Turkesterone

Improve Athletic Performance

Turkesterone is a concentrated type of ecdysteroid (also called a phytoecdysteroid), a compound that is naturally found in some insects and plants. Ecdysteroids have anabolic and adaptogenic effects, so they’re isolated and used to make supplements that are taken for purposes such as to boost muscle growth and athletic performance.

There’s evidence that turkesterone can help increase muscle growth and one’s muscle-to-fat ratio, thereby improving body composition. It may also have some anti-obesity and metabolic-boosting effects, according to certain animal studies.

It seems to do this by lowering lipid absorption, possibly shifting glucose metabolism and fighting insulin resistance, and supporting muscle synthesis in several ways, such as by boosting uptake of the amino acid leucine in muscle cells. Ecdysteroids can increase ATP synthesis, which helps power muscles, improve endurance and prevent feelings of fatigue. This can translate to more intense workouts and help with building strength and stamina. There’s lots of anecdotal evidence from users of ecdystreoids that they help improve one’s ability to lift more and recovery more easily after tough workouts.
Studies show that turkesterone can help repair muscle fibers that have been broken down after exercise and increase glycogen concentrations in muscles, which can help remove lactic acid and support workout recovery. Additionally, it’s thought to help maintain a positive nitrogen balance, which facilitates muscle growth.

Turkesterone is considered an adaptogen, much like ashwagandha or rhadiola. It supports mental health by helping the body cope with stress and fatigue. Some find that it improves sleep and reduces anxiety, brain fog, feelings of “burnout” and low motivation, which can be a symptom of depression. Mechanisms of action are thought to include its ability to support neurotransmitter production and assist in gut health, which helps promote a healthy “gut-brain connection.”

It may also help fight inflammation, boost antioxidant status, and improve digestion and immune function, as immunity is compromised when someone is under a lot of stressed and fatigued. Additionally, some evidence suggests it has some hepatoprotective and cardioprotective effects, meaning it supports liver and heart health in part by lowering cholesterol and blood glucose levels.