How to Lower SHBG: Bodybuilding & Supplements

How to Lower SHBG: Bodybuilding and  Supplementation

Looking for a way to optimize a crucial hormone that is a key factor in muscle growth and athletic performance? In the world of bodybuilding, optimal performance and physique are influenced by many factors. One key factor is SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin), which regulates hormone levels critical for muscle growth, body fat and athletic performance. This article explores strategies for lowering SHBG through evidence-backed supplements as well as other strategies, including dietary adjustments, exercise techniques, and lifestyle changes to lower SHBG levels.

What is SHBG?

SHBG stands for Sex Hormone Binding Globulin. It is a protein produced in the liver and circulates in the bloodstream. Its primary function is to bind to sex hormones and transfer them through the bloodstream to the targeted tissues.

SHBG levels can vary depending on various factors such as hormonal balance, age, sex, and overall health. Higher levels of SHBG in the body can result in lower levels of free testosterone, leading to several side effects, including:

• Reduced bone and muscle mass
• Fatigue and decreased energy levels
• Decrease in endurance
• Potential Impact on bone health
• Increase in body fat
• Irritability
• Depression
• Hormonal imbalance
• Liver disease
• Hyperthyroidism

This article will discuss the top supplements that reduce SHBG levels and increase testosterone. We will also explore effective strategies to address raised SHBG levels and lower testosterone. By incorporating these specific supplements into your routine, you can potentially improve testosterone levels and reduce SHBG naturally.

DAA Max by Vital Alchemy

DAA Max is an encapsulated D-Aspartic Acid supplement that increases your testosterone level by 42%+. It is a safe, pure pharmaceutical grade that effectively raises the body’s natural testosterone level. It can also be taken with other testosterone boosters that might not have D-Aspartic Acid to enhance testosterone levels further.

Its key ingredients include:

D-Aspartic Acid (1500mg): D-Aspartic Acid is one of the best ingredients to increase body testosterone production. After you take this ingredient, the brain uses it for chemical reactions. These chemical reactions help increase the level of luteinizing hormone (LH). Luteinizing hormone is your body’s precursor to both testosterone and growth hormone. So, the more D-Aspartic Acid you consume, the more it can increase the levels of these hormones. Research has also shown that it promotes GABA levels and also acts as an antidepressant.

Its key benefits include:

• It increases testosterone levels.
• It boosts luteinizing hormone production.
• It enhances nitric oxide production.
• It promotes faster recovery after a workout.
• It boosts energy levels and increases strength.
• Support fat burning.
• Increase lean muscle mass.

Customer reviews about the product

Awesome Job

“Daa max was great. Just got back in the gym and needed a boost in my test levels. Felt great by week2 was really happy. I cant believe for so cheap you can get this kind of boost. Would def recommend!”

-Marcus

Test Booster

“This stuff is awesome. After the first week I felt stronger and with more energy. Its a good price for the quality. Im gaining more definition now and im on my 3rd week. GREAT STUFF! highly reccommend!”

-Phil

Best Value!!!

“My new favorite DAA supplement for sure! Stacked it with Post Cycle 3X and was able to recover perfectly from my halodrol cycle. Helped boost natural test levels and was super helpful in boosting *** drive. Not to mention it was an amazing value.”

-Ray

Sergeant Steel by Assault Labs

Sergeant Steel by Assault Labs is a natural testosterone booster that increases testosterone levels naturally. It is also called a military-grade testosterone activator. It is formulated with 16 effectively dosed ingredients that are created to give you everything you need to excel in your mission and achieve your goal.

Its key ingredients include:

D-Aspartic Acid: It is a naturally occurring amino acid found in the neuroendocrine tissues of both vertebrates and invertebrates. It has been shown to increase testosterone release in the bloodstream, which in turn promotes muscle growth. Moreover, D-Aspartic Acid also boosts nitric oxide production, promoting quick recovery after an intense workout.

KSM-66® Ashwagandha Root Extract: Also called Ashwagandha, it is an adaptogen that helps you with anxiety management. It enables you to increase testosterone and luteinizing hormone levels and reduce follicle-stimulating hormone. Furthermore, it has also been shown to lower cortisol levels in the body, a hormone that can contribute to fat gain and muscle loss.

Mucuna Pruriens: It is a dopamine precursor, a neurotransmitter that is involved in various cognitive functions such as motivation, memory, mood, attention, voluntary muscular movement, and learning. Research states that it also promotes lean muscle mass growth and maintains normal hormone levels in both men and women.

Nettle Extract: It is also known as Urtica Dioica; this extract helps indirectly in enhancing the testosterone level by inhibiting the activity of Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG).

Fenugreek: It has a notable impact on libido and contributes to maintaining testosterone levels. Studies state that the seeds of this plant can increase testosterone levels, improve strength output, and even enhance growth hormone levels while reducing DHT (dihydrotestosterone).

