OBJECTIVE
The following information is intended to be a general guideline and recommendation for blood work testing and respective test normal ranges. The author, nor AM, are not liable in any way for erroneous or inaccurate information. It is the sole responsibility of the individual to assure that their doctor or testing facility has the most current and up to date information and or testing procedures. In no way is any of this information intended to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition related to, or not, to the use of any
substances or supplements discussed on this or any other message board. It is strongly advised that any and all matters regarding ones health and wellness be discussed with a healthcare professional.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS **
Major Hormones:
· Testosterone (normal range: 300 - 1200 ng/dl)
· Free testosterone (normal range: 8.7 - 25 pg/ml)
· IGF-1 (normal range: 109 - 284 ng/ml)
· Estradoil (normal range: 5 - 53 pg/ml)
· DHEA/DHEA-s (normal range: 120 - 520 ug/dl)
Full Thyroid Panel:
· T4 (normal range: 4.5 - 12 ug/dl)
· T3 (normal range: 2.3 - 4.2 pg/ml)
· TSH (normal range: .350 - 5.500 uIU/ml)
Lipid Profile:
· Total Cholesterol (normal healthy range 100 - 199 mg/dl)
· HDL (normal range: 40 - 59 mg/dl)
· LDL (normal range: 0 - 99 mg/dl)
· Triglycerides (normal range: 0 - 149 mg/dl)
· C-reactive protein (< 2.0 mg/l)
· Homocycteine (normal range: 6.3 - 15 umol/L)
Major Liver Function:
· Alkaline Phosphate (normal range: 25 - 150 umol/L)
· GGT (normal range: 0 - 65 IU/L)
· SGOT (AST) (normal range: 0 - 40 IU/L)
· SGPT (ALT) (normal range: 0 - 40 IU/L)
· Total Protein (normal range: 6.0 - 8.5 g/dl)
· Albumin (normal range: 3.5 - 5.5 g/dl)
· Globulin (normal range: 1.5 - 4.5 g/dl)
· Albumin/Globulin Ratio (normal range: 1.1 - 2.5)
· Bilirubin, Total (normal range: 0.1 - 1.2 mg/dl)
Major Kidney Function:
· Creatinine (normal range: 0.5 - 1.5 mg/dl)
· BUN (normal range: 5 - 26 mg/dl)
· Creatinine/BUN ratio (normal range: 8 - 27)
Prostate Profile:
· PSA (normal range: 0.0 - 4.0 ng/dl)
** normal range references:
Life Extension Foundation
Visit Lab Tests Online to further understand the purpose of these and other tests not listed.
ON-LINE BLOODWORK SITES
·
QuesTest - click here for a comprehensive list of all tests
Men's/Women's Health Profile - $115
Thyroid Health Screen - $40
Lipid Panel - $40
Liver Health Panel - $40
PSA - $45
·
Direct Labs - click here for a comprehensive list of all tests
Comprehensive Wellness Profile - $89 *best buy* -does not include testosterone profile
Testosterone: Free/Total - $68
Thyroid Panel with TSH - $54
Lipid Panel - $39
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel - $39
Liver Profile - $37
PSA - $44
·
Health-Tests-Direct -
click here for a comprehensive list of all tests
Testosterone: Free/Total - Test Dependent
Thyroid: Various - Test Dependent
Lipid Panel - $35
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) (liver/kidney) - $20
GGT (GGTP) (liver) - $7.50
PSA - $45
* add $15.00 blood draw fee
Visit
Lab Tests Online to further understand the purpose of these tests and others not listed.
GLOSSARY: Lipid Panel: Used to determine possible risk for coronary and vascular disease. In other words, heart disease.
Cholesterol: Cholesterol is a sterol that is essential for the proper functioning of the body. It is a component of cell membranes and is necessary for the production of steroid hormones. It also plays a significant role in the occurrence of atherosclerosis (thickening or hardening of arteries). There are several types of cholesterol including HDL, LDL and VLDL.
HDL: HDL is simply the "good" lipoprotein that acts as a scavenger molecule and prevents a buildup of material.
LDL: LDL is the "bad" lipoprotein which collects in arterial walls and causes blockage or a reduction in blood flow.
