The supplement solution: FLEX gives you the background and verdict on four sometimes controversial supplements that may give you the edge you want

Flex, Oct, 2003

Guidelines: Take Humanofort with meals as directed. Do not take it with alcohol, which may inactivate the peptides.

Cautions: There have been no reported side effects from Humanofort, but it is not recommended for children, teenagers, pregnant or lactating women, or persons with cancer, diabetes or genetic disorders.

Dosage: The normal dosage is 100 to 200 mg per day as per label instructions. Individuals above 220 pounds may require 300 mg per day.

Background: Humanofort is a purified protein extract derived from chicken embryos. Initially considered an antiaging supplement, it has entered the bodybuilding market as an adjunct to supplement regimens designed for fat loss and to improve joint health. As with many herbal extracts, there is confusion regarding Humanofort primarily due to the lack of scientific evidence to explain the mechanism of action and its effects on the body.

Based on the research available, Humanofort functions as an adaptogen that stimulates the adrenal gland, normalizing its function. Adaptogens are substances that help the body respond to stress. Other than the brain, the adrenal gland is the most important target organ for an adaptogen. The adrenal gland produces a variety of hormones critical to metabolism, such as adrenaline, cortisol, aldosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), which all play key roles in metabolism and immunity.

All of these hormones affect muscle mass and health in some way. A problem that still perplexes researchers is why these hormones decline with age. If you are over 40 and training hard, Humanofort may aid recovery and boost joint health.

So why do young bodybuilders need Humanofort? For individuals in their early 20s and 30s, cortisol and DHEA output is normally sufficient. However, if you're engaging in the combination of trying to train like a pro, low-carb dieting and taking ephedrine/caffeine supplements, and you do this day after day, then adrenal output may indeed be outside of normal ranges. Consequently, in some younger individuals, cortisol may be chronically elevated concomitantly with suppressed DHEA levels. The combination of the two can lead to a degree of muscle wasting, increased fat deposition coupled with blunted thermogenic pathways, altered sleep patterns and mood, and fatigue.

FLEX verdict: If you are age 20 to 40 and your joints are fine, but you're not sleeping well, your sex drive is in the basement, it seems as if you get every bug that comes your way, and your body composition doesn't reflect your work output, then Humanofort may be the solution. Humanofort added to your daily routine may provide a degree of protection against what appears to be the early stages of overtraining.

BETA-ECDYSTERONE

Purpose: This supplement is for enhancement of muscle size and strength.

Who should use it: Bodybuilders who are willing to spend the money for additional muscle mass and strength gains may find it helpful.

Guidelines: Take it two or three times a day with high-protein meals, along with other supplements, including creatine and glutamine. Be sure one of the doses is postworkout on lifting days.