Anabolic Steroid and Supplement Secrets the Athletes and Models Pray You Never Learn!
an excerpt from George Spellwin's Chemical Wizardry

Information about today's most popular supplements.

19-Norandrostenediol

This is a derivative of 19-norandrostenedione which MAY be even more potent. No human studies have been done, in fact, no human has ever even TRIED this to our knowledge. That will probably change in the coming year. Based on it's chemical structure it's possible that this nortestosterone precursor may be one of the best pro-hormones yet. Time will tell, so keep your eyes peeled. Dosage: Unknown, but we suspect it will be similar to norandrostenedione (i.e. 6 times 50 mg per day)

19-Norandrostenedione

Without question, norandrostenedione is one of the potent anabolics available. Norandrostenedione is a direct precursor of the anabolic steroid nandrolone. It is fast acting, powerful and fairly non-androgenic compared to the other pro-hormones. It's not at all uncommon for new users to experience gains on the order of 15 lbs. in six weeks of use. Dosage: 6 times 50 mg per day if taken by itself. It will work best when you combine it with androstenedione. A typical cycle lasts six weeks followed by six weeks of "off" time.

4-Androstenediol

is the most anabolic of all the steroid precursors in the Andro family and is a direct metabolite and precursor to the anabolic hormone testosterone. 4-AD uses the enzyme 3 beta-HSD (3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase) to convert directly to the anabolic hormone testosterone in the human body. This 3 beta-HSD conversion is more efficient than any other pro-hormone compound. The end result is a compound that provides higher levels of testosterone conversion than any other pro-hormone on the market.

A study performed at Michigan State University tested the conversion rates of the testosterone steroid precursors Androstenedione against the 4-Androstenediol in Mass Quantities Andro Infusion. This study found that 4-AD provided a 310% higher increase in total testosterone over Androstendione, and a 256% higher increase in free testosterone. Another of the most favorable benefits of the 4-AD in Andro Infusion is that it does not convert to estrogen. As you may know, testosterone and some steroid precursors, in high dosages, can cause aromatization. This is the biological process that causes testosterone hormones to be converted to undesirable estrogen hormones.

But fortunately, with 4-AD aromatization is not an issue. 4-AD lacks the chemical structure to aromatize into estrogen. To keep the biological process simple, we will say that for a substance to aromatize it needs a specific ketone group to be available during the conversion process. Testosterone and Androstenedione both have this ketone group and can convert to estrogen whereas 4-AD does not contain this group and therefore cannot be converted to estrogen. The extreme anabolic properties of 4-AD along with its extremely low side effect profile has led experts such as supplement guru Bio-chemist Patrick Arnold to call 4-Androstenediol the king of all pro hormones.

5-Androstenediol

is sold in pharmacies in Germany under the trade name Stenadiol and throughout Europe under the name Methandrol as an anabolic steroid. Considered by many European countries to be too strong for sale as a nutritional supplement, the laws in the US differ from those across the Atlantic. Since 5-AD is technically speaking a steroid precursor, it falls into the same category as Androstenedione and Norandrostenedione and for now is completely legal to sell and possess in the U.S. Although 5-AD does not provide as great a testosterone conversion as 4-AD, 5-AD has proven to be extremely anabolic in it's unconverted form. This means that 5-AD does not seem to require testosterone conversion to build muscle. This unique property makes it is far less androgenic than androstenedione which in turn makes it far less likely to cause unwanted side effects. Lastly, 5-AD has been shown to suppress Cortisol levels in the body. Cortisol is the catabolic hormone that is released during heavy lifting and can cause muscle deterioration and can prevent muscle growth. 5-AD has also shown the ability to boost ones immune system by increasing your body's resistance to infections. Some bodybuilders have taken this product along with anabolic steroids or pro hormones to boost their immune systems lowered by anabolics.

It began with DHEA and the new supplement laws established only a few years ago in the United States…naturally occurring steroidal hormones/prohormones meeting certain criteria could be offered to the public as nutritional agents. With DHEA established as a precedent, other steroidal compounds were soon to follow. Androstenedione was introduced next as a potential pro-hormone that could significantly raise testosterone levels. Although efficacious to a certain degree, many people found this compound too harsh on the system (accelerated hair-loss, gynocomastia problems, and oily/acne prone skin). 5-Androstenediol falls under the same legal classification as DHEA. Now for the first side of 5-androstenediol…this compound (androstenediol) has been sold in the past in certain countries as a legitimate anabolic steroid. Many of you will recognize the name Methandriol and indeed this is the oral, 17-alpha alkylated version of androstenediol. Methandriol is a very popular anabolic steroid that is still used throughout the world and especially in Australian veterinary anabolic steroid preparations. It is known to have moderate androgenic properties with fairly high anabolic properties. Androstenediol was always sold as an injectable steroid and was also known for being moderately androgenic and highly anabolic. In the United States, androstenediol was never sold or recognized as an anabolic steroid, is naturally occurring, and thus can be sold legally as a nutritional compound-meet 5-androstenediol.

Again, 5-androstenediol is totally legal at this time and although some individuals will swear that it is a controlled substance, the DEA's steroidal technical expert personally told me that androstenediol is not considered an anabolic steroid and is perfectly legal at this time. Androstenediol has been shown to be at least 100 times more potent than DHEA in regulating systemic resistance against various lethal infections. Androstenediol has been shown to protect against virus induced myocardiopathy, pancreopathy, and mortality. In addition to its protective effects, androstenediol induced a 3-4 fold proliferation of the spleen and thymus in virus infected hosts. Strenthening the Immune system in beneficial for muscle building because a weak immune system will not only cause a person to be susceptible to frequent illnesses but will also chronically impair an individual's sense of well-being as well as his recuperative abilities. Books could probably be written on this subject but take it as fact: a strong immune system is a VITAL link to feeling better, looking better, and performing better.

