HUMAN GROWTH HORMONE RESEARCH & NEWS

Amazing Health Benefits of L-Citrulline and Watermelon

In a previous article, we discussed twenty five foods that provide amazing benefits for human health. There is one amazing food that we missed, however: Watermelon.

In recent years, scientists and health professionals are becoming more aware of the amazing nutritional benefits provided by watermelon.

One thing that we have known for awhile is that watermelons, like tomatoes, have been shown to be a food which is incredibly high in Lycopene content. Lycopene is a form of phytonutrient which is incredibly important for optimal cardiovascular health. Lycopene also provides significant benefits in regard to bone health. Two other quality sources of Lycopene are Guava and Pink Grapefruit. What truly makes Watermelon stand out from the rest is the outstanding concentration of one particular nutrient.

The Fantastic Benefits of L-Citrulline

Although we have understood the importance of Lycopene for a number of years, we are learning about another nutrient contained within watermelon that is incredibly potent: L-Citrulline. L-Citrulline is present in watermelon at levels which are higher than any other food that we know of in the world.

L-Citrulline is a powerful Amino Acid compound that is uncommon in most foods. When nnjjwe consume foods like watermelon which contain Citrulline, the nutrient travels to the kidneys, where is is converted into Arginine.

As you know if you have read this site, Arginine is actually used by physicians in order to test the health of the pituitary. Arginine has the ability to naturally stimulate the production of Human Growth Hormone. Adding L-Citrulline to your diet can help you maintain healthy levels of HGH, promoting optimal health and providing benefits to physiological systems throughout the body.

How much L-Citrulline is in a Serving of Watermelon?

Watermelon truly contains an amazing amount of L-Citrulline: 250 mg in every cup. Although much L-Citrulline is converted into Arginine, the nutrient provides its own unique benefits as well. In addition to increasing Human Growth Hormone, Arginine also has direct effects upon maintaining heart health, improving circulation, and increasing blood flow to disparate locations of the body.

L-Citrulline and Obesity

Also, current research suggests that L-Citrulline encourages weight loss and improved weight maintenance. In animal research, there is strong evidence that L-Citrulline contributes to the production of fat antagonists, preventing fat cells from absorbing fat by blocking an enzyme known as TNAP.

In animal research, high levels of Citrulline consumption directly correlate with increased production of amino acid compounds known as Polyarginine Peptides. When L-Citrulline is consumed, it is converted into Arginine by the kidneys, and Arginine is then converted into these Polyarginines. Polyarginines are directly responsible for blocking fat absorption by inhibiting TNAP enzymes. When TNAP is blocked, this prevents fat cells from growing and multiplying with the same level of efficiency.

Although this seems to be the primary mechanism by which L-Citrulline blocks fat accumulation, scientists hypothesize that a combination of Nitric Oxide Production and changes in adipose fat metabolism will likely lead to L-Citrulline being used medically as a tool in the war against obesity.

A Natural Answer to Erectile Dysfunction: L-Citrulline Boosts Nitric Oxide Production

L-Citrulline can also encourage healthier production of Nitric Oxide by the human body through its role in creating an enzyme known as Nitric Oxide Synthase. After L-Citrulline is converted into Arginine by the kidneys. it is then absorbed by human cells and converted into Nitric Oxide. Nitric Oxide is a natural muscle relaxer which is also necessary in order to stimulate the male erection.

When the body releases Nitric Oxide, the blood vessels relax, improving blood pressure and contributing to a healthier cardiovascular system. This increase in blood flow also stimulates healthy sexual function in males. Erectile Dysfunction Drugs like Viagra and Sildenafil actually relieve ED by stimulating the production of Nitric Oxide and improving blood flow to the genitals.

Of course, don't read this information and think that Watermelon can be a replacement for drugs that reverse Erectile Dysfunction or improve blood pressure, because the levels of L-Citrulline present in Watermelon are not medical in concentration. L-Citrulline is simply a vital piece of a puzzle which contributes to optimal cardiovascular health.

How Much Watermelon Does it Take to Provide Significant Effects from L-Citrulline?

In human patients, watermelon consumption has been scientifically proven to boost Arginine Levels in the body, but only when eaten in large portions. In one particular study, subjects drank either 3 or 6 cups of watermelon juice each day for 3 weeks. This increase in Watermelon Consumption led directly to boosts of Arginine varying from 12 to 22 percent.