Its key benefits include:

• It helps increase testosterone levels.
• Reduce SHBG levels 
• Help boost nitric oxide levels.
• Increase muscle mass.
• Improve overall mode.
• Increase luteinizing hormone.
• It helps reduce cortisol and estrogen levels.
• Improve strength.
• Improve recovery.
• Help boost libido.
• Help block DHT.

Customer reviews about the product

Strongest T-Booster

“This is definitely the strongest test booster I have taken and I have used quite a few. I literally feel stronger in the gym, it really gives you that "alpha male aggressiveness" in the gym. I wasn't any more aggressive outside of the gym, except for with my wife in the bedroom hehe. Let's just say that I was harder and fuller, in the gym of course ;-)”

-Garret

Eagle Screeches

“For the love of the great U.S. of A. this stuff is by far the best (new style) test booster I have tried. I stand up and salute if the wind blows slightly. Every dose you take 10 ISIS fighters meet their 72 virgins. This as close to ****** as you can get without breaking the Geneva Convention or the UCMJ. This will produces results!!!”

-Joshua

Really Strong

“I have only been on this for about 10 days but I had to put my feedback out there so far because im lovin it. Libido is out of control and my girl is loving it (so am I). Honestly this stuff makes me feel like im 18, I feel great. Might sound cliche but I am definitely get that alpha male feeling which is great because it gets me super motivated in all areas of life, not just the gym. I feel stronger in the gym as well, at least I am able to push harder. still a bit too soon to give a full review but loving it so far and looking forward for what is to come.”

-Wade

K1ngs Blood by Olympus Labs

Olympus Labs once again outperformed its competitors to bring the most effective and innovative supplement, K1ngs Blood. This outstanding product not just boosts testosterone levels but also increases exercise performance, boosts libido, and ignites the “alpha” feeling when needed.

K1ngs Blood is formulated with 8 highly researched and carefully selected ingredients that deliver exceptional results. It uses the highest quality extracts, including 5 patented ingredients, ensuring you achieve the best possible results.

This product is designed to be taken anytime as a potent standalone hormonal, virility, and performance booster. Furthermore, its formidable potency makes it a go-to choice for post-cycle therapy (PCT), providing ultimate support when it’s most crucial.

Its key ingredients include:

BIONUTRICIA®: It is a high-quality extract of Tongkat Ali, also called Eurycoma Longifolia or Long Jack. It is obtained from a plant found in South Asia commonly known as Malaysian ginseng.

This extract has been shown to improve energy, boost libido, and stimulate the release of testosterone by activating Leydig cells. It also triggers the release of free testosterone, unbinding it from an inactivating hormone, SHBG.

Moreover, it inhibits aromatase, the enzyme which converts testosterone into estrogen. It also aids in regulating cortisol levels, lowering stress, and supporting immune function. Clinical studies have shown its versatility, promoting athletic performance, improving memory, maintaining a healthy weight, increasing blood flow, and sustaining energy levels.

KSM-66® Ashwagandha: It is an Ayurvedic herb that is known for its adaptogenic properties like reducing stress and fatigue. It also supports healthy cortisol levels, which aids in controlling blood sugar levels, regulating metabolism, and reducing inflammation.

Moreover, Ashwagandha is a potent testosterone booster. Studies state that it may increase total testosterone levels, LH, and FSH. Additionally, Ashwagandha exhibits outstanding benefits for athletic performance, increasing strength and endurance, as well as reducing exercise-induced muscle breakdown.

FUROSAP®: It is derived from seeds of Fenugreek herb, standardized to 20% Protodioscin. Supported by scientific evidence, FUROSAP® has significant and diverse benefits, all while maintaining a remarkable safety profile. It has been repeatedly shown to increase the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and increase DHEA levels. It also supports inbound free testosterone levels, which improves muscle mass, fat loss, strength, and endurance.

PrimaVie® Shilajit: It is a blend of minerals used in Ayurvedic medicine. With low levels of a heavy meal, this ingredient helps enhance endurance and athletic performance while increasing the level of total and free testosterone.

Its key benefits include:

• It is an effective PCT.
• Reduce SHBG levels 
• Promote optimal free and total Testosterone levels.
• Help supports higher levels of vitality.
• Improve exercise performance and recovery.
• Boost energy levels, strength, endurance, fat loss, muscle growth, etc.
• Regulates estrogen, cortisol, LH, FSH, etc.

Customer reviews about the product

K1ngs blood

“I have been on the PCT for about a week now and I have noticed a big difference the third day in. My gains are staying and my libido is back better than ever”

-GBody

Royalty

“This supplement is chock-full of the best ingredients out there! NOTHING (natural) was left out. K1ngs Blood is an overall amazing product!”

