The App Nut Adventures of Judo Josh

[JudoJosh]

This will be sort of a continuation of my old journal The Adventures of Judo Josh

The goal will remain the same as it was in the other log which is simply to experiment with various supplements along with different training and dietary methodologies.

My approach to things is to not simply just blindy follow advice or suggestions. I like to try and figure out why something works and then try it on myself to see how my body handles it. My views are always evolving and changing. The more I experiment with various theories the more I learn about myself and change or tweak the way I view things. In this journal I will try and go into as much detail as possible on various training, diet and supplementation ideologies.

Life is an experiment. The more experiments you make the better you become - Ralph Waldo Emerson

There are no universal diets or training techniques, one must experiment to find what works for them and thats what this journal will be about.

[JudoJosh]

Now the reason for me creating another journal was that I was recently blessed by the chance to represent Applied Nutriceuticals and their product line will be a major core focus with the products I choose to supplement my diet and training with.

I will be using the Triple Threat Stack which consist of LIT-UP™ Peach Tea, HGHUP♂™ & FREE TEST™. along with Lipotrophin-PM™

I will also be using TestForce2 and some bulk cissus that I already had.

The synergism between the triple threat stack with the addition of the DAA in TestForce looks ridiculous on paper!

You have Test boosting from the DAA in LIT-UP™ and Testforce along with free test boosting, estrogen control and cortisol control from FREE TEST™ and prolactin control and GH boosting from HGHUP♂™

We all have heard about DAA with its growing popularity for its ability to boost our natural test levels.

Involvement of D-aspartic acid in the synthesis of testosterone in rat testes.

Abstract
D-Aspartic acid (D-Asp) is an endogenous amino acid which occurs in many marine and terrestrial animals. In fetal and young rats, this amino acid occurs prevalently in nervous tissue, whereas at sexual maturity it occurs in endocrine glands and above all in pituitary and testes. Here, we have studied if a relationship exists between the presence of D-Asp and the hormonal activity. The following results were obtained: 1) Both D-Asp and testosterone are synthesized in rat testes in two periods of the animal's life: before birth, about the 17th day after fertilization and, after birth, at sexual maturity. 2) Immunocytochemical studies have demonstrated that this enantiomer is localized in Leydig and Sertoli cells. 3) In vivo experiments, consisting of i.p. injection of D-Asp to adult male rats, demonstrated that this amino acid accumulates in pituitary and testis (after 5 h, the accumulation was of 12 and 4-fold over basal values, respectively); simultaneously, luteinizing hormone, testosterone and progesterone significantly increased in the blood (1.6-fold, p < 0.05; 3.0-fold, p < 0.01 and 2.9-fold, p < 0.01, respectively). 4) Finally, in vitro experiments, consisting of the incubation of D-Asp with isolated testes also demonstrated that this amino acid induces the synthesis of testosterone. These results suggest that free D-Asp is involved in the steroidogenesis.

PMID:8699926

The role and molecular mechanism of D-aspartic acid in the release and synthesis of LH and testosterone in humans and rats

Abstract
BACKGROUND: D-aspartic acid is an amino acid present in neuroendocrine tissues of invertebrates and vertebrates, including rats and humans. Here we investigated the effect of this amino acid on the release of LH and testosterone in the serum of humans and rats. Furthermore, we investigated the role of D-aspartate in the synthesis of LH and testosterone in the pituitary and testes of rats, and the molecular mechanisms by which this amino acid triggers its action.

METHODS: For humans: A group of 23 men were given a daily dose of D-aspartate (DADAVIT) for 12 days, whereas another group of 20 men were given a placebo. For rats: A group of 10 rats drank a solution of either 20 mM D-aspartate or a placebo for 12 days. Then LH and testosterone accumulation was determined in the serum and D-aspartate accumulation in tissues. The effects of D-aspartate on the synthesis of LH and testosterone were gauged on isolated rat pituitary and Leydig cells. Tissues were incubated with D-aspartate, and then the concentration (synthesis) of LH and cGMP in the pituitary and of testosterone and cAMP in the Leydig cells was determined.

RESULTS: In humans and rats, sodium D-aspartate induces an enhancement of LH and testosterone release. In the rat pituitary, sodium D-aspartate increases the release and synthesis of LH through the involvement of cGMP as a second messenger, whereas in rat testis Leydig cells, it increases the synthesis and release of testosterone and cAMP is implicated as second messenger. In the pituitary and in testes D-Asp is synthesized by a D-aspartate racemase which convert L-Asp into D-Asp. The pituitary and testes possesses a high capacity to trapping circulating D-Asp from hexogen or endogen sources.

CONCLUSION: D-aspartic acid is a physiological amino acid occurring principally in the pituitary gland and testes and has a role in the regulation of the release and synthesis of LH and testosterone in humans and rats.

PMID:19860889

D-Aspartic acid: an endogenous amino acid with an important neuroendocrine role.


Abstract
D-Aspartic acid (d-Asp), an endogenous amino acid present in vertebrates and invertebrates, plays an important role in the neuroendocrine system, as well as in the development of the nervous system. During the embryonic stage of birds and the early postnatal life of mammals, a transient high concentration of d-Asp takes place in the brain and in the retina. d-Asp also acts as a neurotransmitter/neuromodulator. Indeed, this amino acid has been detected in synaptosomes and in synaptic vesicles, where it is released after chemical (K(+) ion, ionomycin) or electric stimuli. Furthermore, d-Asp increases cAMP in neuronal cells and is transported from the synaptic clefts to presynaptic nerve cells through a specific transporter. In the endocrine system, instead, d-Asp is involved in the regulation of hormone synthesis and release. For example, in the rat hypothalamus, it enhances gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) release and induces oxytocin and vasopressin mRNA synthesis. In the pituitary gland, it stimulates the secretion of the following hormones: prolactin (PRL), luteinizing hormone (LH), and growth hormone (GH) In the testes, it is present in Leydig cells and is involved in testosterone and progesterone release. Thus, a hypothalamus-pituitary-gonads pathway, in which d-Asp is involved, has been formulated. In conclusion, the present work is a summary of previous and current research done on the role of d-Asp in the nervous and endocrine systems of invertebrates and vertebrates, including mammals.