Triglycerides: Triglycerides are simply a form of fat that exists in the bloodstream. They're transported by two other culprits, VLDL and LDL. A high level of triglycerides is also a risk factor for heart disease as well. Triglycerides levels can be increased if food or alcohol is consumed 12 to 24 hours prior to the blood draw and this is the reason why you're asked to fast for 12-14 hours from food and abstain from alcohol for 24 hours.
Homocysteine: Homocysteine is formed in the metabolism of the dietary amino acid methionine. The problem is that it's a strong risk factor for atherosclerosis. High levels may cause you to have a heart attack. A good number of lifters should be concerned with this value as homocysteine levels rise with anabolic steroid usage.
BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen): This test measures the amount of urea nitrogen that's present in the blood. When protein is metabolized, the end product is urea which is formed in the liver and excreted from the bloodstream via the kidneys. This is why BUN is a good indicator of both liver and kidney function. Increased levels can stem from shock, burns, dehydration, congestive hear failure, myocardial infarction, excessive protein ingestion, excessive protein catabolism, starvation, sepsis, renal disease, renal failure, etc. Causes of a decrease in levels can be liver failure, overhydration, negative nitrogen balance via malnutrition, pregnancy, etc.
Creatinine: Creatinine is a byproduct of creatine phosphate, the chemical used in contraction of skeletal muscle. The more muscle mass you have, the higher the creatine levels and therefore the higher the levels of creatinine. Also, when you ingest large amounts of beef or other meats that have high levels of creatine in them, you can increase creatinine levels as well. Since creatinine levels are used to measure the functioning of the kidneys, this easily explains why creatine has been accused of causing kidney damage, since it naturally results in an increase in creatinine levels. However, we need to remember that these tests are only indicators of functioning and thus outside drugs and supplements can influence them and give false results, as creatine may do. This is why creatine, while increasing creatinine levels, does not cause renal damage or impair function. Generally speaking, though, increased levels are indicative of urinary tract obstruction, acute tubular necrosis, reduced renal blood flow (stemming from shock, dehydration, congestive heart failure, atherosclerosis), as well as acromegaly. Decreased levels can be indicative of debilitation, and decreased muscle mass via disease or some other cause.
BUN/Creatinine Ratio: A high ratio may be found in states of shock, volume depletion, hypotension, dehydration, gastrointestinal bleeding, and in some cases, a catabolic state. A low ratio can be indicative of a low protein diet, malnutrition, pregnancy, severe liver disease, ketosis, etc. An important thing to note again is that with a high protein diet, you'll likely have a higher ratio and this is nothing to worry about.
Total Protein: This measures the total level of albumin and globulin in the body.
Albumin: Albumin is synthesized by the liver and as such is used as an indicator of liver function. It functions to transport hormones, enzymes, drugs and other constituents of the blood.
Globulins: Globulins are the building blocks of your body's antibodies. Measuring the levels of these two proteins is also an indicator of nutritional status. Increased albumin levels can result from dehydration, while decreased albumin levels can result from malnutrition, pregnancy, liver disease, overhydration, inflammatory diseases, etc. Increased globulin levels can result from inflammatory diseases, hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol), iron deficiency anemia, as well as infections. Decreased globulin levels can result from hyperthyroidism, liver dysfunction, malnutrition, and immune deficiencies or disorders. As another important side note, anabolic steroids, growth hormone, and insulin can all increase protein levels.
Bilirubin: Bilirubin is one of the many constituents of bile, which is formed in the liver. An increase in levels of bilirubin can be indicative of liver stress or damage/inflammation. Drugs that may increase bilirubin include oral anabolic steroids (17-AA), antibiotics, diuretics, morphine, codeine, contraceptives, etc. Drugs that may decrease levels are barbiturates and caffeine. Non-drug induced increased levels can be indicative of gallstones, extensive liver metastasis, and cholestasis from certain drugs, hepatitis, sepsis, sickle cell anemia, cirrhosis, etc.
Alkaline Phosphate: This enzyme is found in very high concentrations in the liver and for this reason is used as an indicator of liver stress or damage. Increased levels can stem from cirrhosis, liver tumor, pregnancy, healing fracture, normal bones of growing children, and rheumatoid arthritis. Decreased levels can stem from hypothyroidism, malnutrition, pernicious anemia, scurvy (vitamin C deficiency) and excess vitamin B ingestion. As a side note, antibiotics can cause an increase in the enzyme levels.
AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase, previously known as SGOT): This is yet another enzyme that's used to determine if there's damage or stress to the liver. It may also be used to see if heart disease is a possibility as well, but this isn't as accurate. When the liver is damaged or inflamed, AST levels can rise to a very high level (20 times the normal value). This happens because AST is released when the cells of that particular organ (liver) are lysed. The AST then enters blood circulation and an elevation can be seen. Increased levels can be indicative of heart disease, liver disease, skeletal muscle disease or injuries, as well as heat stroke. Decreased levels can be indicative of acute kidney disease, beriberi, diabetic ketoacidosis, pregnancy, and renal dialysis.
ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase, previously known as SGPT): This is yet another enzyme that is found in high levels within the liver. Injury or disease of the liver will result in an increase in levels of ALT. However, because lesser quantities are found in skeletal muscle, there could be a weight-training induced increase . Weight training causes damage to muscle tissue and thus could slightly elevate these levels, giving a false indicator for liver disease. Still, for the most part, it's a rather accurate diagnostic tool. Increased levels can be indicative of hepatitis, hepatic necrosis, cirrhosis, cholestasis, hepatic tumor, hepatotoxic drugs, and jaundice, as well as severe burns, trauma to striated muscle (via weight training), myocardial infarction, mononucleosis, and shock.
Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA): PSA is produced by normal, hyperplastic, and cancerous prostatic tissue. Serum PSA has been found to be the most sensitive marker for monitoring individuals with prostate cancer and to enhance efficacy in monitoring progression of disease and response to therapy.
Gamma-Glutamyl Transpeptidase (GGT): A test that measures the amount of the enzyme GGT in the blood. This test is used to detect diseases of the liver, bile ducts, and kidney; and to differentiate liver or bile duct (hepatobiliary) disorders from bone disease. GGT participates in the transfer of amino acids across the cellular membrane and in glutathione metabolism. High concentrations are found in the liver, bile ducts, and the kidney.
GGT is measured in combination with other tests. In particular,
ALP is increased in hepatobiliary disease and bone disease. GGT is elevated in hepatobiliary disease, but not in bone disease. So, a patient with an elevated ALP and a normal GGT probably has bone disease, not hepatobiliary disease.
Estradiol: This being the most potent of the estrogens, I'm sure you're all aware that it can be responsible for things like water retention, hypertrophy of adipose tissue, gynecomastia, and perhaps even prostate hypertrophy and tumors. As a male it's very important to get your levels of this hormone checked for the above reasons. Also, it's the primary estrogen that's responsible for the negative feedback loop which suppresses endogenous Testosterone production. So, if your levels of estradiol are rather high, you can bet your ass that you'll be hypogonadal as well.
Increased estradiol levels can be indicative of a testicular tumor, adrenal tumor, hepatic cirrhosis, necrosis of the liver, hyperthyroidism, etc.
Thyroid (T3, T4 Total and Free, TSH) T3 (Triiodothyronine): T3 is the more metabolically active hormone out of T4 and T3. When levels are below normal it's generally safe to assume that the individual is suffering from hypothyroidism. Drugs that may increase T3 levels include estrogen and oral contraceptives. Drugs that may decrease T3 levels include anabolic steroids/androgens as well as propanolol (a beta adrenergic blocker) and high dosages of salicylates. Increased levels can be indicative of [/font][/color]
Graves[color=black][font=Verdana] disease, acute thyroiditis, pregnancy, hepatitis, etc. Decreased levels can be indicative of hypothyroidism, protein malnutrition, kidney failure, Cushing's syndrome, cirrhosis, and liver diseases.
T4 (Thyroxine): T4 is just another indicator of whether or not someone is in a hypo or hyperthyroid state. It too is rather reliable but free thyroxine levels should be assessed as well. Drugs that increase of decrease T3 will, in most cases, do the same with T4. Increased levels are indicative of the same things as T3 and a decrease can be indicative of protein depleted states, iodine insufficiency, kidney failure, Cushing's syndrome, and cirrhosis.
Free T4 or Thyroxine: Since only 1-5% of the total amount of T4 is actually free and useable, this test is a far better indicator of the thyroid status of the patient. An increase indicates a hyperthyroid state and a decrease indicates a hypothyroid state. Drugs that increase free T4 are heparin, aspirin, danazol, and propanolol. Drugs that decrease it are furosemide, methadone, and rifampicin. Increased and decreased levels are indicative of the same possible diseases and states that are seen with T4 and T3.
TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone): Measuring the level of TSH can be very helpful in terms of determining if the problem resides with the thyroid itself or the pituitary gland. If TSH levels are high, then it's merely the thyroid gland not responding for some reason but if TSH levels are low, it's the hypothalamus or pituitary gland that has something wrong with it. The problem could be a tumor, some type of trauma, or an infarction. Drugs that can increase levels of TSH include lithium, potassium iodide and TSH itself. Drugs that may decrease TSH are aspirin, heparin, dopamine, T3, etc. Increased TSH is indicative of thyroiditis, hypothyroidism, and congenital cretinism. Decreased levels are indicative of hypothyroidism (pituitary dysfunction), hyperthyroidism, and pituitary hypofunction.
CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH
In an attempt to make all of our bodybuilding lives safer, I have amassed some information to help soothe some concerns as well as some guidelines to follow.
Theories Behind Cardiovascular Disease:
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in both men and women. Traditional risk factors account for only 50% of the incidence of cardiac disease. Many individuals who develop heart disease have normal cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
The risk of heart disease is related to the level of blood lipids in your body in addition to several other indicators. These markers are related to blood clotting and inflammation. A traditional cholesterol test usually checks for the levels of triglycerides, HDL, LDL and total cholesterol. LDL levels can be somewhat misleading as the amount of VLDL is more important. Even though the LDL level can be 100 if 80% of that is constituted of VLDL the risk for cardiovasuclar disease remains elevated.
Lifestyle
As we all know, a healthy lifestyle plays a large role in our cardiovascular health. This takes an even bigger meaning when we introduce exogenous hormones to our body.
Measures To Take:
Cardiovascular exercise:
Exercise in a healthy person makes the heart relax more quickly and lowers left ventrical pressure faster. The heart muscle actually stretches and gets larger when full of blood just before pumping it out.
Essential Fatty Acids:
EFA’s cannot be synthesized in humans and must be provided with food. EFA's are found in supplements such as flaxseed oil. Borage oil, black currant oil. and evening primrose oil. EFA's are precursors for two groups of polyunsaturated fatty acid series omega-3 and omega-6, linolenic acid and linoleic acid.
For more info visit:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&li st_uids=15514264 Supplementation: Hawthorne Berry
In addition to bioflavinoids, hawthorn contains cardiotonic amines, polyphenols. Some of the benefits include:
· relaxing and dilating arteries
· increasing the flow of blood and oxygen to and from the heart
· supporting healthy circulation
· increasing endurance
· maintaining healthy blood pressure
· maintaining healthy blood vessels
Take year round, as a daily routine. The effects of Hawthorne are slow to materialize, usually 2-3 months of continuos use will result in desired effects. I suggest the NOW brand, cheap and effective.
For more info visit:
http://exchange.healthwell.com/nutri...0/hawthorn.cfm Policosanol:
Dosage: 10 -20 mg/day
A blend of fatty alcohol’s. It shows great promise in its use as beneficial to cardiovascular health, to include the maintenance of healthy lipid profiles. There is also some theory to a synergistic effect with EFA’s.
It should be used year round. Safe, and effective, it also has more positive results the longer it is used.
For more info visit:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&li st_uids=15806713 Beta sitosterol:
Beta-sitosterol is a plant sterol(phytosterol) similar in structure to cholesterol. It is found naturally in fruits, vegetables, beans (especially soy), nuts, and seeds. Beta-sitosterol actually inhibits intestinal absorption of dietary cholesterol by competing for the limited space for cholesterol during intestinal uptake. It also affects an enzyme that results in the reduction of cholesterol rich lipoprotein, LDL. This results in lower total cholesterol and LDL levels, though there doesn't seem to be any effect on HDL. It is also used to improve symptoms related to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Beta-sitosterol should be consumed 30 minutes prior to meals.
Red Yeast Rice:
Dosage: 1200 - 2400 mg/day taken with meals
A fermented rice product that is our best fighter against negative sides from AAS concerning cardiovascular damage. It is comprised of nine different monacolins, which are naturally occurring substances that help regulate cholesterol levels. Along with sterols and monounsaturated fatty acids, it packs a strong punch.