As I continued to review the research regarding androstenediol, there is some research which shows that androstenediol has moderate antiglucocorticoid function (third side). This function of androstenediol probably explains at least to some extent why it has such potent immune system stimulating properties. Glucocorticoids, like cortisol, suppress the immune system, preventing lymphocyte proliferation and cytokine production. Thus, by being an antiglucocorticoid, androstenediol blunts your body's natural suppressive effect on its immune system. Glucocorticoids are also catabolic to muscle tissue, venous tissue, connective tissue, as well as just about any other proteinaceous tissue in the body. Thus, androstenediol can be considered a potent anticatabolic as it halts the destructive nature of cortisol on proteinaceous tissues.

A person supplementing with 5-androstenediol should thus experience venous hypertrophy (enhanced vascularity), stronger muscles, and a noticeable weight gain from increased lean mass. Most evident in the research done on androstenediol is its ability to interfere at the receptor level in estrogenic stimulation (fourth facet). Indeed, androstenediol has been shown to bind at least to some degree to the estrogen receptor. This does not mean that it is strogenic though, research shows that although it binds to the estrogen receptor, it is much less estrogenic than estriol or estradiol and thus logically when it binds to the receptor it will cause much less of an estrogenic response.

Finally, many individuals have used the orally active Methandriol for decades without any noticeable problems with an estrogenic response. I think it is thus safe to assume that an estrogenic response will not be a problem with 5-androstenediol. In fact, from all the evidence, I would feel safe in assuming that one will experience some degree of an anti-estrogen effect. The fifth and last facet of androstenediol is its side effect profile. It is this area where we have little evidence to determine exactly what the side effects will be. I do have one study in front of me which shows that in regard to DHT binding, androstenediol is less active than testosterone. Furthermore, Methandriol has always been known to have very few androgenic side effects. There is also a study which shows 5-androstenediol (5-androstenediol) to be much less androgenic than 4-androstenediol (Androdiol by Osmo). Finally, because it is probably somewhat antiestrogenic, I doubt that individuals will have a problem with gynocomastia as some have with androstenedione. I am proposing that most individuals will see hardly any negative side effects on 5-androstenediol as they have with other steroidal compounds such as androstenedione and Androdiol.

As you can see, 5-androstenediol is an amazing compound and should rival norandrostenedione in terms of efficacy as an ergogenic booster without negative side-effects. Furthermore, 5-androstenediol should be ideal to stack with norandrostenedione as one would then get the benefits of both a C-17 and a 19-Nor steroid.

Chrysin

is a flavonoid recognized as being the most powerful naturally occurring anti-estrogen available today. It is extracted from a plant called "Passiflora Caerulea" that has been shown to be the most potent of the naturally occurring flavonoids. In fact, chrysin is as potent as the respected anti-estrogen drug aminogluthemide. There are many different types of flavonoids with varying biological activities. What a great number of flavonoids have in common is their ability to selectively inhibit certain enzymes. Our discussion begins with the flavonoid chrysin and its role of blocking the process of the aromatase enzyme, which is responsible for estrogen conversion in men.

Back in May 1996, respected steroid guru Dan Duchaine wrote about a newly discovered flavone, which at the time was called Flavone X. Dan described Flavone X as a powerful anti-estrogen testosterone booster. The article's glowing praise of the unnamed flavone created quite a stir in the bodybuilding community and everyone wanted to know which of the flavones was this mysterious "Flavone X." Why did Dan see the need for secrecy? Probably because the supplement company EAS was in the process of applying for a use patent on the flavone which would have given them exclusive rights to sell the most powerful, naturally-occurring anti-estrogen ever discovered at a huge profit. However, someone in their organization leaked the name of the flavone, and the world found out that the mysterious "Flavone X" was actually a flavonoid called chrysin.

The flavonoid chrysin works to boost and preserve testosterone in two ways. First through its anti-aromatase function and second by eliminating estrogen's negative feedback loop. Aromatase or estrogen synthetase is what is known as the conversion of testosterone into estrogen through the aromatase enzyme. Chrysin blocks the aromatase enzyme from converting testosterone into estrogen allowing testosterone levels to remain high. By stopping the aromatization of testosterone into estrogen chrysin also encourages your body to produce more testosterone by eliminating the so-called "negative feedback" loop that would otherwise signal your body to stop or slow natural testosterone production. Your body uses estrogen levels as a sort of test to decide how much testosterone to produce. High estrogen levels means the testes will slow down or stop the production of testosterone. Low estrogen levels means it is time to turn up testosterone production. So, by reducing estrogen levels, chrysin fools the testes into producing more of mother nature's favorite anabolic hormone-TESTOSTERONE. The elimination of the negative feedback loop, together with chrysin's anti-aromatase testosterone sparing effect, makes it doubly effective as a testosterone booster.

Research suggests chrysin's anti-aromatase function prevents estrogenic side effects so often associated with the use of androgenic steroids and heavy doses of some steroid precursors. High estrogen levels are commonly associated with androgenic drug and supplement use. Excess testosterone is quickly converted to estrogen via the aromatase enzyme. This excess estrogen can adversely effect the physique by causing gynecomastia, the growth of breast tissue in males--you don't want this to happen because it usually takes surgery to fix. Estrogen also increases water retention under the skin giving you a soft, flat look. Dosage: Four to eight 250 mg doses per day.

Creatine Monohydrate

Dietary supplementation of Creatine Monohydrate can produce dramatic increases in muscle creatine and Creatine Phosphate concentrations in humans. Muscle creatine is of paramount importance for the liberation of energy for skeletal muscle contraction which in turn permits muscular hypertrophy or growth through increases in strength. The richest sources of creatine are red meats, however, large amounts of red meat consumption is often not desired because of its high fat content. Creatine Monohydrate, is a pure, low calorie, synthetic source of creatine, that has been shown to produce dramatic results in intensively training humans. Twenty grams per day in four divided daily doses has been proven safe and well tolerated in humans.