PMID:17118457

Along with being an amazing natural test booster D-aspartic acid also has the potential to stimulate prolactin release.

The effect of D-aspartate on luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone, alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone, GABA and dopamine release.

Abstract
Since D-aspartate stimulates prolactin and LH release, our objective was to determine whether D-aspartate modifies the release of hypothalamic and posterior pituitary factors involved in the control of their secretion and whether its effects on these tissues are exerted through NMDA receptors and mediated by nitric oxide. In the hypothalamus, D-aspartate stimulated luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH), alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) and GABA release and inhibited dopamine release through interaction with NMDA receptors. It increased nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity, and its effects on LHRH and hypothalamic GABA release were blunted when NOS was inhibited. In the posterior pituitary gland, D-aspartate inhibited GABA release but had no effect on dopamine or alpha-MSH release. We report that D-aspartate differentially affects the release of hypothalamic and posterior pituitary factors involved in the regulation of pituitary hormone secretion.

PMID:12488823

Control of prolactin secretion by excitatory amino acids.


Abstract
This article provides an overview of the increasing number of observations indicating that excitatory amino acids are involved in the control of prolactin secretion. The information available suggests that these amino acids exert a stimulatory action on hypophysial prolactin. Administration of a glutamate receptor agonist induces significant increase in prolactin release in rats, monkeys, and rams. In contrast, noncompetitive antagonists of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors decrease plasma levels and attenuate the preovulatory surge of prolactin. It appears that the endogenous glutamatergic system participates not only in the regulation of basal secretion of prolactin, but also in the control of physiological prolactin responses induced by the suckling stimulus or by stress. Recent findings suggest that the glutamatergic innervation of the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus is involved in the mediation of the neural signal of the suckling stimulus-induced prolactin release as well as in the mediation of the stress-induced release of prolactin.

PMID:16388120

The role of D-aspartic acid and N-methyl-D-aspartic acid in the regulation of prolactin release.

Abstract
In this study, using an enzymatic HPLC method in combination with D-aspartate oxidase, we show that N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) is present at nanomolar levels in rat nervous system and endocrine glands as a natural compound, and it is biosynthesized in vivo and in vitro. D-aspartate (D-Asp) is its natural precursor and also occurs as an endogenous compound. Among the endocrine glands, the highest quantities of D-Asp (78 +/- 12 nmol/g) and NMDA (8.4 +/- 1.2 nmol/g) occur in the adenohypophysis, whereas the hypothalamus represents the area of the nervous system where these amino acids are most abundant (55 +/- 9 and 5.6 +/- 1.1 nmol/g for D-Asp and NMDA, respectively). When D-Asp is administered to rats by ip injection, there is a significant uptake of D-Asp into the adenohypophysis and a significant increase in the concentration of NMDA in the adenohypophysis, hypothalamus and hippocampus, suggesting that D-Asp is an endogenous precursor for NMDA biosynthesis. Experiments conducted on tissue homogenates confirm that D-Asp is the precursor of the NMDA and that the enzyme catalyzing this reaction is a methyltransferase. S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) is the methyl group donor. In vivo experiments consisting of ip injections of sodium D-aspartate show that this amino acid induced a significant serum PRL elevation and this effect is dose and time dependent. In vitro experiments conducted on isolated adenohypophysis or adenohypophysis coincubated with the hypothalamus, showed that the release of PRL is caused by a direct action of D-Asp on the pituitary gland and also mediated by the indirect action of NMDA on the hypothalamus. Then, the latter induces the release of a putative factor that in turn stimulates the adenohypophysis reinforcing the PRL release. In conclusion, our data suggest that D-Asp and NMDA are present endogenously in the rat and are involved in the modulation of PRL release.

PMID:11014243

And it doesnt stop there.. DAA also has the potential to elevate estreogen levels via aromatase production!!!

So what do we do to solve these problems?

ENTERS THE TRIPLE THREAT STACK!

HGHUP♂™ has Mucuna Pruriens which has been shown to reduce levels of prolactin and follicle stimulating hormone, in addition to stimulating the release of testosterone, luteinizing hormone, dopamine, adrenaline and noradrenaline. Chlorophytum borivilianum which contains saponins which are thought to naturally increase free testosterone. L-Carnitine Tartrate which has been shown to increase androgen receptor sensitivity. FREE TEST™ has a strong suicide inhibitor of the aromatase enzyme.

It is easy to see how this stack works together so nicely.. its a no brainer here

[StackedCop]

First in

[JudoJosh]

HGH Up is the world’s first “Hybrid Anabolic/Near Hormonal” product ( hANh™). Which is defined as a product that engages a synchronization of natural and exogenous factors to produce a pronounced muscle building and hormonal response. The distinct advantage of a hANh is that the user is able to obtain maximal physiological benefits comparable to that of fully hormonal products while minimizing potential side effects and disruption of endogenous factors post-usage.

HGHup♂ promotes radical increases in serum HGH and testosterone levels without a prescription. It is the only orally viable compound that is proven to increase HGH AND testosterone in human subjects.

PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS:

•Increases the output of growth hormone and local IGF-1 levels
•Increases the duration/viability of growth hormone pulse mass
•Increases androgen receptor structure, function, and number
•Increases natural production of testosterone

EFFECTS RELATED TO PHYSIQUE AND LIFE ENHANCEMENT:

•Greater lean muscle mass
•Lowered body fat
•Increased strength
•Faster healing of injuries and better recovery from physical stress/training
•Better skin tone
•Deeper, more restful sleep

MAIN MECHANISMS OF ACTION:

Mucuna Pruriens, Vitamin B6 and L-Dopa: Increase Growth Hormone Output and Testosterone Production While Concurrently Decreasing Somatostatin and Prolactin.

•HGHup♂ contains highly concentrated L-Dopa derived from Mucuna Pruriens. Mucuna Pruriens is an Ayurvedic Herb that has both anti-hypoglycemic and L-Dopa-increasing qualities. (32). L-Dopa has been shown to significantly increase levels of growth hormone in human subjects when administered orally. (1, 2, 3, 33).