-Civil S.

I have tried a lot of different formulas for PCTs k1ngs blood is the best yet

“I have tried lots of different PCTs and formulas. K1ngs Blood is the best yet. I noticed a difference by the second day. Love it. Will be ordering more. Thank you”

-Keith

Steel 75 by EPG:

Steel 75 by EPG is one of the best performance testosterone boosters that increase your testosterone level and energy. With a top-class dose of many effective ingredients to enhance your natural production of testosterone and prevent estrogen production, Steel 75 can seriously aid you in improving endurance, increasing strength, and overall performance.

Its key ingredients include:

Androst 3,5: It is a natural compound that is also known as an "aromatase inhibitor." Aromatase is an enzyme that is responsible to converts testosterone into estrogen. By binding to the aromatase enzyme, Arimistane prevents the conversion of testosterone into estrogen. This results in decreased estrogen production and higher testosterone levels. Moreover, it helps reduce cortisol levels, a hormone that can cause muscle catabolism and fat gain.

Fenugreek: It has shown notable effects on libido and the maintenance of testosterone levels. Research studies have stated that fenugreek seeds can increase testosterone levels, boost strength output, and even enhance growth hormone levels, all while helping to reduce DHT (dihydrotestosterone).

Tongkat Ali: It is a medicinal plant from Malaysia and Thailand used widely for its aphrodisiac properties. Studies have shown that it exhibits anti-aromatase properties just like Formestane, resulting in reduced estrogen levels and increased testosterone levels.

Tribulus Terrestris: It is a potent testosterone booster that stimulates the production of luteinizing hormone, which in turn increases testosterone levels. This key male hormone is essential in building lean body mass, improving strength, boosting metabolism, increasing muscle size and density, and aiding in fat loss. This ingredient is also helpful in decreasing symptoms of aging and enhancing athletic performance and overall well-being.

L –Citrulline: This powerful ingredient increases nitric oxide levels, which in turn improves vasodilation. It also helps increase blood flow and cognitive function, improve athletic performance, and boost heart health and immunity.

Its key benefits include:

• Boost testosterone level
• Reduce SHBG level.
• Promotes natural muscle gain.
• Improve your energy and overall performance.
• Increase muscle hardness and muscle mass.
• Improve nitric oxide production.

Customer reviews about the product

Good Product

“I notice a difference with energy levels. I get that younger feeling (i'm almost 50).. I get edgy sometimes when I take this. Probably due to higher test rate. Wood and libido is good. And I really really like that they put what's in it and the amounts per serving.. No "proprietary blend" nonsense..”

-Alexander

Magnificent product

“Excellent product! Started noticing body composition changes during the 2nd week. Libido and wood was strong starting at week 1,and wood pops up unexpectedly at various times during the day. Very noticeable strength increases and alpha male feeling after 7 days. I will most definitely be ordering this product again for at least the next 6 months! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!”

-Darren

Blown away

“Absolutely loved using Steel 75 as part of my post cycle. Very noticeable boost in libido/*** drive. I was able to keep a lot of my gains and maintain my strength very well throughout the PCT phase of my cycle using this along with some good protein, aminos, creatine, and preworkouts.”

-Jameson

M-Test by Competitive Edge Labs

M-Test by Competitive Edge Labs is one of the most powerful, natural, and potent testosterone support supplements on the market. It is a comprehensive natural testosterone booster that contains licensed, patented ingredients that improve hormone balance. It optimized both free and total testosterone levels, luteinizing hormone, estrogen, and cortisol. It is designed to enhance lean muscle mass, promoting strength and endurance.

Its key ingredients include:

Fadogia Agrestis: It is an African herb traditionally used as a male aphrodisiac. It has demonstrated potent testosterone-boosting effects and improved libido in rodent studies. Multiple studies have stated that Fadogia's Saponin content plays a crucial role in enhancing testosterone levels and shows aphrodisiac properties by increasing the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) in the body. LH is released to maintain testosterone levels within a specific range; however, as LH increases, it stimulates higher natural testosterone production.

Urtica Dioica: It is a herb that has the potential to increase testosterone levels and reduce dihydrotestosterone (DHT). It comprises lignans that bind to Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) and prevent its interaction with its receptor, resulting in increased circulation of free testosterone. By inhibiting DHT binding to prostate membrane sites and the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, it also offers benefits for prostate health.

KSM-66® Ashwagandha Root Extract: It is a premium-quality Ashwagandha extract that is developed over a span of 14 years by Ixoreal. Ashwagandha is an adaptogen herb commonly known for its anxiety-relieving properties. In the case of KSM-66®, it has been shown to increase testosterone levels and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels while reducing Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) levels. Furthermore, it also aids in reducing cortisol levels in the body. Cortisol, a catabolic hormone which chronically elevated levels, can affect testosterone production, inhibit anabolism, and reduce muscle growth.

