What is D-Aspartic Acid?
Primarily, D-aspartic acid is known to increase the release of a hormone in the brain, resulting in the production of testosterone. It is one of two forms of the amino acid aspartic acid. The other form is L-aspartate. Amino acids serve a multitude of functions in the body, but you'll probably have come across them before as the building blocks of all types of protein, along with hormones and neurotransmitters.
D-aspartic acid works in your central brain region to cause a release of hormones, such as luteinising hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and growth hormone. It may also build up in the testicles, where it alleviates a rate-limiting step of testosterone synthesis, which leads to a minor testosterone increase.
D-Aspartic Acid Benefits
Boosting Sperm Count
Males who struggle with a low sperm count may benefit from using D-aspartic acid supplementation, as research has shown that supplemetation can cause a significant improvement in sperm count and motility1.
Increases Energy Levels
One of the major benefits of raising levels of testosterone from below normal levels to normal or high levels is the improved production of energy, which can mean better exercise endurance and greater sporting performance.
Better Sleep
Higher testosterone levels has also been touted to produce a better night’s sleep, which means better energy levels, and not to mention better health and recovery from your last workout.
Good For Your Circulation
Did you know that testosterone also promotes the body’s red blood cell concentration and helps to deliver oxygen to the muscles? That could mean an increased capacity to to build muscle, as well as better exercise endurance.
Related: What Supplements Should I be Taking on a Daily Basis?D-Aspartic Acid for Bodybuilding
Arguably the most common reason for supplementing with D-aspartic acid is for bodybuilding. Natural testosterone boosters that are legal are in great demand in the sporting world, but especially within the weight-lifting community. As the body naturally ages beyond your twenties, the body’s ability to produce testosterone wanes. It's known that the libido can often diminish along with a decrease in sperm count as you age, but the ability to build and keep muscle mass also, sadly, can take a considerable hit.
The good new is, it's far from impossible to continue building muscle as you reach your 50s and 60s. As testosterone is well-known to be responsible for muscle building and libido, older people that are still keen to build muscle at the same rate they did in their younger days often use natural, legal supplements to increase the production of this important hormone.
Related: Guide to Natural Bodybuilding | What is it? Diets & WorkoutsNormal or high levels of testosterone improves muscle-protein production, leading to lean muscle mass development. Testosterone also inhibits the production of cortisol, which is a hormone that can result in more stomach fat and the loss of muscle tissue.
These facts, combined with the sleep-enhancing, energy-yielding results of normal or high testosterone levels, makes D-aspartic acid a potentially valuable supplement for weight lifters of all ages.
Related: 7 Best Supplements for Muscle GainD-Aspartic Acid Side Effects
Having very high levels of testosterone can have some side effects. However, the growth and development of acne and hair are commonly known amongst those with very high levels of testosterone, along with elevated levels of aggression and a bigger appetite.
Do I need to be concerned?
D-aspartic acid is widely considered safe, and is not listed as a banned sporting substance.
In one 90-day study published by Advances in Sexual Medicine, participants took 2,660 mg of D-aspartic acid on a daily basis. Sixty men were treated and, of that number, 30 men were suffering from asthenozoospermia (reduced sperm motility), while the other 30 men were experiencing oligoasthenozoospermia (reduced sperm motility and reduced sperm count). The research measured the participants’ creatinine levels, electrolytes, blood cells, glucose, enzymes, and urea on a regular basis and found no abnormalities. The results revealed that there were no dangerous outcomes to the human body by using D-aspartic acid and that it can substantially boost the levels of luteinising hormone within the body.
D-Aspartic Acid Supplements
Our D-aspartic acid is the perfect way to supplement your diet with this bodybuilding workout supplement. For anyone who regularly engages in heavy resistance training, this easy to mix powder form of the supplement is ideal for daily use.
D-Aspartic Acid Dosage
Add your preferred amount of water or fruit juice into a protein shaker. Then add 1 1/2 small scoops (3g), shake and consume. Use once daily. After 12 days of consecutive use, we recommend taking 1 week off before repeating the cycle.
Take Home Message
As a potential testosterone-booster, D-aspartic acid is often used by regular gym-goers and those looking to increase muscle mass, and is prescribed for men with fertility problems.
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Our articles should be used for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be taken as medical advice. If you're concerned, consult a health professional before taking dietary supplements or introducing any major changes to your diet.
1. D’Aniello, G., Ronsini, S., Notari, T., Grieco, N., Infante, V., D’Angel, N., … & D’Aniello, A. (2012). d-Aspartate, a key element for the improvement of sperm quality. Advances in Sexual Medicine, 2(04), 45.