•Oral viability in HGHUP♂ critical for product effectiveness, as growth hormone cannot be absorbed and is rendered ineffective due to the fragility of the ingredients. Several good examples are synthetic growth hormone (see Fig. 1) and growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH, see Fig. 2). These compounds cannot be administered orally; because of their fragile amino acid sequence is destroyed by stomach acids. This also holds true with the vast majority of the so-called “GH Boosters” and “Peptides” commonly found in sports nutrition products.

•L-Dopa and Dopamine have also been shown to inhibit prolactin, a hormone that suppresses male testosterone production. Prolactin also has a positive correlation with a second hormone called somatostatin, which decreases the both amount and effectiveness of circulating growth hormone. Therefore, by lowering prolactin (and consequently somatostatin) levels, HGHUP♂ increases both testosterone and GH production; leading to greater recovery and lean body mass (38, 39).

•Vitamin B6 is also included in the formula for HGHUP♂, as it can also help further lower prolactin levels and increase the night-time peak of GH release pulse, while at the same time increasing the rise in GH associated with exercise by as much as 23% (7).
Huperzine-A: Increasing AChE Inhibition and Mean serum GH by Decreasing Somatostatin
•Huperzine-A is a strong acetylcholine esterase (AChE) inhibitor. Acetylcholine esterase inhibitors have been shown in numerous scientific studies to inhibit somatostatin via a variety of synergistic biomechanisms; all of which contribute to increased levels of growth hormone (9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18).
•Somatostatin is a hormone that exerts effects on anterior pituitary as well as pancreatic, liver and gastrointestinal function (40, 41, 42, 43) .
•Somatostatin is of extreme importance because it directly effects growth hormone release and is the major regulating factor in slowing or even stopping growth hormone output.
•Therefore, by inhibiting somatostatin, overall mean serum GH will increase (41, 42).
•Somatostatin inhibits GH secretion indirectly via antagonizing GHRH secretion (41, 42, 43).
•Consequently, the Huperzine-A, in HGHUP♂ increases the length, intensity, duration of growth hormone pulses and increases mean serum GH levels, therefore allowing for more of the positive myotropic and anti-aging benefits associated with GH.(8, 10, 12-17, 19-20).
Green Tea Extract, and (−)-epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate (EGCG): Increasing Dopa Decarboxylase Inhibition and the AChE-inhibiting Effects of HGHUP

•Dopamine crosses the blood/brain barrier poorly, and cannot exert optimal effects on target receptors unless enough of the compound reaches the brain. L-Dopa is freely absorbed across this barrier, and when L-dopa crosses the barrier readily, growth hormone levels increase. (1-6, 32-33)
•L-Dopa is most effective when conversion of L-Dopa to dopamine is mediated by a decarboxylase inhibitor. A decarboxylase inhibitor is a substrate that inhibits the metabolism of one biological entity into another biological entity (2, 3, 4, 5, 19, 20, 37).
•A decarboxylase inhibitor is generally administered at the same time as L-Dopa / Mucuna in order to reduce conversion of the L-dopa into dopamine in the periphery. (−)-epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate (EGCG), which is found in high amounts in the green tea extract used in HGHUP♂, is a potent decarboxylase inhibitor. The decarboxylase-inhibiting qualities of EGCG have been documented in several recent studies, in that EGCG seems to prevent L-dopa from converting into dopamine; allowing more significant levels of L-dopa to reach the brain and increase growth hormone levels (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 37).
•EGCG has also been shown to significantly increase the effects of Huperzine A on acetylcholine esterase inhibition by increasing the transport of Huperzine-A by serum albumin. This allows for greater amounts of acetylcholine to be present, therefore allowing for greater mean serum growth hormone. Increased serum GH from HGHUP♂ allows for increased muscle building, better recovery, and increased muscle mass (19, 20).

HGHUP♂ INCREASES ANDROGEN RECEPTOR QUANTITY AND DENSITY AND CREATES A BETTER BINDING ENVIRONMENT FOR EXISTING ANDROGENS

L-Carnitine-L-Tartrate and Magnesium: Increasing Androgen Receptor Number and Density, and the Creation of a Better Binding Environment


•L-Carnitine L-Tartrate is an amino acid that has been shown to increase the number of androgen receptors in skeletal muscle, creating a better binding environment for testosterone and other androgens by allowing for a greater number of intact receptors available for hormonal interactions. (21-23)
•Magnesium has been shown in more recent studies to inhibit the binding of steroid hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and free testosterone. SHBG binds free testosterone and allows it to be excreted from the body, without binding the androgen receptor. Magnesium keeps this from happening by altering the binding affinity of testosterone to SHBG; thereby allowing for increased amounts of free testosterone to remain active in the bloodstream. (24)
•Other human research has shown that supplemental magnesium, when taken along with other ingredients like DHEA and Zinc, can significantly increase free testosterone. (25-27)
•Therefore, HGHUP♂ allows for greater numbers of androgen receptors and a better binding environment for testosterone in skeletal muscle. This is a new breakthrough in sports supplementation as HGHUP♂ creates a better target for circulating free testosterone, allowing for greater binding of testosterone to the extra receptors which leads to increased protein synthesis, better recovery, and increased muscle mass.

HGHUP♂ INCREASES TESTOSTERONE

Mucuna Pruriens, Selenium, and Chlorophytum Borivillanum Ethanolic/Sapogenic Extract: Increasing Testosterone Levels

•Mucuna Pruriens has been shown in several recent human studies to improve testosterone levels and spermatogenesis in animal studies and humans, via prolactin inhibition. Prolactin, as mentioned earlier, is a hormone that suppresses male testosterone production (30-31, 34-36, 38-39).
•The ethanolic and sapogenic extracts of Chlorophytum Borivaillanum have also been shown in animal studies to increase testosterone, and anecdotal data from products containing this compound also point to increased testosterone and lean body mass for users of this phyto-androgenic compound. However, the mechanism of action of Chlorophytum is poorly understood. (28- 29)
•Selenium has been shown in several studies to have direct effects on the biosynthesis pathways of testosterone. Selenium is rate-limiting in testosterone production in men, and if enough selenium (selenium deficiency is very common) is not available, testosterone will not be produced in optimal levels (27).

