Written by Aaron Wellman, PhD. with over 25 years of experience in football strength and conditioning. Former National Football League (NFL) strength and conditioning coach and current college senior assistant athletic director for Indiana University. Explosive Power Development for Athletes  Power is most easily understood as the speed of movement against a given resistance and is arguably the single best measure of an athlete’s overall performance.  While the ability to move heavy loads, commonly referred to as ‘strength’ is vitally important, the ability to move loads quickly is equally important, particularly for athletes.  To be powerful, both force and velocity components must be developed.  Power is defined as the product of force and velocity: Power = Force x Velocity  Or, another way to think of this is: Power = Strength x Speed  A “Force-Velocity” continuum exists where certain exercises will be more force-dominant, while others will be more velocity-dominant based on the load utilized and their nature of execution. For example, a barbell squat with a heavy load (i.e., >80-90% of 1 RM) would constitute a “force-dominant” exercise, while a squat jump using only the weight of the barbell (45lbs) would fall much further down the continuum towards the “velocity” end. Because power is the product of force multiplied by velocity, improving either of these components may lead to increased power production and thereby the explosiveness of the athlete (3).  Therefore, all points of the force-velocity curve should be trained to maximize the explosiveness of an athlete.       *Image property of PERCH Fit  Absolute / Max Strength  Absolute/Max strength is the maximum amount of force that may be produced in a specific movement. This zone is typically associated with intensities > 90 % of 1RM.  Exercises associated with Max Strength: Squats, Deadlifts, Presses at > 90% 1 RM.  Accelerative-Strength  This training zone lies between max strength and strength-speed and falls into the higher intensity zone of peak power production. Training in the Accelerative-Strength zone typically results in lower absolute forces than the maximal strength zone, but results in higher movement velocities.  Exercises associated with Accelerative-Strength: Olympic Lifts at 80-90% of 1 RM  Strength-Speed   Strength-Speed refers to moving relatively heavy loads as fast as possible. This zone resides toward the strength side of the peak power zone.   Exercises associated with Strength-Speed: Barbell Squats with Band Tension at ~ 50-60% of 1 RM   Speed-Strength  Speed-Strength refers to moving at very high velocities with the maximal load possible. Peak forces are typically lower than strength-speed exercises, due to the increased movement velocity  Exercises associated with Speed-Strength Exercises: Weighted Squat Jumps, Single Leg Box Jumps      Max Speed  Max Speed is simply the maximum movement velocity an athlete is able to produce through a specific movement, and by nature, the lower peak forces are generally associated with these movements.  Exercises associated with Max Speed Exercises: Bodyweight Jumps, Plyometrics, Sprinting.     When designing an athletic training program to increase power, it is important to consider what specific physical qualities need to be developed. Each training zone of the force-velocity curve will result in a specific physiological adaptation and therefore a determination of individual needs is recommended. If an athlete possesses high force/strength capabilities (i.e. has a High 1RM Squat Max), but low velocity/speed (i.e. Low Vertical Jump), then spending time at the maximal velocity and speed-strength zones may be of greater benefit for the athlete.  A program aimed at improving athletic power would be incomplete without at least a brief discussion on the importance of nutrient intake, particularly in the pre- and post-workout window. Net increases in protein synthesis leads to increases in muscle cross-sectional area, resulting in the potential for greater force production.  Growth hormone is a potent anabolic hormone influencing muscle growth. Consuming a protein and carbohydrate supplement 2-hours pre- and immediately post-exercise has been shown to result in a 14-fold increase in growth hormone levels following resistance training sessions (2).  