This increased production of the nitrogenous compound called Creatine Phosphate or CP promotes the storage of certain enzymes in a muscle cell including ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate). This enzyme breaks down to ADP (Adenosine Diphosphate) which is the fuel used to make muscles move. Even the most basic life forms like one celled organisms and members of the Kingdom Planate use ATP as a form of mechanical energy. ATP is the bridge between food energy and all other forms of energy. What is significant about Creatine Monohydrate and the availability of ATP lies in the increased production of CP. CP is an inorganic phosphate which can bind to ADP and create energy storage in ATP. When ADP combines with this phosphate, energy is trapped between them. This energy is released upon demand by muscle tissue. When an individual is using Creatine Monohydrate, more CP is available, thus allowing ADP to quickly return to ATP. This ATP is then stored and will be used as fuel once again when the muscles need it. It is not so important to understand these terms but this area is significant in that it is responsible for much of the strength gained from both Creatine Monohydrate and steroid use.

Creatine supplementation is best divided into two phases: a loading phase and a maintenance phase. During the loading phase, one heaping teaspoon of creatine monohydrate mixed in water or juice, is taken four times per day for three to five days. After the loading phase, the maintenance phase begins during which one heaping teaspoon is taken morning and evening. (42)

Daidzein

The potent phyto-estrogen daidzein is a key isoflavone found in soy, and is structurally a very weak "pseudo-estrogen" (about 1000 times weaker than the body's primary estrogen estradiol). This is good news to the bodybuilder because weak estrogens like daidzein will compete with stronger estrogens like estradiol for available receptor sites to "bind" to. By binding to the receptor sites daidzein then "blocks" the stronger estrogens from binding to and activating receptor sites. With the daidzein isolflavone attached, estrogen receptor sites remain inactive. This inactivity further minimizes the negative effects of estrogen in the body. Many researchers believe this effect is the reason soy protein is linked to a reduction in the risk for many forms of breast, endometrial, and prostate cancer. This Bind and Block Mechanism works similarly to the prescription drug Nolvadex (tamoxifen citrate)-an anti-estrogen staple in bodybuilding community. Daidzein is an isoflavone related to the well known anabolics chrysin and ipriflavone. There haven't been a lot of HUMAN studies on it, but the animal studies show great promise. Daidzein is found naturally in soy protein, but, like all the soy isoflavones, you would have to eat a lot of protein powder to get what we believe is an effective dose. Dosage: Based on what we know about chrysin and ipriflavone, anywhere between 100 mg and 200 mg per day in divided doses. It might be beneficial to take daidzein with LPC to promote absorption.

ECA

Due to recent changes in the neutriceutical world it would now make sense to refer to ECA as ECY. Yohimbine takes the place of Aspirin in most ECY stacks as findings show that the Aspirin led to upsetting the stomach and thinning the blood of its users. Two of the active ingredients in ECY stacks, caffeine and ephedrine alkaloids (ephedrine alkaloids take the place of the recently banned Ephedrine HCL in most ECY stacks), have been proven time and time again to help you burn fat faster than possible with dieting and exercising alone. In fact, they've been shown to melt away extra pounds fatty mass without any lifestyle changes at all. One famous study documenting the amazing effects of caffeine and ephedrine on body composition - and there have been many! - was conducted by A. Astrup for publication in The International Journal Of Obesity. The compounds were administered to a group of 99 patients over a 50-week period. During the first 25 weeks of the study, the group enjoyed a dramatic reduction of body fat, accompanied by a much better preservation of lean mass than expected. During the second 25 weeks, although not as pronounced, fat loss still took place. Finally, no withdrawal symptoms occurred upon cessation of medication, and no serious side effects were observed.

The profound metabolic processes activated by most ECY stacks not only help you burn fat mass but preserve lean mass. Since dieting and exercising very often leads to the loss of the pounds you want to keep as well the ones you want to lose, you'll be happy to hear that now there's something you can do about it. Another study conducted by Astrup, this time for the prestigious journal Metabolism, illustrated the muscle-sparing effects of caffeine and ephedrine. The double-blind experiment consisted of 14 subjects, each of whom consumed 1000 calories daily. Half the subjects were treated with caffeine and ephedrine, while the other half were treated with a placebo. After 8 weeks, total weight loss was the same - not surprising considering the extreme caloric restriction practiced - but subjects who had received caffeine and ephedrine lost an average of 10 pounds more fat mass and 6 pounds less lean mass than the control group.

Not only does ECY activate fat-burning and muscle-preserving mechanisms in your body, but it also helps suppress your appetite. Keep in mind that all diets still expose you to cravings. Many ketogenic diets, for example, permit you to eat all the fat and protein you want but no carbs. What if you start to feel an insatiable need for bread, pasta, pizza? Will you cheat, destroying your hard work along the way? That's where ECY does its magic. Just take a single dose to make those cravings go away or better yet, take ECY on a regular schedule so you never get those cravings in the first place. We've found that taking ECY three times throughout the day (best when taken before each meal) will decrease your desire to snack and will keep your diet on track.

You know how ECY will make you look, but what about how it will make you feel? Focused? Invigorated? Stimulated? How about all of the above?!? Caffeine (a nice healthy dose of which found in ECY) is categorized as a methylxanthanine, a category of substances that, among other properties, weaken the symptoms of fatigue. But if you've ever had a cup of coffee, you probably figured that out on your own. What you may not know is that ephedrine and yohimbine alkaloids are categorized as beta agonists, a category of substances that stimulate the nervous system, and therefore, your mood. (Amphetamine, clenbuterol, and cocaine are also beta agonists, only much stronger - and of course - illegal.)

When caffeine plus ephedrine and yohimbine alkaloids are stacked in a ratio like the one found in ECY, overall effects seem to synergized. Yohimbine, for example, has been shown to enhance the mind-and-muscle-connecting properties of caffeine and ephedrine alkaloids, resulting in greater motor-unit recruitment. (That means you'll be able to lift heavier weights for a longer period of time.) Caffeine and ephedrine alkaloids, on the other hand, seem to enhance yohimbine's aphrodisiac properties - increasing libido in some users. That's right: Yohimbine, in its nutriceutical form, is regarded by many people as a potency enhancer. And in its pharmaceutical form - under trade names like Yocon, Yomax, and others -- it's prescribed throughout the United States as a treatment for erectile dysfunction.

