Can you really gain muscle mass from bugs? Sounds disgusting, I know but that’s exactly what the makers of the supplement Ecdysterone would have you believe. We’re not kidding when we say from bugs; this supplement is actually based on a steroid found in insects. Granted, you wouldn’t be actually putting bug guts into your body, they are synthetically produced reproductions but nonetheless, it is a little bit unsettling don’t you think? You have to wonder where these guys get these ideas. I should also note, that you can find Ecdysterone is certain types of herbs as well, those herbs are maral root, suma, quinoa and Cyanotis vega. The latter seems to be the popular herb from which this supplement is extracted.
The main idea behind Ecdysterone is to create the perfect muscle-building environment; a situation where the body could maximizes muscle growth. The Russian scientists who first discovered this type of steroid found that it would help the body maintain a positive nitrogen balance, while improving protein synthesis without—and this an important factor to consider—incurring hormonal side-effects. Or in other words, without with the negative side effects associated with your typical anabolic steroids.
What does the research say about Ecdysterone?
The studies done are somewhat limited. Even though Ecdysterone was first discovered in the 1960’s it wasn’t until much later—as in 40 years later that scientists were able to create the extract at a reasonable cost. Notwithstanding, the mass production now available, it didn’t mean the stuff couldn’t be examined. There are close to 50 cited studies performed on the product. The most quoted appears to be a study done in the old Soviet Union that found that Ecdysterone does indeed increase protein synthesis and promote positive nitrogen balance. The athletes who took part of the study and were given Ecdysterone and another protein stimulant. They showed a 6-7% increase in lean muscle mass and a 10% reduction of fat—compared to other athletes who were given just the protein.
The Bad
- Derived from insects—which can be a bit unsettling
- Long term results yet to be defined
The Good
- Potentially increase nitrogen and protein synthesis
- Proven by studies to have tangible results
- No known side effects
- Increase endurance and stimulates metabolism
The way we see it
It’s safe. I know that’s not what you think when you have the word steroid floating around in your head but these won’t give you any of those negative side effects. It has also been proven to work, so if nothing else, it might be worth an initially investment to see if a Ecdysterone based product works for you.