GRAPE SEED EXTRACT
Grape seed extract is a derivative of whole grape
seeds that have high levels of procyanidin dimers,
which are known to be a potent inhibitor of aro-
matase. Aromatase is an enzyme that is responsi-
ble for the creation of estrogen from androgens in
the body. Potentially at times, unused testosterone
in the body can be converted to estrogen and
reduce the amount of free testosterone in your sys-
tem available for use. Therefore, reducing estrogen
benefits your muscle-building and fat-shedding
ability.
A 2006 study determined that grape seed ex-
tract was found to inhibit aromatase in a dose-de-
pendent manner. Essentially, the more consumed,
the more aromatase that was inhibited. However,
much of the research was conducted in women, so
we need a bit more research in men, but the results
appear to be promising.
Research indicates that 120 milligrams is all
that’s needed each day. While it does work in a
dose-dependent manner, it’s recommended that
you consume no more 300 milligrams each day. It
is considered safe, although moderate side effects
such as headache, itchy scalp, dizziness, and nau-
sea have been reported, especially with the higher
doses.
INDOLE-3 CARBINOL
TestostroGrow 2 HP by Ultimate Nutrition
combines testosterone-promoting agents such
as Tribulus terrestris with proven estrogen fi ghters
including indole-3 carbinol, alpha lipoic acid, and
nettle root extract.
72 APRIL 201 7 | ironmanmagazine.com
Indole-3 carbinol (I3C) is a compound
found in cruciferous vegetables such
as broccoli, cauliflower, and mustard
greens, which are all members of the
Brassica family of vegetables. It has been
recently researched regarding its ability
to act as an aromatase inhibitor, similar
to grape seed extract, by reducing the
conversion of androgens to estrogen.
Research as recent as 2015 has deter-
mined that I3C can inhibit estrogen (in
its estradiol form), which can potentially
lead to an increase in free testosterone.
Again, much of the research has been
conducted in women with regards to
cancer; however, this does not mean it
will not work in men. Some reviews have
concluded that the results with regards
to being a supplement in men are in-
conclusive, and more rigorous research
is needed before a solid conclusion can
be made.
Doses of 200 to 400 milligrams per
day seems to be effective. Because this
has not been seen to work in a dose-de-
pendent manner, it appears that 200
milligrams is just as effective as 400
milligrams. I3C is safe; however, very
high doses have been shown to cause
skin rashes, balance problems, tremor,
and nausea.