Beneficial effects of fenugreek glycoside supplementation in male subjects during resistance training: A randomized controlled pilot study

Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis Linked to Dietary Supplement Use in a Bodybuilder: A Case Report

Many dietary supplements commonly used by bodybuilders and athletes carry thrombogenic risks, potentially leading to life-threatening conditions like arterial and venous thrombosis by either elevating testosterone levels or directly interfering with homeostasis. Increased awareness and further research are crucial for consumer safety and supplement regulation.

Efficacy of Hovenia dulcis Fruit Extract in Hangover Mitigation: Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Evaluation

The fruit of Hovenia dulcis Thunb. (HD) is renowned for its medicinal properties and is rich in bioactive compounds, traditionally used in East Asian medicine as a natural antidote for alcohol intoxication. A randomized, double-blind, crossover, placebo (PLA)-controlled clinical trial was conducted to compare the effects of beverages containing 0.475% HD (HDB), HD combined with 0.1% Pueraria lobata extract (HDPB), and HD combined with 0.02% glutathione yeast extract (HDGB) with the PLA on the symptoms of a hangover. Subjects (n = 30) were randomized into six test groups consuming three beverages, including the PLA. After ingestion, blood alcohol and blood acetaldehyde concentrations were measured at 0, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, and 15 h post-alcohol consumption. No significant differences in hematology tests and vital signs were observed amongst the treatment groups; however, at 0.5 and 6 h, the blood alcohol concentrations of the HDB and HDPB groups were significantly lower compared to the PLA group (p < 0.05). Additionally, the blood acetaldehyde concentrations in the HDPB group showed significantly lower values than the PLA after 6 h (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that HD may aid in alcohol detoxification and limit acetaldehyde accumulation. This indicates the potential for HD as a functional food ingredient for alleviating hangover symptoms.

Association between diabetes mellitus and trochanteric bone mineral density in individuals with osteoporotic fractures: a retrospective study

Background

The relationship between diabetes mellitus (DM) and bone mineral density (BMD) in patients with osteoporotic fractures (OPFs) remains complex and heterogeneous, specifically between the genders. This study aimed to explore the association between diabetes status and trochanteric BMD in a cohort of patients with OPFs and elucidate the differences between male and female patients.

Methods

This retrospective analysis was performed on 710 admitted patients aged 50 years or older with OPFs. In this study, the exposure variable was diabetes status. Trochanteric BMD comprised the dependent variable. While controlling for covariance influences, generalized estimating equations (GEE) were applied to examine the independent link between diabetes status and trochanteric BMD in OPFs patients. Moreover, a subgroup analysis was also conducted to validate the result's stability.

Results

A substantial positive association was noted between diabetes status and trochanteric BMD in diabetic patients, as determined by the fully adjusted model (β = 0.017, 95% CI 0.001 to 0.033, p = 0.035). Furthermore, the sex-specific analysis showed a significant positive relationship between diabetes status and trochanteric BMD in male patients (β = 0.040, 95% CI 0.006 to 0.075, p = 0.022), whereas no significant relationship was observed in female patients (β = 0.010, 95% CI -0.008 to 0.028, p = 0.256).

Conclusion

This study highlighted the significant sex differences in the impact of diabetes on trochanteric BMD among patients with OPFs. The male diabetic patients had higher trochanteric BMD than their non-diabetic counterparts; however, this association was not evident in female patients. Further research is necessary to understand the underlying mechanisms that contribute to these sex-specific differences and to evaluate the clinical implications of managing fracture risk in diabetic patients.

Diosgenin protects against cationic bovine serum albumin-induced membranous glomerulonephritis by attenuating oxidative stress and renal inflammation via the NF-κB pathway

CONTEXT

Membranous glomerulonephritis (MGN) is a leading cause of nephrotic syndrome in adults. Diosgenin (DG) has been reported to exert antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the renoprotective activity of DG in a cationic bovine serum albumin-induced rat model of MGN.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fourty male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into four groups. The MGN model was established and treated with a DG dose (10 mg/kg) and a positive control (TPCA1, 10 mg/kg), while normal control and MGN groups received distilled water by gavage for four consecutive weeks. At the end of the experiment, 24 h urinary protein, biochemical indices, oxidation and antioxidant levels, inflammatory parameters, histopathological examination, immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting were evaluated.

