D-Aspartic Acid and Testosterone Levels Research

D-aspartic acid and testosterone levels in the body are directly connected. Research shows that taking a DAA supplement may improve testosterone levels in men with low baseline levels.

For this reason, it is commonly used as a bodybuilding supplement and as a male sexual health aid. D-aspartic acid powder is used to promote muscle growth, increase strength gains and to support male fertility.

There is some evidence that DAA supplementation has little effect on testosterone levels in already active and healthy men. Increases in testosterone are usually observed in individuals who already suffered from low testosterone levels.

Research on DAA indicates its testosterone-boosting effects are maximized when supplementation is appropriately cycled. This supplement should not be used for long periods of time due to insufficient information regarding long-term safety.

D-Aspartic Acid

Amino Acid

Testo -sterone

Libido

Athletics

How It Works:

• Shown to increase testosterone production
• Supports athletic performance, fat loss & strength
• Boosts sexual health & libido

Dosage:

Between 4 - 8 g per day

Safety:

Generally Well Tolerated

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D-Aspartic Acid and Testosterone

D-aspartic acid (DAA) is a non-essential amino acid. This means it is naturally produced by the human body and does not need to be consumed through food for survival. It is sometimes used as a supplement to increase endogenous levels.

The vast majority of research concerning DAA has been focused on its natural role in the human body and not the effects of oral supplementation. As a result, dosages and side effects of long-term supplementation remain ill-defined.

DAA only emerged on the supplement market in the mid 1990s and further research is required to understand its full therapeutic effects as a supplement.

DAA is mainly used for testosterone levels and athletic performance. In the US and around the world, record numbers of men are receiving testosterone replacement therapies (TRT).

Gels, patches and injections are used to administer testosterone and boost the levels of this hormone in the body. Some individuals concerned about the possible side effects of TRT.

DAA is often used to increase testosterone levels and is claimed to be safe because it already exists in the human body. While there have been few reported side effects, the long-term safety of DAA supplementation remains poorly understood.

DAA and the Human Body

DAA is an important secondary neurotransmitter. It acts as a signal molecule within the central nervous system. As part of its signaling function, DAA can trigger a series of biochemical reactions that can lead to the production of testosterone.

The highest levels of DAA are found in the pituitary gland, pineal gland and the testicles. DAA is required to transport cholesterol into all cellular mitochondria. The Leydig cells – specialized cells within the testicles – convert the cholesterol delivered via DAA into testosterone.

D-aspartic acid also helps to initiate this cholesterol-conversion process by transferring signals from the pituitary gland to the testicles, the sites of testosterone synthesis.

Concerns over Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Proper nutrition, consistent hydration, daily exercise and efficient stress management are key factors to good health. Maintaining these practices throughout life can help support testosterone production well into old age.

However, it is estimated that in the United States nearly three percent of all men over the age of 40 are using at least one type of TRT.

TRT may cause an array of negative side effects. Some argue long-term treatment may lead to a dependence on testosterone therapies. Additionally, advocates of alternative therapies claim TRT does little to address the problem causing the low testosterone levels.

There is a growing body of evidence connecting TRT to an increased risk of heart-related side effects. In 2014, Health Canada released a warning to both doctors and patients advising them of the increased risks associated with TRT. Such information is leading some individuals to look for alternatives.

How D-Aspartic Acid Induces Testosterone Synthesis

An accumulation of DAA in the frontal region of the hypothalamus signals the hypothalamus to release more gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH).

This action triggers the increased secretion of prolactin release factors (PRF) and growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH).

GnRH, PRF and GHRH signal the pituitary gland to release higher levels of luteinizing hormone (LH ) and human growth hormone (hGH). LH travels to the testes where it stimulates the increased production of testosterone within the Leydig cells – the cells within the testes specialized for estrogen and testosterone production.

In one oft-cited clinical study, DAA was observed to increase free testosterone levels after 12 days of supplementation, compared to a placebo group. Participants received nearly three grams of DAA per day.

After six days, testosterone levels were observed to be 15 percent higher than the placebo group. Within 12 days, a 42 percent increase in testosterone was observed. After three days of cessation, the supplement group still showed a 22 percent higher testosterone level than the placebo group.

However, there is also clinical evidence that suggests DAA may not increase testosterone levels in healthy, active males. DAA may be helpful for those who are already suffering from low testosterone, but little evidence suggests that this improvement will occur in healthy males.

D-Aspartic Acid Safety

The possible side effects of DAA supplementation remain ill-defined. In the limited number of studies pertaining to DAA supplementation, few side effects were noted.

However, there is no data pertaining to the long-term effects of supplementation. Although DAA is natural produced by the human body, the effect of prolonged supplementation requires further study.

There are few known contraindications for DAA supplementation, but this may change as research continues. Pregnant or nursing women should not take supplemental DAA unless under the direct advice of their physician.

In all cases, be sure to speak with your doctor before supplementing with D-aspartic acid for increased testosterone levels.

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