• I need more energy help please

Posted: **Sat Dec 07, 2013 2:51 pm**

Hi all I seem to be feeling more and more tired, I really don't want to up my dose of Testim gel I like it low and how it makes me feel. I also take Adcal, vitamin B and D so what am I missing I know that if I go to my doctors they will just say "you have been told your levels are to low and to use more Testim."

I have just had an op on my arm so now its even worse because im sitting around a lot and if I go for a walk i'm even more tired.

Any advice please and thanks in advance

Posted: **Sat Dec 07, 2013 4:45 pm**

Without knowing what pharmaceuticals you use/take, it's hard to realize what or why you are experiencing low energy.

There could be a host of reasons.

You use Adcal - you have a bone disorder? Can you consume dairy products?

At your age (profile), you should still be able to 'behave' or enjoy many activities; like walking.

When was your last physical examination?

Low energy, moodiness, and lack of physical strength are a couple of side effects of being a eunuch; without HRT.

Lots of middle-aged and elderly 'just don't feel like' doing anything; because their mood is off-balance (due to inadequate hormone levels). Moods effect much of our 'everyday' activities. The world would not have 'couch potatoes' if that were not true! Moods can control your energy levels too. When you have 'an interest' in living "normally", you do more, and that leads to better energy levels. Like the TV commercial says - "a body in motion . . ."

Even if you DON"T feel up to it; you still need to TRY to do it.

Ask any body-builder about small gains . . .

I have found great 'energy' effects from herbals; when my physician (years ago) refused to give me HRT.

I still do not use any pharmaceutical form of hormone replacement. Naturals are much less expensive, and I feel better about not using chemicals.

You may want to include your Physician on their use, but there are no more 'side effects' than eating various foods (*NOTE* some medicinal pharmaceuticals - especially those given to the elderly for heart conditions and the like - do interact with foods and herbals that contain vitamin "K"). Adcal won't work with cruciferous vegetables (spinach, collards, mustards, kale).

Research these herbals. They are what I use with great results;

Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia jack) (http://www.vitacost.com/action-labs-lon ... 0-capsules#) Long Jack is a yohimbe-free way to help enhance vigor and vitality while contributing to an overall sense of well-being, with no known side effects. (Yohimbe causes many men to have irregular heartbeat).

Ashwagandha Extract (Withania somnifera) (http://www.vitacost.com/vitacost-ashwag ... andardized) popularly known as Indian ginseng, is plant that’s been used in Ayurvedic medicine for more than 2,500 years. Its roots have been used in folk medicine as an adaptogen and geriatric tonic. The major, active compounds are alkaloids and lactones in a class of constituents called withanolides. Along with a standard multi-vitamin, asgwagandha supports a healthy mood. Antioxidant properties aid in protecting against free radical damage. May promote healthy levels of sex hormones.

**Other types of Ginseng work as well**.

Astaxanthin (http://www.vitacost.com/vitacost-astaxa ... uctDetails) a powerful antioxidant, promotes a healthy immune system and healthy immune response, supports a healthy cardiovascular system, promotes a healthy inflammatory response, and contributes to healthy blood lipids.

Tribulus terrestris (http://www.vitacost.com/aro-vitacost-bl ... uctDetails) a popular libido and 'work out' supplement.

Pregnenolone (http://www.vitacost.com/vitacost-smart- ... egnenolone) a naturally occurring metabolite produced primarily in the adrenal glands and central nervous system. It’s synthesized from cholesterol and functions as a precursor for the cascade of events from which all other sex hormones, such as progesterone, estrogen and DHEA, are made.

Pregnenolone is found in larger quantities in the brain and cranial nerves than any of the sex compounds. Animal studies provide information showing the correlation between cognitive performance and the cerebral concentration of pregnenolone sulfate.

With age, the amount of pregnenolone synthesized in the body decreases. Around age 75, it’s believed to be reduced by as much as 60 percent (from the normal amount present at age 35).

Supports the body’s pool of available material for hormone production.

Promotes mental energy and reduces mental fatigue in highly motivated people under stress.

Supports healthy brain function.

Also, you may want to include a type of 'work out' shake or smoothie in your normal daily routine; just to make sure you are getting appropriate nutrients - to support your moods, and energy levels. I use ARO™ Whey Protein Complex Plus (http://www.vitacost.com/aro-vitacost-bl ... uctDetails). A little powdered milk, water, soy-butter (or peanut butter), fiber supplement, and a couple scoops of ice cream - whipped together. Gets me going in the mornings.