ECY does its job a couple of different (but related) ways. First, with its synergistic dose of caffeine and ephedrine alkaloids, it dramatically increases the production and circulation of the adrenergic hormones. These hormones, commonly known as adrenaline and noradrenaline, are essential to human survivial. Typically released at times of perceived danger, they bind to various receptors (designated as A1, A2, B1, B2, and B3) throughout your nervous and muscle tissue, where they mobilize your natural defense mechanisms. The most interesting defense mechanisms are controlled by your B2 and B3 receptors. Once "switched on" (or agonized), focus and vigilance are increased while appetite and fatigue are decreased. And lipolysis (release of body fat as fuel along with a sense of satisfaction) is enhanced while lipogenesis (storage of fuel as body fat along with a sense of hunger) is crippled. That means you'll be much less likely to cannibalize muscle tissue for energy, even when your body is under extreme stress. You may know that A2 receptors also effect body composition. Tissues with a high affinity for A2 prefer to use amino acids (muscle) for energy instead of adipose tissue (fat). On men, the highest concentration of A2 is the area around the abs AKA the love handles. In women, the highest concentration is on the hips, thighs, and buttocks. That's why fat collects so easily at A2-dominated areas - and why it simply doesn't go away - unless those receptors are blocked. That's where yohimbine alkaloids come in, forcefully "switching off" (or antagonizing) A2s, encouraging fat in those areas to melt away.

EPHEDRINE

Although it may make you a bit jittery, the use of ephedrine especially when combined with caffeine and aspirin has been proven to be a legitimate fat burner. A study appearing in the International Journal Of Obesity described the effects of a caffeine/ephedrine stack on 99 patients who had taken the drug combination for 50 weeks. The dosage used was 20 mg of ephedrine and 200 mg of caffeine three times a day. A dramatic reduction in body fat took place during the initial 24 weeks of the study. Although the body fat reduction was not as pronounced during the second 24 week period, fat reduction still took place. Fortunately, lean body mass was preserved. No withdrawal symptoms occurred upon cessation of the use of these two drugs and no serious side effects were observed (42).

Temporary side effects which were common were tremor, agitation, insomnia, and increased sweating and nervousness. Other potentially more serious side effects that appeared were heart palpitations and tachycardia, but those, were also temporary. This effective drug combination appears to have a relatively low risk to benefit ratio, however, no drug is a substitute for a healthy diet and exercise.

Ephedrine is a precursor to methamphetamine known as crystal meth. As with all stimulants, one tends to become accustomed to it. Soon you need to take more to get the same effect.

Ephedrine can be made in the laboratory, or can be found naturally in the herb Ma Huang. But don't be fooled into thinking that taking the herb is better because its an herb -- it is the same chemical, either way the herb should be standardized to 6% ephedrine to be effective.

Twinlab's ripped fuel...it contains 334 mg Mahuang Extract, 910mg Guarana Extract, 100 mg L-Carnitine, and 200mcg of Chromium. The Diet Fuel contains these ingredients plus several more of questionable efficacy in terms of fat metabolism.

As with any other type of supplement containing caffeine, this one should be titrated onto slowly and titrated off the same way. By not including white willow bark (aspirin, basically), the body will, within two weeks after full dosage has been reached, adjust to it and the caffeine will lose the effect. However, if one adds a baby aspirin with each dose, the potentiating effect will prolong the effectiveness of the "stack" for quite a while longer. But remember that there is additional stress on the adrenal glands and at least one day per week the stack should be discontinued with a total break for at least two-three weeks after 8-12 weeks of usage. This is basically the E/A/C ephedrine aspirin, caffeine stack in a natural pre-stacked product. Because the ingredients are standardized, they are effective yet slightly less stressful on the body. They are also more expensive than the do-it-yourself stack.

 

The individual taking the product is the only one who can answer if the dose is too high. You've got to watch out for other sources of caffeine when using a product such as Ripped Fuel. One thing I have found is that most of Twinlabs products that I have tried have been fairly good and contain what they claim. Other products that claim to have this much potency that I have tried have not come close to the "kick" one gets from Ripped Fuel.

Flaxseed oil

an excellent source of essential fatty acids for those who have fat deficiencies. An example would be people : who have disorders that prevent them from absorbing fats or bodybuilders on a restricted fat diet.

Fresh fat is good for you. Fat that comes from fresh meats and plant products has the essential fatty acids in it that you need. But since fatty acids like other foods are subject to decay the commercial industry has found ways to preserve oils almost indefinitely. They do this in a variety of ways. For one, the oil that you buy in the super market has been heated in upwards of 500 degrees in order to burn off all of the perishable nutrients. And secondly, many oils used in common foods are hydrogenated to improve shelf life and which causes them to act like saturated fats even when they are not fully saturated (hydrogenated).

As many people do not get enough Natural fats in the diet to satisfy your needs you crave fat. So you eat more and get fatter. Now about flaxseed oil. It is cold pressed, kept in the dark, and refrigerated. This keeps all of the natural fatty acids in and it keeps your body happy. If all oils were treated this way then we wouldn’t have to worry about flaxseed oil. I liken it to pure sugar vs. the sugar in fruit that’s packed with good stuff.

Flaxseed oil is an excellent source of essential fatty acids for those who : have fat deficiencies. An example would be people : who have disorders that prevent them from absorbing fats.

It’s quite possible that PUFA are not just necessary for eicosanoid formation, but that their physical presence in membranes has important effects. We don’t see overt PUFA/EFA deficiencies in the American population. But for some athletes, increasing EFA consumption may make growth, strength, and performance optimal. The problem is that some of the components of optimal sports nutrition may not be the best thing for some health aspects. LA and ALA are growth promoters, but this growth also includes tumor growth.. And yes, free radical damage might be increased in consuming PUFAs. But you could say the same thing to endurance athletes: too much oxygen from running, bicycling, etc., may speed up the aging process. It would be interesting to look at mortality rates in populations consuming high (or even moderate) amounts of PUFAs.

