Bodybuilder Blood Tests: Nelson Vergel Reviews Two Cases

[Nelson Vergel]

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Video Summary: Bodybuilder Lab Work - Nelson Vergel Reviews Two Cases​

Introduction​

• Speaker: Nelson Vergel, founder of DiscountedLabs.com and ExcelMale.com.
• Topic: Blood tests for bodybuilders using higher testosterone dosages and other products.
• Context: Many doctors don't monitor bodybuilders due to the stigma around performance-enhancing substances. It's crucial for bodybuilders to monitor their blood tests to minimize side effects and maximize muscle growth and fat burning.

Case Study 1: High Testosterone Dosage​

• Subject: A bodybuilder using high testosterone dosages.
• Testosterone Levels: Extremely high (2,968 ng/dL), well above the normal range (250-1,100 ng/dL).
• Free Testosterone: Also high, indicating potential side effects.
• Lipid Panel: LDL cholesterol within normal limits, but HDL (good cholesterol) is low, which is a concern.
• Liver and Kidney Function: Generally good, but high protein intake is evident.
• Blood Sugar and Electrolytes: Normal levels, indicating good health.
• Dihydrotestosterone (DHT): High, which could affect libido, hair loss, or acne.
• Complete Blood Count (CBC): Shows increased red blood cell production, a common effect of testosterone and anabolic steroids.

Estradiol and Its Effects​

• Estradiol Levels: Discussed in relation to bone health, sex drive, and cognitive function.
• Misconceptions: Many bodybuilders aim to lower estradiol, but it's essential for balancing testosterone effects.
• Role of Estradiol: Protects the heart and enhances testosterone effects. Blocking it can be counterproductive.

IGF-1 and Growth Hormone​

• IGF-1 Levels: Normal for the subject, indicating healthy growth hormone metabolism.
• Bodybuilding Impact: Higher IGF-1 levels are common in bodybuilders, especially those using growth hormone supplements.

Kidney Function and Liver Enzymes​

• Kidney Function: Good kidney function indicated by low cystatin C levels and high eGFR.
• Liver Enzymes: Elevated AST and ALT levels likely due to intense workouts, not liver toxicity.

Iron Metabolism and Ferritin​

• Iron and Ferritin: Normal levels, but many bodybuilders experience lower ferritin due to increased iron usage in red blood cell production.
• Importance of Monitoring: Regular checks for iron and ferritin levels are recommended.

Prolactin and Thyroid Function​

• Prolactin Levels: Normal, but high levels can cause issues like erectile dysfunction.
• Thyroid Hormones: TSH, T3, and T4 levels within normal ranges, indicating healthy thyroid function.

Case Study 2: Lower Testosterone Dosage​

• Testosterone Levels: Lower than the first case (1,200 ng/dL).
• Hemoglobin and Hematocrit: Elevated due to testosterone use, even at lower doses.
• Thyroid Function: Normal TSH, T3, and T4 levels.
• Iron and Ferritin: Within normal range, but on the lower side.
• DHEA and Insulin: Normal levels, indicating good health.

Conclusion​

• Overall Health: Both subjects show good health indicators despite high testosterone usage.
• Recommendations: Regular monitoring of blood tests is crucial for bodybuilders, especially for testosterone, estradiol, liver enzymes, kidney function, and iron levels.