Cortisol, on the other hand, is a catabolic hormone, generally thought to inhibit muscle growth by decreasing protein synthesis, resulting in the break down of muscle protein (1). Elevations in this hormone are often linked to stressors including intense exercise, overtraining, and inadequate recovery resulting from poor nutrient intake, lack of sleep, etc. (4).   The good news for hard-training athletes is protein and carbohydrate supplementation not only dramatically increases the post-exercise growth hormone response, but also decreases cortisol levels over the course of consecutive training days (2).    This is precisely why we recommend athletes consume a high-quality, easily digestible protein and carbohydrate formula like CARNIVOR LEAN MEAL, for those athletes looking to maintain weight and gain lean muscle mass, or CARNIVOR MASS for those needing higher caloric intake for increased weight gain.     References:  Burger ME. Neuromuscular and hormonal adaptations to resistance training: Implications for strength development in female athletes. Streng Cond J 2002; 24 (3): 51-9  Kraemer W, Volek J, Bush J, et al. Hormonal responses to consecutive days of heavy resistance exercise with or without nutritional supplementation. J Appl Physiol 1998; 85 (4): 1544-55).    Stone, M.H., (1993). Literature review: Explosive exercises and training. National Strength and Conditioning Association Journal, 15(3), pp.7-15  Urhausen A, Kindermann W. Diagnosis of overtraining: What tools do we have? Sports Med 2002; 32 (2): 95-102 

MUSCLEMEDS IS EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE THE RELEASE OF ITS NEW AROMATASE INHIBITOR AROMATEST! It’s no secret, testosterone is the holy grail for muscle building and male performance. That’s why bodybuilders and athletes are constantly seeking ways to increase testosterone. However, if you want to get the best results and build hard dense muscle, you should understand a process known as aromatization. WARNING: Increasing Testosterone Can Also Increase Your Estrogen! What is Aromatization? Aromatization is a process that converts testosterone into estrogen. The reason this process is called aromatization is because the chief enzyme involved in the conversion of testosterone to estrogen is called the aromatase enzyme. A shocking fact is 80% of the estrogen is men is derived from the aromatization of testosterone. Aromatization occurs when the body is attempting to maintain homeostasis (balance) between testosterone and estrogen, this is referred to your testosterone to estrogen (T:E) ratio. So, when you elevate your body’s production of testosterone or increase your testosterone levels naturally with testosterone boosting supplements it can lead to aromatization and increased estrogen. Athletes using androgenic anabolic steroids (AAS) often experience high levels of aromatization and conversion of testosterone to estrogen. This is not the desired effect you want as elevated estrogen can cause undesirable side effects such as increased body fat, water retention, low libido, and enlarged breast tissue, also known as gynecomastia.   So, wouldn’t it be great if you could reduce the aromatization of your testosterone to estrogen and boost your test levels higher? Many pro bodybuilders and athletic trainers are aware of how to avoid this by using aromatase inhibitors during their cycles. They know that to achieve a hard dense muscular physique, they must prevent the aromatization of testosterone to estrogen. Many bodybuilders use pharmaceutical aromatase inhibitors (AIs) to reduce this conversion and alleviate unsightly and problematic issues. But now, there is a natural solution AROMATEST, bodybuilding’s most powerful natural aromatase inhibitor! CUTTNG EDGE RESEARCH: AROMATEST COMBINES NATURE’S MOST POWERFUL AROMATASE INHIBITORS XN AND 8-PN WITH AN ADVAVNCED LIPOPHILIC DELIVERY SYSTEM! The medical research has proven the effectiveness of aromatase inhibitors for reducing the conversion of testosterone to estrogen, which has many positive benefits for men and especially for bodybuilders and athletes. MUSCLEMEDS researchers have spent the past several years working on the development of an efficacious natural aromatase inhibitor. They reviewed thousands of potential compounds and after years of research they have developed, AROMATEST, the powerhouse of natural aromatase inhibitors. AROMATEST is formulated with a proprietary prenylflavonoid extract of Xanthohumol (XN) and 8-prenylnaringenin (8-PN). Research shows these two natural compounds are the most powerful aromatase inhibitors. To further improve the potency and efficacy of these compounds, AROMATEST uses a super-bioavailable lipophilic delivery system making Its effectiveness unparalleled. Research shows it’s advanced delivery system provides superior bioavailability and efficacy, with 20x greater absorption. AROMATEST has also been shown to slow down the metabolism of testosterone keeping testosterone levels elevated for a longer period of time. Who Can Benefit From AROMATEST? AROMATEST can help a wide array of men. 1. Natural athletes looking to enhance testosterone and improve their T:E ratio can take AROMATEST. Also, natural athletes taking testosterone boosting supplements to boost test levels should also consider taking AROMATEST to prevent the conversion to estrogen. 2. Of course, as we have covered AROMATEST can be extremely beneficial for athletes using AAS to reduce the testosterone and other anabolic androgens they are taking from converting to estrogen during cycles. It can also be helpful for PCT (post cycle therapy) to help prevent off cycle crash often seen with the rapid unfavorable shift in T:E after a cycle.  3. AROMATEST can also benefit men over 40. As men age, their testosterone begins to decline and they experience an unfavorable shift in their T: E ratio. Many physicians are using aromatase inhibitors to help increase the production of testosterone, reduce the conversion to estrogen and improve the T:E ratio. AROMATEST offers men a natural alternative.     Now, you can experience for yourself how the top pro bodybuilders are able to build rock hard muscle. The key is to block testosterone’s conversion to estrogen with AROMATEST!   Build Muscle Reduce Body Fat Reduce Water Retention Increase Libido   Shop Now

Anthropometry: Determining Your Muscle Potential By: Aaron Wellman, PhD MS Nutrition Science and Applied Sports Science What is Anthropometry? Muscle is always a key focus here at MuscleMeds. One thing we already know is muscle size and structure play a critical role in sports and athletic performance. Most people have no idea what their size and muscle growth potential is. As an athlete wouldn’t it be great to know?   Anthropometry is a term that describes the systematic approach of objectively classifying components of the human body, based upon joint, limb, torso and the whole body dimensions and structural characteristics, utilizing standardized measurement techniques (Kalayci et al., 2016). For many years, it has been postulated that body structure plays a critical role in athletic performance (Malina, 1975) and, to this end, these measures are being used to establish to how, and to what extent, they impact muscle growth potential and physical performance. NFL, NBA, and NHL Improve Performance & Mitigate Risk of Injury A novel study (Martin, AD. (1984) performed several years ago, which involved the complete dissection of cadavers, has provided the framework to accurately measure the masses of an individual’s skeletal mass, muscle mass, and fat mass, in addition to skin and organ mass. This anatomical assessment involves 25 measures, including measures of bone breadths, skinfolds, and limb girths, allowing us to determine, among other variables, the maximal amount of muscle mass that an individual is able to carry. Sports organizations, including the NFL, NBA, and NHL are now utilizing these measures to determine the optimal amount of muscle mass for their athletes, which may improve performance and mitigate the risk of injury. The Impact on Athletes & Fitness Enthusiasts For fitness enthusiasts not participating in organized sport, this quick assessment not only determines the current level of muscle mass and body fat, but also provides reliable information on how much more muscle mass the frame can carry. Armed with this information, training recommendations and nutritional protocols are then prescribed to achieve the specific fitness and/or bodybuilding goals of each individual. This assessment massive implications for athletes and nonathletes alike, who are interested in increasing performance, improving body composition, or achieving high levels of muscularity. Subsequent articles will focus on specific nutrition, supplementation, training strategies to achieve each of these desired goals.  

