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.
D-Aspartic Acid Benefits
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
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.
The good news 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, 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.
Normal 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.
D-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.
D-aspartic acid is widely considered safe, and is not listed as a banned sporting substance.
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.
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.