 

ALA is an EFA an may be sub-optimal in the typical bb’s diet. ALA is the precursor to AA that causes prostaglandin 2 series. These prostaglandins, along with doing some bad things (platelet clumping, etc.) also contributes to testosterone production. Flax has high amounts of ALA.

Glutamine

: Numerous clinical studies have demonstrated the importance of the amino acid glutamine for its role in muscle growth, protein synthesis, and the inhibition of protein breakdown. In fact, glutamine is the most abundant amino acid found in muscle tissue and supplementation of this nutrient can preserve its availability. Recent scientific studies have indicated that glutamine can increase muscle cell volume which in turn can improve protein synthesis and can help limit muscle breakdown - increased protein synthesis is exactly the effect desired by bodybuilders. Muscle cell volumizing is completely different from water retention or edema which is swelling outside of muscle cells. Cell volumizing, in contrast, can make muscles look harder, fuller, more defined, and can perhaps make muscles stronger. Glutamine should be consumed immediately after a workout with either a carbohydrate drink or water. For best results, do not consume glutamine with protein or a meal. Glutamine is also effective when consumed before bed with a carbohydrate drink. Glutamine supplementation is completely safe and this nutrient exists in whole food sources. Some athletes will notice effects within one week of use for others, positive effects become apparent within four weeks of use (42).

Ipriflavone

is an isoflavone related to chrysin. It is speculated that ipriflavone will yield results comparable to something like Winstrol or Primobolan. Until recently, it was thought that ipriflavone was illegal to sell in the United States. Not so! It is being evaluated as a new drug to treat osteoporosis, but the FDA has confirmed that it is also legal for sale as a "nutritional supplement" because it is naturally occurring.

Ipriflavone can get very expensive if you are ordering it from Europe but if you can find a source in Italy or Hungary then it is more affordable. It comes in 200 mg tabs and we speculate that an effective dose is between 10 and 15 tabs per day. Dante, creator of Hardcore Muscle Magazine wrote, "There is a female bodybuilder in my area (San Diego) who is using Ipriflavone and is ecstatic about the results she has been getting. With the dosage being 5-15 tabs a day." Supplement guru, Derek Cornelius has also written about ipriflavone. He writes, "There seems to be some confusion here that chrysin and ipriflavone work via the same mode of action. Chrysin (5,7 dihydroxyflavone) and 7-hydroxyflavone inhibit aromatase--thus an increase in testosterone. They are highly antiviral and hit the benzodiazapine receptor in the brain. I am presently doing research--in vitro--on ipriflavone because I think it works by inhibiting a calcium dependent protease throughout the body. If this is the case, it is revolutionary." Flavonoids for some reason have the uncanny ability to inhibit various enzyme systems in the body--phosphodiesterase, aromatase, 5-alpha reductase, etc. We think this may also be true for ipriflavone.

An athlete can increase bone density and lean body mass by going to Available in Europe and parts of Asia for years as a very safe and non-toxic pharmaceutical, everyone thought, that 7-isopropoxyisoflavone or Ipriflavone was illegal in the States because it was not naturally occurring. New research has settled that debate definitively and we now know that it is found in nature and therefore quite legal for sale. Why is this good news? Ipriflavone is interesting because it is both anabolic and it is non-hormonal. That means that it can help you gain lean muscle mass, but at the same time, it will not interfere with your own natural hormonal balance. This is in contrast to Anabolic Steroids that work by increasing testosterone levels in the body. Unfortunately for safety reasons, all steroid cycles must eventually come to an end. This is the idea behind the steroid cycle in the first place. Cycle for eight to twelve weeks, then take time off (the off-cycle) so that the body's natural hormonal levels can reregulate preventing harm and preserving health.

After a steroid or pro-hormone cycle, many athletes are left wondering what to use that will help them to preserve their gains and make additional gains, but at the same time will allow their bodies to readjust. In other words, what non-hormonal substances can either promote or preserve gains in lean body mass? There are only a very few. Here are several that come to mind. The illegal would include the anabolic IGF1, growth hormone, and clenbuterol. The legal include, protein and creatine obviously, A recent interview of British bodybuilder, engineer, and supplement guru Brian Batcheldor by TC Luoma (one of the founding fathers of Muscle Media back when it was still very hardcore) discussed some of the anabolic potential of Ipriflavone. Brian Batcheldor worked with Biotest Labs on Ipriflavone in Europe. Batcheldor said, "Going back a long time ago, I read some stuff that the original pharmaceutical company did that showed FGP, or 7-isopropoxyisoflavone to be anabolic in farm animals, so I contacted them about their research. They sort of intimated that ipraflavone had been shown to be more effective as an anabolic, but because they were seeking to obtain a medicine license in Europe, they didn't want to explore or market that aspect of it." When asked about through which mechanism ipriflavone works, Batcheldor further said, "The research I've read was on pigs and they gained quite a bit of more lean muscle on ipraflavone, and my guess is that it's through it's anti-estrogenic capabilities. That's what the documentation suggests, too. A lot of the anti-estrogens like Promethene and Tamoxifen probably cause gonadotrophic stimulation because they block testosterone receptors at the hypothalamus level, thereby simulating the release of more gonadotrophins. So, I would guess its anabolic properties probably come as a direct result of these anti-estrogenic properties. I've used ipraflavone quite extensively with women athletes and men when they come clean and I would say it compares quite favorably with some of the weaker anabolics like Stanazolol. … Some of my athletes who have used the ipraflavone who went off steroids certainly lost a lot less than those steroid-using athletes who just went off steroids.

Some think ipriflavone works by inhibiting a calcium dependent protease throughout the body. Bodybuilding guru's Dan Duchaine and Bruce Kneller have written about its benefits, but it is believed that biochemist Pat Arnold discovered it and researched it. Patrick Arnold has written, "Ipriflavone has no estrogenic effects itself but it potentiates the bone building effects of estrogen. Ipriflavone requires a certain amount of estrogen in the system for its osteo-protective effects to be realized. Several studies have been done that have shown that ipriflavone had no effects on uterine weight etc. when given to animals which indicates it is not estrogenic at the classic estrogen responsive tissues." Patrick Arnold has also written of a distinct anabolic property of Ipriflavone and cites early research done in Hungary and Russia -- mostly on animals although the Chinoin patent mentions a clinical study on hospital patients. Pat writes," I would not expect it to be a steroid replacement … but there is interesting research on its anabolic properties and cardiovascular/aerobic enhancement effects. It probably has some beneficial use at some dose for bodybuilders. It is non-hormonal so (it) could be good at off-cycle times for steroid abusers."