Plenty of things are sagging and dropping these days, but even worse than some parts of your body or the stock market is your level of total testosterone. Testosterone levels have decreased steadily for decades among young U.S. men between past and current generations. And research demonstrates that the critical male hormone testosterone starts to drop in adolescence – this is not just a problem for men in their 50s. How do you fight back and win the war against low T? Arm yourself with VITAMIN T + NITROTEST. Because testosterone plays a key role in a man’s physical and sexual performance, it’s important that all men address healthy testosterone levels, which is why MuscleMeds developed VITAMIN T & NITROTEST. This pair of supplements provides premium testosterone-support, a complete daily multivitamin, and a heavy-hitting pre-workout specially formulated for men.†  ENHANCE TESTOSTERONE NATURALLY Testosterone has a plethora of important functions. Receptors for testosterone are found in almost all tissues, and it contributes to lean body mass, bone health, cognitive function and mood, and the production of sperm. NITROTEST is a 2-in-1 hardcore pre-workout supplement with natural testosterone boosters. VITAMIN T is a high-potency multivitamin formulated to provide natural testosterone support.† Higher testosterone levels will help you build more muscle, recover faster and perform better in the bedroom. Low testosterone, on the other hand, can result in erectile dysfunction, reduced bone mass and sex drive, loss of muscle, increased body fat and lethargy. Seems like a no-brainer: No man should ever ignore the importance of proper nutrition and supplementation to support healthy testosterone levels for optimal male performance. The research and development team at MuscleMeds has formulated VITAMIN T and NITROTEST with clinically researched herbs and minerals and potent antioxidants to support testosterone naturally, to improve physical and sexual performance.† YOUR T LEVELS ARE DROPPING You may not realize it, but your testosterone levels are dropping as you read this. According to results presented at the 2020 American Urological Association Virtual Experience and reported in Urology Times Journal, testosterone levels have declinedin adolescent and young adult men (AYA) from 1999 to 2016.  Because testosterone plays a key role in a man’s physical and sexual performance, it’s important that all men address healthy testosterone levels. Put another way, today’s men are not the men their fathers were in the testosterone department. And the decline in total testosterone was observed even among men with normal body mass index – so dropping testosterone is happening regardless of whether you are carrying a few extra pounds. Lokeshwar et al. used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) from 1999 to 2016 to analyze serum testosterone level changes over time in 4,045 young adult men aged 15 through 39. After controlling for confounders – including year of study, age, race, BMI, comorbidity status, alcohol and smoking use, and level of physical activity – researchers found that total testosterone was lower among men in later (2011-2016) versus earlier (1999-2000) years. Mean total testosterone decreased from 1999-2000 (605.39 ng/dL), 2003-2004 (567.44 ng/dL), 2011-2012 (424.96 ng/dL), 2013-2014 (431.76 ng/dL) and 2015-2016 (451.22 ng/dL). ‘VERY SCARY’ Testosterone deficiency has a prevalence of 20% among adolescent and young adult males. Although previous studies have shown that total testosterone (TT) levels are declining in the population compared to prior decades, Lokeshwar et al. identified falling TT levels for AYA males specifically. “This is especially worrisome in this young adult age group, as many men feel stigma and are less likely to seek care for low libido and erectile dysfunction,” said Soum Lokeshwar, MD, MBA of the Yale School of Medicine. “Testosterone levels in AYA men are used as the benchmark normal levels for testosterone,” Lokeshwar continued. “This is very scary, because generally, when we think of normal values of testosterone, we treat based upon this age group. This may ultimately lead to the undertreatment of testosterone deficiency, which can have large ramifications and severe consequences.” WHAT CAUSES LOW T? Lokeshwar said possible causes for TT declines could be a result of obesity and declines in exercise and physical activity, and higher body fat percentages. “We’ve seen that lower values of testosterone have been associated with increased comorbidities and an increase risk for all-cause mortality. This decline specifically, in these young adult