RESULTS

DG significantly ameliorated kidney dysfunction by decreasing urinary protein (0.56-fold), serum creatinine (SCr) (0.78-fold), BUN (0.71-fold), TC (0.66-fold) and TG (0.73-fold) levels, and increasing ALB (1.44-fold). DG also reduced MDA (0.82-fold) and NO (0.83-fold) levels while increasing the activity of SOD (1.56-fold), CAT (1.25-fold), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) (1.55-fold) and GSH (1.81-fold). Furthermore, DG reduced Keap1 (0.76-fold) expression, Nrf2 nuclear translocation (0.79-fold), and induced NQO1 (1.25-fold) and HO-1 (1.46-fold) expression. Additionally, DG decreased IL-2 (0.55-fold), TNF-α (0.80-fold) and IL-6 (0.75-fold) levels, and reduced protein expression of NF-κB p65 (0.80-fold), IKKβ (0.93-fold), p-IKKβ (0.89-fold), ICAM-1 (0.88-fold), VCAM-1 (0.91-fold), MCP-1 (0.88-fold) and E-selectin (0.87-fold), and also inhibited the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 (0.64-fold).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest a potential therapeutic benefit of DG against MGN due to the inhibition of the NF-κB pathway, supporting the need for further clinical trials.

Effect of a plant extract of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) on testosterone in blood plasma and saliva in a double blind randomized controlled intervention study

Many aging men experience reduced energy and libido related to non-optimal testosterone levels. We conducted a randomized double-blind trial with TrigozimR fenugreek extract to assess impact on plasma and saliva testosterone, and some subjective effects. 95 men (40-80y) completed a 12-week intervention, taking 3 tablets daily with 0 mg (placebo; n = 22), 600 mg (n = 21), 1200 mg (n = 25) and1800 mg (n = 27) fenugreek extract and essential nutrients. Samples were collected at weeks 0, 2, 6, and 12. Participants answered a pre- and post-intervention questionnaire on lifestyle and libido. We measured total testosterone (HPLC-MS/MS) and sex hormone binding globulin (ELISA), calculated free testosterone index (FTI), and measured saliva testosterone. Plasma total testosterone and FTI increased after any dose of TrigozimR vs. baseline (13.0%, p = 1.0x10-4 and 16.3%, p = 6.2x10-6), but not vs. placebo (9.0%, p = 0.122 and 11.3% p = 0.059). 1800 mg TrigozimR resulted in 12.2% increased FTI (p = 0.025). Saliva testosterone concentration increased after any dose of TrigozimR vs. baseline (31.1%, p = 2.3x10-4) and vs. placebo (37.2%, p = 0.042). 1800 mg TrigozimR for 12 weeks resulted in 19.6% (p = 0.006) increased saliva testosterone. Compliance was confirmed by enhanced plasma concentration of 25-hydroxy vitamin D3. We observed no subjective effects or side-effects of TrigozimR. TrigozimR increased saliva and plasma testosterone concentration during intervention but only for saliva vs. placebo. Saliva may be preferred for measuring free testosterone due to no protein-bound testosterone.

