RAPID FIRE ROUND WITH AKSHAY CHOPRA || EPISODE-1 #bodybuilding #fitness #health #podcast

Summary

In this fitness-focused discussion, influencers are critiqued for promoting supplements like Turkestrone for monetary gain without substantial research backing. The dialogue debunks myths around EAA superiority over whey protein and the necessity of creatine cycling, while addressing creatine's potential for hair loss with mixed opinions. The hosts also challenge the efficacy of testosterone boosters, the height-increasing claims of Ashwagandha, and the fat-loss benefits of steam baths and fasted cardio, advocating for a balanced approach to fitness and supplementation.

Takeaways

• 💰 An influencer promoted a supplement for monetary gain, leading to increased sales and potential misuse by the public, especially young people.
• 🚫 The influencer's promotion of a supplement for increasing height is debunked as a myth, with no scientific evidence supporting such claims.
• 🔍 There's a common misconception that creatine causes hair loss, but the evidence is mixed, with some personal anecdotes supporting this claim, while research does not conclusively prove it.
• ❌ The idea of needing an 'on/off' cycle for supplements like creatine is a myth; research shows no negative effects from long-term use.
• 🏋️‍♂️ Creatine monohydrate can be beneficial during fat loss phases, contrary to popular belief, and does not hinder fat loss efforts.
• 🚫 The use of supporters during gym workouts is unnecessary for most individuals, especially if they are already wearing proper fitting underwear.
• ✅ Testosterone boosters can be beneficial for those with naturally low testosterone levels, but should be approached with caution and not used by healthy individuals looking to enhance performance.
• 🌿 Ashwagandha is primarily an adaptogen and stress reliever, not a direct testosterone booster, despite popular misconceptions.
• 🛀 Steam baths are not effective for fat loss, as any weight loss experienced is due to water loss, not actual fat reduction.
• ❌ Fasted cardio is not more effective for fat loss than non-fasted cardio; overall daily nutrition and exercise are more critical for fat loss success.

Q & A

What is the primary concern regarding the promotion of a certain supplement by an influencer?

The influencer promotes the supplement for monetary benefits to increase sales, which can lead to misunderstanding and abuse, especially among young people.

Why do some people blame the supplement for hair loss issues?

Some individuals have reported hair loss issues after using certain supplements, leading to a belief that the supplement is the cause, despite a lack of conclusive evidence.

What is the myth about Ashwagandha and height increase?

There is a misconception that taking Ashwagandha can increase height, which is not supported by scientific evidence.

Why do some people believe in the on/off cycle for supplements?

The belief in cycling supplements on and off is a common practice, but for some supplements like creatine, there is no scientific basis for this, and it can be taken continuously without issues.

What is the stance on Turkestrone boosting testosterone?

Turkestrone is not proven to boost testosterone, and its promotion is often for monetary benefits rather than scientific evidence.

How does whey protein compare to Essential Amino Acids (EAA) in terms of effectiveness?

Whey protein is considered superior to EAA because it contains all essential amino acids (EAAs), branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), and short-chain peptides that are not found in EAA supplements.

Can creatine monohydrate be used during fat loss periods?

Yes, creatine can be consumed during fat loss periods as it does not hinder fat loss and can even aid in maintaining athletic performance.

Is there a need for a creatine cycle to avoid side effects?

No, there is no need for a creatine cycle as it has been studied for years with no observed side effects from continuous use.

What is the opinion on the use of supporters during gym workouts?

Supporters are not necessary during gym workouts as they serve a similar purpose to tight underwear in preventing testicle movement and potential injury.

Do testosterone boosters have a place in fitness supplementation?

Testosterone boosters can be beneficial for those with naturally low testosterone levels, but they are not recommended for teenagers or those with healthy testosterone levels looking for performance enhancement.

What is the truth about Ashwagandha's effects on testosterone and stress?

Ashwagandha is an adaptogen and stress-relieving herb, and while it may indirectly affect testosterone levels by reducing stress, it is not a direct testosterone booster.

Does taking a steam bath contribute to fat loss?

No, steam baths do not contribute to fat loss. They are beneficial for the skin and lungs but the weight loss experienced is due to water loss, not fat loss.

