Men have different nutritional needs than women, although it depends on age, size, lifestyle and race. Energy requirements also differ greatly from person to person, but certain vitamins and herbs increase energy levels in everyone. Using vitamins and herbs to boost energy and vitality is generally considered safer than using pharmaceutical stimulants, sugary foods and beverages or large doses of caffeine for the same purpose. However, you should consult your doctor before beginning any new regimen.
Vitamin B-6
Vitamin B-6, or pyridoxine, is required to derive glucose from both amino acids and glycogen. From the former, the process is called gluconeogenesis; from the latter, it is glucogenesis. Glucose is the primary source of energy in the body, especially to fuel the higher functions of the brain. Because B-6 is so important in deriving glucose, it is considered the principal energy-producing vitamin, as cited in "Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism." Additionally for men, B-6 also reduces prolactin levels, which reduces the likelihood of developing an enlarged prostate.
Vitamin B-12
Vitamin B-12, or cobalamin, is required to synthesize DNA, maintain the central nervous system and produce red blood cells within bone marrow. Red blood cells carry oxygen to tissues, enabling cellular respiration. Further, B-12 is involved in cellular metabolism throughout your body, specifically in the creation of energy from fatty acids and protein. Additionally for men, B-12 regulates sex hormones and is essential for sperm health, as deficiencies result in reduced motility and count, according to "Biochemical, Physiological and Molecular Aspects of Human Nutrition."
Asian Ginseng
In traditional Chinese medicine, Asian or Panax ginseng is believed to increase "yang" energy, increase blood flow, improve circulation, revitalize tissues and speed up recovery from illness, as cited in "The Way of Chinese Herbs." Korean ginseng root, typically red-brown in color, is considered the most potent type, more so than Chinese, American or Siberian varieties. In Asian countries, ginseng is often taken as a daily tonic and used to improve work efficiency and increase physical stamina. For men, ginseng is also used to stimulate the libido.
Gotu Kola
Gotu kola is an Indian herbal remedy used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to rejuvenate and replenish the body after physical exertion. It is claimed to be a useful herbal remedy to naturally strengthen and build muscle by reducing muscle fatigue and recovery time, which is especially useful for men who body build. Gotu kola has been used in oral form to successfully treat chronic fatigue and circulatory issues, according to "The Way of Ayurvedic Herbs."
Guarana
Guarana is indigenous to the Amazon basin and commonly used in numerous South American countries. The fruit of the guarana plant acts as a powerful energy booster because it contains caffeine. Guarana fruit contains twice the caffeine content per gram compared to coffee beans, according to "The Essential Book of Herbal Medicine."
References
- "Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism: 5th Edition"; Sareen S. Gropper and Jack L. Smith; 2009
- "Biochemical, Physiological and Molecular Aspects of Human Nutrition"; Martha Stipanuk; 2006
- "The Way of Chinese Herbs"; Michael Tierra; 2008
- "The Way of Ayurvedic Herbs: A Contemporary Introduction and Useful Manual for the World's Oldest Healing System"; Karta Purkh Singh Khalsa; 2009
- "The Essential Book of Herbal Medicine"; Simon Mills; 1994
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