D-Aspartic Acid Uses, Effects and Safety

D-aspartic acid (D-aspartate, DAA) is a non-essential amino acid that is involved in the synthesis of testosterone.

Research studies demonstrate that this supplement can increase endogenous testosterone production.

For this reason, bodybuilders and male athletes often take D-aspartic acid to support muscle growth and strength gains.

This supplement is also used by men who want to improve their libido, sexual performance and fertility. It may also be used as an anti-aging supplement by men with low testosterone levels.

DAA is an amino acid naturally produced by the body, which is why it is deemed ‘non-essential’. This means that it does not need to be taken in via food or supplementation to prevent a deficiency.

However, some individuals may choose to supplement with DAA for added health benefits associated with increased intake. The majority of available studies focus on the role DAA plays in biological function and there are comparatively few studies that look at the impact of DAA as a supplement.

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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What is D-Aspartic Acid?

D-aspartic acid (D-aspartate, DAA) is a non-essential amino acid with an acidic side chain. Excluding glycine, every amino acid used in synthesizing proteins has a “D” and “L” form. L forms and D forms of the same amino acids are identical in every way except for the manner in which they bend light rays.

The L form of aspartic acid is believed to be a vital constituent for DNA synthesis. The D form is used by the mid-brain to induce the release of luteinizing hormone (abbreviated LH), human growth hormone (hGH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH).

By increasing the release of these hormones, DAA starts a biochemical cascade that can culminate in the production of testosterone in the testes. DAA is also believed to accumulate in the testes, where it helps support testosterone production. For this reason, D-aspartic acid is often advertised as a natural testosterone booster.

D-Aspartic Acid’s Biological Significance

Unlike L-aspartic acid, D-aspartic acid is not frequently used for protein synthesis. Instead, it primarily serves as a signaling molecule and can initiate various biological, psychological and biochemical processes.

DAA has also been noted in the makeup of human cartilage and tooth enamel. It is also known to accumulate in the brain, but these levels have been observed to diminish with age. Further, DAA is necessary for the synthesis of erythrocyte (red blood cell) membranes.

It is also believed to play a role in the formation of memories, but further research is required to understand this function. This hypothesis is based on the observation that higher concentrations of DAA are contained in the brain of younger test subjects compared to older test subjects.

D-Aspartic Acid and Luteinizing Hormone

DAA has been observed to increase sperm quality, quantity and motility. These observations may be attributed to increased testosterone levels. DAA acts in the mid-regions of the brain to stimulate the release of various hormones.

It may also be useful in helping the body more effectively use hormones. In one study conducted by the University of Naples, DAA was observed to cause increased release of luteinizing hormone (LH).

When children are about eight years old, the hypothalamus is responsible for the increased synthesis of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH). In turn, GnRH stimulates the frontal pituitary to initiate synthesis of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and LH.

LH is then transported to the testicles and enters into Leydig cells – cells specialized for the creation of testosterone and estrogen.

D-Aspartic Acid and Testosterone

Studies indicate DAA may increases free testosterone.

In a recent report, researchers observed that daily supplementation with just over three grams of DAA resulted in a 40 percent increase in free testosterone in only 12 days.

The researchers also observed that free testosterone levels diminished by roughly ten percent in the three days after supplementation was discontinued.

There is growing evidence to suggest that DAA supplementation may not provide any benefit to healthy, active males. In a number of studies DAA supplementation was observed to have no effect on healthy, resistance-trained men.

However, there is some evidence that DAA may support testosterone increases in sedentary males or males suffering from low testosterone and symptoms of infertility.

There have been no long-term DAA supplementation studies. In the majority of studies, supplementation periods ranged between four and 12 weeks, followed by a cessation period that lasted between two and four weeks before supplementation resumed. This supplement is not recommended for long-term use.

Food Sources of D-Aspartic Acid

DAA is found in a variety of natural foods. Some foods that contain appreciable amounts of DAA include soy products, infant formula, poultry and meats, corn, protein, eggs, grains, cereals, fruits and green leafy vegetables.

Side Effects of DAA Supplementation

There is little evidence available on the side effects of DAA. Few side effects have been reported, but no clinical data is available on the long-term safety of long-term safety of DAA supplementation. Reported side effects include stomach upset, nausea, mood changes and/or vomiting.

Most individuals take D-Aspartic Acid for a maximum of three weeks at a time. Before beginning a new cycle, it is recommended to wait at least one week. This is done to prevent a decline in natural testosterone production.

To date, there are no known drug contraindications for DAA supplementation. There have been no noted drug interactions for doses at or below four grams a day.

Pregnant or nursing women should avoid DAA supplementation. There is not enough clinical evidence available to understand the safety of DAA for developing or newborn babies.

The optimal dose of DAA will depend on several factors, including age, sex, weight, health and more. Further, diet, hydration, physical activity and stress management also influence the efficacy of many supplements. Be sure to speak with your doctor before taking D-aspartic acid.

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