men, with increased obesity may lead to an increase in precocious cancer,” Lokeshwar said, adding such decreases can also result in a lower libido and an increased risk for erectile dysfunction. Other causes of lower testosterone in younger men may include fasting, low- fat diets, ketogenic diets, overtraining, phytoestrogens from soy, alcohol, statins (cholesterol-lowering drugs), chronic stress, lack of sleep, and environmental endocrine disruptors such as Bisphenol A (in polycarbonate plastics) and Phthalates (found in plastics and many cosmetics). For testosterone support, VITAMIN T contains 500 milligrams of Fenugreek, 200 milligrams of Tribulus, 100 milligrams of Longjack and 200 milligrams Boron Citrate.† VITAMIN T also contains potent antioxidants such as vitamins C and E to support the immune system and optimal male health.† LOOK, FEEL AND PERFORM AT YOUR BEST The choice is yours: you can get up every day and choose to be the best version of yourself possible, directing your own course in life to one of optimal health and performance. If you want to look, feel and perform at your best, VITAMIN T is the multivitamin for you. †These statements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. References:1. Naghii MR, Mofid M et al. Comparative effects of daily and weekly boron supplementation on plasma steroid hormones and proinflammatory cytokines. Physiology and Pharmacology 2011; 15 (3), 403-414. 2. Kristie L Kahl. Urology Times Journal, July 3, 2020; Vol 48 No 7, Volume 48, Issue 07. 3. Soum D Lokeshwar, et al. Decline in Serum Testosterone Levels Among Adolescent and Young Adult Men in the USA. Eur Urol Focus, 2021 Jul;7(4):886-889. 4. Shufa Zheng et al. Serum level of testosterone predicts disease severity of male COVID-19 patients and is related to T-cell immune modulation by transcriptome analysis. Clin Chim Acta, 2022 Jan 1;524:132-138. 5. A Klibanski et al. Reproductive function during fasting in men. J Clin Endocrinol Metab, 1981 Aug;53(2):258-63. 6. Tatiana Moro et al. Effects of eight weeks of time-restricted feeding (16/8) on basal metabolism, maximal strength, body composition, inflammation, and cardiovascular risk factors in resistance-trained males. Journal of Translational Medicine, volume 14, Article number 290 (2016) 7. Anthony C Hackney. Hypogonadism in Exercising Males: Dysfunction or Adaptive- Regulatory Adjustment? Front Endocrinol, 31 January 2020. 8. DM Kelly et al. Testosterone and obesity. Obes Rev, 2015 Jul. 9. M Diaz-Arjonilla et al. Obesity, low testosterone levels and erectile dysfunction. Int J Impot Res, Mar-Apr 2009. 10. Mark Ng Tang Fui et al. Lowered testosterone in male obesity: mechanisms, morbidity and management. Asian J Androl, Mar-Apr 2014. 11. Overweight men can boost low testosterone levels by losing weight. Endocrine Society; June 25, 2012. 12. Haibo Jin et al. Chronic exposure to polystyrene microplastics induced male reproductive toxicity and decreased testosterone levels via the LH-mediated LHR/cAMP/PKA/StAR pathway. Part Fibre Toxicol, 2022. 13. Pai Zheng et al. Association between ambient air pollution and blood sex hormones levels in men. Environmental Research, Volume 211, August 2022. 14. Reduced testosterone tied to endocrine- disrupting chemical exposure. Endocrine Society, August 14, 2014. 15. Ylenia Duca et al. Substance Abuse and Male Hypogonadism. J Clin Med, 2019 May 22;8(5):732. 16. Tzu-Yu Hu et al. Testosterone-Associated Dietary Pattern Predicts Low Testosterone Levels and Hypogonadism. Nutrients, 2018 Nov; 10(11): 1786. 17. Joseph Whittaker et al. Low-fat diets and testosterone in men: Systematic review and meta- analysis of intervention studies. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol, 2021 Jun. 18. Hideyuki Imai et al. Secondary Hypogonadism due to Excessive Ingestion of Isoflavone in a Man. Intern Med 2022. 19. Maarten C Bosland et al. Impact of 18-Month Soy Protein Supplementation on Steroid Hormones and Serum Biomarkers of Angiogenesis, Apoptosis, and the Growth Hormone/IGF-1 Axis: Results ofa Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial in Males Following Prostatectomy. Nutr Cancer, 2022;74(1):110- 121.20. Xiaofan Xiong et al. Chronic stress inhibits testosterone synthesis in Leydig cells through mitochondrial damage via Atp5a1. J Cell Mol Med, 2022 Jan;26(2):354-363. 21. Sleep loss dramatically lowers testosterone in healthy young men. ScienceDaily, JAMA and University of Chicago Medical Center, June 1, 2011. 22. Rachel Leproult, Ph.D. and Eve Van Cauter, Ph.D. Effect of 1 Week of Sleep Restriction on Testosterone Levels in Young Healthy Men. JAMA. 2011;305(21):2173-2174.  