Is there any advantage to doing cardio in a fasted state for fat loss?

No, there is no significant advantage to doing cardio in a fasted state for fat loss. Studies have not shown any excess fat loss due to being in a fasted state.

Outlines

00:00

💊 Influencer Promotion and Supplement Misuse

The paragraph discusses the issue of influencers promoting supplements for monetary gain, leading to misuse, especially among young people. It highlights the problem of people experiencing side effects like hair loss after using certain supplements. The speaker debunks myths around supplements, such as Ashwagandha increasing height and the necessity of on/off cycles for supplements. They also address the rise in low testosterone cases and the importance of continuing athletic performance without stopping supplement cycles. The segment ends with a mention of a quiz format to address fitness myths, where rapid-fire questions will be answered with a simple yes or no.

05:01

🏋️‍♂️ Debunking Supplement Myths and the Role of Creatine

This paragraph focuses on debunking myths related to fitness supplements. The speaker refutes the claim that Turkestrone boosts testosterone, asserting it's unsupported by research and promoted solely for profit. They compare Essential Amino Acids (EAA) to whey protein, concluding that whey protein is superior due to its complete amino acid profile, including short chain peptides. The paragraph also discusses the benefits of creatine monohydrate during fat loss periods, refuting the myth that it hinders fat loss or causes water retention. The speaker emphasizes that creatine can be taken continuously without the need for cycling off, and it can even aid in strength and brain health.

10:02

🚫 The Myth of Creatine and Hair Loss

The speaker explores the controversial link between creatine supplementation and hair loss. While acknowledging a single study suggesting a connection, they argue that subsequent research has found no such link. The paragraph includes personal observations of individuals experiencing hair loss, suggesting that while it's rare, it can occur. The speaker advises that if someone believes creatine is causing hair loss, they should stop using it. They also clarify misconceptions about a study where rugby players experienced increased DHT levels, explaining that these levels were still within a healthy range and that other factors like genetics and hygiene could be responsible for hair loss.

15:02

🏋️‍♀️ Gym Supporters and Testosterone Boosters

The paragraph delves into the unnecessary use of gym supporters, explaining their historical context and the misconceptions around their utility in modern gym settings. The speaker argues that supporters are equivalent to tight underwear and are not required unless one is wearing loose-fitting garments. They also discuss the use of testosterone boosters, distinguishing between natural boosters that can help with libido and testosterone levels and the inappropriate use of these supplements by healthy individuals. The speaker advises against teenagers using boosters like Beast Pro and suggests that a healthy lifestyle is sufficient for maintaining natural testosterone levels.

🌿 Ashwagandha and Steambath Misconceptions

This paragraph addresses the myths surrounding Ashwagandha as a testosterone booster and its purported ability to increase height. The speaker clarifies that Ashwagandha is an adaptogen and stress reliever, not a direct testosterone booster. They dismiss the idea of Ashwagandha increasing height as a myth. Additionally, the paragraph discusses the benefits of steambaths for the skin and mood but refutes the notion that they contribute to fat loss, as any weight reduction is due to water loss, not fat.

🏃‍♂️ Fasted Cardio for Fat Loss: Fact or Fiction?

The final paragraph challenges the belief in the effectiveness of fasted cardio for fat loss. The speaker argues that theoretical benefits do not align with empirical evidence, as studies have not shown increased fat loss during fasted cardio sessions. They also caution against the potential risks of hypoglycemia and poor workout performance due to low energy levels. The speaker emphasizes that overall daily nutrition and exercise are more critical for fat loss than the timing of cardio in relation to food intake.

Keywords

💡Influencer

An influencer is an individual who has the power to affect the purchasing decisions of others because of their authority, knowledge, position, or relationship with their audience. In the context of the video, the influencer is criticized for promoting a supplement for monetary benefit without substantial evidence of its efficacy, highlighting the potential for misuse of influence in the fitness industry.

💡Supplement

A supplement in the context of health and fitness refers to a product, such as a pill, capsule, or powder, that is intended to be taken in addition to a person's regular diet to provide nutrients that may be missing or not consumed in sufficient quantities. The video discusses the misuse and over-reliance on supplements, particularly by young people, without understanding their true impact.

