ecdysterone

Ecdysterone, a type of ecdysteroid found in plants like spinach, has garnered attention for its potential effects on muscle growth and strength enhancement. In a discussion on the podcast episode "The Science of How to Optimize Testosterone & Estrogen," Andrew Huberman highlights that ecdysteroids are structurally similar to cholesterol, which is a precursor for key hormones like testosterone and estrogen.

Huberman cites research indicating that ecdysteroids may enhance muscle mass and strength, showing significant effects in combination with strength training. A 2019 study mentioned found that these compounds could lead to improvements in muscle hypertrophy and performance, leading to suggestions that they should be considered alongside anabolic steroids in terms of their potency and effects on athletic performance. The study concluded that their effects were strong enough to recommend their classification among banned substances in sports activities due to potential performance enhancement capabilities 1.

Overall, while ecdysterone and other ecdysteroids show promise in promoting physical performance, their use raises discussions about ethical considerations and potential regulation in competitive sports.

If you're interested in learning more about ecdysteroids and their implications in athletics, you can listen to the full episode here for detailed insights.