Understanding Androgen Receptor Sensitivity and Testosterone

Importance of Androgen Receptor Sensitivity

• High testosterone levels are ineffective if not properly binding to androgen receptors.
• Maximizing androgen receptor sensitivity ensures testosterone binds effectively, even if levels are lower.

How Testosterone Works

• Testosterone enters a cell and binds to the androgen receptor.
• The receptor moves to the cell nucleus, causing gene expression related to:
  • Muscle growth
  • Facial hair growth
  • Higher bone density
  • Deeper voice

Factors to Avoid for Healthy Androgen Receptor Levels

1. Cortisol

• Increased when stressed.
• Both cortisol and testosterone are synthesized from cholesterol.
• High cortisol:
  • Reduces cholesterol available for testosterone.
  • Prevents testosterone from activating genes.
  • Increases aromatase which converts testosterone to estrogen.
• Ways to lower cortisol:
  • Deep breathing, meditation, carbohydrates around training, 8-9 hours of sleep, magnesium supplementation, reducing negative news/social media, relaxing music, and reduced caffeine.

2. Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals

• Block androgen receptors or activate estrogen receptors.
• Common in plastics and certain chemicals.
• Avoid by:
  • Using metal/glass bottles instead of plastic.
  • Using natural fiber clothing and bed sheets.
  • Cooking with stainless steel or cast iron, not non-stick Teflon.
  • Choosing natural hygiene products without phthalates or parabens.

3. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

• Example: Ibuprofen can suppress testosterone production and reduce androgen receptor activity.

4. Seed Oils

• Contain unsaturated fatty acids that block testosterone binding to androgen receptors.
• Suggested alternatives: Olive oil, avocado oil, butter.

5. Excessive Serotonin

• Decreases androgen receptor expression.
• Linked to sexual side effects in antidepressant users.

6. Soy Products

• Contain phytoestrogens similar to estrogen.
• Suppress androgen receptor expression and increase estrogenic activity.

7. Finasteride

• Blocks conversion of testosterone to DHT, reducing androgen receptor expression.

8. Sexual Exhaustion

• Excessive sex can reduce androgen receptor density and interest in sex.

9. Benzophenones

• Found in chemical sunscreens, can block androgen receptors.

Enhancing Androgen Receptor Expression

Strength Training

• 8-10 reps per session increase serum testosterone and androgen receptor mRNA expression.
• Avoid overtraining to keep cortisol low.

Supplements

• L-Carnitine: Increases androgen receptor density, especially post-workout.
• Vitamin D3: Recommended 2,000-4,000 IU daily.
• Zinc: Essential for forming androgen receptors.
• Korean Red Ginseng: Prevents toxin-induced down-regulation of receptors.
• Glycine and Glutamine: Core structural components of androgen receptors.
• Tribulus Terrestris and Butea Superba: Herbal supplements boosting DHT and androgenic activity.

Recap and Conclusion

• Avoid factors like cortisol, endocrine disruptors, NSAIDs, seed oils, and more.
• Engage in strength training and consider supplements like Vitamin D3 and Zinc.
• Start with a few supplements, evaluate effects, then gradually add more.

Additional Resources

• For further learning and optimization, consider the testosterone optimization guide linked in the description.