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Abstract : A Double-Blind, Placebo Controlled Trial, Evaluating the Effects of a Proprietary Blend of Plant Adaptogens on Sexual Satisfaction and Sexual Response in Adult Males
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Abstract: Introduction:Adaptogens are plant substances that offer resistance of the organism to stressors. The human genome is able to utilize these plant derived substance to increase cellular defense in-vivo. Previous studies which validated adaptogens benefit in athletic training and performance also demonstrated subjective reports of improved male sexual performance. It is the objective of this trial is to isolate and report the human male sexual response to a proprietary blend of adaptogens, androgenic herbs combined and select amino acids (Admax®/Potenter®) and compare it to placebo, over a 14 day period when compared to placebo. Methods:Subjects were randomized into two cohorts to compare study compound (n=42) with placebo (n=21). Exclusion criteria eliminated individuals with organic impotence and organic heart disease as well as those unable to give informed consent or unable to adhere to study protocol. Participants completed the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) prior to dosing and instructed to attempt sexual intercourse a minimum of twice per week during the study period. They also were instructed to complete a sexual satisfaction diary, which became part of the source documents upon completion of the trial. Each participant was provided 50 capsules of either study compound or placebo (8 capsules per day with 2 additional capsules). Participants completed the IIEF upon completion of the study as well. Results:63 healthy adult males (age range 30-58, mean = 42.4, ± 3), were consented and enrolled in a placebo controlled, double blind, study of the male sexual experience and satisfaction in response to a proprietary blend of adaptogens (Admax/Potenter®). All participants completed the trial and submitted both pre & post self assessment utilizing the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). Participants on study compound (n=42) improved in all 5 measured parameters, compared to no change in the placebo group (n=21). All data was validated utilizing 2-tailed Student – T. Erectile function improved from 11.5 to 22.7 (p≤0.04) compared to placebo (decreased from11.7 to 10.8). Intercourse satisfaction improved from 5.6 to 11.1 (p≤0.05) compared to placebo (decreased from 5.5 to 5.2). Orgasmic function improved from 4.6 to 8.7 (p≤0.05) compared to placebo (increased from 4.7 to 4.8, not statistically significant). Sexual desire improved from 5.4 to 8.6 (p≤0.1) compared to placebo (decreased from 5.3 to 5.2). Overall sexual satisfaction improved from 3.1 to 9.1 (p≤0.01) compared to placebo (decreased from 3.3 to 2.9). Discussion:This data demonstrates that the male sexual experience is markedly enhanced with the utilization of this adaptogenic compound (Admax®/Potenter®), when taken 3-6 hours prior to anticipation of sexual intercourse. Subjectively, the data would also indicate that the effect is relatively short acting (lasting 6-24 hours) and moderate onset of action (taken 3-6 hours prior to event). Pharmacokinetic studies were not performed. There were no side effects reported by any of the participants as is consistent with its use in previous clinical trials. All early indications would suggests, that this proprietary blend of adaptogens is an excellent supplement to increase the male sexual experience and can safely be used up to 14 days without demonstrated side effects Keywords: Adaptogens, sexual satisfaction, male sexual response, Admax/Potenter®.Download Full Article |
Editor’s Choice : Yoga, Mindful Eating, and Weight Management
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Abstract: Physical inactivity, overweight, and obesity are serious issues plaguing the American public. The extent to which regular yoga participation may be associated with the adoption and maintenance of health enhancing behaviors necessitates further investigation. Through a mixed method of inquiry, this study investigated the exercise and eating habits of adults who participate in yoga on a regular basis exploring facets of mindful eating, exercise habits, and body mass index. Survey packets were distributed across seven yoga studios and fitness facilities in central New Jersey; 87 adults with a mean age of 47 years self-selected to participate. