Androstenedione Supplement Information
Androstenedione ("andro") is definitely the hottest "drug free" testosterone booster on the market today. The new variation of the product, 19-Norandrostenedione, has basically the same actions but is believed to be more easily utilized and have less potential side effects. It is believed that top East German athletes used a nasal spray containing "andro" back in the 60's when they seemed to dominate the Olympic games. Well it's made a comeback, not in the nasal spray form which is very hard on the sinuses, but in tablet and capsule form-and you'll find people in gyms everywhere using it.
What is Androstenedione?
"Andro" is a naturally occurring hormone scientifically referred to as 4-androstene 3, 17-dione. It is naturally produced in the adrenal glands, ovaries, and testes and can be converted directly by the liver into testosterone. Supplements of "andro" are considered to be "dietary supplements" because it is found in meats and some plant extracts (Scotch pine pollen for one).
What can Androstenedione supplements do?
Because andro can be directly converted by the liver into testosterone, an oral supplement will theoretically cause an increase in the body's testosterone levels. One study done in Germany on men demonstrated that a 100 mg oral dose of "andro" caused an increase in serum testosterone levels between 211% and 237%. An increased level of testosterone can cause an increase in energy, strength, and neuron firing thus increasing athletic performance.
This brief increase in testosterone levels are short-lived however. The testosterone levels seem to fall back down to normal approximately 2 - 3 hours after taking "andro".
What is the difference between Androstenedione and 19-Norandrostenedione?
Androstenedione and 19-Norandrostenedione are basically the same molecules with the only difference being the 19-Nor does not have a carbon at the 19th position of the molecule. In the liver, androstenedione is converted into testosterene whereas the 19-Nor is converted into nor-testosterone (often referred to as Nandrolone). The Nandrolone, like testosterone, has an anabolic effect (helps increase size and strength), but with less andrognenic side effects such as deepening of the voice, body and facial hair increase, acne, etc.). Another reason why some prefer the 19-Nor over the regular androstenedione is because the body does not convert Nandrolone into estrogen compounds as readily as it does the excess testosterone in the body when taking the androstendione. Many hard core body-builders will stack both products to enhance strength and size gains even more.
What's the best dosage?
It is suggested by some manufacturers to take one 100 mg supplement approximately 45 minutes before exercising. Testosterone levels seem to peak about 60 minutes after taking an oral dose. Other companies suggest taking one 50 mg dose about 30 - 60 minutes before exercise and another 50 mg about an hour after exercise.
Are there any side effects?
Because andro causes a brief burst in testosterone, there may be the usual testosterone side effects like acne and an increased libido. Used in larger doses it could possibly lead to a decrease in HDL (good) cholesterol and prostrate hypertrophy. There have not been enough studies conducted to conclude whether taking andro supplements will affect the normal production of testosterone in the body. It is commonly suggested, as with all nutritional supplements that it be cycled (three weeks on, one week off as an example).
We would NOT recommend this supplement to women (unless you would be happy with increased acne, facial hair growth, and lowering of the voice), or to any male under the age of 25 (they have enough problems with the natural increase of testosterone in their body already).
As with any of our products, we suggest that you consult a physician prior to taking this dietary supplement.
Is Androstenedione legal?
While it may still be legal in some countries, it is no longer legal in the USA and was put in the same category as steroids. So, buying, selling or possessing is a felony.
Is there a safe and legal Androstenedione alternative?
Andro-Shock is a specific combination of 10 different safe and legal supplements that work together to create the optimal environment for maximum hormone output. For more information go to Andro-Shock Testosterone Booster.
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