💡Abusing Supplements

This term refers to the excessive or improper use of supplements, often beyond recommended dosages or without medical supervision. The video script mentions that people, especially the young, may start abusing supplements due to a lack of understanding, which can lead to health issues like hair loss.

💡Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb used in traditional Indian medicine for its potential stress-relieving and rejuvenating properties. The video script debunks the myth that Ashwagandha can increase height and directly boost testosterone levels, emphasizing that its benefits are more related to stress reduction.

💡Testosterone Boosters

Testosterone boosters are supplements that claim to increase the levels of testosterone in the body. The video discusses the misconceptions around these boosters, suggesting that while some herbs can naturally boost libido and testosterone to a limited extent, they are not a cure-all and should be used with caution, especially by younger individuals.

💡Creatine Monohydrate

Creatine monohydrate is a popular supplement among athletes and bodybuilders to improve strength and muscle mass. The video script addresses myths about creatine, such as its supposed interference with fat loss and the necessity of a cycling on/off regimen, concluding that creatine can be safely used without such concerns.

💡EAA (Essential Amino Acids)

Essential amino acids (EAA) are amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own and must be obtained through diet or supplementation. The video argues that EAAs are not superior to whey protein, which contains all essential and non-essential amino acids, including short-chain peptides that EAA supplements lack.

💡Fat Loss

Fat loss refers to the process of reducing body fat, often through a combination of diet, exercise, and sometimes supplementation. The video script addresses various myths related to fat loss, including the ineffectiveness of steam baths and fasted cardio for enhanced fat loss, emphasizing that overall daily nutrition and exercise are more critical.

💡Libido

Libido refers to an individual's sexual desire or drive. The video discusses how certain supplements and herbs are marketed to boost libido, but it cautions that these should not be confused with testosterone boosters and may not be necessary for individuals with healthy testosterone levels.

💡Myth Debunking

Myth debunking involves challenging and disproving popular misconceptions or false beliefs. The video's theme revolves around myth debunking in the fitness and supplement industry, providing evidence-based insights to counteract misinformation and educate viewers on the true effects of supplements and practices.

Highlights

Influencers may promote supplements for monetary benefits, potentially leading to misuse by consumers.

Young people are particularly susceptible to supplement abuse due to a lack of understanding.

Some individuals experience hair loss after using certain supplements.

The myth that Ashwagandha can increase height is debunked.

The importance of respecting differing opinions in fitness and health discussions is emphasized.

Turkestrone is not proven to boost testosterone, despite being promoted by some influencers.

Whey protein is considered superior to Essential Amino Acids (EAA) for workout recovery.

Creatine monohydrate can be beneficial during fat loss periods and does not hinder fat loss.

There is no need for a creatine cycle; it can be taken continuously without issues.

Creatine may or may not cause hair loss, with opinions divided and more research needed.

The use of supporters during gym workouts is not necessary for most individuals.

Testosterone boosters may have a place for those with naturally low testosterone but are not recommended for teenagers.

Ashwagandha is primarily an adaptogen and stress reliever, not a direct testosterone booster.

Steam baths are beneficial for the skin and lungs but do not contribute to fat loss.

Fasted cardio is not more effective for fat loss compared to non-fasted cardio.

Transcripts

There's this influencer who promoted it

for the monetary benefit

to increase the sales of this supplement.

I mean, this is such a thing

that people don't understand

And they start abusing.

Especially these young people.

Sometimes people even blame the supplement

I've got so many cases personally

They keep on commenting

That they're experiencing hair loss.

And I've personally seen some people

having some hair loss issues.

They always workout wearing that

Whether they're doing biceps, triceps.

There's a new gimmick going on these days

Taking Ashwagandha increases height.

People even talk about the on/off cycle.

It is not like that.

Now the reasons for

low testosterone have increased.

A lot of people send me their reports

of low libido, low testosterone.

You don't need to stop the cycle

If you want to continue that athletic performance

Then you can continue it.

Debunking Fitness Myths (Ep-1)

Guys, as we've already seen it

When you do research &

give knowledge on YouTube

Then opinions might differ.