The substance Ipriflavone itself has a relatively poor absorption rate. One interesting study in the American Journal of Therapeutics noted that the bio-availability of Ipriflavone was 8 to 20 times greater when taken on a full stomach than when taken alone on an empty stomach. It was further noted that the bio-availability was greater still when the Ipriflavone was taken on an empty stomach and combined with corn oil. Although any oil will do, I think bodybuilders will be better served to substitute flax oil for the corn oil. One last undisputed benefit that is of particular interest to anyone with weak bones or osteoporosis is Ipriflavones undisputed bone building properties. Although beyond the scope of this article, an excellent article on the bone building effects of Ipriflavone was written by Anthony L. Almada. Almada is a renown nutritional and exercise biochemist and leader of IMAGINutrition, a nutrition think tank in Aptos, California.

Lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC)

is a very interesting compound and one that we think is going to be part of more and more people's supplement programs. There are two effects of LPC supplementation. The first is increased appetite. For hardgainers, this is a significant plus. How many of us have had trouble sticking to our "bulking" diet because we just couldn't eat enough? One of the basic truisms of bodybuilding is that to gain weight, you have to eat... a lot. For some this is easier than others. LPC levels the playing field. The second, and perhaps more interesting, effect of LPC supplementation is a greater ability to ABSORB nutrients. In this context, "nutrients" also includes supplements--for example, pro-hormones! Everyone who's experimented with DMSO, nasal administration, sublingual doses or what- have-you knows that to get the MAXIMUM results from your pro-hormone cycle, you have to be absorb as much of the pro-hormone as possible. All this makes LPC seem like a "can't miss" supplement. The only problem with this product is the taste. Does anyone remember what raw tribulus powder tastes like? This is much worse. This is one supplement that you want to be encapsulated. One final word of caution, LPC works by expanding the cells lining the intestal walls. If you've got an ulcer or any other stomach problem, this supplement probably isn't for you. Dosage: 200 to 250 mg taken with food and/or supplements.

Norephedrine (Phenylpropanolamine)

One of the most powerful legal stimulants around.Phenylpropanolamine {dl-norephedrine} is a synthetic compound that has been used for as an over the counter (OTC) decongestant, bronchodilator and anorectic. It is the active ingredient in most OTC weight loss products that you can purchase at your local drug store. Long overlooked by most of the bodybuilding community, phenylpropanolamine (dl-PPA) is actually superior to ephedrine in its thermogenic, lipolytic, and anorectic properties. In at least one study involvong various congeners and isomers of dl-PPA, it was shown to be significantly more thermogenic than ephedrine and not much less potent than dl-amphetamine.13, DL-amphetamine is a highly addictive medication that is a prescription only, Schedule C-II Controlled Substance in The Unites States while dl-PPA is an very inexpensive substance with a cost factor similar to ephedrine and it is legal for sale over the counterv well, mostly legal. Check your state laws, because norephedrine may have been banned where you live. Norphedrine is an especially thermogenic derivative of ephedrine. It's an effective fat burner and performance aid. Best results are seen when combined with caffeine, aspirin and yohimbine it is one of the powerful loss stacks available over the counter, under the table or via any other means. Dosage: One dose is 20 mg. When taken as part of a fat burning stack, norephedrine is often taken 3 times per day. Note that you should not take this supplement for long periods of time! Your body will build up a tolerance for it and it will cease to be as effective should you abuse it.

Phosphatidylserine (PS)

is a cortisol blocking phospholipid that may help tip the balance between anabolism and catabolism in your favor. It also has been shown to have some cognitive benefits. Like our testosterone and growth hormone, our bodies produce less and less PS as we get older. Bob Fritz, president of Advanced Bio-Tech Research in Martinez, California wrote in Peak Training Journal "In a 1990 study, a scientist hypothesized that phosphatidylserine might also blunt the body's production of cortisol in relation to exercise. He administered PS intravenously, and subjects achieved a highly significant 25%-35% reduction in cortisol levels. In 1992, the same scientist did studies using oral administration of PS. He found that dosages adjusted for oral use would produce the same type of reduction in cortisol as in the intravenous studies."

Dante of Hardcore muscle wrote that phosphatidylserine (PS), "was shown to lower cortisol in 2 studies (used both parentally and orally)--It pretty much stopped the rise of adrenocoricotropin-releasing hormone and the following cortisol response in a stress condition (exercise). My opinion of this compound is that it is not a short term boost drug but over the long term you will see its effects. The anabolic/catabolic ratio should be shifted positively with its use but that is something you will see overtime not days." Initial research on oral Phosphatidylserine was based on supplementation with bovine PS. There was a concern that the bovine versions might not be appropriate for human consumption. Fortunately, PS can now be derived from soy and research indicates that the soy version is as effective as the bovine version.

Phosphatidylserine's natural form is a powder with a nutty taste very much like lecithin. Most PS supplements are in 20% to 40% concentrations . One last benefit that we alluded to earlier that will be of interest to everyone is the ability of PS to improve cognitive function. In a trial conducted at three Italian clinics, 87 subjects (ages 55-80 years) suffering from moderate cognitive deterioration were given either phosphatidylserine (at a dose of 3 x 100 mg per day) or a placebo. Once again the researchers reported that the group receiving the PS benefited on tests that measured short-term memory, concentration, and attention. Researchers also linked intake of Phosphatidylserine to marked improvements in general life-style, and more specifically, to a lessening of apathy and withdrawal. The authors state, "phosphatidylserine appears to exert an action in two distinct contexts: one relating to the cognitive effects of vigilance, attention, and short-term memory, and the other relating to behavioral aspects such as apathy, withdrawal and daily living..."

