PCT: The Post-Cycle Therapy

Lately I have been asked by a few people concerning PCT (Post-Cycle Therapy) supplementation. For those unaccustomed to the term, it relates to supplementation after running a cycle of synthetic testosterone promoting substances. Even though I am a drug free athlete, my opinion on the use of synthetics is neutral, my goal is to educate and aid individuals in their goals, not to judge on their chosen paths. When concerning a PCT, a few areas must be addressed: The reduction of natural testosterone production, the increase of estrogen in the system, liver detoxification, as well as an increase of cholesterol.

            Starting with stimulating natural testosterone production; the human body is incredibly adaptable, when a substance it normally produces is added to the system, its response is to start limiting production of that substance at an incredibly quick rate. In order to pick up production a few products may aid to “kick start” the process. Tribulus Terrestris has a long history of potentially stimulating the body’s natural process for testosterone production. Most companies suggest 2 doses per day, preferably morning and evening. Another option is D-Aspartic acid, which has claimed much stronger effects than tribulus, but is still fairly new on the market. I would personally stick with tribulus until more information is available on D-Aspartic acid.

            The next issue to address is estrogen management. Chrysin, a flavone derived from the passionflower family, has been noted for years as having potential anti aromatase(estrogen blocking) activity. D-Indol-3-Carbonyl and DIM(diindolylmethane) are found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower. Originally sold as estrogen blockers as a whole, they now are sold as potential inhibitors of “bad” estrogens (Yes, some estrogen is actually beneficial). Consider them more as regulators in your system when concerning estrogen. Most individuals that are in need of a post cycle therapy already use a pharmaceutical estrogen blocker, but it still may be a good idea to supplement with a low dose natural estrogen management supplement to help in getting levels back to normal.

            The next area of discussion has to do with liver detoxification. In the body the liver acts like a filter in your system, unfortunately it tends to take a big hit from all the impurities we come across in our daily lives. Compound that with the introduction of synthetic substances, and a real issue can result. Fortunately, there are products available to aid the liver in its daily activities. The most common supplement being Milk Thistle. Out of all the products available for liver health, I would suggest using Milk Thistle standardized for the phytochemical Silymarin. If you want to spend a few more dollars and go with an herbal blend by all means, just be sure to check the milk thistle contained within is standardized.

            The last area of interest is cholesterol levels. As the body starts to reduce its natural testosterone production your cholesterol levels may begins to elevate. This is because the body uses cholesterol as a backbone for many of your hormones. Couple this with a diet in high cholesterol foods and levels can really get out of hand. Fortunately once your natural system begins producing again your levels should start to reduce. A few supplements available for cholesterol support are flax seed oil, red yeast rice, and nattokinase. They may not be needed, but I have heard a few individuals after finishing a synthetic cycle of having cholesterol levels in the hundreds. This is a very dangerous situation.

            A few other supplements that may help during a PCT are eurycoma longifolia (Longjack), Horny Goat Weed, and Maca. Information on these supplements seems to vary, but the most popular information relates to their use as testosterone support in the system, not so much as actual testosterone boosters.

            Hopefully the information provided will be of use to those who require a PCT. All of us have specific goals; it’s our choice as to how we reach them. If you would like to add any more valuable information, feel free to comment. In such an ever-changing industry as nutrition it is wise to always be open to new findings and ideas.

Michael Petrinjak CFT