Current perspectives on fenugreek bioactive compounds and their potential impact on human health: A review of recent insights into functional foods and other high value applications

Despite long-standing uses in several food and medicine traditions, the full potential of the leguminous crop fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) remains to be realized in the modern diet. Not only its seeds, which are highly prized for their culinary and medicinal properties, but also its leaves and stems abound in phytochemicals with high nutritional and health promoting attributes. Fenugreek dual food-medicine applications and reported metabolic activities include hypoglycemic, antihyperlipidemic, antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, antiatherogenic, antihypertensive, anticarcinogenic, immunomodulatory, and antinociceptive effects, with potential organ-protective effects at the cardiovascular, digestive, hepatic, endocrine, and central nervous system levels. Effectiveness in alleviating certain inflammatory skin conditions and dysfunctions of the reproductive system was also suggested. As a food ingredient, fenugreek can enhance the sensory, nutritional, and nutraceutical qualities of a wide variety of foods. Its high nutritive density can assist with the design of dietary items that meet the demand for novelty, variety, and healthier foods. Its seeds provide essential protective nutrients and other bioactive compounds, notably galactomannans, flavonoids, coumarins, saponins, alkaloids, and essential oils, whose health benefits, alone or in conjunction with other bioactives, are only beginning to be tapped into in the food industries. This review summarizes the current state of evidence on fenugreek potential for functional food development, focusing on the nutrients and non-nutrient bioactive components of interest from a dietary perspective, and their applications for enhancing the functional and nutraceutical value of foods and beverages. New developments, safety, clinical evidence, presumed mechanisms of action, and future perspectives are discussed. HIGHLIGHTS: Fenugreek seeds and leaves have long-standing uses in the food-medicine continuum. Fenugreek phytochemicals exert broad-spectrum biological and pharmacological activities. They show high preventive and nutraceutical potential against common chronic diseases. Current evidence supports multiple mechanisms of action mediated by distinct bioactives. Opportunities for fenugreek-based functional foods and nutraceuticals are expanding.

Fenugreek derived diosgenin as an emerging source for diabetic therapy

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease that endangers the entire body's tissues and organs. Diabetes impairs glucose and insulin regulation in the human body by causing pancreatic cell damage. Diabetes modifies pathways such as serine/threonine protein kinase (Akt) and Protein kinase C (PKC)/- glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) glucose absorption, and inhibits α-amylase and α-glucosidase, Sodium/glucose cotransporter 1 (SGLT-1), and Na+-K+-ATPase activity. Diabetes may also be caused by a decrease in the expression of sterol regulatory element binding protein 1 (SREBP-1) and its target genes, fatty acid synthase (FAS), stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 (SCD-1), and acetyl-CoA carboxylase α (ACC), as well as a decrease in the levels of C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), Caspase12, and Caspase3 proteins. Diabetes has long been linked to diseases of the cardiovascular, nervous, skeletal, reproductive, hepatic, ocular, and renal systems. Diosgenin, a steroidal compound derived from fenugreek, aids in the prevention of diabetes by altering cellular pathways in favor of healthy bodily functions. Diosgenin is a new nutraceutical on the market that claims to cure diabetes in particular. This article focuses on diosgenin extraction and purification, fenugreek bioactive compounds, pharmacological properties of diosgenin, mode of action of diosgenin to cure diabetes, and dosages.

Maximal Number of Repetitions at Percentages of the One Repetition Maximum: A Meta-Regression and Moderator Analysis of Sex, Age, Training Status, and Exercise

The maximal number of repetitions that can be completed at various percentages of the one repetition maximum (1RM) [REPS ~ %1RM relationship] is foundational knowledge in resistance exercise programming. The current REPS ~ %1RM relationship is based on few studies and has not incorporated uncertainty into estimations or accounted for between-individuals variation. Therefore, we conducted a meta-regression to estimate the mean and between-individuals standard deviation of the number of repetitions that can be completed at various percentages of 1RM. We also explored if the REPS ~ %1RM relationship is moderated by sex, age, training status, and/or exercise. A total of 952 repetitions-to-failure tests, completed by 7289 individuals in 452 groups from 269 studies, were identified. Study groups were predominantly male (66%), healthy (97%), < 59 years of age (92%), and resistance trained (60%). The bench press (42%) and leg press (14%) were the most commonly studied exercises. The REPS ~ %1RM relationship for mean repetitions and standard deviation of repetitions were best described using natural cubic splines and a linear model, respectively, with mean and standard deviation for repetitions decreasing with increasing %1RM. More repetitions were evident in the leg press than bench press across the loading spectrum, thus separate REPS ~ %1RM tables were developed for these two exercises. Analysis of moderators suggested little influences of sex, age, or training status on the REPS ~ %1RM relationship, thus the general main model REPS ~ %1RM table can be applied to all individuals and to all exercises other than the bench press and leg press. More data are needed to develop REPS ~ %1RM tables for other exercises.