Eurycoma Longifolia (Tongkat Ali): It is an extract originally formed at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to address male fertility issues and sexual dysfunction. It increases testosterone levels and reduces Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG). Furthermore, researches indicate that it exhibits anti-aromatase properties similar to Formestane, which results in decreased estrogen levels and increased testosterone levels. Along with reducing cortisol levels, it also promotes building lean muscle mass.

Its key benefits include:

• Helps boost Libido.
• Improve testosterone levels and reduce SHBG levels.
• Aid reduce DHT Help improve Prostate health.
• Help increase strength, endurance, and lean muscle mass.
• Boost luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone.
• Reduce estrogen levels and cortisol levels.
• Enhance mode, power, and endurance.
• Helps speed up recovery and muscle mass gain.

Customer reviews about the product

This stuff works.

“Within 2 nights this had me sleeping better, recovering faster, and better cortisol levels throughout day. I noticed the restoration of test to pre-40s levels by 5 days in. This is now a staple of my stack. So amazed!”

-RBurns

Excellent natty test product

“I’ve used M-Test on and off for several years. As a former ph/ps user, I can say it’s not going to give you crazy ph/ps gains, but it’s a nice boost to any training program. I also get better sleep if dosing all 6 pills before bed. Highly recommend as a natty test booster.”

-Motley L.

M-Test is a Great Product

“I've used the same individual ingredients previously, but there is a synergy with those ingredients in M-Test when taken together in these ratios. Sense of well being and calm energy are unlike any supplement I've ever taken. I love this product and feel terrific on it. Highly recommend. Top marks.”

-Dwight

Tips and Tricks to Lower SHBG Level

Consume an adequate quantity of protein

If your SHBG level is too high, it is possible that you are not getting sufficient protein. Protein intake has been shown to increase serum insulin levels, and insulin has been observed to decrease SHBG levels.

Stop drinking alcohol

As we all know, alcohol can negatively affect testosterone levels. Similarly, it can also cause higher SHBG levels.

Reduce the amount of caffeine you intake

Caffeine has also been found to enhance your SHBG level.

Increase calorie intake

Increased calorie intake not only lowers your SHBG level but also increase your testosterone and free testosterone level.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about SHBG

Q: What makes the SHBG level rise?

A: There are many factors that support increased SHBG levels, including testicular failure, diabetes, aging, alcoholic liver disease, high estrogen levels, low human growth hormone levels, Smoking, Hyperthyroid, side effects of using certain substances, etc.

Q: Are there any natural ways to reduce SHBG levels?

A: Yes, there are many natural ways that can help significantly reduce your SHBG levels. It includes a high-fat diet, a high protein diet, stopping drinking alcohol, reducing the amount of caffeine you intake, considering fish oil products, consuming more vitamin D, reducing excessive fiber intake, increasing calorie intake, losing weight, and decreasing sugar intake.

Q: What are the potential side effects of high SHBG levels?

A: High levels of SHBG in the body can result in lower levels of bioavailable testosterone, which can lead to various side effects, including reduced bone and muscle mass, decreased energy levels, fatigue, increase in body fat, reduced endurance, impacts on bone health, irritability, depression, hormonal imbalance, liver disease, and hyperthyroidism.

Q: Is there any medical treatment to lower SHBG?

A: Studies have stated that providing the body with exogenous Testosterone can lead to a decrease in SHBG levels. This effect has been observed in men with Testosterone deficiency and even in men with normal Testosterone levels. However, it's critical to note that not all forms of Testosterone have the same effect. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional knowledgeable in Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) before considering this treatment.

Conclusion

In summary, SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin) is a protein produced in the liver, and its main function is to bind with sex hormones and carry them to its targeted space. When its level rises, it may cause certain adverse effects, which include lower testosterone levels, reduced bone and muscle mass, decreased energy level, increased body fat, and decreased endurance and strength.

Several factors can contribute to the rise in SHBG levels, including aging, estrogen levels, liver function, certain medications, and genetic factors are all known to influence SHBG production and increase its levels in the body. Understanding these contributors is vital for interpreting hormone-related conditions and optimizing treatment. However, it's important to note that individual responses can differ, and consulting with a healthcare professional is vital for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized guidance.

Sources:

https://muscleandbrawn.com/testosterone/how-to-lower-shbg/#How-To-Lower-Your-SHBG-Levels

https://jaycampbell.com/hormones/how-to-lower-shbg/

https://drtanmenshealthblog.com/2021/06/16/how-to-lower-shbg-and-increase-free-testosterone/#Are_there_any_natural_ways_to_lower_SHBG_levels

https://androgenhacker.com/lower-shbg