In terms of calories consumed, that is still pretty amazing. Three portions of watermelon contain 135 calories, provide 60% of your daily value of Vitamin C, and increase your Arginine Levels by at least 12 percent. If you enjoy watermelon, there is arguably no food which can have such a direct impact on your Arginine Levels.

What is the Healthiest Part of a Watermelon?

Most people consider the part of the fruit with the deepest color to be the part which is the healthiest. This is certainly true for foods like grapes, but for watermelon, each part of the watermelon contains high levels of different nutrients in different concentrations. The core portion of the watermelon is bright red in color, and is a much lighter pink closer to the rind.

A few years ago, nutritional researchers actually studied the nutritional content of various areas of the fruit, and came to some amazing conclusions. Watermelon has four primary forms of nutrient: Vitamin C, Lycopene, Flavonoids, and Antioxidants. Every* part of the watermelon contains large amounts of these different nutrients in different locations within the watermelon.

What Are the Healthiest Kinds of Watermelon?

In addition to this, every type of watermelon appears to have its own particular form of nutrient distribution. Unlike many types of foods raised agriculturally these days, all types of watermelon have high levels of nutrient concentration. Another thing that is particular about watermelon is that the lighter-colored pulp of the watermelon contains nutrient levels which rival those in the core of the watermelon in many aspects.

In order to obtain the most benefits, however, it is important to pick a type of watermelon which produces a deep red color in the late stages of ripening.

When selecting the ideal watermelon, the primary thing to keep in mind is to select a watermelon which is completely ripened. Studies demonstrate that watermelon contains the highest concentration of Lycopene when the watermelon is primarily red in color. Ripened watermelon is also rich in Beta-Carotene, but early in the ripening process, there is almost no Beta-Carotene contained within the melon. This is also true of anti-oxidants contained within the watermelon.

If you grow your own watermelons, the key to extracting the most nutrition out of the final product is patience. If you are shopping at a store however, the key is to have a keen eye for detail.

Other Watermelon Benefits

Watermelon Provides Great Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Support

Watermelon contains high levels of a number of different phenol nutrients, carotenoids, flavonoids, and triterpenoids. All of these nutrients are powerful Antioxidant compounds. Among all of these compounds, watermelon has the most significant concentration of Lycopene. It is actually a source so potent, that there are very few foods that can even match it, among which are guava and pink grapefruit.

Why Are Watermelons Red?

The red color in most foods come from two sources: Anthocyanin Flavonoids and Lycopene. Anthocyanins contribute very little to overall health, but Lycopene, on the otherhand, produces all sorts of wonderful benefits. Lycopene has been shown to be a powerful Anti-Inflammatory which is capable of inhibiting the production of enzymes such as lipoxygenase and cyclo-oxygenase which spread inflammation.

Lycopene and Cucurbitacin-C

Lycopene is also able to prevent damage that is produced by natural free-radical exposure as a result of its antioxidant properties. Another Anti-Inflammatory which is present in very few foods is Cucurbitacin-C. This nutrient works very similarly to Lycopene, although it is most effective at limiting free-radicals by a different biological mechanism.

Watermelon Keeps Incredibly Well

Another thing that makes watermelon an excellent choice in a healthy diet is that nutrient levels drop very slowly over time. Even after two days of storage after the fruit has been chopped and prepared, the Lycopene levels in the fruit still remain at optimal levels. The fruit remains near peak nutritional content almost up to a week after it has been prepared.

Watermelons: The Redder the Better

If you are using Watermelon as your primary source of Lycopene, choose varieties with dark-red flesh. Research has shown that red-fleshed watermelons have up to 120 times the level of beta-carotene as some light-pink varieties of watermelon. In addition to this, light pink varieties of watermelon contain almost no Lycopene. If you are not primarily concerned with Lycopene and Beta-Carotene, all types of watermelon contain various levels of a number of phytonutrients.

Watermelon is an Efficient Source of Vitamin C

Although we have been primarily focusing in this article on L-Citrulline, Lycopene, and Beta-carotene, Watermelon is also amazing because it contains so many other vital nutrients as well. Another one of these nutrients is Vitamin C. Per calorie, Watermelon provides a significant amount of the nutrient per calorie.