The Anabolic Effect of Fenugreek: A Systematic Review with Meta-analysis

The use of plant steroids to improve physical health and performance is becoming increasingly popular. One of these plant steroids is diosgenin, which is mainly available in fenugreek. As a result, some studies have been conducted to improve physical health. Fenugreek extracts are also becoming increasingly popular in the context of athletic performance. Based on these assumptions, a systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the promoting effects of fenugreek on strength performance, body composition, and hormone concentration. Four databases were screened according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The current version of ReviewManager (RevMan) was used for the statistical evaluation. Seven studies with 449 participants (378 male, 71 female) met the inclusion criteria. A small effect of fenugreek was detected for total testosterone (standard mean difference (SMD): 0.32; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.09 0.55), free testosterone (SMD: 0.24; 95% CI: -0.04, 0.52), lean body mass (SMD: 0.19; 95% CI: -0.10, 0.49), fat mass (SMD: -0.19; 95% CI: -0.44, 0.05), and leg press performance (SMD: 0.22; 95% CI: -0.02, 0.47), in male athletes. The meta-analysis shows that chronic application of fenugreek has performance-enhancing and anabolic effects in male athletes, but no statements can be made for female athletes.

Fenugreek bioactive compounds: A review of applications and extraction based on emerging technologies

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) is a pharmaceutically significant aromatic crop with health benefits linked to its phytochemicals. This article aims to overview progress in using emerging technologies to extract its bioactive compounds and extraction mechanisms. Also, the trends in the applications of this herb in the food industry and its therapeutical effects were explained. Fenugreek's flavor is the primary reason for its applications in the food industry. At the same time, it has antimicrobial, antibacterial, hepatoprotection, anticancer, lactation, and antidiabetic effects. Phytochemicals responsible for these effects include galactomannans, saponins, alkaloids, and polyphenols. Besides, data showed that emerging technologies boost fenugreek extracts' yield and biological activity. Among these, ultrasound (55.6%) is the most studied technology, followed by microwave (37.0%), cold plasma (3.7%), and combined approaches (3.7%). Processing conditions (e.g., treatment time and intensity) and solvent (type, ratio, and concentration) are significant parameters that affect the performance of these novel extraction technologies. Extracts obtained by sustainable energy-saving emerging technologies can be used to develop value-added health-promoting products.

Enokitake Mushroom and Its Active Component, Adenosine, Which Restores Testosterone Production in Impaired and Fatigued Mouse Models

Several studies have reported the effects of the consumption of various mushroom species on the testes in animal experimental models. Mushrooms, including enokitake mushrooms (Flammulina velutipes), and vegetables contain adenosine may affect testosterone production. Here, we aimed to elucidate the effects of enokitake and its active component, adenosine, on testosterone production in primary cultures of testicular cells in vivo using mice models and in vitro. The administration of enokitake ethanolic extract increased testosterone production in the cisplatin-impaired mouse model. The direct effect of mushroom extracts on testicular cells was examined and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis confirmed that the mushroom- and vegetable-induced increase in testosterone production mainly involved adenosine. Additionally, the administration of enokitake extract or adenosine to wet floor fatigue model mice promoted testicular testosterone production and enhanced Leydig cell function through insulin-like peptide three level upregulation. Structurally related compounds, including cordycepin, showed lower bioactivity than adenosine. This study showed that the ingestion of adenosine-containing mushrooms and vegetables may effectively increase testicular testosterone production. We conclude that mushrooms with a relatively high adenosine content, such as enokitake, may be useful against aging and fatigue.

