Written by Stephanie Johnson - January 19, 2023
The most commonly used prohormone to produce testosterone is called androstenedione, which is a precursor hormone produced naturally in the body. When the body senses that there is an increase in testosterone levels, it will generally stop producing androstenedione and instead begin producing other hormones like DHEA or estradiol.
Testosterone Production Process
When androstenedione enters the body, it undergoes a process of conversion to become testosterone. This happens through a series of steps involving enzymes converting the molecule from one form to another until it reaches its ultimate destination and produces the desired effect.
The conversion process begins in the adrenal gland—the organ responsible for producing stress hormones like cortisol. Androstenedione then moves onto the testes (in men) or ovaries (in women), where it is converted to DHEA by an enzyme known as 5α-reductase.
DHEA can then be further converted into testosterone using an enzyme known as 3β-HSD, which is present in cells throughout both male and female bodies. From here, free testosterone enters the bloodstream, where it can bind with proteins such as albumin, globulin, SHBG, etc., before ultimately reaching sites of action in different tissues around the body.
Side Effects of Prohormones
Although prohormones are effective at increasing testosterone production in many individuals, they also carry certain risks associated with their use including: increased risk of liver damage due to hepatotoxicity; possible acne breakouts; gynecomastia; hair loss; changes in libido; mood swings; fatigue; depression; irritability; headaches & possibly others. Furthermore, some individuals may find that their natural production of testosterone diminishes over time when taking prohormones such as androstenedione on a long term basis - as such, periodic blood tests may be recommended to monitor hormone levels & adjust dosages accordingly if required.
Alternatives for Increasing Testosterone Levels
Besides taking exogenous forms of prohormones such as androstenedione or DHEA supplements to increase testosterone levels, there are several lifestyle factors & interventions which can help promote natural production of this important hormone: regular physical activity (particularly resistance exercise), proper nutrition & sufficient sleep are all essential components for any successful effort to maintain healthy hormone balance in both sexes. Additionally, avoiding recreational drugs & alcohol consumption - as well as reducing overall levels of stress - can also contribute towards optimizing endocrine functioning within the body & thus foster more favorable conditions for healthy testosterone production on an ongoing basis.
At BHRT Treament Center , we specialize in replacing these deficiencies with practical solutions (for example – professional counselling services). Get your free assessment today!
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