So it is possible to assume, that phosphatidylserine could be the ideal supplement to improve both mental and physical fitness. Dosage: 300 to 800 mg per day of PURE phosphatidylserine. If you're taking a 20% concentration capsule, that's a lot of capsules so be sure you're getting enough.

Primrose Oil

This natural supplement is very helpful to some steroid users. Available at most health food stores under the name Evening Primrose Oil, or Gamma Oil, it comes in small caplets which contain the oil inside. Gamma linoleic acid -- the active component in the oil -- is derived from an unsaturated fatty acid found in vegetable fats. Steroid users find the drug minimizes numerous steroidal side effects. Linoleic acid aids in the production of several hormone-like chemicals which aid and regulate the functions of organs in the entire body. Athletes claim that using Primrose Oil in conjunction with steroids help the liver from becoming over-stressed. Cholesterol levels have been lowered while using Primrose Oil. Although HDL levels often go down when a person is on steroids, HDL levels remained virtually unchanged in a group of steroid users who took it in a stack with anabolic steroids;. The oil can also lower blood improve the immune system, relieve tendonitis and increase appetite. Women claim it helps control cramping, back aches, joint pain, and headaches caused by PMS (premenstrual syndrome). Included in a steroid cycle, user claim that the gamma linoleic acid in primrose oil can prevent the toxic effects of steroids and other drugs. Although not recommended, some users are able to stay on steroids for up to a year while suffering little or no hepatotoxic effects.

Saw palmetto

is believed to be natural DHT(Dihydrotestostesterone) inhibitor. Research supports the view that saw palmetto may be an effective way to combat the negative effects DHT including: hair loss and prostate enlargement.when a portion of the testosterone produced or introduced into the body gets converted into another form of T known as Dihydrotestostesterone, or DHT. Some of this DHT binds to intracellular androgen receptors and prevents hair from developing normally. DHT-bound follicles gradually produce thinner hair, along with the shortening of the anagen phase (the hair's life span) and lengthening of the telogen phase (the dormant phase). This can then culminate in the connective tissue sheath of the hair becoming chronically inflamed and long-term baldness is the result. Still, the hair-loss phenomenon varies from individual to individual. As mentioned above, the genetic predisposition for hair loss must be present. Additionally, some men may convert Testosterone to DHT at a higher rate.

Saw palmetto may be a good supplement to add to a hardcore testosterone boosting stack. Dramatically elevated testosterone levels can increase the rate of aromatization from testosterone into DHT, an effect which saw palmetto may be able to block. The issue with this supplement is that it may also interfere with anabolic activity at the steroid receptor level. Perhaps, but from our experience, you can still make very good gains while taking saw palmetto. Saw palmetto is completely natural, safe and healthy Dosage: 300 to 400 mg daily which usually works out to two or three capsules.when a portion of the testosterone produced or introduced into the body gets converted into another form of T known as Dihydrotestostesterone, or DHT. Some of this DHT binds to intracellular androgen receptors – cellular parking spots, really – and prevents hair from developing normally. DHT-bound follicles gradually produce thinner and thinner hair, along with the shortening of the anagen phase (the hair's life span) and lengthening of the telogen phase (the dormant, or rest phase). This can then culminate in the connective tissue sheath of the hair becoming chronically inflamed and long-term baldness is the result. Still, the hair-loss phenomenon varies from individual to individual. As mentioned above, the genetic predisposition for hair loss must be present. Additionally, some men may convert Testosterone to DHT at a higher rate.

Silymarin (Milk Thistle Extract)

Silymarin refers to the extract from the seeds of the plant Silybum marianum, also called "milk thistle". It has been used for over 2,000 years. During the Middle Ages the seed of the milk thistle was commonly used to treat liver diseases and it is still considered to be a proven liver de-toxifier.

Bodybuilders should consider supplementing with a milk thistle extract to promote normal liver function during steroid or pro-hormone cycles. Silymarin is so effective at actively promoting liver health that it is frequently prescribed to recovering alcoholics to rebuild damaged liver tissue. It protects the liver by acting as an anti-oxidant and by promoting the growth of new liver cells. Silymarin also helps with the digestion of fats.

Silymarin is commonly used amongst the HIV infected population. Most HIV combatting drugs damage the liver so silymarin is used to help fight against liver damage. People who take HIV combatting drugs and who have had hepatitis in the past are very likely to damage their livers, silymarin is regulary used by these people.

This is another one of those completely natural and totally safe supplements that we recommend to everyone interested in total body health.

Dosage: 160 to 320 mg daily which usually works out to two or three capsules.

Vitamin C

A lot has been written about vitamin C recently in the bodybuilding magazines. It may or may not help you pack on muscle, but it's definitely good for you. Plus, it's very cheap. A lot of people claim that they get sick less when they take high doses of vitamin C. It's hard to know whether this is the placebo effect or if vitamin C actually boosts the immune system, but there's no harm in trying. Dosage: Between 500 and 2,000 mg per day. It doesn't really hurt to take too much because vitamin C is water soluble (read: you'll piss it out). It's definitely a good idea to take 500 mg after exercising when your body is filled with damaging free radicals.

This vitamin, mainly known for its anti-oxidant properties, may also have some anti-cortisol effects. A study done by Stone entitled "Effects of Vitamin C on Cortisol and the Testosterone: Cortisol Ratio" showed a decrease in cortisol levels in 17 junior elite weight lifters. This study also showed that the individuals taking Vitamin C (an extra gram a day) improved their testosterone:cortisol ratio by over 20%. This type of decrease in cortisol can lead to increased muscle and connective-tissue hypertrophy and enhanced recovery from training. Since Vitamin C also decreases your chances of suffering from a cold or flu infection and may aid in collagen synthesis, it would be wise to take some extra vitamin C when involved in an intense weight-training program.