Give up caffeine (as much as possible). One cup with breakfast is OK by most standards. It takes some people days for the drug effects of caffeine to leave their system. It excites the nerves inappropriately, and leads to 'system' crashes that compound over-and-over. Deep sleep is disrupted by too much caffeine. Everyone knows what lack of sleep causes . . . Take your vitamin "B" multiple and ginseng with breakfast. "B" vitamins are energy fuel. NEVER take "B" vitamins at night!

Give up sugar as much as possible. Sugar is the death-trap to heart-diseases. Most people experience low energy when they start having heart troubles . . .

Also, again, at your age; you might benefit from enzyme and probiotic use. As we age, the pancreas produces less and less enzymes to digest foods, resulting in less nutrient absorption. The colon and small intestines grow less beneficial bacterium, also resulting in less nutrient absorption; and a sluggish bowel (IBS, Crohn's-like symptoms).

You may find these or similar versions around your local area, or other places across the web. Site linked-to is used as example only; for description and education.

Do your research, and include your physician in your efforts to feel better. If your physician isn't keen on herbal usage, you may want to find a newer model.

Feel better

.

Posted: **Sat Dec 07, 2013 5:10 pm**

jako9999 (imported) wrote: Sat Dec 07, 2013 2:51 pm Hi all I seem to be feeling more and more tired, I really don't want to up my dose of Testim gel I like it low and how it makes me feel. I also take Adcal, vitamin B and D so what am I missing I know that if I go to my doctors they will just say "you have been told your levels are to low and to use more Testim."

I have just had an op on my arm so now its even worse because im sitting around a lot and if I go for a walk i'm even more tired.

Any advice please and thanks in advance

I take 50mg of DHEA daily, as well as exercise at least one hour a day and try to eat healthy foods only. Despite only using a minimal amount of T gel daily, I feel great.

Posted: **Sat Dec 07, 2013 5:20 pm**

It seems to have started a short time ago I was doing ok. I take a very small dose of Testim gel for health reasons really and my specialist put me on Adcal vitamin B and D not long after I became a eunuch 2 years ago again for according to my specialist for health and fitness, Im not due to see her again for 4 months It just all seems a bit strange I feel dead when I get up and fall asleep in the afternoon, I know im getting older at 46 but for some reason I've got an energy drain. I know more Testim gel will fix it but I dont want the old me back I like the new me and so do my family.

Thanks

Posted: **Sun Dec 08, 2013 11:48 am**

For me, I find there are times that I just don't want to get going and doing things. But once I make my mind to do something and get going, it gets better.. So for me, I would say it is a case of mind over matter.

Posted: **Sun Dec 08, 2013 12:10 pm**

artisticlicense (imported) wrote: Sat Dec 07, 2013 4:45 pm Without knowing what pharmaceuticals you use/take, it's hard to realize what or why you are experiencing low energy.

There could be a host of reasons.

You use Adcal - you have a bone disorder? Can you consume dairy products?

At your age (profile), you should still be able to 'behave' or enjoy many activities; like walking.

When was your last physical examination?

Low energy, moodiness, and lack of physical strength are a couple of side effects of being a eunuch; without HRT.

Lots of middle-aged and elderly 'just don't feel like' doing anything; because their mood is off-balance (due to inadequate hormone levels). Moods effect much of our 'everyday' activities. The world would not have 'couch potatoes' if that were not true! Moods can control your energy levels too. When you have 'an interest' in living "normally", you do more, and that leads to better energy levels. Like the TV commercial says - "a body in motion . . ."

Even if you DON"T feel up to it; you still need to TRY to do it.

Ask any body-builder about small gains . . .

I have found great 'energy' effects from herbals; when my physician (years ago) refused to give me HRT.

I still do not use any pharmaceutical form of hormone replacement. Naturals are much less expensive, and I feel better about not using chemicals.

You may want to include your Physician on their use, but there are no more 'side effects' than eating various foods (*NOTE* some medicinal pharmaceuticals - especially those given to the elderly for heart conditions and the like - do interact with foods and herbals that contain vitamin "K"). Adcal won't work with cruciferous vegetables (spinach, collards, mustards, kale).

Research these herbals. They are what I use with great results;

Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia jack) (http://www.vitacost.com/action-labs-lon ... 0-capsules#) Long Jack is a yohimbe-free way to help enhance vigor and vitality while contributing to an overall sense of well-being, with no known side effects. (Yohimbe causes many men to have irregular heartbeat).

Ashwagandha Extract (Withania somnifera) (http://www.vitacost.com/vitacost-ashwag ... andardized) popularly known as Indian ginseng, is plant thats been used in Ayurvedic medicine for more than 2,500 years. Its roots have been used in folk medicine as an adaptogen and geriatric tonic. The major, active compounds are alkaloids and lactones in a class of constituents called withanolides. Along with a standard multi-vitamin, asgwagandha supports a healthy mood. Antioxidant properties aid in protecting against free radical damage. May promote healthy levels of sex hormones.