Administration, Timing, and Dosing

•Normal GH pulses (see chart below) occur throughout the day. For a normal male in an average day, there are 10 pulses of GH secretion lasting on average 96.4 mins with 128 mins between each pulse. The largest GH pulse occurs during stages 3 and 4 of the sleep cycle. GH pulses during sleep (see Fig. 5) occur at nearly triple the rate of GH pulses during the day (44-45)
•Somatostatin release is controlled in large part by the cholinergic system. The cholinergic system is responsible for regulating the amount of acetylcholine found in the body at any given time. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter responsible for muscular activation in the peripheral nervous system, and tends to be excitatory in the central nervous system (CNS) (10, 11, 12, 13).
•The CNS component of acetylcholine mediates the cholinergic system, and this is important because the cholinergic system is responsible for mediating growth hormone response (11, 12, 13, 14, 15).
•The mechanism through which this is accomplished is simple: by increasing acetylcholine levels, there will be an increase in mean serum GH. HGHUP♂ increases acetylcholine via lowering levels of acetylcholine esterase or AChE (an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine) (11, 12, 13, 14, 15).
•Taking an acetylcholine esterase inhibitor (in the case of HGHUP♂, Huperzine-A) before sleep will result in dramatically reduced somatostatin levels and dramatically increase serum GH levels (1-4, 5, 9-17,19, 20, 44, 45).
•Somatostatin seems to be the major inhibitory factor in sleep-related GH pulses. When AChE is inhibited by pryridostigmine (an AChE inhibitor very similar to Huperzine-A) GH pulse mass is increased, and mean serum GH almost doubled. In terms of potency, Huperzine-A has actually been shown to be more potent than pyridostigmine bromide in terms of AChE inhibition (9-17, 19-20) .
•There has also been a very popular trend recently of bodybuilders taking Huperzine-A along with injectible synthetic growth hormone, because the compound is so effective at inhibiting somatostatin and increasing serum GH (46)
•Taking (−)-epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate (EGCG) along with Huperzine-A will increase Hup-A’s effectiveness in inhibiting acetylcholine esterase, and its ability to allow the cholinergic system to suppress somatostatin. This has been verified in several scientific studies (19-20).
•Taking a supplement containing L-Dopa with a decarboxylase inhibitor before sleep can allow for dramatically increased levels of GH (1-5, 32- 33, 37-39).
•Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) can also increase the amount of GH released. Insulin and GH are antagonistic, and the lower the insulin level, the higher the GH level (see chart below, 44-45).
•Timing of the dose and manipulating insulin levels before sleep is the key getting great results with HGHUP♂ (44-45, 47)
•Best results occur when a 4-6 capsule dosage is taken on an empty stomach (fasted state) 30 minutes before bedtime (44-45, 47)


Why Most OTC GH Products Are Ineffective, and How HGHUP Differs

•Growth hormone is a peptide (a long chain amino acid structure), that cannot be taken in an oral form, due to the destruction of the sequence by the acidic environment of the stomach. Any supplement containing “oral growth hormone” is a scam (47).
•Many products use a combination of amino acids such as arginine and lysine in “kitchen sink” formulas, and claim that their combination is “scientifically proven” to work. Many amino acids boost growth hormone levels, but most of the time, it is only when taken intravenously, or in completely unattainable dosages that would make a normal person extremely sick. And the correct dosage is in gram amounts, not in the milligram range offered in many of these products (47).
•Even if these products allow for a viable release of GH, there is nothing present to inhibit somatostatin, which has been found to be the biggest factor in controlling GH levels (47)
•Many of these products are powdered mixes that contain sugar, sweeteners, or other compounds that may increase blood sugar. As discussed above, this will render the product virtually useless due to the inverse relationship between glucose and growth hormone (47).
•HGHUP♂ differs from these compounds because of the nature of the formulation. Every compound in the product is designed to work in concert with the other components; no filler or ineffective components are found in this product (47).
•HGHUP♂ utilizes the latest research on compounds which have been overlooked by other companies. The secret of the product is in the complexity, effectiveness and synergism of the blend (1-47).
•HGHUP♂ is the first product to positively manipulate somatostatin; this alone puts it in a class by itself.
•HGHUP♂ also utilizes components that boost androgen levels, increase the number and function of androgen receptors, and create an overall BETTER myotropic environment in which levels of testosterone and GH are optimized, leading to better recovery, increased lean body mass, and lower body fat (1-47).

[mich29]

2nd in great info here

[JudoJosh]

Free Test is a state-of-the-art formulation that utilizes 7 different mechanisms of action to increase testosterone, lower estrogen and cortisol, burn body fat, and build a leaner, more muscular physique.

PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS:

•FREE TEST positively alters 7 homeostatic mechanisms of action that effect free and total testosterone output:
•Contains a natural suicide inhibitor of aromatase, and will improve the Testosterone : Estrogen (T:E) profile while concurrently increasing testosterone levels
•Increases NO/cGMP levels, which leads to increases in lutenizing hormone (LH) and greater endogenous testosterone production.
•Increases testicular Acetyl L-Carnitine (ALCAR) levels. High testicular ALCAR levels are conducive to heightened spermatogenesis.
•Lowers levels of cytokines IL-6, IL-1, and TNF-alpha- cytokines, which inhibit endogenous testosterone production by reducing levels of LH.
•Lowers cortisol levels and heightens Testosterone : Cortisol (T:C) ratio via competitive inhibition processes.
•Increases cAMP levels, which also increase LH levels.
•Influences/Increases androgen receptor (AR) binding via altering receptor electro-negativity.

After 8 weeks of usage of FREE TEST, test subjects were observed to have increased levels of free testosterone ranging from 50-200% over baseline. Impressive results for any product – especially one with no negative side effects!

