Counteract reduced libido from SSRI

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To counteract reduced libido due to SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor) use, suggests considering the use of Maca root. Studies have shown that consuming Maca in doses of 2-3 grams per day can significantly increase libido, even in individuals experiencing SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction. The benefits of Maca on libido have been observed without affecting hormone levels, making it a viable option for offsetting sexual side effects from SSRIs. Maca is typically consumed as a powder or capsule and is best taken early in the day to avoid interference with sleep 1.

Additionally, mentions that other supplements like Tonga Ali may also help enhance libido. Although the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, these supplements are thought to influence testosterone levels, cortisol suppression, or other hormonal pathways. Tonga Ali has been noted to help specifically with libido enhancement, potentially helping those on SSRIs overcome related challenges 2.

Maca and Libido

Andrew discusses the benefits of consuming Maca, a powder or capsule, in doses of 2-3 grams per day to increase libido. The studies have shown that it can offset SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction and increase subjective reports of sexual desire, without affecting hormone systems.
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RELATED QUESTIONS

How to increase libido

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To increase libido, provides several recommendations involving behavioral changes, supplements, and understanding the role of hormones:

  1. Lifestyle Changes:

    • Adequate Sleep: Ensuring sufficient sleep, particularly getting an extra 30 to 60 minutes of sleep per night, can significantly boost testosterone levels, which is crucial for libido 1.
    • Exercise: Regular resistance and cardiovascular training can help, but avoid overtraining. Balancing exercise with proper rest is essential for hormone regulation 1.
    • Nutrition: Maintaining a balanced diet supports overall health and hormonal balance, directly impacting libido 1.

  2. Supplements:

    • Tongkat Ali: Typically taken as 400 mg per day, this supplement may increase free testosterone by reducing sex hormone binding globulin. It is noted for boosting libido and overall vitality 2 3.

      Shilaji and Testosterone

      Shilaji may offer minor benefits like improved sperm quality and slight testosterone increases, but it's not a top supplement choice. Prioritizing nutrition, exercise, and sleep is crucial for significant testosterone enhancement. Exploring alternatives like tonga ali could yield better results, particularly in boosting libido through hormonal pathways.
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    • Maca Root: Consumed at 2-3 grams per day, Maca has a notable effect on enhancing libido without significantly affecting hormone levels 4 3.
    • Shilajit: Although not as emphasized, Shilajit is another supplement that may increase libido and vitality by increasing follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). A dosage of about 250 mg twice per day is recommended 4 5.
    • Tribulus Terrestris: Studies suggest that 750 mg per day, divided into three doses, may enhance libido by increasing free and bioavailable testosterone levels, though results vary across different populations 6.

  3. Hormonal Balance:

    • Testosterone and Estrogen: Both these hormones play vital roles in libido for both men and women. It’s important that they are in appropriate ratios for optimal sexual desire. Imbalances in these hormones can negatively affect libido 4.

  4. Avoid Overstimulating Dopamine:

    • While dopamine is required for libido, overstimulation through substances or certain drugs can lead to high arousal states that impede sexual performance. Maintain a balance to ensure that your autonomic nervous system can properly engage in sexual activity 7.

By incorporating these lifestyle changes, supplements, and maintaining hormonal balance, you can work towards enhancing libido. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements or making significant lifestyle changes.

RELATED QUESTIONS

Hormone balance

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Balancing hormones is crucial for overall health and well-being. Here are some key insights and strategies discussed by and his experts on the :

Monitoring Hormone Levels

  • Regular Monitoring: It’s recommended to get hormone levels checked regularly. Ideally, start in your late teens to establish a baseline, then check again in your mid-20s. After 30, it’s advisable to monitor yearly from age 40 1.
  • Key Markers: Important hormones to monitor include testosterone, estrogen, SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin), thyroid hormones, and growth hormone 2 3.

    Hormone Level Monitoring

    Understanding when and how often to check hormone levels can provide valuable insights into overall health. Establishing a baseline in your late teens and continuing checks every few years can help track changes. After age 40, annual testing is recommended to monitor various health markers, not just testosterone, emphasizing the importance of interpreting hormone ratios for a clearer picture of well-being.
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Lifestyle Interventions

Kyle Gillett discusses six key pillars for optimizing hormone health:

  1. Diet: Focus on balanced nutrition and caloric restriction when necessary, especially with the prevalence of metabolic syndrome.
  2. Exercise: Regular resistance training is particularly beneficial.
  3. Stress Management: Optimize cortisol levels through stress reduction techniques.
  4. Sleep: Quality sleep is crucial for hormone regulation and overall health.
  5. Sunlight: Exposure to natural light and engaging in outdoor activities.
  6. Spiritual Health: Maintaining mental well-being and a sense of community 4.

Seasonal Influences

  • Temperature and Day Length: Seasonal changes affect hormone levels. Warmer temperatures and longer days in summer, which encourage more sunlight exposure, can increase testosterone and estrogen levels. Conversely, these levels tend to be lower during the colder, shorter days of winter 5.

Important Hormones

  • Thyroid and Growth Hormone: These are crucial for metabolism, tissue repair, and cognitive function. Maintaining healthy levels supports muscle maintenance, reduces fat, and ensures brain health 6.
  • Cortisol and Adrenaline: These hormones are essential for managing stress, energy levels, immune function, and even learning. Proper balance is necessary to avoid issues related to stress and sleep 7.

Regular monitoring and lifestyle adjustments are essential steps to ensuring your hormones remain balanced, which in turn supports your overall health and vitality. Always consult with healthcare providers when interpreting blood work and making significant lifestyle changes.

RELATED QUESTIONS

How do hormones influence sexual orientation

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Hormones play a significant role in influencing sexual orientation through various mechanisms, particularly during developmental stages. Here are some insights discussed by on the :

Older Brother Effect

  • Fraternal Birth Order Effect: Research suggests that the probability of a male self-reporting as homosexual increases with the number of older brothers he has. This is believed to be due to epigenomic influences and hormonal feedback from previous male fetuses carried by the mother 1.

Prenatal Hormonal Exposure

  • In Utero Androgen Exposure: Exposure to androgens (like testosterone) in utero can impact sexual preference and development. Studies indicated that androgens influence brain regions related to sexual orientation and behavior 2.
  • Autoacoustic Emissions: Research on autoacoustic emissions (sounds produced by the inner ear) showed significant differences between heterosexual and homosexual females, suggesting a biological basis influenced by prenatal hormone exposure 2.

Brain Differences

  • Interstitial Nucleus of the Anterior Hypothalamus (INAH): Studies discovered structural differences in the INAH of individuals who self-report as homosexual. These differences are linked to prenatal androgen exposure and are believed to affect sexual orientation later in life 3.

    Hormones and Sexual Orientation

    Andrew discusses the relationship between the number of older brothers a male has and the probability of self-reporting as homosexual. He also talks about the effects of hormones on the body, brain, and gene expression, as well as the environmental factors that can affect hormone levels.
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Gene and Hormone Interaction

  • Gene Expression: Hormones like testosterone and estrogen interact with genes to modify brain organization and function, influencing sexual development. The impact is both immediate and long-term, highlighting the complex interplay between hormones and genetic expression 4.

Summary

Hormonal influences, particularly during prenatal development, can impact brain structures and subsequent sexual orientation. Factors like the number of older brothers and prenatal androgen exposure play crucial roles. However, it is essential to understand that these findings point to trends and influences rather than deterministic outcomes 3 5.

For a more extensive discussion, is a recommended episode to explore.

RELATED QUESTIONS