**Other types of Ginseng work as well**.

Astaxanthin (http://www.vitacost.com/vitacost-astaxa ... uctDetails) a powerful antioxidant, promotes a healthy immune system and healthy immune response, supports a healthy cardiovascular system, promotes a healthy inflammatory response, and contributes to healthy blood lipids.

Tribulus terrestris (http://www.vitacost.com/aro-vitacost-bl ... uctDetails) a popular libido and 'work out' supplement.

Pregnenolone (http://www.vitacost.com/vitacost-smart- ... egnenolone) a naturally occurring metabolite produced primarily in the adrenal glands and central nervous system. Its synthesized from cholesterol and functions as a precursor for the cascade of events from which all other sex hormones, such as progesterone, estrogen and DHEA, are made.

Pregnenolone is found in larger quantities in the brain and cranial nerves than any of the sex compounds. Animal studies provide information showing the correlation between cognitive performance and the cerebral concentration of pregnenolone sulfate.

With age, the amount of pregnenolone synthesized in the body decreases. Around age 75, its believed to be reduced by as much as 60 percent (from the normal amount present at age 35).

Supports the bodys pool of available material for hormone production.

Promotes mental energy and reduces mental fatigue in highly motivated people under stress.

Supports healthy brain function.

Also, you may want to include a type of 'work out' shake or smoothie in your normal daily routine; just to make sure you are getting appropriate nutrients - to support your moods, and energy levels. I use ARO Whey Protein Complex Plus (http://www.vitacost.com/aro-vitacost-bl ... uctDetails). A little powdered milk, water, soy-butter (or peanut butter), fiber supplement, and a couple scoops of ice cream - whipped together. Gets me going in the mornings.

Give up caffeine (as much as possible). One cup with breakfast is OK by most standards. It takes some people days for the drug effects of caffeine to leave their system. It excites the nerves inappropriately, and leads to 'system' crashes that compound over-and-over. Deep sleep is disrupted by too much caffeine. Everyone knows what lack of sleep causes . . . Take your vitamin "B" multiple and ginseng with breakfast. "B" vitamins are energy fuel. NEVER take "B" vitamins at night!

Give up sugar as much as possible. Sugar is the death-trap to heart-diseases. Most people experience low energy when they start having heart troubles . . .

Also, again, at your age; you might benefit from enzyme and probiotic use. As we age, the pancreas produces less and less enzymes to digest foods, resulting in less nutrient absorption. The colon and small intestines grow less beneficial bacterium, also resulting in less nutrient absorption; and a sluggish bowel (IBS, Crohn's-like symptoms).

You may find these or similar versions around your local area, or other places across the web. Site linked-to is used as example only; for description and education.

Do your research, and include your physician in your efforts to feel better. If your physician isn't keen on herbal usage, you may want to find a newer model.

Feel better .

Sorry but most of this advice isn't really good for Jako's case. Jako is castrated. He doesn't have bone disease but castrated people have to take osteoporosis drugs because sex hormones are needed to ensure bone density. Just taking extra calcium isn't sufficient because hormones regulate the bone calcium absorption. Tribulus, Tonkat, etc. are all hormonal solutions and won't do much if you don't have testicles involved in the hormonal axis anymore.

Pregenolone is hormonal solution which also won't help without testicles.

Testosterone will help, but Jako specifically got castrated to avoid the other effects of testosterone.

Another poster mentioned DHEA, but again that won't help much with no testicles.

Basically, feeling "young" -- energetic, optimistic -- is largely a function of having sex hormones (either testosterone or estrogen). Being castrated with no sex hormone replacement basically puts your body into post-menopausal "old" person physiology, and for many people that is experienced as loss of energy and even depression. Some people feel loss of energy and experience it as "calm", but whether this is a negative or positive thing is very personal.

My suggestion is to try a SERM medication like Raloxifene. It makes your body think it has estrogen so you get bone density, positive energy, but you don't get feminized (no breasts, body fat, etc.). Basically it will trick your body into thinking it has some sex hormone.

Other than that, if you're interested in actually being feminized you can try real estrogen regimen.

Or you can dial the testosterone back up.

Anyway, my point is that castration disrupts a major biochemical pathway that is the underpinning for most "youthful" feeling (energy, strength, endurance, aggression, sexiness). Vitamins aren't enough to recover that.