Unlike the other two, this one should be used only around cycles, preferably 2-3 weeks before the cycle is to be started and continued through pct. RYR supplementation has been shown to deplete COQ10 in heart and liver tissue and therefore requires cosupplemnation of either COQ10 or Idebenone at 300 and 100 mg/day repsectively.
For more info visit:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&li st_uids=15653117 COQ10:
Although this is abundant in food sources, I feel it prudent to put on here. Not only does it show to help cardiac function, but it’s also imperative to be used with Red Yeast Rice. It can also be used in combination with other cholesterol lowering supplements.
For more info visit:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&li st_uids=15821319 Celery Seed:
A powerful anti-oxidant, shown to not only lower blood pressure, but may have cancer fighting properties as well. Also there is evidence to show its ability in aiding the liver.
This can be used year round, or saved for an extra punch to control Blood Pressure during cycle.
For more info visit:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&li st_uids=12185962 Fenugreek:
Yes, fenugreek, not only does it aid in pct for HPTA recovery, it also has lipid oxidative inhibitory properties.
I would reserve this for Post Cycle Therapy as a means of HPTA recovery, and positive assimilation of the lipid levels. NOW brand at Nutraplanet
For more info visit:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&li st_uids=15678722 Allicin:
An extract found in Garlic which is shown to lower blood pressure and lipid levels. It also has established reports of its ability to fight cancer. Purer forms of the extract are shown to be the best. Should also be utilized year round.
For more info visit:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&li st_uids=15158086 Nicotinic acid (Niacin):
A well documented aid in boosting HDL levels, and decreasing LDL. Also can be used in combination with other supplements, and Statins. Although it must be noted that there is a synergistic effect, and that if using a Statin, such as liver damage, consultation with a doctor is advised. Common side effects are flushing, stomach discomfort, and headaches.
For more info visit:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&li st_uids=15834527 Sesathin:
Rather new to the bodybuilding scene, this has made quite an impact recently. For a quick reference read this link,
Avant Labs-Bodybuilding and Human Performance Supplements.
These are some of the main players in the fight to keep our cardiovascular systems healthy, and should be utilized not only during cycles, but also year round for optimal health.
BLOOD PRESSURE General Overview:
Blood pressure measures the force exerted on the walls of the arteries. The arteries are the vessels that carry blood from the heart to the tissues and organs of the body. The heartbeat or pumping cycle consists of two phases:
· diastole: the heart muscle relaxes and fills with blood
· systole: the heart muscle contracts and pumps blood into the arteries
A blood pressure reading is therefore represented with two measurements, systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure, ex. 120/80. The systolic blood pressure(often the top/first number and always the higher number) represents the pressure in the arteries as the heart contracts and pumps blood into the arteries. The diastolic blood pressure(often the bottom/second number and always the lower number), represents the pressure in the arteries as the heart relaxes after the contraction. It is important to note that the diastolic pressure therefore reflects the minimal pressure that the arteries are exposed to. The diastolic measurement is of more importance in those under 50 while the systolic is a better indicator of risk factor in those over 50.
Effects Of High Blood Pressure:
High blood pressure or hypertension is the elevated systolic or diastolic pressure or even both. Heart enlargement can occur as the organ struggles to push the blood through the arteries. Chronic high blood pressure can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, renal disease, eye damage, and hardening of the arteries ultimately resulting in death.
Factors Affecting BP Readings:
Blood pressure can be affected by several factors thus it may be necessary to take several readings throughout the day under similar conditions. Therefore, one should avoid exercise(which can lower BP), eating, smoking, caffeine, and drinking at least one hour prior to taking readings. Other stresses can alter blood pressure such as mental state and must also be accounted for. White coat syndrome is one such example that can result in misleading readings. The apprehension caused by visiting a doctor to take blood pressure readings can cause temporary elevations. Several manufacturers sell realtively inexpensive home blood pressure machines that either fit around your arm or wrist and measure blood pressure. This allows one to get a more accurate reading as it makes testing at various intervals more convenient and can eliminate white coat syndrome.
Blood pressure ranges and indications:
Blood pressure Systolic Diastolic
normal <120 <80
pre hypertension 121-139 81-89
hypertension >140 >90
key: < less than
> greater than
Pre hypertensive levels can usually be brought into normal ranges through changes in diet and/or exercise. Hypertension may require more drastic lifestyle changes including the use of drugs to bring levels within a normal range.