Fenugreek and Its Effects on Muscle Performance: A Systematic Review

Fenugreek extracts possess promising physiological and pharmacological properties in human and animal models. This review aims to provide a scientific and comprehensive analysis of the literature on the effects of fenugreek extracts on muscle performance. An extensive online search was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement guidelines. The main medical and scientific engines were searched for articles from May 1981 to May 2021 to capture all scientific studies focused on the effect of fenugreek on muscle and exercise or sport. Out of 81 studies acquired, six eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in the qualitative analysis. Four RCTs observed that fenugreek supplementation had significantly improved muscle strength, repetitions to failure (muscle endurance), submaximal performance index, lean body mass, and reduced body fat. Among the remaining two trials, one reported the significant effect of fenugreek extracts on the rate of muscle glycogen resynthesis during post-exercise recovery; however, the other failed to do so. Those two trials were weak, with a minimal sample size (<10). Further, fenugreek glycoside supplementation with sapogenins and saponins reported substantial anabolic and androgenic activity, influencing testosterone levels and muscle performance. It was useful during eight weeks of resistance training without any clinical side effects. Fenugreek with creatine supplementation improved creatine uptake without the necessity of high carbohydrate intake. Hence, fenugreek extracts can be a helpful natural supplement and ergogenic aid for athletes. However, it is better to be aware of doping and liver and kidney damage before using the fenugreek supplement.

D-aspartic Acid Supplementation Effects on Body Composition: A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials on Trained Males

Context: D-Aspartic acid (DAA) is an amino acid found in the brain and reproductive system. Some investigations have reported beneficial effects of DAA on brain function and reproductive system health by increasing testosterone through the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. However, its effect on body composition is unknown. Given testosterone's role in muscle growth, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of DAA supplementation on the body composition of trained males. Evidence Acquisition: PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science (until 1 August 2021) were searched for this systematic review. Inclusion criteria assumed as clinical trials assessed the effect of DAA on body composition in trained males. After including articles by keywords, the articles were reviewed for meeting the eligibility criteria. Three independent researchers conducted the search and full-text review. Results: Among 134 articles located during the primary search, five articles (47 interventions and 43 controls) were included in the study based on eligibility criteria. All included clinical trials had a low risk of bias. A review of the relevant literature concludes that different doses of DAA (three grams, six grams, 7.12, and 12 grams) in different intervention periods (two weeks, four weeks, and 12 weeks) have no effects on body composition in trained males. Conclusions: DAA supplementation is a low-level booster of testosterone and has no significant effect on the testosterone level in professional male athletes, and cannot alter the body composition.

Oral Testofen, L-Citrulline, Resveratrol, and Caffeine Supplement Drink Improves Sexual Function in Men with Phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibitors: Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Crossover Pilot Study

PURPOSE

Sexuality is very important for men's health. Currently, phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5i) remain the first-line therapy for erectile dysfunction, and no other oral drugs or drinks are approved and used clinically to treat male libido or orgasm dysfunction. In reference to a pharmaceutical dosage document, growing health consciousness is said to have boosted yearly sales of supplement drinks to more than 170 billion yen (1.58 billion US dollars) in Japan. We have created a supplement drink comprised of testofen, L-citrulline, resveratrol, and caffeine. We hypothesized that our supplement drink would be effective for men with sexual dysfunction, and especially libido dysfunction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, men with sexual dysfunction received a placebo drink for 14 days or our supplement drink (testofen, 600 mg/d; L-citrulline, 800 mg/d; resveratrol, 300 mg/d; and caffeine, 40 mg/d) for another 14 days separated by a 7-day washout period. Patients continued on-demand use of PDE5i. The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) score and adverse events were assessed.

RESULTS

Twenty patients aged 30-7 years old were enrolled in and concluded the study with no adverse events experienced. The IIEF domains of desire frequency, erection frequency, erection firmness, erection confidence, intercourse satisfaction, ejaculation frequency, orgasm frequency, and overall satisfaction were significantly improved with our supplement drink.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study to show that our supplement drink may not only be effective for erection but also for libido, orgasm, and ejaculation.

