Controlling Cortisol: Keeping Your Gains 3
Friday, July 17th, 2009An important element of post-cycle recovery is controlling the influx of cortisol. Cortisol is a stress hormone that is released in times of caloric deficit and bodily stress including strenuous work outs and even emotional stress. This potent hormone is catabolic or muscle wasting. It breaks down muscle tissue to be used as energy for the various systems of the body. Anabolic steroids and prohormones act as a cortisol antagonist in that they blocks the effects of the hormone. When steroid/prohormone use is discontinued natural anabolic hormone levels are low to non-existent allowing the catabolic effects of cortisol to run rampant eating away at all that hard earned muscle. Controlling cortisol post-cycle is key to keeping your gains.
There are a few supplements on the market that can help you to control the post-cycle cortisol crash. Growth hormone releasers are a good start. Growth hormone provides an anti-catabolic effect and can help modulate cortisol. They also promote a deep restful sleep which is always good for general recovery. Hi-Tech’s Somatomax and BioRhythm’s ReGenerate are excellent choices for growth hormone release.
Another great supplement for blocking cortisol is 7-Keto DHEA. 7-Keto also has a thermogenic effect on the body so it is great for keeping body fat levels in check post-cycle. BioRhythm’s Synthrolean and UltraLean FX both contain a potent dose of this compound.
Finally, a somewhat unknown but powerful supplement called phosphatidylserine can be used for controlling cortisol. A few companies make this compound but it is usually under dosed due to its high cost. An adequate dose of phosphatidylserine is anywhere between 600mg and 800mg. BioRhythm’s AfterGlow contains an 800mg dose in a cost-effective package. With the combination of these supplements you will be well on your way to keeping your gains.