Isolated systolic high blood pressure:
Isolated systolic hypertension is defined as a systolic pressure that is above 140 with a diastolic pressure below 90. This is often characterized by an increase in pulse pressure, difference between the systolic and diastolic blood pressures. A stiffening of arteries is the main cause of increase in pulse pressure and primarily affects elderly people as a result.
Symptoms of Hypertension:
It is not uncommon for no symptoms to appear that would indicate elevated pressures. This is why hypertension is often referred to as the "silent killer" as this disease progresses without indication until complications such as a heart attack or stroke occur. Symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, blurred vision and even renal failure are not uncommon though. The problem is that once these symptoms arise the damage may have already been done.
Steroids and blood pressure:
Most steroids cause a water and electrolyte imbalance in the body. This results in an increased storage of water and sodium which further results in a swelling of tissue (edema). This process is desirable to a certain degree since the muscle cell, the joints, and connective tissues profit from it. The results are a quick and distinct increase of muscle size and volume, a strength gain, due to a better leverage ratio, a stronger connective tissue, and a "lubrication" of the joints which often guarantees injury-free training. The drawback is an increased water retention in the skin and blood. With the first it is more a cosmetic problem because the tissue especially under the eyes and the cheeks become puffy, thus, giving the athlete the typical bloated "off-seasonal full-moon steroid face". The second deposit is more serious because health problems may arise. Since the organ is overloaded with additional water, the heart and blood vessels must transport more fluid than normal through the body, thus, possibly resulting in an elevated blood pressure (systolic and diastolic). The degree of the water and salt retention depends, for the most part, on the type and dosage of the given steroid and on the predisposition of the individual. Studies have shown that blood pressure levels return to normal 6-8 weeks after cessation of steroid usage.
PROSTATE CARE
This portion of the sticky will cover the prevention of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) or enlargement of the prostate gland. Although this type of prevention will also help in the prevention of prostate cancer, that isn’t the goal here.
Personal Experience:
I’ve had BPH symptoms since I was in my teens (a gift from my Father). I had been diagnosed with Prostatitis and was treated with antibiotics but found no relief. So I started digging around (no internet back in the day) to find information on how to help myself. Through experience, I’ve tried most supplements and other methods to keep the BPH at bay. I have a broken L5 vertebrae (old injury) and when my lower back pains start, so do the symptoms of BPH. Obviously, the nerves in the lower back are tied directly to your lower organs. From time to time, I experience pretty much all of the symptoms bestowed to me by my genetically defective ancestry. One thing I will add here is that if you are experiencing the full feeling and maybe have some leakage and haven’t unloaded for a while, you may be well advised to milk your prostate (yeah that wasn’t just a joke between me and B5150, that is a genuine therapeutic deed). You can read up on this as there are many methods. I’ve also found that if you can just empty the tank, so to speak, by...let’s say...having more than one gratuitous booty call within the day or massaging the prostatic region (under your nutsack) while ejaculating to ensure complete evacuation will help with discomfort from being full, thus, relieving some of the symptoms. BTW you won’t get laid by just saying that it’s for medicinal purposes...I’ve already tried that one ;~)
What Is The Prostate?
Present only in males, the prostate is a small gland, approximately the size of a walnut. It is located below the bladder and surrounds the urethra. It secretes fluid which helps to transport sperm during ejaculation.
As men age, the prostate grows larger. The gland puts pressure on the urethra and can make urination difficult. Men usually experience some symptoms of prostate problems after age 50; however, younger men can have difficulties as well. In our case, this is exacerbated by the use of AAS or PH/PS.
Prostate Problems
· What Are Common Prostate Problems?
Prostatitis:
Infection of the prostate can either be acute (one time only) or chronic (ongoing). Chronic prostatitis is usually more difficult to treat, since it is hard to get the antibiotics to the source of infection due to the rough texture and limited blood flow of the prostate tissue. This environment allows the bacteria to breed in the crevices of the prostate.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH):
Enlargement of the prostate because of small non-cancerous tumors that grow inside the prostate. If not treated, BPH can cause incontinence, bladder infections, and possible kidney damage.
Prostate Cancer:
Cancerous tumors may develop in the prostate. If not treated, the cancer can spread throughout the body. If detected early, chances for a complete recovery are good.
What Are The Common Symptoms Of Prostate Problems?