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected including a Mindful Eating Questionnaire, a 7-Day Physical Activity Recall, height and weight, yoga tenure recorded in months/years of consistent yoga participation, and average daily fruit and vegetable intake. Results showed thatmindful eating was inversely correlated with Body Mass Index (BMI) and that 72% of the yoga participants had a BMI of 24.9 or less, placing them in the normal weight category. A significant difference existed in mindful eating score relative to yoga tenure and vegetable and fruit intake relative to yoga tenure. Participants reported a mean of 239 minutes of weekly exercise other than yoga participation. Qualitative data were collected throughtwo open-ended questions to ascertain the participants’ perceptions of yoga and their health-related behaviors; the data revealed that 87% of participants felt yoga enhanced their exercise adherence and 91% reported yoga promoted the adoption of positive health habits. The results suggest that yoga participation is associated with mindful eating and the adoption and maintenance of other positive health-related outcomes such as regular physical activity and weight management. Keywords: Physical inactivity, weight management, mindful eating, yoga, mind/body.Download Full Article |
Editor’s Choice : Muscle Dysmorphia: A Comparison Between Competitive Bodybuilders and Fitness Practitioners
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Abstract: Objective: The primary aim of this study was to investigate the features of Muscle Dysmorphia and other body image-related concerns in a sample of competitive male bodybuilders. Method: We screened 217 male athletes, 119 bodybuilders and 98 fitness practitioners, recruited in 12 gymnasiums in Southern Italy, by means of an ad hoc socio-demographic schedule, the Muscle Dysmorphia Inventory (MDI) and the Muscle Appearance Satisfaction Scale (MASS). Results: Twenty one of the bodybuilders (17.6%) show high levels of preoccupation and dissatisfaction with their muscularity, 45.4% (N=54) a marked dependence on bodybuilding; 35.3% (N=42) follow a high-protein diet and 35.3% (N=42) used vitamin supplements to improve their weightlifting performances and favor post-training physical recovery. In addition, forty-three (36.1%) also report use of substance while nine subjects (7.6%) declare to avoid situations in which their body might be seen or manifest high levels of distress when this happens. The ANCOVA (Exercise Frequency per Week as a covariate) results indicate that bodybuilders, compared to fitness practitioners, report significant elevations in all measures.Moreover, considering only the bodybuilders sample, who report a regular use of substance scored higher in Dietary Behavior, Body size-symmetry, Physique Protection, Supplement Use MDI scales and on Body building Dependence, Muscle Checking and Injury MASS subscales. Discussion: Our findings seem to suggest that the practice of the bodybuilding is associated to the proposed criteria of muscle dysmorphia if compared with regular fitness practice. In particular, we found that a regular use of substance was associated with greater dissatisfaction with muscularity. Keywords: Muscle Dysmorphia, drive for muscularity, bodybuilding,anabolic steroids, survey descriptive study.Download Full Article |
Editor’s Choice : Gastro-Intestinal Complaints Related to Various Eating Behaviors
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Abstract: Background: Many studies report a beneficial health effect as well as a lower mortality rate for individuals following diets containing lots of fruits and vegetables. Results of studies on abdominal, and colon diseases are, however, inconsistent. Therefore, the aim of our study was to analyze differences between various eating behaviors and the incidence of gastro-intestinal complaints. Methods: The sample used for this study was taken from the Austrian Health Interview Survey ATHIS 2006/07 (N=14 318). Logistic regressions were calculated controlling for age, BMI, and physical activity to analyze differences regardingtheincidenceofgastricorintestinalulcer,abdominalpain,and specific medication taken due to these complaints.
Results: A lacto-/ovo-, as well as a semi-vegetarian diet is associated with a higher risk for gastrointestinal complaints. The odds ratio for gastric or intestinal ulcer, and the intake of specific medication is significantly higher for these diets.
Conclusion: A carnivorous diet containing also lots of fruits and vegetables is recommended to avoid abdominal complaints. Furthermore, public health programs are needed in order to reduce the health risk due to nutritional factors. Keywords: Nutrition, diet, gastric or intestinal ulcer, abdominal pain, medication. Download Full Article |
