Benefits of Shilajit for Men: What the Hype is Really About

Shilajit has been used in Ayurveda and Siddha systems of medicine for centuries due to its various health benefits. In recent years, this mineral-rich resin has also created quite a buzz in the health and fitness industry, particularly amongst gym-goers, wellness influencers, athletes, fitness enthusiasts, bodybuilders and powerlifters. It has become immensely popular in the West as well, with India being the largest exporter of Shilajit and the US its biggest buyer. However, more science-backed research is needed to know the true potential of this supplement. Furthermore, Shilajit is mostly preferred by those men who are looking to optimise their health and athletic performance. In this blog, we’ll explore what shilajit is, its origin, benefits of shilajit for men, its usage and potential side effects to examine if it truly works as marketed through advertisements.

What is Shilajit?

Shilajit, a Sanskrit word meaning “conqueror of mountains and destroyer of weakness”, is so-named because it is believed to possess adaptogenic benefits. This black-sticky substance, extremely rich in organic compounds and minerals gets formed after the slow decomposition of rocks and plant remains in high altitude mountains such as the Himalayas. It is pale brown to dark brown-blackish in colour. The raw form, extracted from the Himalayan peaks, is then processed and purified through Shodhana, a traditional Ayurvedic process followed to remove impurities and heavy metals, thereby minimising toxicity and side effects. For a long time, it was used as an Ayurvedic supplement for men as it was believed to boost energy and provide rejuvenating benefits. In recent years, it has gained worldwide recognition, particularly among men, for its ability to enhance physical performance, cognitive functions, and sexual health.

Why Are Men Taking Shilajit?

Shilajit is consumed by men for two primary reasons: first, to boost energy, and second, because it may improve testosterone levels. Testosterone levels in men are said to naturally decline with age, which impacts energy, muscle mass and libido. So, shilajit, if taken in the right dosage, may support healthy testosterone levels and increase physical performance and stamina, especially in men who are professional athletes or have an active lifestyle. In addition to this, Shilajit also possesses strong antioxidant properties due to fulvic acid, which may improve cognitive functions by reducing oxidative stress. With its potential to improve sexual health and support fertility, Shilajit has become a go-to dietary supplement for many men. Additionally, Shilajit’s antioxidant properties also help the body neutralise free radicals and protect cells from getting damaged.

Key Benefits of Shilajit for Men

• Promotes Longevity: Shilajit is widely known as an anti-ageing Ayurvedic herb, as it is packed with antioxidants that can help neutralise free radicals and prevent cell damage. This protects the body from oxidative stress, which can accelerate visible signs of ageing, decline in bone and joint health, etc. It also supports bone health, especially in older women during the postmenopausal stage, by overcoming oxidative stress and inflammation associated with poor levels of oestrogen at this stage. 
• May prevent Alzheimer’s and enhance cognition: Shilajit’s cognitive benefits stem from its key component fulvic acid, a powerful antioxidant. Fulvic acid prevents the accumulation of tau protein, which, if aggregated in large quantities, can cause brain damage, associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
• Increases energy levels: The minerals and fulvic acid in Shilajit support the energy-producing cells by enhancing ATP production, which combats fatigue and improves overall performance. Fulvic acid also increases nutrient uptake into the cells, further boosting energy levels. This particularly benefits athletes and fitness enthusiasts involved in intense workout regimens.
• Improves Strength & Stamina: As Shilajit provides sustained energy levels, it can enhance endurance, vigour, stamina, and recovery, making it beneficial for physical performance to keep you active throughout the training session. Additionally, consuming shilajit can help regain muscular strength, aiding in muscle repair.
• Anti-inflammatory: Shilajit is also an anti-inflammatory supplement that helps reduce inflammation and alleviate the symptoms by blocking certain inflammatory pathways.
• Improves Reproductive Health: Shilajit may particularly help men facing fertility issues. This is because it improves sperm counts and motility by lowering oxidative stress, which helps improve overall reproductive health. According to some studies and research, Shilajit increases testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEAS) which can also support hormonal balance. This is among the major benefits of Shilajit for men.
• Supports Bone Health: Shilajit intake may help improve bone mineral density by reducing the risk of inflammation. The high mineral content promotes retention of minerals to the bones, improving osteoblast activity and formation. However these studies have been more for post menopausal women and detailed research on men is required.
• Stress Management: One of the major uses of shilajit for men stress management. Shilajit is an adaptogen, which helps the body adapt to stress by regulating cortisol levels and promoting overall well-being. Stress management leads to improved mental health and a reduction in conditions such as depression, panic and anxiety. Shilajit is rich in magnesium, which helps lower cortisol levels, calming the nervous system.

