aware of this fact. They have protected their supplement by offering a 60-day money-back guarantee.
If Alpilean doesn't meet your expectations, contact customer service immediately to begin the refund process. Don't wait too long, as you only have 60 days from purchase to initiate a refund.
5. Will Alpilean Work without Dieting or Exercising?
The creators of Alpilean say that the product will work no matter what diet or exercise plan you currently follow. It is because the ingredients work at the cellular level, raising your metabolic activity and giving you benefits like a higher inner core body temperature. So even if you're following a trendy diet or hot exercise program, Alpilean will still work for you.
Alpilean is a dietary pill that can help boost your metabolism and burn fat, but it's not a miracle pill. If you want optimal results, you should consume a healthy diet and get daily physical activity. Alpilean works best as part of a healthy lifestyle, so ensure you're eating right and moving daily!
Click Here to Order Alpilean at the Lowest Price Available Today!
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2022.11.14 21:09 GuardHealthy8077 ALPILEAN REVIEWS 2022 IS ALPILEAN WEIGHT LOSS PILLS WORTH IT? MY SHOCKING EXPERIENCE

ALPILEAN REVIEWS 2022 IS ALPILEAN WEIGHT LOSS PILLS WORTH IT? MY SHOCKING EXPERIENCE
The usage of Alpilean, for either short or long term, is completely safe.
ALPILEAN REVIEWS 2022
Alpilean is a nutritional supplement composed of potent natural substances that can aid in weight loss without sacrificing time, energy, or meal preparation.
It has a patented combination of six nutrients to help the body adapt to a reduced internal body temperature, hence accelerating the fat-burning process. It contains no potentially harmful fillers, chemicals, or other substances.
It contains no genetically modified organisms and has no side effects. The usage of Alpilean, for either short or long term, is completely safe.
The product speeds up the user's metabolism as they sleep, allowing the body to continue with its weight reduction efforts. Alpilean is manufactured in a GMP-certified facility in the United States.

Ingredients

  • Golden Algae: This component is found in Alpilean, and it works amazingly well to target the internal temperature of the body, as well as to boost the health of the brain and liver, and raise the body's natural bone density. This ingredient helps to decrease the user's appetite, which, in turn, affects the way in which the body absorbs fat and contributes to the regulation of the beneficial bacteria that are found in the stomach.
  • Dika Nut: Dika nut has been shown to have a significant impact on the body's ability to regulate temperature, alleviating the discomfort associated with digestion and bloating and successfully preserving healthy cholesterol levels. It has the ability to suppress hunger, regulate cholesterol levels, prevent the production of new fat cells, and speed up the breakdown of existing fat, all of which make it simpler for the body to maintain proper blood sugar levels.
  • Drumstick Tree Leaf: Drumstick Tree Lea is a good source of antioxidants and is useful for controlling body temperature. Along with its numerous other health benefits, this chemical aids in maintaining appropriate blood sugar levels. The moringa tree's leaves have a high concentration of antioxidants, particularly chlorogenic acid, which aids in weight loss. In addition to balancing blood sugar levels, it also burns fat.
  • Bigarade Orange: This substance strengthens the immune system and reduces oxidative stress levels. It helps to target the interior temperature precisely. Because synephrine is structurally linked to ephedrine, a molecule known to increase weight loss, modern weight loss formulas typically contain Bigarade Orange.
  • Ginger Rhizome: Ginger is an important component that has several beneficial impacts on health and is essential for weight loss. It controls the body's temperature, preserves teeth and gum health, and helps the muscles operate normally.
  • Turmeric Rhizome: The root of turmeric reduces the body's core temperature, which helps the preservation of healthy skin and heart. Using turmeric increases the metabolic rate so that the body speeds up the fat-burning process, potentially aiding in the reduction of belly fat.

Working

Alpilean's exclusive blend of six potent alpine nutrients is highly effective when it comes to encouraging healthy weight reduction.
This way to lose weight is unlike anything one would have ever tried and will only deliver short advantages.
Alpilean is the only weight-loss supplement that blends six nutrients with plant extracts in a bespoke formulation, thus making it an efficient weight-reduction supplement.
The faultless formulation of the capsules makes them excellent for targeting and regulating low internal body temperature. The pills are designed to counteract this new source of unexplained weight gain.
This advancement in nutritional science focuses on the temperature that occurs inside the body. This will cause the metabolism to start operating while you are sleeping, which will result in higher calorie burning and overall levels of energy. This dietary supplement is made up of six different ingredients, each of which has been shown to be effective in clinical studies.
Together, they increase the rate of expending calories by boosting the body's core temperature. If people constantly take Alpilean, they will observe that their saggy arms and stomach will finally disappear.
It is an effective strategy for converting those obstinate, deep visceral fat into pure energy by burning away the stored fat.
Alpilean might be of considerable use to those who want to shed deep, stubborn fat deposits without modifying their diet or exercise regimen.
This one-of-a-kind, unique blend of natural chemicals will continue to break down fat on the user's behalf even while they sleep.
This safe-to-use product has changed the lives of several people between the ages of 18 and 80, and is designed to break down fat as soon as possible in even the most extreme circumstances.

Benefits

  • Alpilean is an effective strategy for lowering the body's temperature, allowing the body to undergo a thermogenic process.
  • The dietary supplement helps the metabolism to continue to work even while people sleep, considerably enhancing their fat-burning rate.
  • It has been demonstrated that Alpilean inhibits the body's capacity to accumulate fat. It accomplishes this by disintegrating stored body fat and converting it into usable energy.
  • Alpilean can concurrently increase insulin sensitivity and decrease insulin resistance.
  • Users may rapidly increase muscle production and growth while toning their physique with Alpilean.
  • Alpilean has the ability to improve both blood circulation and oxygen delivery throughout the body. Furthermore, it increases the supply of nutrients.
  • Even if users lose a significant amount of weight rapidly, they won't have to forfeit their health if they use Alpilean.
Click Here to Buy Alpilean From The Official USA Website

Price

Bonus Material
Kickstart Detox eBook
Customers will learn all they need to know to effectively detox their body and then cleanse it by reading this booklet. Dieting assists the body in cleaning out pollutants to help it absorb nutrients effectively. In addition, twenty more detox teas, which can be brewed in under a minute, will be presented to customers. The cleaning teas are simple to make and complement the other lifestyle modifications.
Renew You
This handbook guides readers in altering their mindsets in a manner so that they can lose weight efficiently. This book does not include other tips for exercising or getting into shape; instead, it focuses on easing the stress that might accompany a new physique. It provides guidance for users to follow as they shift from anxiety to confidence.
Refund Policy
Some dietary supplements are more suitable for certain individuals than others. Everyone should adopt this perspective since no two individuals are alike in every manner.
Fortunately, those who created the supplement are aware of this. Therefore, they have protected the buyers by providing a 60-day money-back guarantee.
Customers are recommended to contact customer care to start the process of refund if Alpilean falls short of their expectations and does not give them the desired or promised results.
Drawbacks
  • Alpilean is only accessible through the official website. No offline availability exists.
  • Alpilean outcomes may vary from individual to individual and everything depends on their physical state.
Dosage
One Alpilean capsule must be regularly consumed with cold water. The regular adjustment of the low core internal body temperature will enable the unique mixture of ingredients to break down resistant fat even while sleeping.

FAQs

Is it safe to use Alpilean?
It is logical to assume that the chemical Alpilean has some undesirable side effects, given all of the advantages that are connected with utilizing the medication.
The formula for Alpilean has been improved to the point that adverse outcomes are no longer a possibility as a result. In addition, the product does not include any fillers or synthetic substances that can be hazardous to health and does not contain any such ingredients.
Consumers of Alpilean have been assured by the company that the dietary supplement poses no danger whatsoever and does not result in any unfavorable adverse effects.
=> Read Honest Customer Reviews of Alpilean on its official website
Why is Alpilean a unique product?
Because of its potent chemical make-up, Alpilean is able to perform to the best of its abilities even if its user does not need to engage in strenuous physical activity nor adhere to a stringent diet in order for it to do so.
As long as individuals take the supplement in accordance with the guidelines for the prescribed dose, they will be able to enjoy all of the wonderful results that Alpilean has to offer.
This revolutionary and well-known weight loss pill comprises components that are fairly tough to get in any other form. These components are all included in the tablet that helps people lose weight.
As a result, it is the most effective method for reducing the amount of fat that is stored throughout the body.
People who buy it and then realize that it does not meet their expectations can return it for a full refund within the first sixty days after purchase.
Alpilean is a nutritional supplement that may be used by anyone of any age or gender, regardless of their current level of physical fitness.

Conclusion

It has been established that Alpilean speeds up the process of fat shedding by enhancing the body's ability to maintain a lower core temperature inside.
The supplement accomplishes its goals by focusing on areas of the body that have abnormally low inner core body temperatures and then modifying those areas to rev up the metabolism and improve weight loss outcomes.
Click Here to Buy Alpilean From The Official USA Website
submitted by GuardHealthy8077 to u/GuardHealthy8077 [link] [comments]


2022.07.23 04:04 fascinatingMundanity seeking stimulant-actuating alternatives to, and advices regarding, caffeine-consumption