EFFECTS RELATED TO PHYSIQUE AND LIFE ENHANCEMENT:

•Greater lean muscle mass
•Lowered body fat
•Better/Faster recovery from training
•Increased muscular strength
•Heightened libido and sexual drive

The basics of how FREE TEST works:

The main mechanism of action in FREE TEST has to do with the mytropic/catabolic ratio in skeletal muscle, catabolic principles, and how they relate to homeostasis. During a steroid or prohormone cycle, testosterone levels rise, creating a muscle growth state; as the testosterone to cortisol ratio (T:C) will become very positive. (See Figure 2: Notice the separation between the blue and pink lines at the beginning of the cycle). This allows for increased protein synthesis, and increases in lean body mass. However, due to homeostatic mechanisms in the body, cortisol levels begin to rise along with the increase in testosterone after the first 1-2 weeks (Note how the blue and pink lines come closer and closer together). The body seeks to gain balance (homeostasis) over the increased muscle building via modulating cortisol levels. The body recognizes that it cannot be in a state in which it requires such large amounts of nutrients for protein synthesis and lean tissue accretion for very long (a very high positive nitrogen balance), so it essentially tries to put the brakes on, via increasing cortisol levels to meet heightened testosterone levels (53).

This phenomenon occurs during every cycle and it is why, after week 6 of a cycle, gains slow dramatically, or stop altogether due to the homeostatic rise in cortisol. When this occurs, the user has one of two options: (1) Cessation of the cycle, followed by post-cycle therapy ((PCT) - note the pink line above the blue in wks. 10-12, indicative of a catabolic state), or: (2) Increase the dosage, and take the level of testosterone up even higher (not recommended for safety reasons).

Neither option is very good for keeping gains. The mechanism of action of Free Test seeks to circumvent this via manipulating the T:C ratio via non-androgen receptor mediated means. One key ingredient, 3, 7 keto DHEA plays a key role in accomplishing this. Here’s how it works: 7-Keto derivatives competitively interact with the 11beta-HSD1 enzyme, which is the enzyme that allows the transfer of inactive glucocorticoids to active ones. This is important as it therefore helps keep cortisol levels lower than normal by slowing (but not stopping) the conversion of inactive cortisol to active cortisol - allowing for mitigated levels of this catabolic hormone. (46-48).

Non-androgen receptor (AR) mediated methods of increasing testosterone are extremely crucial to the inner workings of Free Test. Another mechanism of action is that it exerts its effects through deceased estrogen levels, increased testicular function, and increased levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) (53). Since these controls are non-AR mediated (at least not directly), the rise in testosterone is more gradual and not as traumatic, consequently the body will not try to maintain homeostasis as stringently as with the dramatic increases seen with an AR-mediated cycle (see Figure 3 below).

These more gradual increases in testosterone levels allow for cortisol levels to remain relatively low during the cycle. Additional factors that directly suppress cortisol further improve the myotropic ratio (T:C), with muscle building far outweighing catabolism throughout the cycle, with minimal disruption of hormone levels post-cycle (53).

FREE TEST™ MAIN MECHANISMS OF ACTION:

Regulating Estrogen and Increasing Testosterone via Suicide Aromatase Inhibition: The Role of 3, 7-Keto DHEA:

3, 7-Keto DHEA is a naturally-occurring metabolite of dehydroepiandosterone (DHEA), and is a potent aromatase inhibitor with some very unique qualities. Aromatase is an enzyme that transforms testosterone into estrogen, and the more active aromatase is, the more estrogen will ultimately be present. Therefore, aromatase inhibitors significantly decrease the level of estrogen in the body. This is important as increased estrogen in men can signal the hypothalamic pituitary testicular axis (HPTA) to shut down the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). GnRH signals the production of luteinizing hormone (LH), which signals the production of testosterone. Therefore, increased estrogen levels can lower endogenous testosterone production (21,29,31).

3, 7-Keto DHEA has demonstrated strong ability to lower estrogen, thus mitigating this effect. It has a high binding affinity (Ki value = 0.22 mM) to the aromatase enzyme, and binds in an irreversible manner, making it a suicide inhibitor of aromatase. Ki Values measure how efficiently a compound binds to its associated receptor. The lower the Ki value; the higher the binding affinity. This inhibition allows for the production of less estradiol (E2) and estrone (E1) and allows the user of the compound to maintain a higher level of testosterone; hence improving the Testosterone: Estrogen (T:E) ratio. The mechanism through which aromatase inhibitors raise testosterone is fairly simple; the HPTA senses low levels of estrogen, and because the body seeks to maintain homeostasis (it likes to maintain at least some estrogen, even in men), there is a concurrent increase in the amount of testosterone that is being produced, as a way to compensate for the low estrogen levels. The increased testosterone levels normally will result in increased estrogen since there is no estrogen being produced. Essentially, the brain is tricked into trying to produce more estrogen, so it releases more luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LHRH) and subsequently more LH, leading to even higher testosterone levels (20,21-23).

All aromatase inhibitors share this characteristic of positively altering the T:E ratio, and all will raise serum testosterone levels in men, which has been referenced in numerous studies. 3,7-Keto DHEA is comparable in potency to several other commonly available aromatase inhibitors. As explained above, a lower Ki value means higher potency, making it more potent than both Formestane and Exemestane, and very similar to androstentrione (ATD) (31,55). (See Figure 5)

3,7-Keto DHEA is unique from other commonly used aromatase inhibitors in sports supplements in that it is a natural metabolite of 7-Keto DHEA and it cannot directly bind to the androgen receptor. 3,7-Keto DHEA (like 7-Keto DHEA) also cannot convert to testosterone, estrogen, or progesterone via any type of enzymatic reaction, so by strict definition it cannot in any way be considered a prohormone. This clearly differentiates it from other recently banned products that allow for the direct conversion to a controlled substance in the body (in either in trace amounts or full-scale conversion). This can not occur with 3,7-Keto DHEA, as it is formed naturally in humans from 7-Keto DHEA and can be readily found in humans in the amount of 5-7 ug/day (23-24).