We all know that physical exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy body and mind. But to get the most out of our workouts, we need to ensure that we give our bodies the best possible support. That’s why many athletes turn to supplements to help them reach their goals. One of MucleMeds supplements that is gaining popularity among athletes and gymgoers alike is Stemptropin, a stem cell -supporting supplement designed to boost muscular hypertrophy, strength, and recovery. In this article, we’ll take a look at how Stemptropin works and the benefits it provides. Introduction to Stem Cells Stem cells are unspecialized cells that can transform into specialized cells with particular functions. In the body, stem cells help to repair and renew damaged cells. Stem cells also stimulate the release of natural growth factors. For athletes, they can help to speed up recovery after intense workouts and reduce muscle soreness. Many professional athletes undergo stem cell treatments, however these treatments are not an easy or affordable option for most of us. Stemptropin is a natural stem cell-supporting supplement designed to increase the production and  improve the function and health of athletes' stem cells, in turn boosting muscular hypertrophy, strength, and recovery. How Stemptropin Works Stemptropin works in part by stimulating stem cells to signal for the release of growth factors, which are proteins and nutrients that help to regulate various cellular activities. These growth factors help to promote the growth of muscle cells and increase muscle mass. Stemptropin also helps to reduce inflammation, which can occur after strenuous exercise. This can help to speed up recovery and reduce muscle soreness. Additionally, Stemptropin signals for stem cells to aid the production of collagen, which is a protein that provides structure and strength to the muscles. This can help to boost performance and reduce the risk of injury. Stemptropin is a powerful, natural supplement working to boost muscular hypertrophy, strength, and recovery through the power of stem cells.  Stemtropin and Muscular Hypertrophy Muscular hypertrophy is a process in which muscle cells grow in size and number. For hypertrophy to happen, muscle fibers must undergo damage and microtears through resistance training. The healing process following this damage is where hypertrophy happens, and stem cells play a central role in this recovery process. This is important for athletes and gymgoers who are looking to build serious muscle mass. As touched on earlier, stemptropin helps to increase muscular hypertrophy by increasing growth factors and signals for stem cell proliferation in muscle fibers. These new stem cells in the muscle fibers can transform into new muscle tissue. This new muscle tissue can be stimulated in the gym, creating a bigger, stronger overall muscle.  Stemptropin and Muscular Strength Stem cells have been found to be an extremely powerful tool to increase muscle strength. Not only does stemptropin help signal for stem cells to travel to the muscle fibers, but it helps to boost the production of collagen, a key structural component of muscle tissue that gives it its strength and shape. This is a great benefit for athletes, bodybuilders, and anyone else looking to increase their strength and improve their performance. Stemptropin works by mobilizing stem cells and encouraging them to differentiate into new, healthy cells within the body. This process stimulates collagen production, which helps to increase muscle mass, strength, and endurance. It also helps to reduce inflammation and improve joint mobility. All of these effects can lead to significant gains in overall muscle strength. With stemptropin, the possibilities are endless for athletes, gymgoers, and bodybuilders alike who are looking for maximum results. Stemptropin and Muscular Recovery and Injury Prevention Stemptropin can also help to prevent injuries to muscle tissue. The same increase in collagen production that was touched on earlier, which provides structure and strength to the muscles, provides a protective quality to muscle tissue, reducing the likelihood of muscle injuries. Additionally, Stemptropin can help to improve recovery. This is because stemtropin helps to reduce inflammation, which can in turn speed up the recovery process, and reduce the muscle soreness that is so commonly experienced after a hard training session. Conclusion Stemptropin is a natural supplement designed, and proven to boost stem cell function, which in turn may improve muscular hypertrophy, strength, and recovery by optimizing stem cell activity in the muscle. It works by stimulating stem cells for the release of stem cell growth factors to improve muscular strength and size while increasing collagen production to help prevent muscular injuries. Stemptropin can be taken pre-workout or before bed time as part of your supplement regimen to maximize muscular hypertrophy, strength, and recovery. With the right supplement and exercise program, you can reach your fitness goals faster and more effectively.   CLICK HERE to learn how STEMTROPIN can help you boost stem cells. 