Posted: **Mon Dec 09, 2013 3:48 am**

I'm not convinced that popping vitamins or hormones is the answer and it's not something that I'm personally prepared to do, in fact I hate the idea of being beholden to such things. I too have no testicles, they've been gone for a few years now. I stopped taking E roughly 7 months ago and I've no intention of going back on either E or T. Having no energy or enthusiasm isn't nice but it can be dealt with, in fact it has to be dealt with because not doing so will not work out well for your bones. Inactivity leads to more inactivity and in the same way being active will lead to more activity. I have had to kick myself in the arse to get motivated and become more active and this is the answer, get tough on yourself. Load bearing exercise and remaining active is important for maintaining bone density and it will go a long way towards keeping you happy. Don't give up and simply sit back and let yourself disolve. I felt this was happening to me and it's frightening to consider, this is what's been driving me lately, I'm terrified of slowly losing the person that is me. Sat indoors watching crap on telly, not seeing friends, not enjoying fresh air and sunshine and allowing my body and my person to disolve. There are great rewards to be had from simple things like going for a walk or a run but unless you push yourself and try you'll miss out on this completely free, side effect free method of mainaining who you are and staying happy. Exercise and activity are the answer. Little steps at first if it's not something that you are used to or have done before. In the first days and weeks you may not notice much if any benefit but the harder you work the better will be the return. I'm confident that quite quickly you will start to notice your brain rewarding you for your efforts. You'll start to feel better about yourself both mentally and physically, it's a win win

I personally find with exercise that the hardest thing is stepping past your front door, this for me is the biggest hurdle. If you can overcome this your most of the way towards potentially increasing your energy. It's a similar thing with everyday activity I find. I will sometimes sit considering my daily chores and activities and it can be quite daunting. I find the best way is not to consider these things at all, it's far better to just get on with them. Actually doing, often times for me at least is easier than thinking about doing. Having no hormones isn't easy as it turns out but I've started to look at it as a challenge. My strength has dropped off but I still push weights and of late I've noticed my strength seems to be returning in some degree. I firmly believe that given a chance my body will find an equilibrium and this will only be achieved if I stop taking any E or T and give it a chance which is exactly what I did.

Something I noticed when I first started taking E some years ago. I was still weight training and in the first few weeks I actually got considerably stronger. I had this confirmed by my training partner because I was pushing heavier weights that ever before, it didn't make sense. Looking back I now feel that my body, my testicles were going into overdrive to counter the E that I was putting into my system. I've no doubt that if I'd have measured it my T would have been high. There was a battle going on between my natural chemistry and my new chosen chemistry. Once the E won the battle which it did in the end because of anti androgens and increased dose, my strength dropped off. My body gave up and accepted the E and my strength did drop off along with my enthusiasm. It turns out your body is constantly creating balance and this can't happen when drugs (E and T) are part of the equation. I'm a work in progress and I don't know what the future holds for me but I'm fairly confident that I'm doing the right things regarding my health, fitness and state of mind, watch this space

Posted: **Fri Dec 13, 2013 8:59 pm**

I've been orchidotomized for 7 years now. I have had a major problem with energy for at least a couple of years. Not only a lack of energy, but I have trouble staying awake for more than a couple/few hours at a time. Almost always tired, most always worn down. I refuse to 'T def', so I've had to try elsewhere for ways to energize myself. I've had success with ADD/ADHD meds this last year--mixed amphetamine salts, dextroamphetamine, methylphenidate--they've all worked pretty well for me at some level, making me more productive and clear-headed than I can recall being.

But! the side-effects with all of them have not been pleasant. Mixed-amps give me raccoon eyes, make me stink (like sulfur?), and make me hypersensitive to odors. Dextroamp does the same, only minus the raccoon eyes. Not to mention the usual stimulant crap, irritability and jittery jaw. Methylphenidate differed in that it didn't give me the very pleasant-yet-mild happy feeling the amphetamines gave me. If you are prone to addiction you might want to avoid amphetamine stimulants. The one problem I've had with all of them is that they don't take care of my excessive sleepiness altogether. Then along came modafinil! I can stay awake for 16 hour days, have a normal level a energy, and focus like a cracked-out hawk on food stamp day. The only side-effects are body odor, though not as a bad as amps, and mild diarrhea (at 200mg/day, that is; at 100mg/day diarrhea is no more).

If your insurance covers modafinil, I should say run to it as fast you you can. The first week on it was rough, I was extremely irritable, to the point where I felt like doing great violence to inanimate objects, then that quickly eased back and now I'm super-functional and no longer tired during the day--not at all! If your insurance doesn't cover it you might be screwed, as my insurance says they pay $1000 a month for my script (I think its generic even).

I need more energy help please

I need more energy help please

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