Testosterone Boosters Intake in Athletes: Current Evidence and Further Directions

“Testosterone boosters” (TB)—are supplements that are claimed to increase testosterone levels in the human body. While the consumption of TB may be popular among athletes, there is insufficient evidence both about the safety and the real efficacy of TB. In our review, we searched MEDLINE/PubMed and Cochrane Library for studies on the effects of 15 substances that are claimed to increase testosterone levels Anacyclus pyrethrum; Bulbine natalensis; Epimedium (horny goat weed); L-arginine; L-carnitine; magnesium; Mucuna pruriens; pantothenic acid; selenium; shilajit Eurycoma longifolia (Tongkat Ali); Serenoa repens (saw palmetto); boron; Withania somnifera (ashwagandha); and Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) in athletes and healthy adults under 55 years of age. We found such studies regarding 10 out of 15 substances: L-arginine (3 studies); L-carnitine (2); magnesium (1); selenium (2); shilajit (1); Tongkat Ali (2); Serenoa repens (1); boron (3); ashwagandha root (2); and fenugreek (7). Many of them fail to prove the efficacy of these substances to increase testosterone levels. Tongkat Ali, ashwagandha, and fenugreek were the substances with the strongest evidence. The positive effect of magnesium and shilajit on testosterone concentration was shown in single studies. Conflicting data found that L-arginine, L-carnitine, Serenoa repens, selenium and boron do not appear to increase testosterone levels. There are almost no data on the safety profile of various TB components; however, certain TB components may be linked to coagulation, and pancreatic and hepatic disorders. Based on the review, the authors conclude that at present TB cannot be recommended for use by athletes due to insufficient data on their efficacy and safety.

Honest nutraceuticals, cosmetics, therapies, and foods (NCTFs): standardization and safety of natural products

With the increasing demand for natural products by the consumer in the marketplace it is necessary to see a proportional increase in behind-the-scenes science to ensure that the ideology of safety and honesty, that is justifiably expected by the wider public, is adequately satisfied. It is of essence to have a fair yet firm governance of nutraceuticals, cosmetics, therapies, and foods. However, with increasing sophistications in adulteration and "claim" loopholes that make it easier for adulterated or counterfeited natural products to be "fudged" to meet the pharmacopeia standards, governance protocols must utilize an "identification and authentication" approach that goes beyond the Pharmacopeia standards to help regulate and transparently communicate natural products in the commercial context. While it is becoming a rat race in keeping commercial natural products honest, modern technology can support authenticators and adequately defeat these challenges.

Examining the Effects of Herbs on Testosterone Concentrations in Men: A Systematic Review

Testosterone concentrations in males tend to decline with advancing age. Low testosterone, also known as androgen deficiency (AD), is associated with an increased risk of morbidity and mortality. Currently, the primary treatment for AD is testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), which may exacerbate pre-existing medical conditions. Therefore, the use of alternative options, such as herbs, spices, plants, or their extracts, has been explored as a potential treatment option for AD. The aim of this systematic review was to summarize and critically evaluate randomized controlled trials published on the efficacy of single herbal ingredients on testosterone concentrations, in addition to its fractions or binding proteins, in men (≥18 y). From the 4 databases searched, there were 13 herbs identified in 32 studies, published between 2001 and 2019. The main findings of this review indicate that 2 herbal extracts, fenugreek seed extracts and ashwagandha root and root/leaf extracts, have positive effects on testosterone concentrations in men. Also, some evidence exists for another herb and herbal extract, Asian red ginseng and forskohlii root extract. Overall, 9 out of 32 studies demonstrated statistically significant increases in testosterone concentrations. Moreover, 6 studies out of 32 were judged as having a low risk of bias. Current evidence is largely based on young, nonclinical populations, with 16 out of 32 studies using men <40 y of age. Conclusions are moderated by the paucity of research for many herbs, the variation in dosages and extracts used, small sample sizes, and the heterogeneity of study characteristics. Also, further research is required before definitive conclusions on efficacy and safety can be made. This systematic review was registered at PROSPERO as CRD42020173623.