nota bene: This is somewhat a quite-broad topic. If exist there already a mega-thread on the matter, orand one or more relevant more-targeted topic, please share links to said discussions.
Iʼm looking for tips on ﴾neutraceutical stacks, and perhaps individual substances, for ﴿minimizing unwanted qualities from caffeine-ingestion (namely: side-effects from slight de facto rapid- or cummulative- overdosing, and tolerance-climbing) while retaining/maximizing its desired aspects (increased focus, metabolic-boost, et c.), as a mild pre∨intra- workout / cognitive- stimulant. That is to ask: What can be taken take for caffeine-like benefits (e.g. alertness, adrenaline-boost, feel-good synergism with other compounds) without undesirable effects from ingesting too much (e.g. jitteri- or prolonged sleepless- ness, anxiety); either without any caffeine, or in small enough quantity or in combination such that aforestated unwanted effects shall be absent or at least minimized?
Common to most energydrinks is three or more b-family nutrients (𝟷𝟸 as vitamer ⟮methyl⩒cyano⟯cobalamin, typically 𝟾≘inositol, plus usually two or more dietarily-essential commonly 𝟹≘⩙(nicotinic acid, niacinamide, nicotinamide riboside) orand 𝟼≘(pyridox‑⟮ine⩙al⩙amine⟯) often as respectively vitamers nicotinic acid ∨ niacinamide and pyridoxine HCl, and typically conditionally-essential amino acid taurine, often in addition to one or more pro-stimulatory adaptogen (among the common-to of which be extracts of: bark from one or more species of ginseng, fruiting body of Cordyceps spp. of mushrooms, and root of Lepidium meyenii; containing respectively ginsenosides, medley of compounds among which is cordycepin 3′deoxyadenosine an analogue nucleoside of adenosine affecting various things such as energy-transfer, and macamides promoting anti-fatigue neuro-modulatory effects in concert with compounds exerting male-favorable androgen-regulation), often plus carbohydrate -relating compounds (either harnessed directly for energy thus yielding dietary Calories, or utilized as a precursor assisting in processing: such as respevtively maltodextrin et glucose, and glucuronolactone; each of which common in energyblends), and crucially almost always with a moderate to strong total dose of caffeine from all sources ❲either plantae-extracted ‘natural’-exclusive (e.g. guarana seed, coffee cherry, leaves of ⟮green andor black ⟯tea or yerba-maté; the alkaloidal concentrates of the former one and latter two of which sometimes referred respectively as ‘guaranine’, ‘theine’, and ‘mateine’), pure anyhdrous potent freebase form (i.e.:3,7-dihydro-1,3,7-trimethyl-1H-purine-2,6-dione), one or more synthesized salt form (fancier and less common; notably among which be the citrated and pterostilbene- forms which directly andor indirectly affect humans respectively quicker and slower than freebase form), some other means not among the preceding items, or a combination❳. With the ubiquitousness of this pertinent last part (the presence of caffeine, in one form or an another, from one source or more, in nigh-all effective energyblends) I take some issue: considering the assortment of many other typical plus vastly_more less-common energyblend ingredients, why not forgo caffeine altogether (or at least reduce its total footprint-signature inpon the blend, perhaps by incorporating different forms while also keeping the total amount relatively low)?
Among components of theine derived from green tea is substantial quantity of l-theanine (exerting calming effects) and caffeine possibly chemically bound in a way slowing its metabolism. Thus, one approach to alleviating cortisol-inducing ileffects of the nutraceutical could be via deriving it from green tea (or black tea, which also contains l-theanine and tannins but in smaller proportion). But even if this works, it does not necessarily prevent the longer-term ileffects from actualizing hours later (varying significantly depending on metabolization inof the person), and what՚s more can actually work too well by counteracting the intended effects of purer caffeine as the amount of l-theanine accompanying an effective standalone caffeine dose could be higher than ideal (for the biomass amount of green tea needed for that amount of caffeine which itself likely isn't identical). Likewise, guaranine and mateine contain some l-theanine, though lower relative to caffeine as proportioned against theine, but also theobromine (mild psychotropic found notably in cacao) and other alkaloids and potentially synergizing compounds in varying ratios, the fact of which possibly could contribute to a partial solution (retaining cognizance of the prominence of its caffeine-push and potential side-effects of other compounds typically present in the extracts such as tannins which can be harsh on stomach if in high enough dose of caffeine-synergizing alkaloidal concentrate).
A conceivable alternative could be to forgo caffeine altogether, relying instead on another stimulant blend. An issue with this is the likely need for a bona-fide stimulant (such as ephedrine, or an analogue of caffeine, or some other compound or combination thereof, perhaps even including ℞ pharmaceutical such as an amphetamine or illicit such as cocaine) in order to achieve similar-enough desirable effects, which is likely to promote similar downsides as caffeine-ingestion (though perhaps not, or at least lesser, depending on many factors including dosage and metabolyte pathways, as well as unique synergism with other neutraceutical compounds taken in same session as).
Iʼm open also to more disparate routes toward achieving end intended result, which importantly should include some surge of drive or energy (i.e. a stimulant-semblant aspect, as contrasted with only_longer-term effects); such perhaps as exogenous ketones, or particular nootropics. I don't myself as yet have plethora of first-hand experience ingesting ketone salts, although I do have experience with uptake of endogenous ketones-fueld energy and likely endocannabinoids orand related endorphins, in particular on an occasion that I had been fasted for ~20 hours amidst extensive moderate exercise (and had verified presence in my urine of modest amount of ketones---rarely have the test strips measured a 'high' concentration of ketones, even during extended fasts, perhaps in part because I had already been decently fat-adapted) in which I recall distinctly a ‘switch-over’ point few hours prior similar to “catching second wind” in which I felt newfound further energy; upon officially breaking the fast with an avocado, I got a burst of incredible energy, which didn't subside for several hours. (I might have eaten a butter-fried egg also, and a cup of coffee earlier in the day.. but only a smallish amount of caffeine at most, far from explanatory of the ketosis-propelled energy.) As for nootropic-class'd compounds (of which there be several heretofore-known pharmacological categories), I have tried a few and see much potential for also_physical -promoting energy, especially for when combined in a stack; in particular huperzine-A (noting that ʼtis already used in some well-selling commercial energydrink blends), and extract from leaves of maidenhair (Ginkgo biloba) containing active compounds spanning multiple (among which be ginkgolides, diterpenes, and flavone glycosides that include ginkgetin, bilobetin, and sciadopitysin), when taken at a safe sufficient dosage (at once or in a session, and also cummulatively).
So, are there some known stacks orand individual supplements andor methods that have fast-acting benefits similar to energy drinks (mood, alertness, et so-forth) without reliance on a hefty dose (say 60+ mg) of caffeine or that is formulated to substantially curtail the unwanted impact typical to caffeine-imbued blends (crash, overdose, prolonged comedown of stress hormones, et so-on)? What can you recommend as alternative to caffeine-containing or at least caffeine-heavy blends, especially for those with a sensitivity to caffeine ⊖ later in the diurnal period or when much caffeine has already been consumed in said period (e.g. close to 400mg) ⩖ cumulatively over preceding recent days causing tolerance thereto, when a 300mg-at-once attack be overkill?
tl;dr: What be some alternatives to the standard caffeine-foreward energyblend_amounts of caffeine (i.e.; for inducing, or at least promoting, the same intended benefits⸺whilst sans high doses of caffeine, or with other neutraceuticals mitigating the downsides relative to the synergistic intended upsides)?
submitted by fascinatingMundanity to Supplements [link] [comments]


2021.07.16 09:16 stevenchamp45 Looking for nootropics that boost physical energy levels

My caffeine tolerance is through the roof, so that's all but off the table.
I've tried the following: Ashwagandha, does nothing, calms me down though.
Phenylpiracetam, works well, but tolerance builds too fast.
Cordyceps, they allow me to work longer before getting fatigued, but don't do anything in the names of actual energy level.
Adrafanil, helps me feel not tired, but that's about the start and end of its effects.
Noopept, helps greatly with mental focus, but that's about it.
Oxiracetam and Aniracetam: never got too significant effects out of these, like a week or version of Phenylpiracetam.
Propylhexedrine/benzedrex nasal inhalers: work like a charm, but also build a fast tolerance and take a strong toll on your body
Ephedrine: works the first couple of times after that it's hit or miss
Kratom: it's a 50/50 of whether it gives you energy or makes you lazy
I'm looking for any neurotropic I can find that can give me physical energy, and I'm not talking just a regular pick me up, I want ENERGY energy. I've seen a lot out there that provide mild effects, but I really like to get that extra boost for when I'm at work
submitted by stevenchamp45 to StackAdvice [link] [comments]


2021.07.06 23:59 Ballerbee Ephedrine Alternatives?

I’ve been doing an ECA stack for a few weeks for weight/fat loss with good results. The initial “high” / hot feeling has worn off, of course, but it does still seem to suppress appetite to some extent which is my primary motivation for taking it.
From my research I know you can do an ECA stack for pretty long term without problems, but I’m wondering if there would be a benefit to mixing it up sometimes with an ephedrine alt like Yohimbine or L-Tyrosene to maintain the edge?
Are these good alternatives (to switch out with the ephedrine) or could they sometimes be added WITH the ECA stack. I’ve read mixed reviews on Yohimbine - some say it makes their heart pound and keeps them awake for days whereas others barely notice much of anything.
Again, I’m primarily looking for appetite suppressant and weight/fat loss … but I don’t mind an energy boost.
submitted by Ballerbee to StackAdvice [link] [comments]


2020.11.27 17:19 fancytalk Birth story - First baby, positive labor, difficult recovery

Hi babybumps, somehow I let a year go by before posting my own birth story but I always appreciated reading other's experiences so I figured better late than never. I'm not sure if it's worth a content warning, but be forewarned, my recovery was horrible. TL;DR - would have been great if my baby had been a reasonable size. Everything pre-Covid.
Going way back, I had an overall pretty good pregnancy, but by the last few weeks the kicking baby, swelling extremeties and extra 40-45 pounds wore on me and I started my maternity leave at 40+1. Walking a lot, eating dates, pumping and bouncing on the yoga ball failed to kick things off (sex was totally unappealing for me and my husband) and I went overdue. At 40+5 I had an ultrasound that estimated a big baby, 9 lb 6 oz, but everyone reassured me the estimates are often over and I shouldn't worry. They penciled me in for an induction at the end of the week. Over that week I had a very gradual increase in frequency of Braxton Hicks, and I woke early on 41+0 with slightly stronger contractions that were roughly settling into a regular pattern. I timed them and called the hospital when I thought they were at 5-1-1 and they told me to come and get checked out. Disappointingly, they didn't think the contractions were that serious (in retrospect, I was more hopeful than really believing it was real) and we were sent home to rest before the induction scheduled the next day.
That night around midnight, while I was sleeping in my pillow nest on the couch, I woke up to a big gushy feeling and knew instantly my water had broken. I gathered up the pad under me and staggered to the bathroom while shouting to my husband to get up, it's haaaappening! I called the hospital from the toilet and they told me to come in right away because the amniotic fluid was a little smelly and had a brown tinge which were signs of meconium. By the time we got changed and threw our toothbrushes back in the go bag the contractions started in earnest and I had to stop and breathe through them. We got to the hospital around 1 AM and I was able to walk into the lobby on my own and wait while my husband parked the car. In the triage room, they got his heartbeat on the monitor right away and it was strong and steady. The nurses reassured me that meconium was only a major worry if the labor is premature since it's not normal for a 36 week fetus to poop, but after 41 weeks, eh, how long could you expect them to hold it? They did warn me there would be extra pediatric staff in the room to make sure he was ok and treat him if he inhaled any, but otherwise not to worry about it.
Pretty soon after I got in the triage room I got really nauseous and woozy, and there's a bit of a blurry period here where my memory is kind of patchy. I know I threw up, I got changed into a Johnny and mesh undies and they moved me to a delivery room and parked me on a yoga ball next to the bed so I could rest my head on my arms. I tried to focus on trying the pain management techniques we had learned in class, but it was all I could do to roll my hips back and forth on the yoga ball and moan when the contractions hit. Periodically great gushes of amniotic fluid would dump out on the floor and it turns out this was the reason I was feeling so bad, since the loss of pressure from the amniotic fluid was dropping my blood pressure. One nurse told me it was the most fluid she had ever seen come out of someone and they kept having to mop it up so no one would slip - just one of the many gross things we experienced!
Fortunately, the treatment for the blood pressure issue is mostly IV fluids with some ephedrine (plus I eventually ran out of amniotic fluid) and I got back to normal conciousness levels pretty soon. I requested an epidural and it was placed around 3 AM, after which I felt completely normal again. Seriously, it was great. We napped off and on from then, with a couple of checks which found steady dilation until around 8 AM when I was about 9.5 cm. I guess I stalled at that point, because when they checked me an hour later it was about the same. Around 10 AM I started to involuntarily push with every contraction and even though there was "a bit of a lip" they decided it was worse to wait and risk swelling so we got ready for pushing. They set up the leg supports on the bed and started coaching me. My husband held one leg, a trainee nurse held the other and the main nurse tended to the business end of things. It took me a bit to be effective but I tried to push like I was pooping and curl my body around the baby to squeeze him out like toothpaste (someone on baby bumps described pushing this way and I found it a helpful image). I did poop the first couple of pushes but they just cleaned up and changed gloves, it was no big deal.
I ended up pushing for about two hours. Pushing for a long time was actually something I was very nervous about going in, but it was truly not as bad as I feared. I wasn't writhing and hollering like in a movie; I had a hard job to do and was focused on working on it. It was incredibly taxing though. By the end I started crying out from effort at the end of each push and falling asleep between contractions. My husband would occasionally feed me an ice chip that was the most delicious thing I've ever tasted. I started to lose effectiveness from fatigue but I must have been very close because the midwife offered to "help out with a little cut." I knew I didn't want that but also the baby really had to get out, so I asked for one more try and on the next contraction gave it every tiny scrap of energy I had in me. I'm not exactly sure what the midwife was doing, but I could feel some uncomfortable fingers digging around and with my resolve and her help we delivered his head and the rest of him quickly followed. They plopped him on my chest and I could barely process his existance because I was so completely wiped out. It was just after noon, roughly 12 hours after my water broke.
Suddenly there was a flip where my work was over and everyone else started bustling with action. Because of the meconium, the midwife cut the cord right away and the baby was whisked away to be suctioned and checked over. The nurses got to work jabbing my stomach and the midwife started stitching my one medium tear and few little abrasions. This was somehow the most painful part of the whole process and I had to hit the boost button on the epidural for the first time. I heard someone announce the baby was 5000 g and there was some general sounds of amazement. I tried to figure out how much that was in pounds but my brain was too mushy to multiply 5x2.2 (but not so mushy to remember there are 2.2 pounds in a kilogram somehow) so I asked and when they told me 11 lbs I yelled out "what the FUCK?" because holy crap, I was not expecting that. Everyone who hadn't just pushed a giant baby out of their body laughed. He was perfect though - APGAR scores of 8 and 9, stable blood sugar (a concern for big babies) and ready to nurse. Once the placenta was out and the stitches were done the room cleared out pretty quickly and we were left alone to rest and get to know each other.
I would love to say at this point that everything was bonding and sunshine from here out but actually this is when things got really tough for me. I didn't know then, but the delivery stretched the front ligament in my pelvis and it didn't pull back together after, causing a cascade of issues. All I knew was that as the epidural wore off it started to hurt to move my legs and my back began to spasm. I had to inch out of bed with my weight on two nurses to get into a wheelchair to move rooms. If I tried to move too fast or in the wrong way my muscles would lock up and pain would shoot across my pelvis. I could hold my baby in bed but not get up to pick him up so my husband had to do all the changes. The good thing was that I did start to improve steadily after the first day so I could get up and start to walk with a walker to the bathroom (had a catheter until then) by the second day and down the hall and back by the third day when I was discharged. I think the nurses may have thought I was malingering since they were hemming and hawing about discharging me with a walker, but I could not take one step without it so I'm not sure what the plan was. Wheel me out the door and tip me out onto the sidewalk? In any event, I did get a walker and used it every time I stood for a full week, then was able to taper off it.
I needed so much help. My brother met us at our house after the hospital to help my husband essentially drag me up the steps to get inside. My mom stayed with us for two weeks to take care of the baby and me, less a couple of days when my in laws visited and did the same. My husband did a lot of care and was constantly running errands. I could stand and sit with both feet planted but to get in and out of bed someone needed to pick up my ankles and swing my legs around so I could lie down. We were pretty crappy at breastfeeding at first so I did it as much as I could but ended up also doing a bunch of pumping and bottle feeding. I made a lot of milk but had latch problems, a visit from a lactation consultant helped out but it was a long time before it was smooth. Breastfeeding and my adventures with mastitis (complete with ER visit and hospital admittance) are a whole other saga I won't get into here. I peed on the floor every time I stood up for a while, bled from both nipples and was completely topless in front of many people, including my father in law. Thankfully I got off fairly easy on some other postpartum issues - pooping was no big deal, the bleeding slowed down to normal period levels in a couple of days and my stitches healed really quickly. I figured out that I could avoid peeing myself if I just went every couple of hours instead of waiting to feel the urge but still wore Depends for security.
I was in weirdly good spirits considering all of this though. In my darkest moments I was angry that this had happened to me and ashamed that I couldn't care for my own baby, but I was also grateful that he was healthy and I had so much support from my family. I worried a lot about bonding because we didn't have that golden mama/daddy/baby trio I imagined for the newborn stage but by 6 months I knew that our bond was not at all damaged by this and it's really strong now. If I have learned anything from this experience it's that babies and families are resiliant and can recover from a lot, and that a difficult beginning does not neccesarily mean difficulties forever.
My heart goes out to all the bumpers dealing with Covid on top of everything, I wish you all a healthy and safe winter and cross my fingers 2021 will be better.
https://imgur.com/a/dcVeRUj
submitted by fancytalk to BabyBumps [link] [comments]