How to Use Shilajit for Best Results

• Dosage: Shilajit is commonly taken orally in doses of 200-500 mg daily.  Dissolve the Shilajit resin in warm water or milk. Take it for at least 12 weeks for best results.
  
  SteadShilajit Gold is the best Shilajit you can get your hands on to improve performance and overcome fatigue. SteadShilajit has one of the highest concentrations of fulvic acid in the market (75%) for increased efficacy. It also contains the herbs ashwagandha, gokhru and kali musli and the mineral gold, all known for their rejuvenating properties. It is recommended to consume 1-2 servings (250 mg) of SteadShilajit Gold every day. Follow the recommended dosage and consult a healthcare professional for long-term use.
•  Best Time to Take: Ideally, it is best to consume Shilajit in the morning for maximum effect or before workouts to boost energy levels and improve performance.
• Forms: 
  • Shilajit Powder: This variant of Shilajit has gained widespread popularity, as it is easily mixed with water and milk.
  • Shilajit Resin: It is one of the purest and most natural forms of shilajit. It can dissolve easily with warm milk and water.
  • Shilajit Capsules or tablets: Shilajit comes in convenient, pre-measured doses. These capsules and tablets provide consistency in dosage but are not as potent as the resin form because of further processing, which alters the composition by making it lose some of the minerals.
    

Side Effects of Shilajit

• Nausea and vomiting
• Skin rashes, itching, hives
• Chest pain and rapid heart rate
• Stomach ache and diarrhoea
• Dizziness, headaches

Shilajit is a beneficial dietary supplement which has numerous health benefits for men, but it is important to consult a healthcare professional before starting it to avoid any severe health risks.  Taking a higher dosage can aggravate symptoms leading to side effects and allergic reactions. To avoid any repercussions, follow some precautions as mentioned below.

 Precautions:

• Personal needs: Although there are plenty of uses of shilajit for men, the first step before starting a new supplement should be assessing individual requirements and personal fitness goals.
• Check product purity and authenticity: It is important to consume shilajit from a reputable brand like Steadfast Nutrition. Steadfast Nutrition’s SteadShilajitGold has one of the highest concentrations of fulvic acid (75%) in the market, an indication of its purity and quality. It is free from contaminants like heavy metals, steroids or spiking agents. It has also been independently tested for quality. It is always advised to go for products which are lab-tested and clinically approved.
• Allergic Reactions: It is advised to check for any adverse reactions when starting a new supplement. If you see any rashes or have any digestive issues—discontinue the usage and get medical attention right away.
• Consult a professional: Always consult a professional healthcare provider before adding any new supplements to your regimen to avoid severe side effects.
• Pre-existing Health Conditions: Consult a healthcare provider if you have any serious underlying conditions related to kidney, heart, liver, etc. Pregnant and lactating women, diabetics, heart patients or those with an autoimmune disorder should consult a doctor before consuming the supplement.

Conclusion: Does It Really Work? What the Hype Says

As we all know, Shilajit increases testosterone and has been in the spotlight as a promising ayurvedic supplement for men that supports overall health and well-being. From enhancing physical performance to boosting testosterone levels and supporting cognitive health, shilajit offers a lot of benefits to maintain overall vitality. Ongoing scientific research, when concluded, can further support its place in the fitness industry.  But if you are looking to get that extra energy boost and enhance physical performance, consuming a well-balanced diet is equally important rather than relying only on the supplement. While shilajit is a vital supplement and there are plenty of benefits of shilajit for men, it is important to consult a medical professional to avoid any repercussions.