We should respect these opinions.

That's why,

we'll do an amazing quiz in this podcast.

In which we'll ask some rapid-fire questions.

And we'll answer those questions

with a Yes or No

Whether they are right or wrong in our opinion.

So, let's start.

Turkestrone.

No.

I think

Turkestrone doesn't boost any testosterone.

It is research proven.

There's one influencer who promotes it

for the monetary benefit.

Just to increase the sales of this supplement.

Yeah, it has no research or anything.

It is a big No.

EAA are superior to whey protein?

No.

There is nothing superior than whey protein.

Whey protein has everything.

All Bcaa, all EAAs.

The reason why whey protein is more superior

The reason is it contains short chain peptides

That are generally not found.

That's one of the reason.

Whey protein comes on top, it has everything.

In my opinion,

People ask me if

EAA has all the essential amino acids

that our body needs

And our body already produces

non-essential amino acids.

But in my opinion &

it is also proved in researches

When we workout or when we push our body

Your body needs

more non-essential amino acids than it can produce.

That is found in whey protein.

So, EAA is not superior to whey protein.

And you don't need EAA supplements.

Creatine monohydrate during fatloss.

Absolutely Yes.

Creatine can be consumed anytime.

Though it has no direct link to fatloss.

But if you believe that

you shouldn't take creatine during fatloss

It's even its myth that it stores water

See, it is nothing like that.

I've already told you

Creatine stores water in your muscles

It's a localized water retention.

It won't hinder your fatloss.

And you can absolutely take

creatine during fat loss.

In my opinion,

If you're doing fatloss

It doesn't mean you've to do only cardio

You've to do resistance training.

You've to lift weights.

And creatine will even help in fatloss.

As many people believe

That they've to stay in a calorie deficit.

Even in that condition,

Creatine gives you a little boost.

It's also good for your brain.

So it's good for strength & also for the brain.

Do we need to have creatine cycle?

No.

See, Creatine is the most researched supplement.

It has been studied for years together.

No side effect of creatine is seen

even after continuous use for years.

So when we talk about the cycle,

we should on & off all the supplements

If there's no need, then just don't take it.

It's as simple as that.

But when we talk about the proper cycling

That goes like some months on & then off

There is no such thing with creatine.

You can keep taking

creatine for a long period.

Even we've seen in researches

Your body makes a small amount of creatine

But if you want to maximise it

That is not possible from a diet

Then you've to take a creatine supplement.

But when you stop consuming it,

People think that their bodies

won't make creatine naturally.

It is completely wrong.

Many researches have

completely debunked this myth.

So there's no need to follow a creatine cycle.

If you need to continue

that athlete performance,

Then you can continue taking it.

Does creatine cause hair loss?

Yes & No.

It's the first question

Where the opinions of both of us are different.

Actually, here, I should show

Both Yes & No.

Yeah, you can show both of them.

So, it's a Yes & No.

And No from Arpit.

I've done a lot of research on this topic,

I've even made a lot of videos on this topic.

There's actually only one study

That I've shown

That suggests that creatine causes hair loss

but it's an old study.

That study was done on rugby players.

But all the studies done after that suggest

There's no connection

between creatine & hair loss.

However,

I've seen many cases personally

And they keep on commenting

That they're experiencing hair loss.

I've also seen some people

having some hair loss issues.

So it happens rarely, but it does happen.

So that's why I can't deny

That, maybe the studies

need to be done more long term

to check this particular problem

But as I've seen some certain cases,

So I always say that

Normally, creatine doesn't cause hair loss.

But people have seen

the acceleration of hair loss.

If I'm having hair loss,

If I believe it then

I should stop taking creatine.

But other than that, no studies suggest it.

But many people are

confused with that research

In the research,

as the rugby players were given creatine

Their DHT levels were increased

That's why they had hairloss.

So I should tell you that

Their Serum DHT levels were increased

And not hair follicle Dht level.

Secondly,

The increased levels were still

within the healthy range.

I think that

There might be other reasons for hair loss

It can be genetics, hygiene, etc

So you should consult a dermat.

But to blame creatine

based on that single research

In which it is not even said that

creatine causes hair loss

It is a stupidity.