Vitamin C is by no means just a bodybuilders vitamin. It can be used by everyone. A study in the Journal of Epidemiology (May, 1992) was reported to show that people who have high blood levels of vitamin C live 6 years longer than those who have lower blood levels. Frederick R. Klenner, M.D, F.C.C.P. is one of the largest advocates of Vitamin C use. In his paper, "Observations On the Dose and Administration of Ascorbic Acid When Employed Beyond the Range Of A Vitamin In Human Pathology," he states that Vitamin C is helpful in a variety of instances. It has been proven to treat, and even cure, virus encephalitis, trichinosis, viral hepatitis, scarlet fever, tuberculosis, snake bites and cardiovascular diseases among others. It seems as though that bodybuilders are not the only people realizing the extreme benefits of Vitamin C. In April of 2000 the Institute of Medicine raised its RDA for Vitamin C 50% to 90mg per day.

Vitamin C is a miracle drug! Why don't we all just take high amounts of it? Well, don't get too happy so fast. A recent study done by epidemiologist, James Dwyer, found that Vitamin C pills accelerate thickening of the walls of big arteries in the neck. Dwyer, and his colleagues from USC, studied 573 healthy middle-aged men and women, 30% of whom regulary take vitamins. The more Vitamin C they took, the faster the buildup occured. People taking 500 milligrams of vitamin C daily for at least a year had a 2 times greater rate of thickening than did those who avoided supplements. Among smokers, the rate was five times greater. Dwyer states "If a person's physician has prescribed vitamin C, it is appropriate to be taking it. But if you are a healthy person and taking them in hopes of preventing cardiovascular disease, the heart association does not recommend it. This study would suggest that recommendation is prudent." To read the full article on Dwyer's study, click here.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E (Tocopherol) is a powerful antioxidant which protects cell membranes and other fat-soluble parts of the body.

It is one of our favorite anti-oxidants. In addition to scavenging for tissue-damaging free radicals, vitamin E also helps keep your skin clear. An ideal supplement if unnaturally elevated levels of testosterone are causing acne. There are two "versions" of vitamin E out there, the one you want is dl-alpha-tocopheryl acetate; it's more biologically active. Dosage: 400 I.U. per day. Note that because vitamin E is oil based, you CAN take too much. It stays in your system for a while, so be careful not to go way beyond the dosage on the bottle.

Vitamin E appears to be the most effective supplement for slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s Disease. In a two-year double-blind study, patients given a 2000 IU dose of Vitamin E daily were able to perform regular daily tasks for a longer ti

Yohimbine Hydrocholide (Yohimbe)

This is an excellent supplement for promoting fat loss and increasing sex drive. Yohimbine has actually been proven to enhance fat loss by blocking the alpha sub 2 receptor. This receptor works against fat loss. Women have many more alpha sub 2 receptors than men especially in the lower body which is why some of that fat seems so stubborn. By blocking this receptor, yohimbine does wonders to facilitate fat loss. Interestingly enough, this isn't the only thing yohimbine does. It also increases blood flow to the extremities and causes a noticeable increase in the male libido.

If one was able to obtain pure Yohimbine in it's powder form it could be administered topicaly on the problem areas by using an absorbtion agent such as DMSO, some experts theorize that since the Yohimbe alkaloit is so small that if it is mixed with Alovera Juice and applied to the skin it can pass right through the pores without the need for DMSO.

While Yohimbe is very effective when used both topicaly and oraly one should keep in mind that insulin will negate the effects of Yohimbe, this is why it is best to take Yohimbe on an empty stomach and wait at least 45 minutes until the next meal, this regimen goes for both topical and oral use. Dosage: Not more than 12 mg per day of the pure yohimbine hydrochloride. Note that most yohimbe supplements are actually standardized extracts from yohimbe bark so 12 mg may be several capsules worth. Check the label.

As for its use as a libido enhancer, Yohimbine was the only medication approved by the FDA for the treatment of impotence before Viagra hit the market.

Viagra is more widely known thanks to its presence in the media, and is better in treating regular erectile dysfunction, but yohimbe has a better potential in treating impotence. This is the case because yohimbine, and the unrefined yohimbe do not just cause a hardening of the male organ but also have psychological effects, making those who have ingested it easier to stimulate mentally, generally more alert, and more agitated. There is a sexual component in these attributes, which is not available from ingesting Viagra. Therefore, while Viagra may be the preferred choice of prescribing doctors because of possibly fewer side effects, yohimbine and yohimbe are not just older alternatives but earn their place in the materia medica in their own right.

Furthermore, the real promise of yohimbe actually is not its value as medication of erectile dysfunction in men who indeed suffer from the condition, but its power to enhance sexuality in healthy subjects.

Yohimbe is probably the most underrated recreational drug around. It's not just a sex enhancer; it's a philosophical life enhancer. It has the clear potential to give new meaning to the lives of men at mid-life and beyond. Yohimbe restores pride and enjoyment. For performance and sheer manhood, men at 50 who have ingested yohimbe can compete with any young gigolo.

 

Tribulus

Tribulus Terrestris is an herb grown in various parts of the world and used medicinally for it's virilizing effects. It provides a natural way to raise your body's own testosterone production by as much as 50%. Claims, that have been supported by research, have been made that it enhances testosterone levels by increasing luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. Tribulus is so effective that it's actually prescribed in Asia to treat impotence... with great success!

Tribulus is particularly interesting as an "accessory" supplement to a hardcore pro-hormone cycle. After a couple weeks of use, most steroids and pro-hormones will cause the body's natural testosterone production to slow down. Tribulus is like nature's clomid. It is an excellent way to keep your body functioning normally during the cycle or to "kick start" testosterone production at the end of the cycle.

An extremely potent testosterone boosting stack consists of tribulus, androstenedione, chrysin and DHEA. Together you get a natural testosterone booster (tribulus), an anti-estrogen (chrysin) and two testosterone precursors. Serious growth potential. Be aware that this is a very androgenic stack and would probably be a bad idea for anyone who's balding or has problems with prostate health. Those who are struggling to balance bodybuilding and sex will find tribulus to be a god-send.

Dosage: 500 to 1,500 mg per day in divided doses.