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Andro Supplements
Andro supplements are androstenedione and androstenediol that act as precursors to testosterone (a powerful anabolic hormone). Andro supplements are for those who want to gain body mass and strength very quickly. Although andro supplements are naturally produced by the body in the adrenal glands, yet they are available.
When 'andro' hormones are absorbed, they convert into testosterone, boosting testosterone levels which in turn increase strength and muscle mass and improve athletic performance. Because of their powerful effects on body-building andro supplements have been classed as a banned substances by many sports organizations.
Do Andro Supplements work?
The manufacturers have always been making tall claims about effectiveness of andro supplements. In fact, many a time andro supplements do not boost strength, increase muscle mass or improve athletic performance when they are taken in dosages as recommended by the manufacturers.
A study into the effects of 'andro' supplements in a group of 50 men between 35 and 65 years of age, reveals that there is precious little to testify the claims of the manufacturers. The men participating in 3-month weight training programme were given 200 mg androstenedione, 200 mg androstenediol or a placebo (dummy pill). Though testosterone levels initially went up by 16 % in those taking androstenedione, after 3 months the testosterone levels went back to normal. The study points out that the bodies stopped producing testosterone harmones on their own in men who have taken androstenedione.
Although all those undergoing training programme became stronger, there could hardly be any difference between those taking the 'andro' supplements and those taking the placebo. Therefore the long-term effects of andro are yet to be determined. Moreover it has been observed that there has been a rise in the levels of the female hormone oestrogen in those using supplements! Over a period this might lead to feminisation, contrary to what the male strength trainers expected.
Doses of Andro Supplements
Given the study report it is obvious that doses of 200 mg andro supplements as recommended by manufacturers can not be much effective in raising the testosterone levels or adding to the strength.
According to researchers, the higher doses (300 mg) of Androstenedione might cause testosterone levels go up. However, it is still unclear whether this will improve strength and increase muscle mass or not.
Side effects
The use of androstenedione may lead to a rise in the levels of oestrogen and other female sex hormones which in turn to may cause gynecomastia (development of breast) and lowered libido in males.
Even the recommendation of some manufacturers for the use of oestrogen blocker and chrysin to counter this side effect failed to yield desired results.
The side effects of androstenedione are same as that of anabolic steroids. Infertility, testicular cancer, hormonal imbalances and heart disease are some of other risks involved with the use of andro supplements.
Moreover andro supplements involve the chances of contamination and the risk of failing a drugs test.