Increasing luteinizing hormone via elevating nitric oxide and cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate (cGMP): The role of Acetyl-L-Carnitine, Resveratrol, and their interaction with the male reproductive system and StAR:

FREE TEST™ strongly influences testosterone production through the nitric oxide pathway and cGMP by increasing luteinizing hormone levels. Luteinizing Hormone (via receptors found on the surface of Leydig cells) is important as it controls the production and secretion of testosterone (1-4).

The inclusion of Acetyl L-Carnitine (ALCAR) (a derivative of L-Carnitine which is an amino acid that is crucial for fatty acid metabolism and male reproductive function) allows for this manipulation of cGMP, as does Resveratrol. cGMP is classified as a second messenger, meaning that it exerts its effects by acting in a manner secondary and in response to a first messenger signaling molecule. When a first messenger signaling molecule binds to a cell surface, another secondary pathway is activated that increases cGMP production (1,15,19,27).

Increasing cGMP is extremely important to the action of FREE TEST, in that increased cGMP levels equate to increased levels of luteinizing hormone (LH). LH has a stimulatory action on endogenous testosterone production; so when cGMP levels increase, so do LH levels, and when LH levels increase, so does endogenous testosterone production. This effect has been well documented in recent research on PDE5 inhibitors (compounds that increase cGMP levels such as slidenafil (Viagra®). Researchers found that high cyclic GMP levels ultimately equate to higher testosterone levels.

ALCAR has also been shown to be an acetate donor to coenzyme A, allowing it to aid in the synthesis and function of acetylcholine, both peripherally and centrally. 7-Keto derivatives of DHEA (like 3,7-Keto DHEA) antagonize GABA-A receptors and functionally increase cholinergic expression. Through this mechanism of action, ALCAR and 3,7-Keto DHEA can increase cGMP levels, through increasing the amount of available acetylcholine- as mentioned above, more cGMP, more LH, more testosterone. (18,20,32).

ALCAR levels are very important for testicular function, in that low testicular ALCAR and L-Carnitine levels are strongly associated with testicular dysfunction and infertility. (28,30,33)

ALCAR has also been shown to have a significant effect on increasing Leptin levels, and has also been shown to be a potent factor in the male reproductive system. Leptin releases LHRH (luteinizing releasing hormone) by activating nitric oxide synthase (NOS), an enzyme that speeds the formation of nitric oxide (NO) from the amino acid L-Arginine. LHRH controls the release of luteinzing hormone (LH), and greater amounts of LHRH release equal greater amounts of luteinizing hormone (LH) release, which can allow for higher amounts of endogenous testosterone. Therefore, by increasing leptin levels and boosting LHRH release, ALCAR can have some additional positive effects on endogenous testosterone production (1-4,18).

L-Carnitine, ALCAR, and several derivations thereof have been shown to elevate Nitric Oxide (NO) levels. NO is important in that it regulates vascular tone, central nervous system stimulation, induces the release of LHRH and regulates cGMP levels. ALCAR and 7-Keto derivatives of DHEA have also been shown to elevate acetylcholine levels, which allow for a concurrent increase in cGMP production. NO also activates the release of LHRH which reaches the pituitary and activates the release of gonadotropins via the activation of neural NO synthase (NOS) in the pituitary gland (1-4, 15, 33-34).

The fact that cGMP has a stimulatory action on steroidogenesis via increased LH production is an important one. In numerous pathway studies, increases in cGMP increased phosphorylation of the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR). Increased phosphorylation of StAR is important, in that (StAR) is a Leydig cell cholesterol transfer protein that provides the building blocks for testosterone synthesis. Increased phosphorylation allows for increased StAR activation, and increased StAR activation is necessary for the stimulation of steroidogenic enzymes involved in the transfer of cholesterol to testosterone. This increase in StAR, and the greater transfer of cholesterol to testosterone can result in greater endogenous testosterone synthesis (15,33-34).

By increasing the intermediary between these two processes, a resulting positive shift in muscle growth can occur. Therefore, high cGMP levels also equate to high levels of luteinizing hormone (the hormone responsible for mediating endogenous spermatogenesis), and when cGMP levels are elevated it serves as an intermediate in the signaling cascade that ranges from LH binding to testosterone production (15,33-34).

These results suggest that cGMP contributes to the control of basal steroidogenesis (endogenous testosterone production) in Leydig cells through the protein kinase G (PKG, and enzyme responsible for the activation of second messengers) -dependent modification of the StAR protein and interaction with LH. LH controls the production and secretion of testosterone, and the subsequent binding of LH with its receptor allows signaling through the cyclic AMP pathway through GTP binding proteins. Signal transduction occurs through the protein kinase A pathway as its principal signal transduction mechanism, and this ultimately allows for the release of testosterone after 30-60 minutes of LH stimulation (15-17,33-34).

To summarize, FREE TEST™ contains several potent direct mechanisms of action that strongly influence the production of increased testosterone via the NO / cGMP pathway, through a cascade of regulatory proteins and second messengers.

Forskolin and Resveratrol: Increasing endogenous testosterone production via increasing Cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels:

Forskolin has been the subject of research in the supplement industry since the early 1980s. Scientific studies have discovered that along with increasing thyroid activity and thermogenesis, forskolin is also a potent muscle enhancer. This occurs primarily through elevation of 3,5 cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) which is another second messenger that is important in hormone signaling (14,16).

cAMP elevation is a crucial piece of the puzzle in creating both a muscle building and thermogenic state, and forskolin is one of the best compounds available for triggering dramatic increases in cAMP levels. One study showed that forskolin was able to increase cAMP levels 4.82 times more than a placebo. Another study demonstrates that forskolin can raise cAMP levels in fat cells. This is important because it demonstrates the ability of the compound to enhance lipolysis; meaning that forskolin exerts powerful fat-burning effects as well as being a potent myotropic agent; plus forskolin can also enhance endurance capacity as well (5-10,14,16).

Another added bonus of forskolin and resveratrol are that they both increase cAMP independently of epinephrine, thus providing increased energy without the need to take any type of traditional stimulant. Increased cAMP also is a signal for steroidogenesis (testosterone production) in the Leydig cells of the testes by increasing levels of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR- as mentioned above) (14,16,36-38).