2019.09.05 02:31 MissionAwareness 4 month cut progress from 20.7% to 11.8% (pics and DEXA scans)

Photos

Before/After

Scans

DEXA Scans

Background

29/M/5'6
Earlier this year I started getting monthly DEXA scans from a truck that stops by my office and it was incredibly illuminating to see how my body composition changed from month to month. I've read and learned from a lot of progress posts on fitness, but haven't seen many with DEXA scans. Progress measured by before/after pics and lift numbers are great, and body composition scans add even more information that inform your training so I thought a post like this might be useful to the community.

Lifting History

I found fitness and started working out in January 2014 as a resolutioner. Back then Starting Strength and Stronglifts were the recommended programs and my friends recommended reading the SS book, so I bought that and followed the program until April 2015, with a 2 month break in between due to work-related stress. I remember spending a month on the Texas Method at some point to try breaking a 295 squat plateau but it didn't work so I bought a belt, deloaded, and went back to SS.
Numbers from the first and last week of SS:
January 2014 April 2015
Bodyweight 150 176
Squat 55 (3x5) 315 (3x5)
Bench 55 (3x5) 185 (3x5)
Deadlift 115 (1x5) 375 (5x1)
OHP Less than the bar (3x5) 120 (3x5)
All the focus on putting pounds on the bar without regard for any other type of progression gave me a herniated disc so the 315/185/375 day was my last heavy workout. Long story short, after a surgery and 3.5 years out of the gym, I recovered enough to start lifting again at the start of October 2018. My body weight was about 135 lbs. I did the push/pull days from Coolcicada's PPL and mixed in the squat/deadlift workouts from SS. Muscle memory got me to these numbers in about 2 months:
November 2018
Bodyweight 145
Squat 235 (3x5)
Bench 185 (3x5)
Deadlift 285 (1x5)
OHP 105 (3x5)
The back pain returned initially but it was slowly getting better over time. I had set a goal that if I could squat 2 plates for reps again without severe sciatica, I could train seriously again. So at this point I felt ready to move on to a real program and started reading fitness again. By then everything had changed. SS, Stronglifts, GOMAD, milking linear gains, not stretching, skipping cardio (to preserve your legs for squats), and Madcows/Texas Method were out. 5/3/1, work capacity, mobility work, conditioning, high volume, higher upper body frequency, lean bulking, and face pulls were in. The wiki now recommended a completely different set of programs from before, out of which nSuns' 5/3/1 variation looked like the most interesting and the best cure for T-Rex mode. I switched from my push/pull/SS mix to nSuns with the 5-day aesthetics accessory routine and ran that for 5 months on a bulk.
Numbers at the end of nSuns (+1 sets):
March 2019
Bodyweight 157
Squat 285x12
Bench 225x4
Deadlift 335x10
OHP 125x6
That's where I was at for the "before" pics and the 2019/03/27 DEXA scan. I made more gains than I dreamed possible, but my E1RM progress was slowing down significantly. I read articles about how bulking works most effectively for people in the 10-15% body fat range, and really drops in effectiveness past 20%. My scan showed 20.7% so it was clear that if I wanted to make long term progress, I had to get below 15% and stay there for the rest of my life. And so the cut began.

Program

I followed the leaders and anchors programming from 5/3/1 Forever, completing 2 leaders, anchors, and another leader for a total of 4 cycles. Leader cycles used 5s PRO followed by 5x5 FSL for the main lift of the day. For the 1 anchor cycle, I used the 3/5/1 week order, switched to the normal 5/3/1 sets, and added PR sets and jokers during the 3 and 5/3/1 weeks. Keeping the same volume for the anchor cycle somewhat defeats the purpose of leaders and anchors, but I thought I could handle it. Assistance work stayed the same.

Squat day

3x10 incline DB press 3x12-15 overhead tricep extension 4x10+ chin up 3x15 BB curl 3x12 cable crunch 3x15 hanging leg raise

OHP day

3x12 cable crossover 3x15 lateral raise 3x10 DB row 4x10 hammer curl 3x15 face pull 3x10 Pallof press 2x12-15 hyperextension

Deadlift day

3x10 incline BB bench 3x10 tricep pushdown 3x10+ chin up 3x15 BB curl 3x12 cable crunch 3x15 hanging leg raise

Bench day

3x dips to failure 3x15 lateral raise 4x10 hammer curl 3x10 cable row 3x15 face pull 3x10 front squat 3x10 Pallof press
I chose the assistance work by carrying over the exercises I was already doing on nSuns and arranging them to fit Wendler's suggestion of 50 - 100 reps each of push, pull, and core. Some of the exercises are probably more taxing than Wendler would approve of. I added dips on Friday because I wanted to run Building the Monolith later this year and wanted to practice doing them without hurting my shoulders. I was struggling with both front squats and incline BB bench at the tail end of my bulk, so I added those to make it easier to return to nSuns.
I did the mobility work and throws, but skipped the jumps. I did less than the recommended conditioning at first. After I got the 5/21 scan showing 18% body fat, I felt like I was falling behind. My friend at work who had cut successfully in the past and had a lot more training experience than me told me that low intensity cardio burns fat more effectively, so I did some research on the subject and added 7 - 9 hours per week of incline walking at 3.5 mph on a 10% incline.

Diet & Supplements

I followed a mostly keto diet at the start. Counting calories would've been too hard since the food options at work change frequently and don't include nutrition info, so I just eyeballed it. Breakfast consisted of an omelette filled with meat, cheese, and vegetables, along with whatever other meat was available that day. For lunch I just filled a plate with meat and veggies. On some days the closest cafe at work didn't have any green vegetables I liked so I ate root vegetables instead, which have more carbs. In theory that would kick me out of ketosis, but I thought it would be okay to have some carbs occasionally because I was lifting too.
On the supplements side, I took creatine every day. Sometimes I took a multivitamin, fish oil, and ZMA at night per Wendler's suggestion in Beyond 5/3/1, but I wasn't very consistent.
After the 5/21 scan, I was pretty dismayed at having achieved such poor results despite having lost 10-20% on the E1RM for each of my lifts. To catch up, I did some research on the EC stack and added it to my daily supplements: 25mg ephedrine and 200mg caffeine, 3 times a day. I worked my way up to the full dosage over the first week, starting from just 1 time the first day. The first couple of weeks on the full dosage, that noticeably suppressed my appetite and boosted my heart rate from 130 bpm to 150 bpm during my incline walk sessions. Both effects wore off after that, but the metabolism boost remained. As you can see from the progress from 5/21 to 6/25, it worked and helped me get past my plateau.
In the weeks leading up to the 6/25 scan, I was feeling really worn down from all the cardio and having been in a deficit for so long. I experienced strong cravings that made it too hard to focus on work. I would start each work day by looking up the breakfast and lunch menus for the entire upcoming week, a behavior that never crossed my mind when I was bulking or in the first 6 weeks of my cut. After reading articles on getting through long cuts, I learned that prolonged calorie deficits cause changes in the body's hormone levels. In particular, leptin levels drop and lead to increased hunger and cravings. These articles suggested taking a full diet break for at least a week to restore leptin before going into a deficit again. So I took a cheat week where I ate everything I had been craving, including a tour of every cafe at my regional office where I ate 1 of each dessert, and did significantly less cardio. The extra carbs I ate being stored as glycogen and retaining water explain why my lean mass was measured at 120 lbs on 6/25, despite having been just 113 lbs 5 weeks earlier. After the cheat week, I went back into a deficit but added a weekly refeed day.
For extra protein I ate Quest bars and Quest chips.

Ending Numbers

Now for the painful part.
July 2019
Bodyweight 135
Squat 285x5
Bench 185x5
Deadlift 335x5
OHP 105x5
Joker sets were 315x1 squat, 385x1 deadlift, and 115x1 OHP. My strength dropped a lot at the start, then kept sliding down for the first 2 leader cycles before staying steady during the anchor cycle and the following leader.

Thoughts and Takeaways

This was my first real cut, and it was pretty eye-opening. I had done keto before to drop from 155 lbs to 125 lbs in 3 months when I wasn't doing barbell exercises, and it felt pretty easy. In hindsight, that's probably because my body fat percentage hadn't gotten low enough to get to the difficult part. As low as 125 lbs sounds, I still didn't look as lean as I do now. This time around I expected it to be just as easy so I didn't take the cut completely seriously until I got that scan on 5/21 showing I had dropped just 7 lbs of fat, and less than 3% from my body fat percentage. That seemed like abysmal progress considering that my lifts had already dropped 10-15% by then. From there I did a lot more reading and found out how to take the EC stack and the effect of low intensity cardio. When my lift numbers and lean mass fell off a cliff, I learned about how much glycogen and water is stored in the muscles and how important they are for athletic performance. When I plateaued and started experiencing intense cravings, I learned about the role of diet breaks and refeeds in regulating hormone levels to keep a cut going beyond 10 weeks.
When I got my final scan back showing that I had only dropped from 12.2% to 11.8% in a month, it confirmed everything I read about how difficult it was to reach single-digit percentages. Getting there would have take more frequent and longer diet breaks, more refeeds, and significant loss of lean mass for each pound of fat loss. I had already reached the 10 - 15% range with plenty of room for a bulk without going over 15%, and with a powerlifting meet coming up in 3 months, I couldn't justify staying on a cut any longer.
For my next cut, I'll start with the EC stack from the beginning and won't do as much cardio. I did far more than suggested anywhere and got a lot of Netflix/reading done on the treadmill, but it just made me hungrier and I ate back the calories. I could also try keeping carbs high on lifting days.
Though I lost a lot of strength and some muscle mass, I know from my experience coming back from injury that regaining my losses will be very easy. And now that I'm in the body fat range optimal for bulking, I've put myself in the best position for making future gains too.
The best part? Never having to do a prolonged cut from >15% body fat again. I'm still not sure whether the unpleasantness came from reaching a certain body fat percentage or from the length of the deficit. If it's the latter, then as long as I never get above 15%, future cuts will be short enough to avoid the metabolic adaptations and cravings.