One serving provides 20% RDV of Vitamin C for a tiny amount of calories, only 45. This makes it great for individuals that are on a diet and trying to figure out a way to maximize their nutritional intake.

Why Should I Eat Watermelon Seeds?

Although most people seem to spit out the seeds, there are beneficial nutrients contained within watermelon seeds as well. watermelon seeds have a small but significant amount of both Zinc and Iron: not enough to provide you with all that you need, but a useful supplement to other sources of these minerals in your diet. Another reason you should eat your seeds is because Watermelon Seeds provide Zinc and Iron in ways that your body can readily digest and use. Studies show that around ninety percent of the Iron and Zinc from watermelon seeds is Bio-Available.

Watermelon seeds also provide a significant amount of protein, around a gram for every twenty four seeds. This means that you will get a healthy amount of protein just by eating a few slices of watermelon (if the watermelon contains seeds, of course!) You'll still need other sources of protein, but watermelon seeds can help you maintain a low-calorie diet while also getting the protein that you need.

Watermelon also provides a decent amount of dietary fiber. If you ate two hundred calories of watermelon, you'd get about four grams of fiber for your trouble. There are better sources of course, but in addition to the antioxidant benefits of watermelon, watermelon will make a solid dent in your daily dietary needs. Watermelon also contains healthy amounts of soluble fiber in addition to insoluble fiber. Most people know that Insoluble Fiber helps maintain regularity and digestive health, but fewer people realize that soluble fiber is incredibly important for maintaining the health of the heart and the cardiovascular system.

Watermelon: An Amazing and Efficient Way to Increase the Health of Your Diet!

Watermelon is a cheap and delicious fruit that does wonders for your health. The light, sweet taste may make you feel like watermelon is not an effective choice for an ideal diet, but that can be no further from the truth. We recommend adding watermelon to your diet on a regular basis. If you really enjoy it, consider making it one of your primary snacks or deserts! It tastes great while being one of the most Calorie-Efficient Fruits available. We recommend watermelon for the benefits of L-Citrulline alone, but all of the additional benefits make it a no-brainer!

Coping With and Overcoming Low-T

Testosterone is the primary hormone associated with manhood. Although Testosterone is responsible for the changes which differentiate men from women after puberty, both sexes actually need and produce the vital hormone.

Men produce much higher levels of Testosterone from the Testes and the Adrenal Glands, whereas women produce much lower amounts from the Ovaries and Adrenal Glands. Even though Testosterone plays a much larger role in male health, it is also significant for women as well. Even though women produce much less Testosterone than men, they are far more sensitive to the hormone.

For men, Testosterone is incredibly important for the proper function of numerous systems throughout the body. Everyone knows and understands some of these effects. Everyone knows Testosterone contributes to increased muscle mass. They also know that Testosterone Stimulates the growth of male beard and body hair, and that it controls male sexual desire and functional ability.

There are many functions of Testosterone which few people fully recognize, however. Testosterone is intimately responsible for bone health, for example. Testosterone also regulates healthy red blood cell production and contributes to overall psychological health.

Nutrients that Can Increase Natural Testosterone Production

There are two essential nutrients that have been shown to be incredibly beneficial to natural Testosterone Production, Zinc and Vitamin D.

Zinc and Testosterone

Zinc is an important nutrient needed to ensure healthy and natural Testosterone secretion. A recent government assessment revealed that almost half of adults over the age of sixty have a zinc deficiency directly caused by a lack of zinc in the diet.

Studies have shown that Zinc Supplementation is highly effective at increasing natural Testosterone Production. After only 6 weeks of supplementation, men can experience positive results. Research also shows that purposefully removing zinc from the diet directly leads to a decrease in Testosterone Secretion. There are a lot of great Zinc sources, including:

• Yogurt

• Beans

• Raw Cheese

• Raw Milk

• Oysters

• Roast Beef

• Lamb

• Crab

• Pumpkin Seeds

• Watermelon Seeds

If you are using a Zinc Supplement, take a supplement which provides no more than forty milligrams of zinc per day. Forty milligrams seems maximally optimal, but if you take more, you run the risk of encouraging other mineral deficiencies, such as copper deficiency.

