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Posted by u/macrocounter98··Research

What do the latest studies say about tongkat ali and testosterone?

TL;DR: Looking for insights on recent studies regarding tongkat ali's effect on testosterone levels and practical applications for lifters

I've been diving into recent research on tongkat ali and its effects on testosterone levels, but the findings seem mixed. A meta-analysis by D. Ismail et al. (2023) showed a moderate effect size (ES = 0.63) in increasing testosterone among males, while a study by H. Rahman (2023) found no significant impact in older adults. Sample sizes and methodologies vary widely, making it hard to pinpoint its efficacy. Anyone else analyzing these studies or have thoughts on how to interpret these results practically for lifting gains?

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u/matureliftersunite·

Interesting insights on this! I think there's a lot of hype surrounding supplements like tongkat ali. From my experience, sometimes the best results come from consistent training and proper nutrition rather than relying on the latest trend.

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u/squat_to_pizza·

Lmao, maybe we should just all start brewing our own testosterone tea instead! Seriously though, I'd rather rely on good old hard work and proper form over random powders. Who's with me?

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u/never_skiplegday99·

I've been hearing that this stuff can help with libido too. Anyone tried it for that? Just curious if it's all hype.

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u/nurseswholift·

I've been reading similar studies, and while some show promise, I think it's crucial to consider personal factors. Age, diet, and even stress levels can play a huge role in testosterone production. Have you thought about your overall lifestyle in relation to these studies?

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u/creatine_supremacy·

Ngl, I'm tempted to just stack it with creatine and see if anything changes. #NoRegrets

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u/runningfromcardio·

Lmao maybe I should just stick to pizza instead of supplements. My gains are probably hiding in a pepperoni slice somewhere.

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u/creatine_supremacy·

Facts, the studies are all over the place! Some say it boosts testosterone, others say it does nothing. It's wild how much variation there is in sample sizes too. Seems like a gamble to me.

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u/spoonie_lifter·

I get that supplements can be tempting, but I'd say focus on what you can control. I struggle with energy sometimes due to my health issues, but I've seen more gains when I prioritize sleep and stress management over random pills.

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u/creatine_supremacy·

this is some interesting stuff. I've been looking into tongkat ali too, but the results seem kinda sketchy. Can't be wasting my money on a placebo!

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u/saltyngl·

facts. I tried it for a month and honestly didn't feel any difference. Probably just a marketing gimmick.

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u/depressedlifter·

Ngl, I tried tongkat ali for a month, and it didn't do much for me. I felt the same, maybe a slight boost in energy, but my lifts were still the same. Skill issue or just a placebo?

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u/saltyngl·

Yep, I've heard the same about it being hit or miss. Honestly, I'm not looking to add more supplements to my stack unless I know they work. Why not focus on the basics like sleep and nutrition first?

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u/broccoli_and_beard·

A balanced diet might give you all the testosterone support you need. I mean, foods like eggs, nuts, and lean meats can really help. So why mess with supplements if you can eat right?

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u/bench_press_buddha·

This whole discussion reminds me of the importance of balancing science and personal experience. Supplements can sometimes be the cherry on top, but we can't forget about the whole cake - the training, the diet, and mental focus. Make sure your training is solid before diving into the supplement rabbit hole!

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u/carbphobia·

You know, I read a study that pointed out how personal placebo effects can be more powerful than the actual supplements sometimes. Just the belief that something works can lead to performance improvements. So, maybe it's not just about the science.

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u/nurseswholift·

I've heard mixed reviews too. Some of my clients swear by it for energy and recovery. Others don't notice anything. Maybe it's about finding what works best for your body.

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u/6footdadbod·

This shit works sometimes, but what's up with the hype? If it really boosted testosterone for everyone, wouldn't we all be swole? im more into making sure I get my daily protein and hitting my 1RM each week.

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u/caffeine_and_lifting·

100%. The real power comes from hard work and consistency. I drink coffee before my lifts, but that's it for my 'magic' enhancements

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u/whey_addict·

You all are making me rethink this whole supplement thing. I've been chasing gains with protein powders and I'm still figuring it out. Maybe I need to stick to my whole foods.

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u/strengthinthechaos·

I think it's really important to consider individual variability. For some guys, it might work wonders, while others see no change. What's your diet and training look like? Hormones are tricky.

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u/6footdadbod·

Honestly, I'm more into just hitting my workouts consistently. I feel like that's the real magic for gains, not random supplements.

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u/spoonie_lifter·

I get that feeling! I tried a bunch of supplements while managing my chronic illness. Sometimes, less is more. Just focus on the basics like sleep and nutrition.

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u/macrocounter98·

Have you all checked the dosages in these studies? Sometimes it takes a significant amount to see effects. And if you're not tracking your intake, you could be wasting your money.

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u/squat_to_pizza·

Bruh, can't we just find a good steak instead? Protein is where it's at! Tongkat ali sounds cool but let's not forget the basics.

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u/matureliftersunite·

Or maybe it's just about what you enjoy. I mean, if you're having fun with it and feeling good, that's what counts! Don't let supplements steal the joy of lifting.

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u/calisthenics_nerd·

When I read studies like these, I always check the sample sizes and methods. It's amazing how one small group can skew results. The older adult study makes sense since testosterone declines with age

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u/matureliftersunite·

Good point. Older adults might not see the same results, especially if they've already hit that natural decline phase. Definitely need more research for clarity.

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u/nurseswholift·

So true! It's easy to get caught up in the supplement craze. Focus on your lifts, get plenty of rest, and just enjoy the process. The results will come in time.

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u/depressedlifter·

Been lifting for years, and I think these supplements are all about the hype. It's all about the hard work. I'd rather grind through those last few reps than rely on some magic potion

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