Future Plans

I could still grind out a 315 squat, but I lost my 135 OHP and 225 bench so I'd like to get back in the 1/2/3/4 club ASAP. The 405 deadlift is the only one I've never lifted before, but I don't imagine it taking long, considering I pulled a fairly easy 385 with low carbs. The next goal would be a 1000 pound powerlifting total.
I made unbelievable gains on nSuns the first time, so I'll run that for as long as my body can handle it to regain my lost strength and size. Once I stall, I'll spend the next year or two using the programming from 5/3/1 Forever. Seeing the results of Gabe Malone's year of 5/3/1 was a huge inspiration to me pre-injury, so I'd like to try it for myself. I'll experiment with different leadeanchor cycles while continuing to take monthly DEXA scans to help track my progress. The results of these scans could help answer a lot of questions I'm curious about:
submitted by MissionAwareness to Fitness [link] [comments]


2019.07.04 08:34 Marcojohnson786 Steroids for Weight Loss

What steroid is good for weight loss?

Clenbuterol is a characteristic option to Clenbuterol, its motivation is to consume fat, and it is sans ephedrine and can enable ladies to improve slender bulk, Clenbuterol goes about as a thermogenic that improves cardiovascular execution which is significant for those exceptional preparing days.

Would steroids be able to be utilized for weight reduction?

You may believe that steroids are useful for helping you to develop muscle during a building cycle. In any case, the smart thing about steroids in the event that you need to hazard calling them ‘shrewd’ – is that they do can possibly consume gut fat.
Truth be told, steroids are frequently used during slicing cycles to help ensure slender bulk and increment fat consume (by diminishing put away muscle versus fat) – leaving you looking fit, cut and characterized.
What’s more, would it be advisable for you to stack them? Well… with the correct combo, you can turbocharge your fat misfortune and accomplish a tore body in as meager as 30 days.
NOTE: ladies ought to NEVER stack steroids. Not except if they need to create facial hair, more profound voices, and experience going bald (because of its high androgenic impacts). The best weight reduction steroids for females are Anvarol, Winsol, and Clenbuterol, despite the fact that these should at present be utilized without anyone else during cutting.

Advantages of utilizing steroids for weight reduction

The hypothesis behind this isn’t unreasonable. Indeed, anabolic steroids are essentially used to enable you to develop more muscle. Nonetheless, this is just accomplished by expanding the measure of fat your body consumes. What’s more, the less muscle versus fat you have, the lighter you will be – bingo.
However, this isn’t the main advantage you can involvement from utilizing steroids to move those abundance pounds:
Steroids can help the nearness of red platelets in your body, guaranteeing your organs get additional oxygen and supplements. This blend can improve your vitality and stamina as well as your quality. Also, this is significant, as the more weight you can lift, the more calories you’ll consume. What’s more, the more calories you consume, the more weight you’ll lose.
A few steroids can lift water weight reduction – which is flawless on the off chance that you experience the ill effects of water maintenance.
Steroids can expand your rate of digestion, empowering a higher rate of fat misfortune.
A few steroids empower midsection fat misfortune – something even non-exercise center goers/standard Joe’s will love – as nobody needs a flimsy stomach.
Presently, you may believe that the greatest promoters for this kind of weight reduction are jocks who are attempting to cut. Also, it’s actual – the way that these steroids can secure the muscles you’ve obtained during building implies you can unquestionably go into a calorie lacking, consume fat and leave with the fit, shake hard abs. However, they are not by any means the only people who can profit…
Truth be told, steroids could seemingly assist anybody with losing weight.
Truly, not all calorie counters will need to assemble muscle while shedding pounds. In any case, where this additional slender bulk goes is altogether up to you.
There is a motivation behind why you see such a significant number of weight lifters with thick upper arms and stick slight legs! They have invested so much energy building their arms, however, they’ve skipped/disregarded their leg days. What’s more, this absence of activity appears! In particular, in the presence of ugly twiglet legs that look unequipped for conveying their bodies. In any case, it doesn’t need to be like this…
Contingent upon your body type and exercise routine, with the correct steroid combo, it is conceivable to control the appropriation of this muscle, abstain from picking up weight lifter type muscles – and accomplish a physically thin, slender casing that isn’t excessively built. Much more critically, do it right and you can profit by a lot of fat/weight reduction in merely weeks.

How Does Steroids Help You Lose Weight?

Steroids undoubtedly can be utilized to get in shape, yet there is certifiably not a solitary assurance for wellbeing.
For the starters, steroids improve your exercise aptitudes through which the genuine weight reduction occurs.
Ordinarily, it would take you 7-8 months to consume 12 pounds of weight under a severe eating routine arrangement, yet with steroids, you can lose as much as 20 pounds inside 2-3 months.
At that point come different parts of weight reduction, diminished cortisol level which steroids do by improving the degree of Testosterone in your body.
Cortisol is a hormone which is related to pressure eating and causes you to expend a superfluous measure of sustenance.
At the point when the degree of Testosterone in your body raises the common fat consuming procedure goes on and it eradicates the cortisol level which stops you from intemperate eating.
Cutting steroids like Clenbuterol and Anavar are known to cause the accompanying impacts which result in quick weight reduction.
Improved BMI (Basic Metabolic Rate)
The decline in Water Retention
Increment Fat Burning Hormone
Best Fat Burner Stack
For men, the utilization of any of the steroid referenced above can prompt a successful weight reduction.

Cutting Stack for Weight Loss

In any case, on the off chance that you need to accelerate the procedure, you can consolidate all these 4 steroids for the most extreme outcomes, and furthermore, prepare yourself for the hazardous results.
Best weight reduction stack for ladies ought to be Clenbuterol and Anavar in light of the fact that Testosterone isn’t suggested for female use. As a lady, you would prefer not to build up a man like highlights which might be risky and destructive for your life purposes.
Clen and Anavar are the main two anabolic steroids, which thought about more secure for female use.

What Are The Best Steroids to Lose Belly Fat?

On the off chance that you need to chop down the paunch fats, ensure you deal with the Cortisol level, which is for the most part in charge of the stomach fat.
Considering lessening the Cortisol level, Anavar, Clenbuterol, and Winstrol are famous to diminish the Cortisol level and henceforth improve the stomach district appearance by obstructing the fat aggregation.
At the point when there is no Cortisol in your body, 99% possibilities that you will eat lesser than expected and henceforth consume the rest of the calories stored in your gut with the assistance of steroids.

Symptoms of Steroid for Weight Loss

One of the enormous drawbacks to every anabolic steroid is that they are infamous for causing symptoms. Conceded Anavar and Winstrol aren’t the most exceedingly awful wrongdoers out there, yet given a large portion of the opportunity they can at present reason basic frightful responses.
I need to surrender you the heads, so look at the steroids for weight reduction symptoms:
In any case, that is not all.
What you need to recall about Clenbuterol is that is anything but an anabolic steroid. This implies its reactions are an entirely unexpected ball game.
Clenbuterol can expedite any of the accompanying unfriendly responses:
“Is injectable Winstrol better for the liver?”
Any reasonable person would agree typically steroids in the injectable structure are not normally harmful to the liver. Notwithstanding, this isn’t the situation for Winstrol.
The mixes for the two types of Winstrol are made the very same way. This implies whether you neck it or juice it the medication is going to give your liver some sorrow.

What Are Fat Burning Foods?

Give me a chance to make one thing straight before us commencement.
There are no fat consuming nourishments that will empower you to lose fat alone. Reality.
There’s a normally accepted legend that nourishment, for example, celery are ‘negative calorie sustenance’, for example, the body utilizes more vitality processing them than is really contained inside the vegetables themselves.
Lamentably, no sustenance has these properties.
Here’s a reality:
Devour a larger number of calories than you use, and you will put on weight.
It truly is that basic.
They key is to watch the eating regimen and get some activity.
Pursue this and you will get more fit.
In any case, tune in:
On the off chance that you select the best fat consuming nourishment, you are supercharging weight reduction! Truly!
These miracles of nature enable the body to consume, procedure and hinder fat; while others really make you feel full snappier so you are not striking the refrigerator!

How Do Fat Burning Foods Work?

All in all, fat consuming sustenance for people to work in three fundamental ways:

Lift Metabolism

Your body resembles a vehicle motor. For it to work it needs fuel.
Perusing this article, it’s simply sitting over. Be that as it may, boosting digestion is equivalent to squeezing your foot down hard on the gas pedal!
Some fat consuming nourishments increment the BMR (basal metabolic rate) which means your body is working in extra time – it needs more fuel.
It discovers this is your fat stores!
This prompts more calories being singed and you looking fantastic.

Smother Appetite

There’s nothing more terrible than attempting to watch the eating routine, however, enduring the agony of being ravenous between dinners.
Many fats consuming sustenance are craving suppressants, they empower the body to feel fulfilled for more.
This implies no all the more going after tidbits and including futile calories!
Increment Lipolysis and Decrease Lipogenesis
Fat consuming sustenance tape
Lipolysis depicts the capacity of the body to separate fat stores.3
Get this:
There are some awesome normal fat terminators which increment the rate of lipolysis, implying that the body is in the ideal fat shedding state!
There’s additional:
Lipogenesis is the manner in which the body structures fat. The best fat consuming nourishments can hinder this procedure, which means less fat is made.
A mix of these two makes for a genuine fat shedding machine!
So now how about we take a gander at the best fat consuming sustenance and beverages.

What Are the 10 Best Fat Burning Foods?

This is the thing that you are here for!
How about we not squander any additional time and get down to the genuine business! I’ve assembled a rundown of fat consuming sustenance!

1 Cayenne Pepper

Fat consuming nourishments cayenne
This nourishment is wonderful as it very well may be utilized in for all intents and purposes any supper!
Also, trust me, this current one’s a genuine fat terminator!
Studies have demonstrated that cayenne pepper raises the inner temperature of the body (thermogenic), which thus raises BMR meaning you consume fat.
Be that as it may, there’s additional:
Cayenne pepper is a genuinely amazing hunger suppressant. Sprinkle on your dishes and you won’t be enticed to eat again until your next dinner! 4
This truly is one of the nourishment that consumes fat quickly.

2 Grapefruit

A staple of any eating regimen!
For quite a while, grapefruit was prescribed as a decent begin to the day because of its cancer prevention agent properties and low-calorie check.
In any case, ponders have since demonstrated that it promotes weight reduction!
Grapefruit contains naringenin, a flavonoid with extremely ground-breaking properties.
Tune in up:
Research has demonstrated that naringenin decreases insulin affectability and lessens fat creation – which means in addition to the fact that you are less inclined to get a doughnut to sustain sugar yearnings, yet the body will be repressed from making increasingly pointless pounds! 5

3 Cinnamon

Fat consuming nourishments cinnamon
Like cayenne, another fat consuming nourishment that can be added to generally suppers!
For instance, it’s extraordinary on oat, a zest for meat or even just flew into that morning espresso!
Cinnamon supports BMR, sending your digestion into overdrive and consuming fat.

4 Tuna

This fish is extraordinary in two principle ways.
To start with, it’s an awesome wellspring of protein.
Related to your activity schedule, this protein will lift muscle development. We are not taking mass like extents here, however, you will simply look conditioned and tight!
Furthermore, fish is high in omega-3 acids. These unsaturated fats have been appeared in preliminaries to diminish paunch fat!
So pounds drop and all that is left is tight fit muscle!

5 Green Tea

Fat consuming sustenance green tea
A genuine fat consuming superfood!
In addition to the fact that it tastes extraordinary and is loaded with cancer prevention agents, however, green tea has additionally reliably been appeared in preliminaries to shed the fat! 8
Make green tea your beverage of decision for the duration of the day, and it will:
Lift BMR – consuming those fat cells.
Increment fat oxidation – fat cells separate and can without much of a stretch be shed.
Stifle hunger – the delicate caffeine impact implies you stay satisfied!

6 Chocolate

Truly, you read that right!
Chocolate can enable you to get in shape!
In any case, be cautious:
Pick dim chocolate with a cocoa substance of 70 – 80%.
It’s an awesome wellspring of polyphenols which increment metabolic rate and consume fat!
Likewise, it’s as amazing as a craving suppressant, that reviews have indicated simply smelling it makes you feel full!