Vitamin D and Testosterone Production

Vitamin D Deficiency is becoming increasingly common in the United States. Although Vitamin D Deficiency affects both sexes, it appears to more severely affect male health.

Vitamin D is a steroid hormone which is derived from cholesterol. It is important for the maintenance of male fertility, because it helps the nuclei of a sperm cell form. Without appropriate levels of Vitamin D, both sperm count and quality suffer.

Vitamin D is also intricately tied to Testosterone Production. There are simple tests that your doctor can perform which can reveal your Vitamin-D levels. For a healthy adult, it is important to get between fifty to seventy nanograms per milliliter of Vitamin D each day. The following are some of the best ways to get your daily recommendation of Vitamin D:

• Sun Exposure

• Salmon

• Tuna

• Flounder

• Fortified Milk

• Pork

• Eggs

• Responsible Use of Safe Tanning Beds

• Vitamin D Supplementation

The Correlation Between Low-T and Obesity

Perhaps the strongest indicator of Testosterone Health is weight. A study presented at the 2012 meeting of the Endocrine Society describes many of the intricacies regarding the connection between weight and T-Levels. Men that are overweight are far more likely to experience Low-T, and losing weight directly leads to an increase in Testosterone Production.

This is because Adipose fat cells have the capability to convert Testosterone into Estrogen, preventing men from experiencing healthy levels of Testosterone and increasing the risk of a number of different medical issues related to cardiovascular health.

Below are some recommendations which can help you to lose weight and restore healthy Testosterone Production:

Reduce Your Consumption of Processed Sugar to Lose Weight and Increase Testosterone

One of the main reasons why obesity is at epidemic levels in America is because of the consumption of empty calories directly from sugar. Sugary drinks and desserts pad on the pounds quickly, and removing these from your diet is an effective way to start carving your path to a healthier weight.

Although it is important to limit sugar consumption, try not to rely heavily on common artificial sweeteners such as Splenda and Nutrasweet, because these alternatives can have negative consequences as well.

One choice for people that don't want to forgo sweeteners completely is Stevia. This sweetener is produced from natural sources and thus far has shown no negative consequences, while containing zero calories. It can't be used for high-temperature cooking, but it is perfect for drinks and the flavoring of foods that are never cooked above about 280 Degrees.

Try to limit your sugar consumption to natural sources such as fruit so that you can get some nutrients in addition to your sugar. Try not to eat more than twenty five grams of sugar per day, and if you are sensitive to sugar, reduce your consumption to below fifteen grams each day.

Reduce Consumption of Processed Carbohydrates to Lose Weight and Increase Testosterone

Processed grains and other carbohydrates are just as bad, if not worse than sugar, and you should severely limit your consumption of simple carbs. Choose breads that are made from whole grain. Also avoid over-processed pastas for whole grain pastas as well. Choose brown rice over white rice, because white rice has been stripped of its essential nutrients and primarily provides you with empty calories and an insulin spike.

Choose Vegetarian Sources of Carbohydrates and Consume Healthier Forms of Fat

Generally, the carbohydrates that you consume from vegetables are better for you than those you get from grains, and infinitely better than those you get from simple sugars. It is important to eat polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats that can be found in many nuts and vegetables, while limiting consumption of saturated fats. Do not eliminate saturated fats from your diet completely, however, because the body needs a certain level for healthy function, and the complete elimination of saturated fat can actually hinder Testosterone Release. Trans-fats are bad under any circumstances.

Healthy Fat Sources Include:

• Uncooked Nut Oils

• Palm Oil

• Grass-fed Animals

• Avocados

• Pasture-Raised Eggs

• Raw nuts, like Pecans and Almonds

• Organic Milk and Butter

• Coconut and Coconut Products

• Olives and Olive Products

Organic Dairy can Increase Testosterone Production

Whey protein, Quality Cheeses, and Organic Dairy can increase your production of proteins known as Branch Chain Amino Acids. Studies have shown that the increased consumption of products containing this form of amino acid can increase natural Testosterone Release while also increasing the effectiveness of anaerobic exercise.

There are many supplemental sources of BCAA, but natural sources are great too. It appears that the BCAA Leucine, is the most effective at stimulating Testosterone, and it is primarily found in the dairy products listed above.

