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Food additives containing boron
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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In 1987, Nielsen et al. Studied the effect of additives of boron, aluminum and magnesium on mineral metabolism in women after menopause. The results showed that boron nutritional supplements in an amount of 3 mg per day increased the serum testosterone content from 0.3 to 0.6 ng-dL. Many additive companies quickly realized that a high level of testosterone is associated with an increase in muscle mass and a decrease in fat mass. The market was soon filled with supplements of the "testosterone enhancer" containing boron.
Basic functions of boron
- A natural testosterone synthesis enhancer.
- Increases muscle mass.
- Reduces fat mass.
Research results
Additive companies used Nielsen's data to launch products containing boron and claiming to be "natural" alternatives to anabolic steroids. However, these companies did not indicate that studies were conducted on 12 women after menopause at the age of 48 to 82 years, and estradiol levels also increased in them, and the body composition was not determined. In addition, the normal level of male testosterone was about 10 times higher than the results obtained by Nielsen.
Green, Ferrando chose a more suitable group for studying the ergogenic effect - 10 bodybuilders. They consumed 2.5 mg boron per day or placebo and exercised for 7 weeks. There was no increase in testosterone levels. The researchers concluded that boron supplements do not have an anabolic effect.
Recommendations
Boron is a micronutrient, which is contained in insignificant amounts in a suit, plums, nuts, apple puree and grape juice. RDNs do not give norms for boron, although some studies show that a person needs about 0.5-1.0 mg boron per day; 10 mg boron per day, apparently, are harmless, but more than 50 mg boron per day can cause a toxic effect, which is manifested in loss of appetite and gastrointestinal disorders. Some studies suggest that boron can play a modest role in the mineral status of bone tissue, but it does not show signs of an ergogenic remedy.
Attention!
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Description provided for informational purposes and is not a guide to self-healing. The need for this drug, the purpose of the treatment regimen, methods and dose of the drug is determined solely by the attending physician. Self-medication is dangerous for your health.