7 Coconut Oil

Fat consuming sustenance coconut
It’s turned out to be progressively chic to utilize coconut oil in cooking, and as it should be!
This oil is high in medium-chain triacylglycerols which contain many fewer calories than different fats.
Preferably, the oil ought to be constrained when hoping to get in shape, however you need a few treats, isn’t that so?
Get this:
Preliminaries have demonstrated that coconut oil definitely improves weight reduction contrasted with the past top pick, olive oil.

8 Almonds

Regardless of eating hunger stifling sustenance as recorded above, despite everything you may get a mind-boggling bite assault that won’t leave!
On the off chance that that is the situation, nibble on almonds! These astounding nuts make you feel fuller for more, avert ingestion of certain fats and have been demonstrated in preliminaries to diminish weight!

9 Oysters

Not only a Spanish fly!
Clams contain incredibly large amounts of zinc.
It has appeared large individuals have low degrees of zinc. Not exclusively can zinc fulfill the hunger however it diminishes the sugar needing impacts of insulin?

10 Garlic

Fat consuming sustenance garlic
One of my preferred fixings! Also, one of the best fat for consuming vegetables!
Normally, it adds unfathomable flavor to your dishes, yet additionally, it’s an astonishing fat consuming nourishment.
An ongoing report demonstrated that garlic can work to both consume fat and counteract new fat amassing!
submitted by Marcojohnson786 to WeightLossFoods [link] [comments]


2018.12.04 05:08 AvrieyinKyrgrimm I am ready to start my weight loss journey

I want to give a bit of background before asking for advice. I have diagnosed Bipolar II, which means that I had to have bloodwork done to check my thyroid. Behavioral symptoms of thyroid issues can manifest very similarly to those of Bipolar. My bloodwork came back normal. I saw this subreddit not too long ago, and after reading some posts, I finally became inspired to get to work, and I feel I can get some support here.
When I get stressed or go through periods of heavy anxiety, I lose insane weight. In September of 2017 I weighed about 175lbs (5'2"), and by February of 2018 I was down to 145lbs without changing my diet much (I did cut out sugars and anything ending in -ose and many carbs). In April of 2018 I went through a bad breakup and moved back to my home state. The resulting acute depression period from that caused me to gain rapidly. I went from 145lbs to 185lbs, which is the most I've ever weighed. I am extremely unhappy with how I look, but otherwise things are going good in my life. My mental health is the best it's been in years and I have healthy coping mechanisms to deal with my stress, I just fluctuate weight too much and some times my diet worsens a little in times of depression. For some reason, I have friends who tell me not to change and that they like me for how I look. My boyfriend says that I'm beautiful. But, I keep telling them that it's very supportive of them to encourage me that I am a beautiful person, but if I am unhappy with the way that I look, than it would benefit my mental (and physical) health to change.
I am not considering following any specific diet, but I have already cut out processed sugars (anything ending in -ose) and replaced them with agave or honey, and I hate eating anything that isn't whole grain or a vegetable substitute for pasta. While I have incorporated these ideals over the past few years, I don't always eat healthy, I just prefer those items. But, because I take care of certain family I have to cater to their dietary preferences a lot of the time and don't make a lot of better ingredients available to myself. I also have a very high protein intake: I eat a lot of white meat and fish. I do not like red meat or pork. I really need to eat more vegetables and fruits.
I've decided to kick start this journey by getting some vitamins. I got green tea (supplements) and psyllium husk. I heard caffeine is great for curbing appetite but I don't use a lot of dairy, so I prefer tea (about 3 cups a day/only one cup with added caffeine). I tried to look up some other good supplements but I actually came across several websites advising me to take ephedrine which I didn't think was appropriate. I want something that'll really boost my metabolism when it is slow. What do you guys think?
Also, what are some tips on starting out? Do I really need to count calories? I know I should have around 6 meals a day but I have no idea on how to start planning this out. Normally, when I try to start these kicks, I just completely cut the junk and stress does the rest, but then I eat for comfort when I go through a really rough change. I want to incorporate exercise, as well, because I am sure this weight fluctuation is not good on my heart. Eventually, I want to get to a point where I can begin toning and really enjoying working out again. I was once really, really thin.
All advise needed. Thanks for reading!
Edit: Am 24 y/o female.
submitted by AvrieyinKyrgrimm to loseit [link] [comments]


2017.08.06 20:46 Ayy_bby **Long read** Extremely insightful interview on PEDs and the athletes that use them with a PED dealer, who has ties with Olympic gold medalists and champion boxers Juan Manuel Marquez and Jorge Arce

German speakers original piece: http://www.spiegel.de/spiegel/0,1518,571031,00.html
Where I got it from: http://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/index.php?threads/probably-the-best-ped-insights-you-will-ever-see-in-this-interview.412846/
START
11.08.2008
Angel Heredia, once a doping dealer and now a chief witness for the U.S. Justice Department, talks about the powerlessness of the investigators, the motives of athletes who cheat and the drugs of the future.
He had been in hiding under an assumed name in a hotel in Laredo, Texas, for two years when the FBI finally caught up with him. The agents wanted to know from Angel Heredia if he knew a coach by the name of Trevor Graham, whether he carried the nickname "Memo", and what he knew about doping. "No", "no", "nothing" – those were his replies. But then the agents laid the transcripts of 160 wiretapped telephone conversations on the table, as well as the e-mails and the bank statements. That’s when Angel "Memo" Heredia knew that he had lost. He decided to cooperate, and he also knew that he would only have a chance if he didn’t lie – not a single time. "He’s telling the truth," the investigators say about Heredia today.
SPIEGEL: Mr. Heredia, will you watch the 100 meter final in Beijing?
Heredia: Of course. But the winner will not be clean. Not even any of the contestants will be clean.
SPIEGEL: Of eight runners ...
Heredia: ... eight will be doped.
SPIEGEL: There is no way to prove that.
Heredia: There is no doubt about it. The difference between 10.0 and 9.7 seconds is the drugs.
SPIEGEL: Can drugs make anyone into a world record holder?
Heredia: No, that is a misapprehension: "You take a couple of tablets today and tomorrow you can really fly." In reality you have to train inconceivably hard, be very talented and have a perfect team of trainers and support staff. And then it is the best drugs that make the difference. It is all a great composition, a symphony. Everything is linked together, do you understand? And drugs have a long-term effect: they ensure that you can recover, that you avoid the catabolic phases. Volleyball on the beach might be healthy, but peak athletics is not healthy. You destroy your body. Marion Jones, for example ...
SPIEGEL: ... five-time Olympic medallist at Sydney 2000 ...
Heredia: ... trained with an unparalleled intensity. Drugs protect you from injury. And she triumphed and picked up all the medals.
SPIEGEL: Are you proud?
Heredia: Of course, I still am. It is still a tremendous achievement, and you must not believe that Marion’s rivals were poor, deceived competitors.
SPIEGEL: This isn’t just an American problem?
Heredia: Are you kidding me? No. All countries, all federations, all top athletes are affected, and among those responsible are the big shoe companies like Nike and Adidas. I know athletes who broke records; a year later they were injured and they got the call: "We’re cutting your sponsorship money by 50 percent." What do you think such athletes then do?
SPIEGEL: Tell us what you did for your clients.
Heredia: Athletes hear rumors and they become worried. That the competition has other tricks, that they might get caught when they travel. There is no room for mistakes. One mistake can ruin a career.
SPIEGEL: So you became a therapist for the athletes in matters of drugs?
Heredia: More like a coach. Together we found out what was good for which body and what the decomposition times were. I designed schedules for cocktails and regimens that depended on the money the athletes offered me. Street drugs for little money, designer drugs for tens of thousands. Usually I sent the drugs by mail, but sometimes the athletes came to me.
SPIEGEL: With Marion Jones ...
Heredia: ... it was about the recovery phases. In 2000 she competed in one event after another, and she needed to relax. I gave her epo, growth hormone, adrenaline injections, insulin. Insulin helps after training, together with protein drinks: insulin transports protein and minerals more quickly through the cell membrane.
SPIEGEL: Jones was afraid of needles.
Heredia: Yes, that’s why C. J. Hunter, her husband at the time, and her trainer Trevor Graham mixed her three substances in one injection. I advised them against it because I thought it was risky.
SPIEGEL: What kind of relationship did you have with your athletes?
Heredia: Business ties. It was all about levels and dosing. I rarely spoke with Marion. It was done through her coaches.
Part II: How Heredia outwitted the drug testers and became the dealer to the world’s best athletes.
SPIEGEL: Was there a doping cycle?
Heredia: Yes. When the season ended in October, we waited for a couple of weeks for the body to cleanse itself. Then in November, we loaded growth hormone and epo, and twice a week we examined the body to make sure that no lumps were forming in the blood. Then we gave testosterone shots. This first program lasted eight to ten weeks, then we took a break.
SPIEGEL: And then the goals for the season were established?
Heredia: Yes, that depended on the athlete. Some wanted to run a good time in April to win contracts for the tournaments. Others focused on nothing but the trials, the U.S. qualification for international championships. Others cared only about the Olympics. Then we set the countdown for the goal in question, and the next cycle began. I had to know my athletes well and have an overview of what federation tested with which methods.
SPIEGEL: Where does one get this information?
Heredia: Vigilance. Informers.
SPIEGEL: You were once a good discus thrower yourself.
Heredia: Very good in Mexico, but very average by international standards. I had played soccer, boxed and done karate before I ended up in track and field. At 13 or 14 I believed in clean sports. Doping was a crime to me; back then I even asked my father if I could take aspirin.
SPIEGEL: Why did you begin doping?
Heredia: Like all athletes: because others were doing it. All of a sudden, kids that I used to beat were throwing ten meters further. Then I had an injury but I wanted to qualify for the Olympic team anyway. Doping became to me what it is for most athletes: part of the sport. If you train for 12 hours today and your trainer expects you to train for 12 hours again tomorrow, you dope. Otherwise you can’t do it.
SPIEGEL: What did you take?
Heredia: Growth hormone. Testosterone.
SPIEGEL: But you failed to qualify for the Olympics anyway.
Heredia: Yes, but I read anything I could find about medicine, spoke with other athletes, and soon people were saying: Angel knows how it’s done. He knows how to pass the tests. The first athletes began to ask me for advice. That’s how it started, and at some point the trainer Trevor Graham asked me if I could help him. I explained to him how epo works, and I was in business.
SPIEGEL: What qualified you for the role of dealer to the world’s best athletes?
Heredia: My father is a chemistry professor. I love chemistry, and I was an athlete. My role was an obsession. For example, I learned everything about testosterone: that there is a type of testosterone with a high half-life and another that works very quickly. I learned that you can rub it in, take it orally, inject it. It became a kick: I was allowed to work with the best of the best, and I made them even better.
SPIEGEL: And how did you become the best in your world?
Heredia: With precision. You want an example? Everyone talks about epo. Epo is fashionable. But without adding iron, epo only works half as well. That’s the kind of thing you have to know. There are oxygen carriers that make epo work incredibly fast – they are actually better than epo alone. I call my drug "Epo Boost." I inject it and it releases many tiny oxygen molecules throughout the body. In that way you increase the effect of epo by a factor of ten.
SPIEGEL: Do you have any other secrets?
Heredia: Oh yes, of course. There are tablets for the kidneys that block the metabolites of steroids, so when athletes give a urine sample, they don’t excrete the metabolites and thus test negative. Or there is an enzyme that slowly consumes proteins - epo has protein structures, and the enzyme thus ensures that the B sample of the doping test has a completely different value than the A sample. Then there are chemicals that you take a couple of hours before the race that prevent acidification in the muscles. Together with epo they are an absolute miracle. I’ve created 20 different drugs that are still undetectable for the doping testers.
SPIEGEL: What trainers have you worked together with?
Heredia: Particularly with Trevor Graham.
SPIEGEL: Graham has a lifetime ban because he purportedly helped Marion Jones, Tim Montgomery, Justin Gatlin and many others to cheat. Who else?
Heredia: With Winthrop Graham, his cousin. With John Smith, Maurice Greene’s coach. With Raymond Stewart, the Jamaican. With Dennis Mitchell ...
SPIEGEL: ... who won gold in the 4 x 100 meters in 1992 and today is a coach. How did the collaboration work?
Heredia: It’s a small world. It gets around who can provide you with something how quickly and at what price, who is discreet. The coaches approached me and asked if I could help them, and I said: yes. Then they gave me money, $15,000 or thereabouts, we got a first shipment and then we did business. At some point it led to one-on-one cooperation with the athletes.
SPIEGEL: Was there a regimen of sorts?
Heredia: Yes. I always combined several things. For example, I had one substance called actovison that increased blood circulation – not detectable. That was good from a health standpoint and even better from a competitive standpoint. Then we had the growth factors IGF-1 and IGF-2. And epo. Epo increases the number of red blood cells and thus the transportation of oxygen, which is the key for every athlete: the athlete wants to recover quickly, keep the load at a constantly high level and achieve a constant performance.
SPIEGEL: Once again: a constant performance at the world-class level is unthinkable without doping?
Heredia: Correct. 400 meters in 44 seconds? Unthinkable. 71 meters with a discus? No way. You might be able to run 100 meters in 9.8 seconds once with a tailwind. But ten times a year under 10 seconds, in the rain or heat? Only with doping.

