The endocrine system is made up of glands that secrete hormones into the bloodstream in response to a signal from the nervous system or another specific substance. Hormones then travel throughout the body and bind to specific receptors on cells, which allows them to perform their functions. Three of the main hormones in the body are testosterone, estrogen and growth hormone. Evidence indicates that certain supplements are effective for boosting these hormones in the body. Consult your health care provider before taking any supplements.
D-Aspartic Acid
Testosterone is found in both males and females, but is predominantly a male hormone. It is involved in the development of male secondary sex characteristics such as facial hair, muscle strength, muscle mass and deepening of the voice. It is also responsible for bone growth and libido. Lead author Enza Topo and fellow researchers from Italy found that men taking D-aspartic acid supplementation for 12 days experienced increases in testosterone compared to those receiving a placebo, the October 2009 issue of the journal "Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology" reports.
A-GPC
Growth hormone is released in small surges throughout the day in both males and females. Its biggest output is during sleep, where it enhances the release of fatty acids into the bloodstream and stimulates protein synthesis, or the buildup of proteins within muscle cells. In addition, growth hormone improves the immune system and might have anti-aging effects. Researchers led by Tim Ziegenfuss discovered that subjects performing resistance exercise and consuming the supplement alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine, or A-GPC, experienced significant increases in growth hormone output compared to those taking a placebo, according to findings reported in the September 2008 issue of the "Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition."
Black Cohosh
Estrogen is mainly a female hormone that is responsible for the development of female secondary sex characteristics such as breast growth, public hair and menstruation. It's also involved in mood, increasing vaginal secretions and boosting sexual interest. Moreover, it helps alleviate hot flashes. According to the National Institutes of Health, taking the herb black cohosh can improve estrogen levels and menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes.
References
- Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology: The role and molecular mechanism of D-aspartic acid in the release and synthesis of LH and testosterone in humans and rats
- Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition: Acute Supplementation With Alpha-Glycerylphosphorylcholine Augments Growth Hormone Response to, and Peak Force Production During, Resistance Exercise
- National Institutes of Health: Black Cohosh