But yes I agree,

That there should be long-term research.

Again, as I said

I've seen it in people who complained to me.

So I suggest that

if they think they're having hair fall,

don't take it.

But there is no study.

Sometimes

people even blame supplements.

But again,

As I said,

Multiple people are complaining the same.

So I suggested them to stop

if they're experiencing hair loss.

What else I can say.

Do we need supporter during gym?

A Big "NO"

I mean, this is something that

people just don't understand.

They will start cursing.

Especially, the young people of 16-18 years.

Firstly, let me tell you

There's no thing as a supporter

related to sports.

Even if we read its history,

There was "Jockstrap"

That was given to cyclists in Britain

As the roads were uneven & made with pebbles

Their testis used to hit the cycle seat.

The supporter was made for them.

The problem here is that

you relate supporter to langot.

The only reason to wear langot

Is that the testis won't move while workout.

Or won't hit anything.

Whenever we exercise,

Let's say in akhada, we wear langot.

There are chances of rubbing of testicles.

So, langot is like a tight underwear

That supports your testicles.

Then there is the supporter,

It is basically a tight underwear.

It is said to

Wear supporting underwear

so that your testicles won't hit

during a workout.

People who buy a supporter separately

It will only work

If you don't wear normal tight underwear.

Some people wear loose underwear

Those have problems.

They can wear supporters.

Otherwise, a supporter is equal to

a normal tight underwear.

It is correct that supporters were made for cyclists

So that their testies won't

harmed on uneven roads.

Eventually, horse riders started wearing it,

as they had the same problem.

But those supporters are the hardened ones.

They are used with l-guards and all

In cricket and different sports.

But it was never meant for gymming.

Still, people wear it whether they're doing

biceps, triceps or any other exercise.

So it is not compulsory at all.

Even if you wear a tight underwear

It is the same as a supporter.

The only purpose is that the testicles won't move.

Testosterone Boosters.

No.

Yes.

Okay, so why are you in favour of

testosterone boosters?

See, the reasons for

low testosterone are increased

A lot of people have sent me reports

Of low libido, low testosterone.

And that is the reason that

Testosterone replacement therapy

has started at very early ages in adults.

Most people are taking TRTs because

Testosterone levels are dipping at a much faster rate.

So for them, I would suggest

There are a lot of researches on multiple herbs

That boosts our testosterone

naturally in a limit.

It also boosts your libido naturally.

Certain things only boost libido.

That will only increase your sexual power,

boost your libido, or give you better erections.

There are certain herbs,

I would say 20 out of 100

That are research-based

that boost your testosterone.

When I made the Beast Pro supplement

I researched every single herb.

In all these research studies,

Only these 20% boosts testosterone.

All the remaining boosts libido.

If someone makes a testosterone booster

then there are very limited herbs

But generally, these so- called natural boosters

They naturally help you

boost libido along with testosterone.

If they're not working to a level.

Like, if someone's testo level

is lowering because of lifestyle

Or if someone needs a boost in sports.

So they should start taking natural boosters.

Like herbs & compounds

that are research-proven.

Then comes the

testosterone replacement therapy.

That is done in dogs.

Then the next step is anabolics.

It is as good as

testosterone replacement therapy.

But I've clearly told you,

Anybody below 21

should not be taking Beast pro.

I get questions from multiple teenagers.

They ask me whether they can take Beast Pro.

My clear answer is No.

Not below 21.

Even if you're 21,

it should be consume

only to give a basic libido boost

But not more than that.

Nothing more than that.

They can even start with

ashwagandha or shilajit.

That is also enough.

As Beast Pro is still heavy for them.

I deny it because,

As you've talked about researches

I accept that these herbs

like shilajit, ashwagandha

These are proven to boost your testosterone.

But in all these research,

one thing was common

These herbs boosted testosterone

in only those participants

Whose testosterone was

already low due to any reason.

The problem with today's youth

If they're eating right & they're healthy

They still want to grow more

But they don't want to take anabolic steroids

So they take these

natural testosterone boosters.

Then in that case,

these are useless supplements for you.