Part III: "If he maintains he is clean, I can only answer that that is a lie."

SPIEGEL: Testosterone, growth hormone, epo – that was your combination?
Heredia: Yes, with individual variations. And then amazing things are possible. In 2002 Jerome Young was ranked number 38 in the 400 meters. Then we began to work together, and in 2003 he won almost every big race.
SPIEGEL: How were you paid?
Heredia: I had an annual wage. For big wins I got a $40,000 bonus.
SPIEGEL: Your athletes have won 26 Olympic medals. How much money did you earn?
Heredia: I can’t answer that due to the investigations. But let’s put it this way: 16 to 18 successful athletes each year at between $15,000 and $20,000 per athlete. I had a good run. I had a good life.
SPIEGEL: Did you live in the shadows of the sports world, where no one was allowed to see you?
Heredia: No. I rarely traveled to the big events, but that was because of jealousy: the Americans didn’t want me to work with the Jamaicans and vice versa. But shadows? No. It was one big chain, from athletes to agents to sponsors, and I was part of it. But everyone knew how the game worked. Everyone wanted it to be this way, because everyone got rich off it.
SPIEGEL: Which agents do you mean?
Heredia: The big marketers – Robert Wagner, for example – who support the athletes and want to get them into top form because they place the athletes at the track meetings.
The Austrian marketer Wagner, founder of World Athletics Management, wrote last Thursday in an e-mail to SPIEGEL, that he "never doped athletes" or "supported and promoted" doping. And Angel Heredia, the chief witness, sat in an office in New York, an athletic man in a black shirt, still in excellent shape, and wrote down names on a sheet of paper. 41 track and field athletes, he said, were his clients, as well as boxers, soccer players and cross-country skiers. His Jamaicans: Raymond Stewart, Beverly McDonald, Brandon Simpson. From the Bahamas: Chandra Sturrup. A couple of his Americans: Jerome Young, Antonio Pettigrew, Tim Montgomery, Duane Ross, Michelle Collins, Marion Jones, C. J. Hunter, Ramon Clay, Dennis Mitchell, Joshua J. Johnson, Randall Evans, Justin Gatlin, Maurice Greene. Some of those named by Heredia have been caught doping. Others have admitted to doping, while still others deny it.
SPIEGEL: Maurice Greene? The 100 meter superstar Greene is one of the poster athletes of the Olympic movement; he swears he is clean.
Heredia: The investigations are ongoing, but if he maintains he is clean, I can only answer that that is a lie.
SPIEGEL: Can you be more specific?
Heredia: I helped him. I made a schedule for him. I equipped him.
SPIEGEL: Equipped?
Heredia: Yes, we worked together in 2003 and 2004.
SPIEGEL: Do you have receipts?
Heredia: Yes, I have a $10,000 bank transfer receipt, for example.
SPIEGEL: Greene says he spent that money on friends.
Heredia: I know that’s not true.
SPIEGEL: What did Greene, who denies having doped, get from you?
Heredia: IGF-1 and IGF-2, epo and ATP – that stands for adenosine triphosphate, which intensifies muscle contraction.
SPIEGEL: Undetectable for testers?
Heredia: Undetectable. We’ve used ointments that do not leave any traces and that enable a consistently high testosterone level in athletes.
SPIEGEL: Is there doping at every level of athletics?
Heredia: Yes, the only difference is the quality of the doping. Athletes with little money use simple steroids and hope they don’t get tested. The stars earn 50,000 dollars a month, not including starting bonuses and shoe sponsorship contracts. The very best invest 100,000 dollars – I’ll then build you a designer drug that can’t be detected.
SPIEGEL: Explain how this works.
Heredia: Designer drugs are composed of several different chemicals that trigger the desired reaction. At the end of the chain I change one or two molecules in such a way that the entire structure is undetectable for the doping testers.
SPIEGEL: The drug testers’ hunt of athletes ...
Heredia: ... is also a sport. A competition. Pure adrenaline. We have to be one or two years ahead of them. We have to know which drug is entering research where, which animals it is being used in, and where we can get it. And we have to be familiar with the testers’ methods.
SPIEGEL: Can the testers win this race?
Heredia: Theoretically yes. If all federations and sponsors and managers and athletes and trainers were all in agreement, if they were to invest all the money that the sport generates and if every athlete were to be tested twice a week – but only then. What’s happening now is laughable. It’s a token. They should save their money – or give it to me. I’ll give it to the orphans of Mexico! There will be doping for as long as there is commercial sports, performance-related shoe contracts and television contracts.

Part IV: "Peak performances without doping are a fairytale."

SPIEGEL: So the idea that sports are a fair competition within established rules actually died long ago?
Heredia: Yes, of course. Unless we were to go back to ancient times. Without television, without Adidas and Nike. It’s obvious: if you finish in 8th place at a big event, you get $5,000; if you finish first you get $100,000. Athletes think about this. Then they think that everyone else dopes anyway, and they are right. And you think athletes believe in morals and ideals? Peak performances without doping are a fairytale, my friend.
SPIEGEL: Do you advocate the authorization of doping?
Heredia: No, but I believe we should authorize the use of epo, IGF and testosterone, as well as adrenaline and epitestosterone – substances that the body produces itself. Simply for pragmatic reasons, because it is impossible to detect them, and also because of the fairness aspect.
SPIEGEL: Are you serious: fairness?
Heredia: Yes. Take for example the most popular drug: epo. Epo changes the hemoglobin value, and it is simply the case that people have different hemoglobin levels. Authorizing the use of epo would enable the fairness and equality that supposedly everyone wants. After all, there are genetic differences between athletes.
SPIEGEL: Differences between living things are called nature. You want to make all athletes the same through doping?
Heredia: Normal athletes have a level of 3 nanograms of testosterone per milliliter of blood; the sprinter Tim Montgomery has 3 nanograms, but Maurice Greene has 9 nanograms. So what can Tim do? It isn’t doping with endogenous substances that’s unfair, it is nature that’s unfair.
SPIEGEL: And what would you ban?
Heredia: Everything else that can be dangerous. Amphetamines? Ban them. Steroids? Ban them.
SPIEGEL: Are there still any clean disciplines?
Heredia: Track and field, swimming, cross-country skiing and cycling can no longer be saved. Golf? Not clean either. Soccer? Soccer players come to me and say they have to be able to run up and down the touchline without becoming tired, and they have to play every three days. Basketball players take fat burners – amphetamines, ephedrin. Baseball? Haha. Steroids in pre-season, amphetamines during the games. Even archers take downers so that their arm remains steady. Everyone dopes.
SPIEGEL: Did you produce the drugs yourself, or did you simply procure them?
Heredia: I didn’t have my own laboratory, I had… let’s say access to labs in Mexico City. I purchased and procured the raw materials ...
SPIEGEL: ... from where?
Heredia: Everywhere. Australia, South Africa, Austria, Bulgaria, China. I got growth hormone from the Swiss company Serono. It was never difficult to import it to Mexico, because the laws aren’t that strict. You can easily buy it in pharmacies in Mexico. Whenever a new drug was entering the test phase somewhere in the world, we knew about it and we ordered it. Then I combined substances. Sometimes I produced a gel.
SPIEGEL: Did you ever take the doping testers seriously?
Heredia: No, we laughed at them. Today, of course, it is the testers who are laughing.
SPIEGEL: How do you make a living today?
Heredia: I still have a little bit of money. I’m studying again. I want to become a pharmacist. That’s my dream, but I don’t know if I’ll find a job, if I will be charged, if I will be deported, or where I’ll go. I don’t have a life anymore. I walk around and make sure no one is following me. But compared to Jerome Young I’m doing okay.
SPIEGEL: What is the 2003 world champion doing today?
Heredia: He’s 31 years old, and he sits in a truck and delivers bread. People say he broke the laws of the sport, but that’s not true: it was exactly these rules that Jerome followed.
END
From the guy that said he saved this translated interview...
Edit: Not sure if people will keep reading through the thread, so I will post these related articles brought in a later post closer to the OP.
Some suplemental reading to corroborate the material already posted in the thread.
This article has probably been posted or quoted in this forum but for those who still didn't read it Howman: Reform needed in anti-doping fight http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/howman-reform-needed-in-anti-doping-fight
Much of what is in this article supports what was said in the Heredia interview back in 2008.
Now another very interesting interview done by Spiegel. Richard Pond, the interviewee is a former WADA president. Not as deep as the Heredia one, but he gives a few good insights into the doping mafia. Heredia is also mentioned in it.
http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/0,1518,593937,00.html
as suggested by middleclasshomeless deadspit article about Heredia and Marquez (some mentions of Usain Bolt) http://deadspin.com/5857439/what-do-usain-bolt-and-juan-manuel-marquez-have-in-common-they-train-with-the-same-admitted-steroids-dealer
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C3%81ngel_Guillermo_Heredia_Hern%C3%A1ndez
Repost from last year:
https://www.reddit.com/MMA/comments/3pulwn/long_read_extremely_insightful_interview_on_peds/
submitted by Ayy_bby to MMA [link] [comments]


2014.07.07 20:25 bncayoga Supplement Help! (Appetite and Energy)

Hello!
I am looking into adding new supplements into my diet. I currently take iron and B12 and eat a pretty healthy vegetarian (almost vegan) diet. I sleep well and exercise often (yoga,running,and light weight training)
About two years ago I was taking adderal regularly, 10-20 mg rx every or every other day. I am small girl so this was plenty for me!
I have since stopped and noticed some less than desirable effects. I have way less energy (of course) and a small amount of weight gain.
I do not want to take adderal again and I am alternatives with less harmful effects. I know I will not find the same feeling else where and I am okay with that. Even a little boost in energy and focus would be lovely. I have read that choline and ephedrine are good for appetite control and energy. Note: I already drink two cups of coffee per day, caffeine does not seem to phase me much anymore, but I certainly feel it if I stop drinking it.
Can anyone suggest a good supplement or combination of supplements? Has anyone gone through a similar change? What has helped you?
Thanks for your help!
submitted by bncayoga to Supplements [link] [comments]


2013.11.05 20:30 effyoucancer ECA Stack on Keto?