As mentioned earlier, StAR activation is necessary for the stimulation of the transfer of cholesterol to testosterone. By this process, and the fact that high cAMP levels also equate to high levels of luteinizing hormone, significant increases in endogenous testosterone production can occur along with a resulting increase in muscle growth and protein synthesis (14-15).

Numerous other studies have shown parallels between increased cAMP levels and increased muscle growth, and a ground-breaking 2005 study in The Journal of Obesity Research found that obese men taking 250 mg of 10% forskolin a day for 12 weeks (roughly the dosage included in the daily dosage of Free Test™) experienced an averaged 33% increase in free testosterone levels, averaged a 10 lbs. fat loss per person and increased lean mass an average of 8 lbs! A 2001 study by Badmaev (see Figure 6) also yielded similar results (6,8,54).

Quercetin is a citrus bioflavanoid that has been shown to boost the effects of resveratrol (this is the primary rationale for its inclusion in the formula) via prevention of precocious glucorindiation (deactivation of the compound) by the liver. Similarly, quercetin has also been shown to have some estrogen-antagonizing effects. Quercetin has also been shown to have some additional anti-oxidant effects, and has been shown to lower cortisol levels in several animal studies. Lastly, the combination of resveratrol and quercetin also has been shown in some cellular studies to actually destroy fat cells. (39,40,44)

[JudoJosh]

Okay now that the product pimping is out the way .. on to the Training layout

Last I tried a new approach to my training which was based on a combo of Undulating Periodization & Escalated Density Training.

I didnt enjoy those weeks

It is not that I didnt progress with this workout methodology, it was just that I did not enjoy it. I know, I know working out isnt supposed to be fun right? Wrong! I enjoy my workouts and look forward to them! I already work 12 hours a day and dredge waking up to go into work.. I do not want to dredge my workout. It is a release and a time to myself.

So with that said I decided to go back to my old program and am going to try and incorporate the progression system from 5/3/1 into my ME days. Also I have been out of Judo for a looong time now and am planning on sneaking back into it. My training will be a little different then your typical bodybuilder type routine. My training is generally more focused on movements rather than individual muscles.

"the entire movement pattern, rather than the strength of single muscles or the movement of single joints, must be the primary training objective.” - Dr Vladimir Zatsiorsky

Here is the outline of the workout design

Dynamic Mobility
Core Warmup
Specific Warmup
Primary Lift
Supplemental Lift
Accessory Lift
Weakness / Prehab
Core
Grip
Stretching

Along with the typical conventional exercises I will be doing alot of unconventional training. There will most likely be a lot of exercises that you guys never heard of and if so just ask I am more than happy to explain it either through words, pictures, or short videos.

[mattrag]

Interested in your training protocol. I'm training in judo now too and was looking for some comparison programming.

[enhanced]

Very interesting stuff here. I'll be following.

[Rosie Chee]

There are no universal diets or training techniques, one must experiment to find what works for them...

^^^AGREED!!!

Sidenote: You'll enjoy FREE TEST...And Lipotrophin-PM...

~Rosie~

[JudoJosh]

First in

STALKER!

I mean welcome to the fun

2nd in great info here

Interested in your training protocol. I'm training in judo now too and was looking for some comparison programming.

First I apologize for the delay in my PM response to you bud. I know you had asked me about this like last week or even the week before. I wanted to type something up for you in my response instead of giving some half ass reply but just haven't had the time.

Pretty much like I said above the key with developing a training program for an athlete is to identify and train the movement patterns of the sport along with finding and correcting imbalances all while maintaing and even improving upon flexibility and mobility

If you have any questions feel free to ask and I will try my best to answer them for you

[mattrag]

STALKER!

I mean welcome to the fun



First I apologize for the delay in my PM response to you bud. I know you had asked me about this like last week or even the week before. I wanted to type something up for you in my response instead of giving some half ass reply but just haven't had the time.

Pretty much like I said above the key with developing a training program for an athlete is to identify and train the movement patterns of the sport along with finding and correcting imbalances all while maintain and even improving flexibility and mobility

If you have any questions feel free to ask and I will try my best to answer them for you

Thanks man, I know i have a lot of hip and core weaknesses. Also, I'm slow. Like I didn't think I was fast or anything but damn I am slow. Training those things now.

Out of curiosity, what weight class did you fight at?

[R1balla]

Josh, if you can, take 2 bottles of Free Test....you will love the results

[JudoJosh]

Very interesting stuff here. I'll be following.

Thanks and welcome to the log

^^^AGREED!!!

Sidenote: You'll enjoy FREE TEST...And Lipotrophin-PM...

~Rosie~

Always a pleasure to have you along for the ride Rosie

[rms80]

Now the reason for me creating another journal was that I was recently blessed by the chance to represent Applied Nutriceuticals and their product line will be a major core focus with the products I choose to supplement my diet and training with.

I will be using the Triple Threat Stack which consist of LIT-UP™ Peach Tea, HGHUP♂™ & FREE TEST™. along with Lipotrophin-PM™

I will also be using TestForce2 and some bulk cissus that I already had.

The synergism between the triple threat stack with the addition of the DAA in TestForce looks ridiculous on paper!

You have Test boosting from the DAA in LIT-UP™ and Testforce along with free test boosting, estrogen control and cortisol control from FREE TEST™ and prolactin control and GH boosting from HGHUP♂™

We all have heard about DAA with its growing popularity for its ability to boost our natural test levels.







Along with being an amazing natural test booster D-aspartic acid also has the potential to stimulate prolactin release.







And it doesnt stop there.. DAA also has the potential to elevate estreogen levels via aromatase production!!!

So what do we do to solve these problems?

ENTERS THE TRIPLE THREAT STACK!

HGHUP♂™ has Mucuna Pruriens which has been shown to reduce levels of prolactin and follicle stimulating hormone, in addition to stimulating the release of testosterone, luteinizing hormone, dopamine, adrenaline and noradrenaline. Chlorophytum borivilianum which contains saponins which are thought to naturally increase free testosterone. L-Carnitine Tartrate which has been shown to increase androgen receptor sensitivity. FREE TEST™ has a strong suicide inhibitor of the aromatase enzyme.