Effect of fenugreek extract supplement on testosterone levels in male: A meta-analysis of clinical trials

Different types of glycosides extract of fenugreek have shown androgenic and anabolic effect in male. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of fenugreek extract on total testosterone levels in male. Medline via PubMed, Scopus databases, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched up to November 2018 for randomized clinical trials comparing intake of fenugreek extract with control group. Data on change in serum total testosterone were pooled using random-effects models. A total of four trials were included. Fenugreek extract has a significant effect on total serum testosterone. Results from clinical trials suggest that fenugreek extract supplement has an effect on serum total testosterone levels in male.

Advances on application of fenugreek seeds as functional foods: Pharmacology, clinical application, products, patents and market

Trigonella foenum-graecum L. (fenugreek) is one of the oldest applied medicinal herbs. Significant pharmacological and clinical evidence have highlighted the medicinal application of fenugreek. Explore the current knowledge regarding the bioactivity (animal aspects) and clinical application of fenugreek and its bioactive components, as well as the products, markets and patents related to fenugreek. This review highlights the phytochemicals, bioactivity (animal aspects) and clinical application of fenugreek from recent literatures and products, markets and patents from database. Until now, more than 100 phytochemicals have been isolated from fenugreek seeds, mainly including polysaccharides, saponins, alkaloids, phenolic acids, and flavonoids. Fenugreek extract and its bioactive compounds showed excellent antidiabetic activity and anti-obesity activity in animal and human study. Although the fenugreek seed has been used as TCM raw materials for a long time of period in China, China is lacking the research of fenugreek in both depth and width.

A systematic literature review of fenugreek seed toxicity by using ToxRTool: evidence from preclinical and clinical studies

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum) seed extract is a bioactive ingredient of many food supplements. Hence, there is a need for systematic assessment of the quality of published toxicological studies for its use in human health, hazard consideration, and risk assessment. The aim of the present investigation was to determine the reliability of published toxicological studies of fenugreek seed by using ToxRTool (Toxicological data reliability assessment tool). A comprehensive systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CPCI-S, ICTRP, Ovid, and Google Scholar till October 2018. Each identified study was evaluated for its quality using the ToxRTool with outcomes such as combined score, weighted score, and reliability category by three independent raters. Correlations of various criteria groups with the combined score were evaluated by Pearson correlation and Kendall rank correlation coefficient. Inter-rater consistency was measured by Cronbach's alpha coefficient. The database searches initially yielded 436 results, of which 391 (89.67%) studies were “not assignable”. The remaining 45 studies were included for quantitative analysis by ToxRTool. Based on the weighted score, 17 in-vivo, and 3 in-vitro studies were determined to be “Reliable Without Restriction” which were conducted according to international guidelines such as GLP. These studies have a significant difference (p < 0.05) for the combined and weighted score as compared to non-GLP studies. Remaining 28 in-vivo and 2 in-vitro studies were determined to be “Not Reliable.” The GLP studies conducted with “identified study material” have a significant difference (p < 0.0001) between combined and weighted score as compared to studies which used “non-identified study material”. For criteria group of ToxRTool I, III and V, the Pearson correlation with the combined score was found to be 0.875, 0.734 and 0.905, respectively and Kendall rank correlation coefficient was found to be 0.764, 0.551 and 0.752, respectively. Cronbach's alpha coefficient for combined score and weighted score were 0.920 and 0.887, respectively. In conclusion, the ToxRTool was found useful to identify seventeen toxicity studies of fenugreek seeds as “Reliable without Restrictions”. These studies showed a broad margin of safety for the standardized extract of fenugreek seeds and can form a basis for toxicological risk assessment with reasonable certainty.