Boost Testosterone with Exercise

Although all forms of exercise have a beneficial impact on Testosterone Levels, the most effective way to increase Testosterone with Physical Activity is through anaerobic exercise such as sprinting or weight-lifting. This form of muscle-exertion directly stimulates Testosterone Production.

Generally, exercising the largest muscles such as the quadriceps or core seems to induce the highest level of benefit, although alternating exercises daily will produce the best overall benefits, because your muscles need rest from this form of exertion.

Although cardiovascular exercise is important for its own special reasons, the ideal exercise routine will also include the following aspects in order to maximize the release of Testosterone (as well as Human Growth Hormone):

Strength Training - In order to boost Testosterone, it is important to lower the number of reps you lift while steadily increasing the amount that you lift over time. The most effective exercises are those that stimulate the greatest number of muscle groups simultaneously, such as dead lifts and squats.

Interval Training - In this form of exercise, your goal is to complete all of your lifting goals in a span of twenty to thirty minutes.

There are also advanced methods related to these forms of weight lifting which focus on completing reps very slowly in order to maximize strength training even further.

Alleviate Stress to Increase Testosterone

Excess Stress is the Enemy of Masculinity as well as Cardiovascular Health. Stress is directly caused by the release of hormones such as cortisol, which are responsible for the oft-mentioned fight or flight mechanism. Although Cortisol is a necessary hormone, the majority of us in America produce far more than is healthy, and increased Cortisol Levels sap our bodies of the Testosterone that we need to stay healthy and full of vitality.

This Testosterone Deficiency changes the way we live, reducing our overall health, while also inhibiting our sense of individuality, masculinity, and self. Although a little stress is unavoidable, many of us suffer from a condition known as chronic stress, as a result of a mixture of our bio-chemistry, diet, and environmental circumstances.

Because of this, it is important to engage in a healthy diet, reduce outside stressors, and engage in activities which physiologically reduce stress.

There are a number of mechanisms which you can use to resolve stress in your life. These tools include yoga, meditation, quiet contemplation, laughter, and breathing exercises. In addition to increasing Testosterone, these techniques can also encourage greater emotional health as well, allowing you to adopting a happier outlook and clearer mind.

Take Conscientious Steps to Live a Longer and Healthier Life

Remember that the body and the mind function as a unit, and the key to a long and healthy life is to take the steps to optimize your health, while engaging in the world in a thoughtful way in order to limit stress in your life.

If you want to keep your mind, body, and soul in optimal shape, make sure you are living your life right in all aspects. It's a lot easier than it sounds, and you'll never want to look back!

How Do Chemicals Hinder Testosterone Production?

Although man's ability to control chemistry and biology has changed the way that humans live today for the better, there are also numerous negative consequences related to our many decisions. As we produce more and more industrial chemicals, we are actually changing the nature of the environment around us.

The Problem with EDCs

Many of these chemicals have the ability to alter and impact the function of both human and animal endocrine systems. Scientifically, these chemicals are known as Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals, abbreviated EDCs. These chemicals can impact a number of different aspects of hormone production, and some even have the capability to affect the sex hormones, causing both males and females to demonstrate certain aspects of the opposite sex.

Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals are everywhere these days. You likely have dozens of products in your house that contain these ingredients, including common contraceptives, cleansing agents, and even certain hygiene products such as soaps and shampoos. Many foods contain ingredients which have been proven to impact hormone production. If you aren't careful, they can even contaminate your drinking water.

Many EDCs Lower Testosterone Levels in Men

Part of maintaining optimal health is recognizing potential risks and minimizing their impact as much as possible. Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals can have a significant impact on male health, because there are so many that degrade the natural production and function of Testosterone, which can hinder male health significantly over time.

Effect of EDC Pollution on Fish

Here is one powerful example: In Great Britain, researchers have conducted a number of studies regarding the impact of chemical pollution on the rivers and lakes throughout England. Many fish species are particularly sensitive to chemical contamination. In a number of rivers associated with high levels of pollution, the researchers discovered that half of the male fish were actually producing eggs as a result of EDC Contamination.

These chemicals entered the waterway primarily via sewage, and were having such a tremendous impact on the ecology of the rivers that male fish were actually starting to transform as a result. Although half of the male fish were producing eggs, the impact on sexual function was even more pronounced. Over three quarters of these fish which were impacted by these chemicals exhibited a reduced ability to reproduce.

Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals can have an Effect on Male Health from Birth

Without any outside stimulation, sexual development generally occurs during two periods. A certain level of sexual differentiation occurs prenatally: Primary Sex characteristics develop, and there are arguably some differences in psychological development which take place. The period in which boys and girls change sexually and develop secondary sex characteristics is during puberty. Puberty usually occurs a bit earlier in females, but normally, this change occurs between 11-13.

EDCs Can Induce Early Puberty

In recent decades, however, scientists (and parents) have seen a significant number of children enter puberty much earlier than normal. In one study released in Pediatrics, it was discovered that boys are entering puberty between 6 months and 2 years earlier than normal as a result of the increased incidence of childhood obesity and the increased exposure to chemicals which are triggering puberty.

This means that there are certain boys and girls that are entering puberty as early as nine years old! Although this might not seem like a major issue at face value, early puberty can impact both psychological and physiological health in countless ways. Early puberty also increases the risk of developing certain cancers associated with the endocrine system.

Psychological Issues Related to Early Puberty

The combination of puberty and immature psychological development can lead to a number of behavioral and emotional problems, including:

• Self-Esteem Issues

• Anorexia or Other Eating Disorders

• Depression

• Increased possibility of Alcohol Exposure

• Premature Sexual Activity

• Increased Risk of STDs

Prenatal EDC Exposure

Women can also accidentally expose their children to Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals while they are in the womb. Exposure to these chemicals during pregnancy can actually impact male physiological and psychological development before birth. In Japan and the United States, for example, the male birth rate has dropped consistently over the course of the last thirty years, meaning that more fetuses are developing into females than males.

The greater the exposure to these chemicals, the more likely that the mother will bear a male child with certain testicular issues. They may develop testicles that are abnormally small, or the testicles may not properly descend fully upon puberty. These issues, and others, have a significant impact upon Testosterone production throughout the lifespan, and it can also obstruct male fertility as well. These chemicals can significantly depress sperm count.

Exposure to EDCs has also been linked to an increased risk of Testicular and Prostate Cancer. Males that experience these symptoms are said to suffer from a disorder known as Testicular Dysgenesis Syndrome, which is directly caused by endogenous and exogenous factors that severely depress Testosterone Production.

Phthalate Contamination

One particularly common group of Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals are Phthalates. Overexposure to these chemicals can actually inhibit normal endocrine function in males, leading to symptoms of feminization. These ingredients are very common in plastics, and they actively inhibit Testosterone Production while also reducing male fertility.

Prenatal exposure to high levels of Phtalates has been strongly correlated with male birth defects, and it seems that these chemicals cause the male genitals to develop abnormally, causing them to be more feminine in appearance.

What do Phthalates do?

Phthalates disrupt male development and sexual function in a particular way. Studies have shown that pregnant women with DBP and DEHP, two forms of Phthalate, are significantly more likely to birth sons that display female characteristics.

Phthalates are in a variety of products that we use every day in America, including food packaging, plastic bags, hair sprays, perfumes, anti-antiperspirants, shampoos, soaps, detergents, vinyl flooring, and plastics used in the production of automobiles.

Other Chemicals Which Disrupt Hormone Production

Bisphenol-A (BPA) - This chemical is most commonly found in a number of plastic commodities, such as food cans, reusable bottles, and dental sealants. Exposure to this chemical can affect prenatal development, as well as increase the chance for a woman to develop breast cancer.

Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) - This chemical agent is used in order to create surfaces which are resistant to grease and water. There is also strong evidence that overexposure to this chemical increases the risk of a number of different types of cancer. There are many forms of non-stick pan that use this chemical, and the highest levels of exposure likely come from a very common source: the inner lining of popcorn bags. It is suspected that popcorn bags actually contribute to the highest levels of exposure.

Vinclozin (fungicide) and Methoxychlor (insecticide) - Animal studies have shown that these two chemicals have the potential to alter the fetal development of rats over the course of multiple generations.

Nonylphenol Ethoxylates (NPEs) - These chemicals wreak havoc on the male endocrine system because they have characteristics which cause them to mimic the feminine hormone estrogen. These chemicals also have the ability to alter genetic expression and the function of certain glands such as the pituitary.