Second post this afternoon but I'm full of energy, so here goes.
A few years back I was heavy into the gym and started taking an ECA stack. Feel free to google it and BE CAREFUL if you are thinking about using it.
ECA stack is: ephedrine, caffeine and aspirin.
I'm from Canada so ephedrine is easy to get a bottle of 50x 8mg pills.
Caffeine was 200mg per pill.
And a baby aspirin.
Essentially, an ECA stack kicks your energy and metabolism into high gear. This does put a strain on your heart and on your kidneys. Lots of water is recommended. I call it my 14 hour energy boost. After 14 hours I crash HARD no matter what I'm doing.
I'm curious if anyone has/is using ECA stacks in conjunction w/ Keto. Benefits? Risks? Results? Let me know if you have used it!
submitted by effyoucancer to keto [link] [comments]


2012.03.20 08:59 tabledresser [Table] IAmA: I use steroids. AMA

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Date: 2012-03-19
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Questions Answers
Hi - I'm a 35 year old survivor of testicular cancer, and I use Androgel every day in order to maintain a testosterone balance that's normal for me. It's really difficult for me to get it legally, as it's classified as a controlled substance in New York City. That's because people like you abuse it so readily. When I run out, I can't get more easily. I have to get my doctor to write a prescription and manually deliver it to the pharmacy. If it's a holiday weekend, I have to go without for several days. If I don't put the stuff on daily, I get lethargic, depressed, gain weight, feel like I'm wrapped in a wet blanket. I'm not allowed to have extra at home to pad for emergencies - like when we evacuated before a hurricane. If I'm out of town, it's really difficult to get a pharmacist in a new area to fill the prescription. I'm 6'2", 240, fairly muscular. But not like, gay bartender muscular. Whenever I go in to get a refill, a new pharmacist looks at me and thinks "sure you need this, pal." My insurance company tries to deny me for this. And when my doctor adjusts my dosage, my insurance blocks the sale until the doctor and pharmacist and insurance rep have a conference call about it. So here's my question: are you aware on any level that people like you make life a lot harder for people like me who actually need these drugs? Is this something that you never considered before, or have you thought about this carefully, and decided that your sweet biceps or whatever are more important than my day-to-day health? My father is also on TRT, like you, legally. He uses a compound pharmacy with no problems whatsoever, I'd recommend that for your shortage problem, your doc can even fax the Rx. It is the government keeping steroids at that level of illegality, write your congressman. I would also suggest that you watch a documentary called "Bigger, Faster, Stronger", it will clear up your blame game. C'mon guy, do recreational pot-users make it harder for patients to use pot for their glaucoma? Nah, it's just gov't ignorance.
Does your dad know that you use the stuff? Yes, he does. He doesn't love the idea, but he understands that they are not as dangerous as made out to be and just wants me to be responsible. Why do you ask?
One of the steroid users in the film you cite "Bigger, Faster, Stronger" ends up dying young. I'm pretty sure steroids have also been a problem/contributing factor for a lot of pro wrestlers who have used them and died young. Dependent? One only becomes dependent on supplemental testosterone if they shut-down their own endocrine system from abuse. My testosterone levels (I get tested quarterly) are what a normal man my age should be at because of responsible use.
Eh, keep in mind that chronic steroid abuse can lead to enlargement of the heart. This can and has culminated in infarcs and death. Some of the oral compounds are toxic enough to cause liver failure as well. I agree with you, they can lead to an enlarged heart, yet usually, there are other factors at play like an already large heart, steroid/drug abuse, etc which is well enough reason to not use steroids at all.
They are the most helpful, kindest, educated people in the building. Good luck and i wish you all the best in becoming what you feel is perfection. Maybe one day ill get to mine! Thanks Brother. We're all working towards perfection, different strokes.
What is your reasoning for using steroids? Personal Vanity? Fitness Competition? Sports? Vanity mostly, I like looking muscular, I like being fit.
would you be willing to post before/after photos? As I do this for vanity, I have to control myself and not become a narcissist. I hate people that take pictures of themselves bc I think it's super shallow and narcissistic. One of my big rules is not taking pictures of myself even for personal record. I know this seems to discredit me, but I don't really care, just wanted to help inform some fellow redditors.
What profession are you in that allows you copious amounts of time to devote to the gym? Also, mind sharing what your degrees are in? I'm a 9-5er. I'm a young, single guy with no kids. I have two hours per day to spend in the gym.
I like my personality as does my *gf.* I'm a young, *single guy with no kids.* Oops, yeah, I just meant not married. Single, like you would see on a w-2.
Do you think you would have been able to reach the same goals for your body without the use of steroids? Also can you just give me some general tips? I'm about 5'8" and 165lbs. I currently go to the gym a few days a week. I have been doing various exercises for my chest/back/arms etc. My arms/chest have been getting pretty toned but I just can't get rid of the flab around my belly and sides. I'm not trying to get big at all, I just want to tone down and lose the fat. Should I just minimize the weights and crank up the cardio? What exercises do you recommend and any meal plan ideas? A 6-pack is carved with a spoon and a fork, brother. Eat clean, fresh foods, slow carbs, and get at least 1g of protein per # of body weight. 5-6 meals a day. If you want to bulk, eat 300 calories above what your body needs. If you wanna cut, eat -300 cal.
If you want to get shredded, but maintain muscle, dont exceed 30 mins a day of cardio and keep it to 3-4 times a week. Bodybuilding.com has some good articles on diet, but don't get too deep in that site, lotta bro science.
Nut shrinkage? I've never had nut shrinkage.
Nut shrinkage comes from your body's response to excess testosterone in the body. Your body recognizes that there's enough in the bloodstream, so it stops production, shrinking your testicles (they come back when your cycle ends, usually 10-12 weeks).
However, there's a super safe drug called HCG (women use it for fertility and sometimes dieting) that you can take while on the steroids that keep your nuts producing, so they will stay their regular size. I use HCG on every cycle and I haven't had any noticeable shrinkage ever.
Quick question: if I used an AI and HCG would it naturally boost my testosterone levels? Yes and no. If your body is already producing at its max, then it wouldn't likely do much, just increase a little. If your body is not producing enough T, it will likely help you a lot. Many times an AI by itself is enough to being you back to a good baseline.
Haha, if you took a pregnancy test, you would read positive! I tried it once, but accidentally peed on my ipod shuffle.
Do you use only hcg or do you add nolvadex also? i'd like to pm you with some questions eventually.. I use Arimidex on cycle, nolva in case of gyno, and hcg on cycle and right before PCT of clomid and nolva.
Cool, thanks. Ever read the book "Muscle: Confessions of an Unlikely Bodybuilder"? By Sam Fussell...I think you'd like it. Heard of it, havent read it. I'll put it on my list. Thanks for the rec.
Would I see any repercussions from just using an AI on its own for 8-10 weeks (sans steroid use)? Likely not, assuming you didn't exceed 2mg per week. The only risk you run is pushing your estrogen too low and feeling like a non-sexual, depressing sack of shit.
What's most likely is that nothing will happen and you'll have wasted your money. If you think your T is low, go to your doctor and say that, he can run a blood test for you.
Out of curiosity what is AI? >some steroids are converted into estrogen by your nuts. Males need a small amount of estrogen in their bodies for normal function, our bodies don't create estrogen, it just converts it from testosterone. So, when you put large amounts of testosterone into your body, it ultimately converts a large amount into estrogen (too much). This can cause emotional problems, gynecomastia (bitch tits), and other problems. A user will take an AI Aromatase Inhibitor during a cycle to stop conversion into estrogen and maintain normal levels. Some people don't need it, but it's usually a good idea. I use it every time. Arimidex, aromasin, or letrozole are the common choices.
Where do you by them? How do most people get them? How fast can you put muscle on using them? I'm by them in the bathroom.
Illegally, mostly the way you would buy any other illicit substance, know people.
It's not really about fast, it's about quality. But, to answer your question, some steroids work as fast as 4 weeks. An agressive steroid cycle can put as much as 20 pounds of muscle on you in 8 weeks, but you risk health doing that. A proper cycle does 10-15 solid punds in 2 months, some of which is water.
There was no need for that in your answer to no.1. They clearly just made a spelling mistake. Where do you really buy them? Subtext for my facetious reply: I can't tell you.
But, most people buy steroids the same way they buy other illicit substances, they 'know someone'. Also, some people get them through international pharmacies.
Well it is an AMA not AMAA, but I've found this really interesting so thanks for replying. Good point, I will make the change.
What are the side effects you are having? Are you using prescription or off-the-street steroids? Do you recommend what you do to everyone? The only negative side effects I've ever had was a little oilier skin and a touch of acne. I use acne body wash and facewash, so that takes care of that. When I cycle off the steroids (cycles usually are 8-12 weeks), I feel a little lethargic and tired, but I'm back to normal in a week or two. Side effects are dependent on which steroids you use, dosage, and if you're prone to things like acne, balding etc. If you are responsible and do your research, you can avoid most side effects.
Most Steroids are made in underground labs either here or overseas. It's important to have a good source, after all, you're putting this shit in your body.
I do not recommend what I do to everyone, especially those under 24 years old. There are ways to responsibly use steroids. It takes years of training, a perfect diet, and intense research before steroids can be effective. It's not an instant muscle drug, you must work for everything you do.
Regarding #3: you say you don't recommend it to those under 24... you're 25. How long have you been using it? And why not for anyone under 24? I've been using steroids for three years. I jumped the gun a bit. from ages 12-23, your body is chock-full of steroids and you can get steroidal results w/o the drug. Also, if you take steroids when still developing, you risk ruining your endocrine system for life. You would be on 'steroids' until you die, just to feel normal. That's steroid abuse and irresponsible and it's very real.
May I, for the sake of health of anyone reading this thread, point out that my bullshit-meter detects an awful lot of broscience? As mentioned in other threads, there is very little hard data on steroid use bc it is considered such a dangerous drug and few studies are done. I do my best to keep up with the science and trends behind steroid use and best practices. If you find anything to be inaccurate, please point it out, I'm excited to learn more and happy this can be a two-way street. I am offering what I have learned over the years in research on the web, medical journals, from anti-aging clinics as well as from my doctor and personal experience.
Thanks for this IAMA. I think 30 years from now society will look back on steroids and realize how great they can be with proper usage. I dont think steroids will ever be accepted. Figuratively speaking, the gov't doesn't want citizens stronger than cops. But I do agree that the danger of steroids is blown enormously out of proportion.
I've never used them but I'm open to it. What are the best resources to learn enough to use them responsibly? Feel free to pm if you don't want that info out there. There are plenty of good resources out there, just google. You will be reading a lot of forums. protip: don't believe everything you read, lotta bro science out there, try to reference any scientific studies if possible. Do at least 6 hard months of research before committing to anything. Also, I do not advocate the use of steroids.
Cops are some of the bigger abusers of steroids out there. Yes and Yes. Especially Swat, notorious steroid users.
It's kind of interesting the difference in attitudes between hormonal supplementation for women vs. men. Steroid use for women is MUCH different, I know very little about it.
So...your expertise and understanding of the human endocrine system comes from researching internet forums? Did you make sure to cross reference wikipedia? :) Haha, fair enough, even I think that sounds sketcho. Regardless, there is actually very little solid data on steroid use, so most of it is anecdotal and what I've discussed with my doc and other users. The majority has been medical journals and forums.
Out of curiosity, what are your degrees in? I have a degree in nutrition and my MBA.
I was thinking more along the lines of estrogen, HRT, and birth control rather than anabolic usage for women. Oh, yeah. It's a totally different world. I'm glad it's happening though. Without much information on anabolic use available, we can take some data from those studies.
Are you using aromatase-blockers as well? Aromatase Inhibitors are VERY important in some steroid cycles.
Do you know why, or was that not covered in your nutrition program? Haha, the reason is that some steroids are converted into estrogen by your nuts. Males need a small amount of estrogen in their bodies for normal function, our bodies don't create estrogen, it just converts it from test. So, when you put large amounts of testosterone into your body, it ultimately converts a large amount into estrogen (too much). This can cause emotional problems, gynecomastia (bitch tits), and other problems. A user will take an AI Aromatase Inhibitor during a cycle to stop conversion into estrogen and maintain normal levels. Some people don't need it, but it's usually a good idea. I use it every time. Arimidex, aromasin, or letrozole are the common choices.
A++ I appreciate you making me back this one up. I think it's one of the most important pieces of cycle knowledge and it's relatively new to the scene.
You gotta know your shit if you're going to be a responsible drug user, whether that be tylenol or something more illicit. Now, go learn the biochemical pathway of steroid metabolism. That is something I should study up on. Thanks.
Why not just use creatine and protein? They are safer, cheaper (I assume) and more readily accessible. Plus they don't do the damage to your body steroids do. I use both. Yes they are very effective. For my goals, it wasn't enough. Steroids can be used safely, doing no long-term damage. It's a complex process, but it can be done with doctor supervision.
Don't you feel like you're getting artificial results? That seems hardly worth working towards since it's not real, earned progress. Steroids are not 'instant-muscle' drugs. You can take steroids all you want, but without a perfect diet, strict workout regimen, you will see no results. They do amplify my gains, but if you saw how hard I work in the kitchen and the gym to put on the small amount of muscle I do, you would change your mind.