ISSN exercise & sports nutrition review update: research & recommendations

Background

Sports nutrition is a constantly evolving field with hundreds of research papers published annually. In the year 2017 alone, 2082 articles were published under the key words ‘sport nutrition’. Consequently, staying current with the relevant literature is often difficult.

Methods

This paper is an ongoing update of the sports nutrition review article originally published as the lead paper to launch the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition in 2004 and updated in 2010. It presents a well-referenced overview of the current state of the science related to optimization of training and performance enhancement through exercise training and nutrition. Notably, due to the accelerated pace and size at which the literature base in this research area grows, the topics discussed will focus on muscle hypertrophy and performance enhancement. As such, this paper provides an overview of: 1.) How ergogenic aids and dietary supplements are defined in terms of governmental regulation and oversight; 2.) How dietary supplements are legally regulated in the United States; 3.) How to evaluate the scientific merit of nutritional supplements; 4.) General nutritional strategies to optimize performance and enhance recovery; and, 5.) An overview of our current understanding of nutritional approaches to augment skeletal muscle hypertrophy and the potential ergogenic value of various dietary and supplemental approaches.

Conclusions

This updated review is to provide ISSN members and individuals interested in sports nutrition with information that can be implemented in educational, research or practical settings and serve as a foundational basis for determining the efficacy and safety of many common sport nutrition products and their ingredients.

Herbal medicine for sports: a review

The use of herbal medicinal products and supplements has increased during last decades. At present, some herbs are used to enhance muscle strength and body mass. Emergent evidence suggests that the health benefits from plants are attributed to their bioactive compounds such as Polyphenols, Terpenoids, and Alkaloids which have several physiological effects on the human body. At times, manufacturers launch numerous products with banned ingredient inside with inappropriate amounts or fake supplement inducing harmful side effect. Unfortunately up to date, there is no guarantee that herbal supplements are safe for anyone to use and it has not helped to clear the confusion surrounding the herbal use in sport field especially. Hence, the purpose of this review is to provide guidance on the efficacy and side effect of most used plants in sport. We have identified plants according to the following categories: Ginseng, alkaloids, and other purported herbal ergogenics such as Tribulus Terrestris, Cordyceps Sinensis. We found that most herbal supplement effects are likely due to activation of the central nervous system via stimulation of catecholamines. Ginseng was used as an endurance performance enhancer, while alkaloids supplementation resulted in improvements in sprint and cycling intense exercises. Despite it is prohibited, small amount of ephedrine was usually used in combination with caffeine to enhance muscle strength in trained individuals. Some other alkaloids such as green tea extracts have been used to improve body mass and composition in athletes. Other herb (i.e. Rhodiola, Astragalus) help relieve muscle and joint pain, but results about their effects on exercise performance are missing.

A small plant with big benefits: Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum Linn.) for disease prevention and health promotion

Plant-derived natural products have long-standing utility toward treating degenerative diseases. It is estimated that about two-thirds of world population depend on traditional medicine for primary medical needs. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum Linn.), a short-living annual medicinal plant belonging to Fabaceae family, is used extensively in various parts of the world as herb, food, spice, and traditional medicine. Fenugreek is considered as one of the oldest medicinal plants and its health-promoting effects have been cited in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine. The investigations into the chemical composition and pharmacological actions have seen a renaissance in recent years. Extensive preclinical and clinical research have outlined the pharmaceutical uses of fenugreek as antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, antiobesity, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antifungal, antibacterial, galactogogue and for miscellaneous pharmacological effects, including improving women's health. The pharmacological actions of fenugreek are attributed to diverse array of phytoconstituents. The phytochemical analysis reveals the presence of steroids, alkaloids, saponins, polyphenols, flavonoids, lipids, carbohydrates, amino acids, and hydrocarbons. This review aims to summarize and critically analyze the current available literature to understand the potential of fenugreek for disease prevention and health improvement with special emphasis on cellular and molecular mechanisms. Current challenges and new directions of research on fenugreek are also discussed.