Hormones

The endocrine system is one of the most powerful things you can learn to drive forward in order to maximize muscle growth. It is responsible for producing more than 20 major hormones and releasing them into the body. 

It can either become your best friend or worst enemy, depending how you treat it when it comes to getting the results you want. 

Here's an example of what I mean:

Testosterone, growth hormone and insulin are all VERY big contributors to positive changes in body composition.

However, if your lifestyle inhibits your natural endocrine system then you can encounter some major issues which will really get in the way of your progression. Here are some of the things I'm talking about . . .

1. Carrying too much body fat will ultimately lead to insulin resistance setting in over time (due to beta cell dysfunction) which means that your ability to utilize carbohydrates will potentially suffer. This means using this key muscle building nutrient to your benefit will also suffer. This is one of the reasons why I always encourage my online clients to stay in good condition all year round!

2. Carrying too much body fat will also affect your FREE testosterone levels as your oestrogen levels will rise as your rate of aromatization does (the aromatase enzyme lives in fat cells, which is why men with higher body fat levels can have issues with fatty tissue around their chest). What this again points to the fact staying in good condition is essential for maximizing muscle, where testosterone is concerned. 

3. Drinking alcohol regularly can really blunt your natural testosterone production which again is going to detract from your ability to positively change your body composition. Drinking regularly will again also increase the chances of having oestrogenic issues. I don't feel alcohol mixes well with this lifestyle and don't personally drink. 

4. Having stimulants in excess and not having enough deep, quality sleep can lead to cortisol issues over a sustained period of time. Cortisol isn't "evil" necessarily, but in highly concentrated amounts when your body is exposed to it this can become catabolic and create stubborn fat. This is why resting properly is crucial, not being too harsh with stimulants and ultimately using the right nutritional protocols to help mediate cortisol. 

Hopefully, that's helped you gain a better understanding of some key considerations in relation to key hormones.

Eating enough healthy fats and enough green vegetables are two very good ways to heighten natural testosterone production and manage oestrogen issues!

Neil Hill