As I said, when I designed Beast Pro

That was to help a lot of people

Get their sexual power back.

To cure their satisfaction problem with their partners

People working in corporates

Their testo levels are naturally decreasing.

It will help in these cases.

Some good lifters are taking it as a pre-workout

As they want a natural boost

Fine, take it, no problem.

But for youngsters it's a no.

Your testosterone is already optimising.

You don't need any booster.

In fact, good strength training,

good sleep & good diet

will automatically boost your testosterone.

I've made a video on

ways to naturally boost your testosterone levels.

If none of them is working,

And you're not a teenager

If you're at a mature age

Then you can think of a natural booster.

While your take was yes & mine was no

But the end opinion is the same.

Ashwagandha.

Yes & No.

Ashwagandha is not a testosterone booster.

It is a misconception.

It has no direct link with testosterone.

It is indirect.

As ashwagandha comes in

a line of range of herbs called

Adaptogens.

Adaptogens come under new tropics.

They are basically stress relieving herbs.

It's one of the major reasons to take ashwagandha.

That's why ashwagandha

is told to be taken before sleep

That gives the best result.

It is to reduce your natural stress levels.

That's the best way.

Yes, ashwagandha compliments

shilajit & other herbs

But if you're taking ashwagandha

to boost your testosterone or performance boost

Then it won't happen.

One more gimmick is going on,

That, ashwagandha increases height.

Friends, it is a myth.

Arpit is taller than me without taking Ashwagandha.

He has not drunk camel's milk.

It is because of his genetics.

So, ashwagandha is an adaptogen

& a stress-relieving herb, that's it.

I 100% agree but I choose "No" because

There's no direct link between

ashwagandha & testosterone.

It is said that when your cortisol level rises,

it decreases your testosterone level

And ashwagandha decreases your cortisol (stress hormone)

It helps but indirectly.

Nowadays, it is even added to whey proteins.

Many people take ashwagandha because

They think it will

automatically boost their testosterone

And they'll get more muscular.

In that case, ashwagandha is a No for me.

But yes it will help you with stress level.

Steambath for fat loss.

NO.

Steambath has nothing to do with fat loss.

Steambath is a very good activity.

It is very good for your lungs,

It is very good for your skin

It also increases your happiness hormones.

Many studies prove it.

But it has nothing to do with fat loss.

When you take a steam bath or a sauna,

You lose water not fat.

I 100% agree with you.

Many people claim to lose fat

after taking a steam bath.

Multiple researches suggest it has benefits

but it has nothing to do with fat loss.

If you're seeing any reduction in your weight

It is because of the water loss.

Fasted Cardio For Fat Loss.

No.

I thought our opinions might differ.

I made a detailed video on this topic.

It was 5 years ago

I'll be making it again.

I'll show all the studies.

You need to understand,

Theoretically, things don't work as we believe.

like, your body will start to burn fat

because your body is glycogen-depleted

It doesn't work this way.

Studies haven't shown any such link.

Also, fasted state cardio

You might have seen bodybuilders do it

This concept came from a book in the 2000s

That trainer promoted it.

And it became popular.

At that time people loved such books.

But when studies were conducted

There's no such special benefit.

There's no excess amount of fat loss happening

just because you're in a fasted state.

You can surely do cardio in a fasted state.

There's no problem in a low-intensity cardio.

In high intensity,

you've a high chance of getting hypoglycemic.

The chances of fainting are high.

You won't be able to workout properly

due to low energy levels.

Your overall intake & fat loss

That is much more important

than fasted-state cardio.

It does nothing special.

I totally agree with him.

Many people say that

some research suggests a faster fat loss

in a fasted state cardio.

If you read those research carefully

It clearly states that

In a big study

When participants were compared

There was no significant difference in their fat loss.

In fact, people who lose more fat

in fasted cardio

When you compare it with other participants

It was almost the same.

In fact, there's a very good study,

in which they showed

That, fat is mobilising in the fasted state

But there's no excess burn.

It is getting stored back.

So, the RER is getting equal

for both the participants

Whether they were in a fasted state or not.

At the end,

Your whole day's nutrition,

and exercise is all that matters.

Stay tuned for episode 2.

Thank you.