Shilajit: Muscles, bones, and testosterone
examining the research
Hi everyone -
I'm bringing you a quick new article this week on shilajit, a mineral and fulvic acid compound with clinical trials for muscle recovery, osteoporosis, and increased testosterone. It is a supplement used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to enhance vitality and promote longevity.
Coming up next week:
CoQ10 - a deep dive into the genetic variants that affect serum levels along with research studies on supplemental CoQ10.
Gratefully yours,
~ Debbie
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Shilajit: Muscles, bones, and testosterone
Key takeaways:
~ Shilajit contains fulvic acid, metabolites, and minerals
~ Used for centuries, clinical trials show it has positive benefits for osteoporosis, testosterone, male infertility, and muscle recovery.
~ Animal studies suggest that shilajit is neuroprotective, antiviral, and reduces gut inflammation.
What I've been reading:
Researchers in Ecuador assessed the pesticide residue exposure in over 500 teens and then assessed neurobehavioral performance. The results showed that 2,4-D (a widely used broadleaf weed killer) was statistically associated with decreased attention, language skills, and memory. Glyphosate was found in 98% of the teens and linked only to changes in social behavior scores.
This new study found that statin use increases the zonulin protein that causes leaky gut. The researchers also found that there is likely an adverse effect on the neuromuscular junction.
3. Estimated Lifetime Gained With Cancer Screening Tests
A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
New in JAMA is a meta-analysis of the clinical trials on cancer screening tests. The analysis included data from more than 2 million people and looked at the number of days that life was prolonged by cancer screening tests. For colon cancer, there was a benefit of 110 days of prolonged life for colonoscopy; for prostate screening, there was a life extension of 37 days. Underwhelming, to me.
The meta-analysis found that mammograms were not statistically linked to increased lifespan.
Just to be clear - this study was about routine cancer screening in people without symptoms, not about getting a mammogram after finding a lump or having a colonoscopy if you have symptoms.
From the study: "The findings of this meta-analysis suggest that current evidence does not substantiate the claim that common cancer screening tests save lives by extending lifetime, except possibly for colorectal cancer screening with sigmoidoscopy."