Andro supplements are known as precursors on account of there ability to convert into testosterone after absorption in the body. The two types of products belonging to the Andro family are Androstenedione and Androstenediol.
Androstenedione and Androstenediol are the only two compounds that get converted into the hormones testosterone directly and are therefore known as a step a way from the hormone. Other than these,
Andro supplements also comprise of 19-Norandrostenedione and 19-Norandrostenedion which convert into Nortestosterone, an extremely anabolic hormone.
Difference between Androstenedione and 19-Norandrostenedione:
These two supplements differ in their chemical composition by a few atoms but perform similar functions. Androstenedione is similar to testosterone except for its chemical structure. It is processed by the liver and is converted to testosterone. 19- Androstenedione is also processed by the liver and is converted into Nortestosterone.
Andro supplements were discovered in 1935 and became popular as weight gainers in the 1950s when scientists discovered that they could be converted to testosterone in the body. They have a positive effect on the performance of bodybuilding enthusiasts. Androstenedione is the first prohormone to have hit the market way back in the 1930s. It was not cleared by the FDA until 1994. It is considered to be a natural supplement found in the bark of the Scotch pine tree. Its conversion rate to testosterone is 5.6%.
Androstenediol is one of the best prohormones available in the market and is commonly known as 4-AD. It is a precursor to the male hormone testosterone with a conversation rate of 15.76%. It is extremely androgenic in nature, meaning that it has more male characteristic enhancing properties. It can result in various side effects such prostrate enlargement, appearance of acne due to oily skin etc. One of the biggest benefits of Androstenediol is that it cannot be converted directly into estrogen, the female hormone and reduces the risk of excessive estrogen formation in the body. It also does not convert to Dihydotestosterone (DHT), which is the most potent androgen and is commonly associated with baldness. It leads to the development of more muscle mass, strength gain and increased libido.
Norandrostenediol:
It is also known as Nordiol- 4 and is the most effective prohormone belonging to the Andro family of supplements. It increases the body’s testosterone production, is highly anabolic with extremely moderate androgenic properties. It is transformed into Nortestosterone and is extremely anabolic in character with a conversion rate of 7.5%. It has a strong anabolic nitrogen retentive effect on the body, thereby promoting the conversion of amino acids in the body to contractible tissue in the muscle cells. Its mechanism of advanced nitrogen delivery system aids in the rapid diffusion of ingredients saturating the muscle with its potent amino acid formula. It is also known to strengthen the primary bone structure and promotes the accumulation of calcium in the skeletal system. It works best with a hyper-caloric, high protein – low fat diet. It initiates fast muscle recovery aiding in the process of recuperation and shows dramatic gains in size and strength.
Dosage:
You must adhere to the dosage recommended on the packet of the product while purchasing. It is however, unadvisable to take more than 100-200 mg of Andro supplements per day. It is best to take vitamin E with the supplements for maximum benefit.
Before taking any supplements it is essential for enthusiasts to consult a registered medical practitioner in order to determine if the product is meant for them or not. If on any medication or OTC drug it is best to take professional advice. Also, make a note of any diseases or ailments you might suffering from such as diabetes, coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, depression etc. before taking the product.
Side effects of Andro Supplements:
Constant use of these supplements may lead to the development of breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, and development of breasts in men due to high concentration of estrogen (Female Hormone).
It may lead to oily skin and the outbreak of acne.
Prolonged use may result in permanent kidney and liver damage.
It may initiate premature baldness in men. May lead to prostrate enlargement in men, increased aggression and reduced sperm production.
It is not recommended for CHD patients as it may lower HDL (good cholesterol) levels in the body.
It may disrepute menstrual cycles in women.
Supplementation plays a crucial part in bodybuilding, but it is the combination of regular exercise, intake of a well balanced diet and adequate amount of rest that works wonders for enthusiasts.