Supplements guys should be very cautious of
We've all heard about the supplements that are most popular for men. Whey protein shakes are almost a ubiquitous part of muscle building, and saw palmetto is a familiar herb for reproductive health. There are also plenty of supplements that are good for general health, but what about supplements you shouldn't take?
Here are 3 supplements that may be dangerous to men
Selenium
Selenium is an important trace mineral that plays a role as an antioxidant. Selenium is found naturally in foods such as crab and brazil nuts, and in the small doses present pose no issues. At first, it might seem like selenium would be a good thing to take. After all, most of us have heard that antioxidants are good for the body, helping to get rid of free radicals in our body.
Farther complicating things, conflicting studies have shown both that selenium reduces the risk of certain types of cancer, and increased it.
Unfortunately, one study found that men with prostate cancer who took a selenium supplement had their risk of dying from cancer nearly double. While more studies need to be done, it's probably best to get selenium from natural sources, if you want to take some.
Yohimbe
Yohimbe was once considered a great solution for erectile dysfunction. There is even a prescription version of it available in the US for the treatment of ED. Yohimbe is also available over the counter in its natural form, the bark of the Yohimbe tree.
While the prescription offers precise amounts of Yohimbine, the active ingredient of the bark thought to help with ED, the bark itself has irregular amounts of the ingredient. Sometimes you might get too little, sometimes too much.
What happens if you get too much? Seizures and heart attacks.
All this when there are no studies actually proving that it helps. If you're concerned about ED, it is best to talk to your doctor. ED is often a sign that other things are not well in your body.
Tribulus terrestris
Tribulus terrestris is a popular supplement for muscle building and development. Tribulus terrestris has been used throughout history, and has a long list of supposed health benefits. On top of muscle building and big gains, it's also associated with increasing testosterone levels.
This sounds like a great supplement to take if it works, but a recent study found that it didn't work. Scientists found no difference between a group taking Tribulus terrestris, and a group that did.
More troubling, it may have a negative impact on prostate health. With dubious health claims and confirmed negative effects, it's probably best to avoid this supplement.
There are plenty of great supplements out there you can take to boost your health, but if you're concerned about the health of your body, these supplements should probably be avoided until more research has been done. These supplements may come with a price tag you don't want to pay—your health.
References:
https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/837761