Bovine Growth Hormone - All animals produce their own form of Growth Hormone, and many agricultural firms inject Bovine Growth Hormone into cows in order to speed up the growth process and produce more meat. Bovine Growth Hormone is also present in many forms of dairy product. The problem is that Bovine Growth Hormone can imitate Estrogen and Human Growth Hormone in some ways, impacting normal hormone production and function.

Non-Fermented Soy Products - Unfermented Soy contains chemicals known as phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens are plant hormones which share a lot in common with Estrogen, and in high doses can actually function similarly to Estrogen in the human body. In particular, infants should not be fed foods containing soy. One study shows that a child that consumes only soy formula consumes a level of estrogen that is equal to 5 birth control pills. In addition to this, Unfermented Soy also contains proteins which can affect Thyroid Function as well.

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) - Classically, MSG used to be added to many foods at Chinese Buffets in order to add flavor and induce fullness. What most people don't realize is that today, most Chinese restaurants avoid adding MSG to their foods, but many American restaurants and domestically processed foods contain MSG, because they are not so closely scrutinized in regard to the use of MSG. The body creates its own necessary MSG, and the introduction of outside sources can affect natural hormone production.

In addition to this, the process of creating MSG produces many contaminants, peptide fragments and amino acids not used by the human body which can hinder proper hormone health. In fact, MSG can alter both male and female fertility. In males, excess MSG consumption can drop fertility rates by as much as half. In women, MSG can alter the menstrual cycle, making it harder to conceive.

Metalloestrogens - Certain inorganic elements and compounds have the ability to mimic estrogen in the human body. Among these are tin, cadmium, lead, mercury, copper, antimony, and aluminum. Although solid metal forms of most of these Metalloestrogens are perfectly safe (except mercury, lead, cadmium, and other specific Metalloestrogens), incidental ingestion and inhalation of these products can lead to particular issues, and can copy the effects of estrogen while also preventing the proper function of Testosterone.

How to Minimize Exposure to Hormone Disrupting Contaminants

There are many ways to limit your exposure to Endocrine-Disrupting Contaminants. Of course, it will be impossible to safeguard yourself one hundred percent from these compounds, but by being conscientious, you can significantly safeguard yourself and your hormones. You don't have to walk around in a bubble, you can change your life in a completely practical way.

Avoid Teflon for Your Health

One way to limit exposure to these chemicals is to choose pans that do not contain Teflon or related coatings. We recommend cooking with cast-iron cookware. This form of cookware is affordable, and when used and maintained properly, it is just as non-stick as Teflon. In addition to this, there are companies that make Teflon-Alternatives that are completely made out of green ingredients which are safe to accidentally consume in the case that they are scraped off. Ceramic pans are also an excellent choice.

Avoid Canned Foods

Also when possible, choose dried or fresh vegetables instead of canned vegetables, because cans are often sealed using oil-based chemicals which can impact hormone balance. These chemicals are called Bisphenols, and these chemicals have been shown to negatively affect fertility. Excess Bisphenol exposure directly correlates with decreased Testosterone Production.

Choose Healthy Cleaning Supplies

In addition to this, be conscientious about the cleaning products that you use, and always use them in a well-ventilated area, preferably with gloves. Also, seek out green alternatives to the products you use, which don't contain a melting pot of potentially unhealthy chemicals. Use natural air fresheners and green or hypo-allergenic fabric softeners and dryer sheets. Remember that most shower curtains are made out of vinyl, and choose curtains that do not contain vinyl compounds. There are a ton of cheap alternatives if you keep your eyes peeled.

Choose Organic Hygiene Products

Choose simple soaps and shampoos which only use safe ingredients. There are only a few bare essentials to a quality hygiene product, so there is no reason to choose a product filled to the brim with exotic chemicals.

In regard to your eating habits, limit your intake of processed foods and go for the real thing. In general, organic foods are superior to other forms, but remember that even organic foods sometimes contain ingredients that can be harmful. The best rule of thumb is to buy foods which are as close to their natural form as possible, and ideally, you should purchase food from trustworthy sellers, whether this be from a local farmers' market or from a reputable company.

Take Control of Your Health and Your Hormones

Knowledge is the first step in safeguarding your health. By limiting your exposure to chemicals which affect your hormone production, you can maintain hormone balance more effectively which will sustain your long-term health in countless ways!