Welcome to the first installment of our series on stem cells and sports nutrition! We'll be discussing the basics of stem cells and their importance in maintaining overall health and supporting muscle growth and recovery. So, what are stem cells exactly? Stem cells are special types of cells that have the ability to develop into a variety of different cell types in the body. They are the focus of cutting-edge regenerative medicine because they can repair and regenerate damaged tissue, and they play a crucial role in maintaining the health and function of our organs and tissues. There are a few types of stem cells: embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells. Embryonic stem cells are derived from the inner cell mass of a blastocyst, a hollow ball of cells that forms in the early stages of human development. These cells have the ability to develop into any type of cell in the body, and they are therefore considered to be pluripotent. Adult stem cells, on the other hand, are found in various tissues and organs throughout the body. The type of stem cell most commonly used in medical treatments are mesenchymal stem cells. Mesenchymal stem cells are a type of adult stem cell, found in various tissues and organs throughout the body, including bone marrow, adipose tissue, and umbilical cord blood. Mesenchymal stem cells have the ability to differentiate into several different cell types, including muscle cells, bone cells, and cartilage cells. They are often used in regenerative medicine due to their ability to promote tissue repair and regeneration. Mesenchymal stem cells have been studied for their potential use in a variety of conditions, including muscle injuries, osteoarthritis, and cardiovascular disease. Stem cells are able to repair and regenerate damaged tissue by dividing and producing new cells. This process, known as cell division, occurs when a stem cell divides into two daughter cells. One of the daughter cells will remain a stem cell, while the other will differentiate into a specific type of cell, such as a muscle cell or a nerve cell. The number of stem cells in the body decreases as we age. This is thought to be one of the factors that contribute to the decline in our physical and cognitive function as we get older. Some researchers believe that by increasing the number of stem cells in the body, it may be possible to slow down or even reverse this decline. As athletes and bodybuilders, the health and function of our muscles are of particular importance. That's where stem cells come in. Stem cells are involved in the process of rebuilding and repairing muscle tissue after it has been damaged by exercise. When we engage in activities such as weight training, our muscles undergo microtrauma, which is small amounts of damage to the muscle fibers. This damage is necessary for muscle growth and adaptation, but it also requires repair. Stem cells play a central role in this repair process by dividing and producing new muscle cells to replace the damaged ones. There are several ways to support an internal environment that is conducive to stem cell health. Some of these include: Fasting: Fasting has been shown to stimulate the production of stem cells. This can be done through intermittent fasting, where you eat all of your meals within a specific window of time, or through longer fasts, such as a 24-hour fast once or twice a week. Reducing sugar consumption: High sugar intake can damage stem cells and inhibit their function. Limiting your intake of added sugars and refined carbs can help to support stem cell health. Exercise: Regular exercise has been shown to increase the number of stem cells in the body. In addition to the well-known benefits of exercise for muscle health and function, it may also support stem cell health and regeneration. Supporting healthy inflammation: Supporting healthy inflammation through a balanced diet and proper lifestyle management. This includes getting enough antioxidants through a varied diet, managing stress, and getting enough sleep. There are also natural supplements that support stem cell health and function. MuscleMeds Stemptropin contains a variety of ingredients including L-Dopa and Sea Buckthorn Fruit Extract. In a clinical study, Sea Buckthorn was shown to increase stem cells by 20%. Other Studies have shown that L-dopa can stimulate the proliferation and differentiation of stem cells, including mesenchymal stem cells. It has also been shown to promote the formation of new blood vessels, which can support the growth and development of new tissues. L-dopa and Sea Buckthorn Fruit Extract have both been shown to have a number of other beneficial effects for stem cells, including reducing oxidative stress and inflammation and promoting cell survival and longevity. These effects may be mediated by the ability of L-dopa and Sea Buckthorn Fruit Extract to affect signaling pathways and gene expression in stem cells. Including MuscleMeds Stemtropin in your supplement stack is a surefire way to improve the function and health of the stem cells in your body.  In conclusion, stem cells are vitally important for maintaining the health and function of our tissues and organs, including our muscles. By supporting an internal environment that is conducive to stem cell health through methods such as fasting, reducing sugar consumption, exercising, and proper supplementation, we can help to support overall stem cell integrity and muscle recovery. As bodybuilders, it's important to consider the role that stem cells play in muscle repair and regeneration and to consider ways to support their health and function. In future articles in our series, we'll be diving into the role of stem cells in various tissue types and how we can support their health and function. Stay tuned for more information on the role of stem cells in muscle strength and size, maintaining connective tissue and joint health, and the role of stem cells in recovering from injury and surgery. In the meantime, consider incorporating some of the strategies we've discussed here, and MuscleMeds Stemtropin to support stem cell health and function and maintain optimal overall health and muscle function. CLICK HERE to learn how STEMTROPIN can help you boost stem cells.