It is easy to see how this stack works together so nicely.. its a no brainer here

I am really, really looking forward to this....

[JudoJosh]

Thanks man, I know i have a lot of hip and core weaknesses. Also, I'm slow. Like I didn't think I was fast or anything but damn I am slow. Training those things now.

Out of curiosity, what weight class did you fight at?

I only competed once before and at that time my fat arse was at around 210..

As for core and hips.. I find that most people have tight hips and weak cores. Those areas generally get neglected as most poeple in the gym focus on the asthetic muscules such as the biceps and chest. Another one that gets neglected is glutes. I try and focus on these areas as I myself also tend to neglect them somewhat. I will be doing some Judo and BJJ specific training movements which you could prolly benefit from such as Gi hangs.

Josh, if you can, take 2 bottles of Free Test....you will love the results

Thats the plan

I am planning to run two of these stacks back to back to see what it is really made out of.

[Rosie Chee]

Always a pleasure to have you along for the ride Rosie

Happy to support you, Josh - after all, you've been great to me

~Rosie~

[JudoJosh]

I am really, really looking forward to this....

I am too sir..

Admittedly I never really looked into HGHup and Free Test before but the more I am reading about them the more excited I get!!!!

At first I couldn't understand why someone would opt for Free Test over Erase but this was based on a sticker price compression but the more I learn and read about free test the choice has become much clearer.

While Erase contains 75mg of the primary active ingredient (Androst-3,5-dien-7,17-dione) Free Test contains this same active but in a much larger dose (110mg if I read correctly) along with extra goodies like NAC, Acetyl L-Carnitine, Forslean, Resveratrol, Quercetin DiHydrate, Magnesium , Zinc, Bioperine, Selenium and A B-complex..

Now at first these "extra" would appear to just be fillers so the consumer would just compare the amount of the 3,7 Keto DHEA and then compare cost based only on this BUT from what I have been reading Free Test is just sooo much more than just 3,7 Keto DHEA in a bottle.

These extras along with the 3,7 Keto DHEA allow for:

◦Increase in NO/cGMP levels, which leads to increases in LH and greater endogenous testosterone production
◦Increase in testicular Acetyl L-Carnitine (ALCAR) levels and high testicular ALCAR levels are conducive to heightened spermatogenesis
◦Lowering levels of cytokines IL-6, IL-1, and TNF-alpha- cytokines to inhibit endogenous testosterone production by reducing levels of luteinizing hormone
◦Lowering cortisol levels and heightening Testosterone: Cortisol (T:C) ratio via competitive inhibition
◦Increase in cAMP levels, which also increase LH levels
◦Influences/Increases androgen receptor (AR) binding via altering receptor electronegativity
-Increases lipolysis through a non-stimulant MOA


Now I am NOT knocking Erase as it does serve a purpose for someone soley looking for a AI but on paper Free Test appears to be a much more complete product. I have taken Erase in the past along with DAA and enjoyed it so I can make a comparison but I doubt anyone would take it for face value since I am a rep so I will most likely not type or a compression as I feel it would be in bad taste anyway.

Anyway I am glad you are here Dirk as I am sure I will be chuck full of questions for you

[mattrag]

I only competed once before and at that time my fat arse was at around 210..

As for core and hips.. I find that most people have tight hips and weak cores. Those areas generally get neglected as most poeple in the gym focus on the asthetic muscules such as the biceps and chest. Another one that gets neglected is glutes. I try and focus on these areas as I myself also tend to neglect them somewhat. I will be doing some Judo and BJJ specific training movements which you could prolly benefit from such as Gi hangs.



Thats the plan

I am planning to run two of these stacks back to back to see what it is really made out of.

Gi hangs? Im going to look this up.

Yesterday I actually tried a GHR... OMFG...I need to figure out how to develop my muscles to do ONE.

[mattrag]

I am too sir..

Admittedly I never really looked into HGHup and Free Test before but the more I am reading about them the more excited I get!!!!

At first I couldn't understand why someone would opt for Free Test over Erase but this was based on a sticker price compression but the more I learn and read about free test the choice has become much clearer.

While Erase contains 75mg of the primary active ingredient (Androst-3,5-dien-7,17-dione) Free Test contains this same active but in a much larger dose (110mg if I read correctly) along with extra goodies like NAC, Acetyl L-Carnitine, Forslean, Resveratrol, Quercetin DiHydrate, Magnesium , Zinc, Bioperine, Selenium and A B-complex..

Now at first these "extra" would appear to just be fillers so the consumer would just compare the amount of the 3,7 Keto DHEA and then compare cost based only on this BUT from what I have been reading Free Test is just sooo much more than just 3,7 Keto DHEA in a bottle.

These extras along with the 3,7 Keto DHEA allow for:

◦Increase in NO/cGMP levels, which leads to increases in LH and greater endogenous testosterone production
◦Increase in testicular Acetyl L-Carnitine (ALCAR) levels and high testicular ALCAR levels are conducive to heightened spermatogenesis
◦Lowering levels of cytokines IL-6, IL-1, and TNF-alpha- cytokines to inhibit endogenous testosterone production by reducing levels of luteinizing hormone
◦Lowering cortisol levels and heightening Testosterone: Cortisol (T:C) ratio via competitive inhibition
◦Increase in cAMP levels, which also increase LH levels
◦Influences/Increases androgen receptor (AR) binding via altering receptor electronegativity
-Increases lipolysis through a non-stimulant MOA


Now I am NOT knocking Erase as it does serve a purpose for someone soley looking for a AI but on paper Free Test appears to be a much more complete product. I have taken Erase in the past along with DAA and enjoyed it so I can make a comparison but I doubt anyone would take it for face value since I am a rep so I will most likely not type or a compression as I feel it would be in bad taste anyway.

Anyway I am glad you are here Dirk as I am sure I will be chuck full of questions for you

Wow.... That is a full spectrum product... Maybe I should run that for my RS Transaderm PCT.