· Fever, chills
· painful or difficult urination
· pain erection and/or ejaculation
· pain in lower back, or groin area
· weakening of the urine stream
· frequent or urgent urination
Supplementation For BPH (Most of these I would split over the course of the day in two doses)
· Zinc/copper 15 - 60mg / day and 1-3 mg/day
· Quercetin 100 - 250mg / day
· Beta-sitosterol 200 - 500mg / day (although I take a gram per day)
· Pregnenolone - 50mg/day
· Saw Palmetto 320mg/day (although I’ve had to take up to a gram in order to see any relief)
· Progesterone
· Phytosterols
· Nettle root - 600mg/day
· EFA's
· Pygeum - 200mg/day
· Pumpkin Seed oil - 150-200mg (3X per day)
Supplementation For Cancer Prevention:
· Lycopene 20-60mg per day
· I3C
· Garlic extract
Supplemental information Zinc:
Normal human prostate accumulates the highest levels of zinc of any soft tissue in the body. Zinc has a range of functions. It plays a crucial role in growth and cell division where it is required for protein and DNA synthesis, in insulin activity, in the metabolism of the ovaries and testes, and in liver function. As a component of many enzymes, zinc is involved in the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and energy. Just be aware that over 100mg of zinc per day will increase your risk of prostate cancer€¦.so don’t overdo it.
Quercetin:
Used mostly for Prostatitus. It is a known anti-oxidant, tyrosine kinase inhibitor, nitric oxide inhibitor, anti-inflammatory!(inhibits NF-kB, blocks PGE-2 and cox-2 gene expression) and inhibitor of histamine and cytokine release from mast cells (quercetin inhibits the release of histamine, leukotrienes (LTs), prostaglandin D2 (PGD2), and granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) from human cultured mast cells).
For more info visit:
CP/CPPS Chronic Prostatitis and Quercetin Primer Beta Sitosterol:
Beta-sitosterol is one of many sterols (phytosterols) that come from plants and have a structure like the cholesterol produced in the body. Phytosterols are found in most plants and thus in foods such as rice bran, wheat germ, corn oils, soybeans, and peanuts. Beta-sitosterol is also available as a dietary supplement. This compound by itself or along with other plant sterols can reduce blood levels of cholesterol. Although the studies have varying degrees of success for treating BPH, I have found this to be remarkably effective.
Pregnenolone:
Pregnenolone is a naturally occurring steroid found in animal tissues including the adrenal gland, brain and gonads. Pregnenolone is synthesized from cholesterol and is the precursor to a number of steriod hormones, including DHEA and progesterone. While many effects of pregnenolone have been reported it appears that the most powerful effect that pregnenolone offers is its ability to enhance memory. Since pregnenolone is converted into DHEA within the body, some of our precautions for DHEA may apply to pregnenolone. For many people, pregnenolone will raise DHEA serum levels to reduce the need for DHEA supplementation.
Saw Palmetto:
Numerous test tube, animal, and human studies indicate that an oily compound in saw palmetto berries reduces the discomforts of a mild to moderately enlarged prostate. While the herb doesn't actually shrink this gland, it does appear to prevent it from getting any larger. How it accomplishes this remains a matter of debate. Research points to an anti-inflammatory action and an ability to inhibit the hormones (possibly including a form of testosterone) that cause prostate cells to multiply. Antiandrogenic (anti-male sex hormone) actions have also been implicated.
Progesterone:
Progesterone is the precursor to the body's production of all other hormones. Natural progesterone is chemically identical to progesterone found in the human body. In the body progesterone is synthesized from Pregnenolone which is synthesized from cholesterol. Progesterone is not found in any plant. Natural progesterone is synthesized into the actual human hormone from fat saponins such as diosgenin from Mexican wild yam or from soy using a special laboratory synthesis called the Marker Method. Progesterone is NOT Progestin.
Phytosterols:
Phytosterols are plant fats similar in structure as the animal fat cholesterol, except they have an extra ethyl group on the side chain. All plants, including fruits, vegetables, grains, spices, seeds and nuts contain these sterol compounds or sterolins, with some of the most commonly found phytosterols being beta-sitosterol (BSS), stigmasterol, and campesterol. Plant oils are a particularly rich source of phyto-sterols, however all sources are thought to be effectiveive in the treatment or prevention of high cholesterol, or hypercholesterolemia.
Authors:
B5150, Ryansm, SJA, Ersatz
Editor: dsl