Do you think your steroids use is a result of you not being satisfied with your normal results as a weightlifter? Does that line up with OCD or other psychologically distorting issues? Yes, I have had image problems since youth and this is directly correlated. However, I'm incredibly healthy according to my doctor and I'm relatively happy with how I look, so I'd like to think I beat the image-issue somewhat.
No OCD, ADHD yes. I dont see any correlation, yet.
I think that involving steroids would have something to do with your self-image, the people I know that do steroids also report compulsive behaviour such as OCD, hence why I added that bit. How about relationships? Are you ADHD to the point where no one can keep up with you? My ADHD isn't too bad. I was prescribed adderall, but I hated how boring I became. I like my personality as does my gf. It's tough to get work done sometimes, but I man-up and deal with it.
Could you post some proof please? As said before, I wont indict myself. Steroids are a big no no to the gov't, and I would prefer to keep my freedom, I'm sure you get that. It's ok if you don't believe me, I don't have any motive for doing this other than to share my experiences.
You said you get minimal side effects. What are the effects you get? My side effects have included: Oily skin, mild acne (can be cleared up with acne soap), super boners, sleeplessness, and fatigue.
My only question is would you recommend steroids to someone you care about? A close friend or something of that sort. Yes, but I would make sure that they are of age, do their research, and know what they're getting into. The risk is large, no matter how you slice it.
I feel like this applies to so many drugs but people are just ignorant, even "hard" drugs are fine in moderation, but I'll leave that talk for /drugs. Yes, it's easiest to believe what you have been fed.
Could you point out a few specific resources where one could do some research and learn about responsible use? Most of the things I've seen are rather generic and the standard answer seems to be "Google it". Where could one learn about cycles? Types of steroids? Dosages? >So as steroids are schedule 1 and 2 drugs, the gov't doesn't really allow too many studies to be done. That means that there is very little data out there that is backed scientifically (according to all the doctors I have talked to about bro science vs non). Anecdotal experiences and a few studies is really all the knowledge we have on the matter. There are a few articles in medical journals with good info, but it's limited. Steroid.com has some limited info, but I really like steroidology.com for it's higher quality of information and strong advocacy against ill-founded broscience. I have found that their forums have some very expert users that have seen it all. Before you go digging through forums, find steroid profiles and read up on their history, google should be fine for that or you can use steroid.com or mesorx.com. Once you get to the forums in your research, look at cycle logs and read up on best practices in the stickies area.
What do you think about this article? Http://www.lift-run-bang.com/2012/03/darksidinobsessionspart-3-big-empty.html. There are some good messages here. "you never enjoy it when you're in it, because you don't see yourself for how you really are." Very true. Yes, any body modification is a slippery slope, one just must have self-control and self-respect to do it properly. That's the difference between a fit, toned girl (or guy mensrights) and an anorexic.
How does one even acquire steroids if they dont have any connections what so ever? not that i want to use I'm just curious Make friends with the meat heads at the gym, they know.
I have been interested in using steroids. I kinda went through various weight loss and gains. Starting 7 years ago I went from 180>145>160/170>225 and am currently at about 205-208. I am 5'10" and I don't consider myself extremely overweight, I have a minor build under my fat (I use to lift weights, was never cut like an athlete but had some minor tone) but I'm still unhappy with my weight/look. I wouldn't mind being built or skinny, I just want this fat gone and have limited time to work out due to a full time job and school. Would you recommend steroids to someone in my position to help lose fat quickly? I had heard there was a type of steroid that doesn't bulk you up as much, and mostly just burns fat quicker, is there something like that? Absolutely not. You should have a strict workout regimen and perfect diet along with being close to your genetic maximum capabilities before trying gear. First and foremost, get your diet in check. I know you hate hearing that, but steroids actually cannot burn fat, no matter what anyone says, that is proven. There ARE steroids that work in tandem very effectively with a cutting diet and workout routine, but they dont burn fat, they just keep muscle on you while to cut. If you want to turn to drugs for fat burning, ECA stacks are common. Ephedrine, caffeine, and aspirin. I dont like it bc it makes me feel shitty, but it works for some. If you're really out of control, talk to a weight loss clinic, there are a few options for medications that help with appetite e.g. adderall.
My main thought behind it would be increasing muscle and metabolism to increase fat burn. So do you think if I met the requirements on a diet and workout routine that I would lose fat? Or would it just add muscle initially and start adding muscle behind my fat first? I'm sure in the long run it would, but if I decided to start using I think it would only be one cycle. I could probably fit in a regular workout and diet, but my issue is motivation. I use to spend about 2 hours at the gym 5 days a week when I recently hit about 180, dropped to about 175 but had lowered my BMI and overall inches so I knew that though only 5lbs were lost, I was gaining muscle. This was through dieting and a routine that my trainer put me on, but after a while it became too much to spend almost 2 hours at the gym and trying to balance a personal life. So I guess my next question would be, what type of results do you think I would see if I could get into a 1 hour or so 5-6 days a week routine using steroids for about a month? Hey man, please for the sake of your health and sanity, pump the brakes for a second.
Steroids would just add muscle behind your fat, not help you get rid of the fat, even if it did ultimately raise your resting metabolic rate, you'd have to eat more to keep the muscle, therefore making it all worthless.
READ THIS CAREFULLY: Steroids are not for motivation. One needs to be motivated to get any benefit from steroids. Also, you cannot make any worthwhile gains from a month-long steroid cycle.
A minimum cycle is 8 weeks and that's if you're using short ester test and you'd have to stick yourself every other day. It sounds like you need to get other parts of your life in order before you even consider these types of drugs. If you can't get motivated to keep a regular diet or gym routine for longer than one year, then you're in no way ready for steroids. Not to mention that steroids are not really the right tool for what you're trying to do. It sounds like you are strong underneath your fat and you just want to lose your fat. Steroids do not promote fat loss at all. 1 cup of coffee per day burns more fat than steroids can.
If you get into the gym 5 days a week with a solid routine and fix your diet, you can lose up to 4 pounds of fat per week. You could also put on 5 pounds of muscle in no time. But look man, I get it, when you take a workout drug or supplement, you feel obligated to get in the gym, I get that! So get yourself some protein, some creatine, and a stimulant rich pre-workout supplement like Jack3d or NOxplode, clean up your diet, hit the gym with cardio 3 times a week and you'll melt, I promise. Tell you what, I'll make you a deal. If you can prove to me that you've dropped 15 pounds in the next 2 months, I will personally help you with research and designing a theoretical cycle for the future. k?
How much have your lifts gone up since starting to use steroids? Is is appreciable faster than without steroids? Depending on which steroids you're using, your strength goes way up while you're on cycle (8-12 weeks usually). Your muscles are holding more nitrogen and you all have the willpower and energy to lift more. When you cycle off (stop taking them), your lift maxes go down, but you're definitely stronger than before the cycle.
Are you black or are you just that guy from LOST? Why do you call everyone brother? I'm southern, so I guess, that guy from Lost is the closest to the truth.
are you a priest? Truth be told, I wish reddit was a little more brotherly. There's a fraternal existence here that goes unacknowledged by most here because of fear. I like the gym because everyone is there routing each other on, not hating. But then again, this is the internet.
How long have you been taking steroids? I'm more interested in the diet side because that's what i struggle with most in weightlifting. I'm trying to get stronger for sports but being in college i don't really follow a meal plan except for what's in the college cafeteria. I am interested in starting to cook for myself though. What does your diet look like? or is there any place(website) to find diets for a budget? 2 years on and off. I keep paleo as much as possible with the exception of dairy. Other diet tips in this comment.
This AMA reminded me of this video...Link to youtu.be So what DO you bench? Haha, I miss Farley. I don't usually max-out, but off-cycle (not using steroids), I would guess about 315.
You don't rep max? How do you base the weights you use for your sets? Don't you base it off your rep max? I actually thought your bench would be much higher. At my peak, my best was around 315 at 180lbs. As mentioned, I dont max often, so I can't deliver my current max. I max about every quarter, just to have points of reference as you mention.
The reason my max is not ungodly is that my goals are not strength, I'm not a football player, nor am I a power lifter. I just want to look and feel good. Putting up that kind of weight CAN damage joints, ligaments, etc, and I don't need high weight maxes for affirmation. Look at olympic power lifters, they're big, but not muscled out like a bodybuilder.
Sure, If I wanted to get my max to 500#, I could, but then what?
Good point. At 240, I'm sure you could do a lot more if that was your goal. Do you find using dumbbells helps with getting cut more so than a straight bar? Dumbells should be part of every routine. It helps build your stabilizing muscles and keeps you symmetrically strong, helping you avoid injury.
How would you know if you were more aggressive? People who have little experience with mood swings often do not recognize they are having mood swings. If you have any self-awareness, you'll know. But you're right in that people who have little experience with mood swings often do not recognize them. It is up to that person to make sure they are extra careful if they decide to use. I had little experience with mood swings when I started and was very paranoid, but I dont change that much. I become more confident, thats all. People around you usually let you know if you're being a dick.
>Steroids just make me more confident in myself, not angry. Most of my fellow users say that steroids just make you more of yourself. If you're an asshole inherently, you'll just be more of an asshole when you take steroids. Unfortunately, the percentage of steroids users that are assholes is higher than gen pop.
What steroids are you using and what are their benefits? I wont disclose what steroids I use, but I will say that Testosterone is the base of most steroid cycles, or should be. I avoid most oral steroids bc they reek havoc on your liver. Each steroid has a different effect and will be used with different goals in mind (getting big, or just ripped, etc). Google can give you more info.
Any reason why you won't disclose what steroids you are using? No, just trying not to indict myself. In the past, I have used Testosterone, anavar, primobolan, trenbolan and anadrol.
My biggest fear of roids is that it enhances balding. Since most men start to have some form of hair recession starting in their 30s, this freaks me out. Do you mind the chance? Ah yes, one of my biggest worries too. Balding runs in my family and I was concerned about losing some hair. I try to avoid steroids that are DHT derivatives like masteron, those are the ones that will be the riskiest. DHT is the cause of balding. Some steroids like Testosterone convert to DHT and can take your hair too. I haven't had any balding yet, but that doesn't mean it's not possible. I keep propecia (DHT blocker for balding) on-hand in case, but so far, I haven't had any problems. It's just a risk thats all part of the steroid choice.
Do you ever feel you're cheating your way to the top? Steroids aren't miracle drugs. One must still work VERY hard to put on muscle and stay ripped, so no, I don't feel like I'm cheating. Also, I reached my genetic maximum before I started steroids, so the results I'm getting now is all bonus. It's like not using cheat codes until after you've beaten the game.
What's the point in using them anyway, it's not like everyone else doesn't know? No, no one knows, they just think I love working out. I've always been pretty big, so it's never been questioned.
Good points. and im sure that someone would have to be deep into the addiction and do them for years for the negative effects to happen. do you or have you used creatine? The risk still exists, if you overdose on certain steroids, you could hypothetically flip out in your first week of steroids. Once again, abuse vs responsible use.
I do use creatine, I like it, monohydrate only. I cycle that too.
Gday, was there any particular source that you got all your information? I am finding that there is alot on the net to sift through. Kind of hard sometimes to tell whats legit and whats not. I sifted through the net for about a year, talked to doctors, both endocrinologists and 'anti-aging' docs, talked to my father who is on TRT, read the few studies that are out there, etc. A really good place for solid information is steroidology.com. The stickies on the boards are pretty accurate.
What kind of gains have you seen? I started fat at about 300 pounds worked my way down to 200, then back up to 240 ish adding mass and a touch of fat. Tripling strength.
Do you keep much of the mass or stregth when you are off cycle? I keep 80% of my mass on most cycles. Water loss is most of that 20% but I take on a lot of water naturally. I don't keep as much of the strength, but that's to be expected. It also depends on which steroids you run, with how much mass/strength you keep.
Did it effect your dick? No effect on the dick, just the drive. I got hornier on cycle, less horny coming off cycle, normal two weeks after cycle ended.
Reading seems to be the best thing to do. Did you push your body as far as you could naturally before you went the route of steroids? Yes, I did. There's no need to be on steroids otherwise. Your body is ready to make muscle, but growth slows once you reach a certain point. That takes years though.
You say you hold multiple degrees and have a high IQ, but in your username you spell vegans wrong? Yeah, I was rushing and totally spelled it wrong. Thanks for the heads-up.
So basically should I take it if I wanna bulk fast? Also upvoted, thanks for answer. I dont advocate taking steroids. I just advocate responsible use if you decide to do so. You need to have a lot of things in place before taking steroids. You dont want to take them just bc you want to bulk fast. If fast is even your vocabulary, then you need to bulk naturally for a while before using gear. I only use steroids bc I reached close to my genetic peak and couldn't get bigger naturally. I didnt use them to bulk fast, I use them to bulk.
Last updated: 2012-03-24 02:46 UTC
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