Does Tadalafil really give you a pump? ⛽

The Little Blue Pill Beyond the Bedroom

It’s freaky Friday so we’ve got some frisky topics on the agenda for today. First off, we’re going to take a look at a craze that has been gaining popularity amongst gym rats and fitness enthusiasts. For the record, I don’t do this - but who says I won’t 😈.

I learned about this where I learn about most things - the internet. Based on the title above, you can probably guess where this is headed. Let’s dive in.

The Unexpected Supplement

Cialis (aka tadalafil), the little blue pill more commonly associated with treating erectile dysfunction, has been making waves in an unexpected place: the gym. Bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts have started popping this pill not for the bedroom boost, but for a workout edge. Hint: it has nothing to do with the Hanging Towel Method.

Cialis: Natty Lyfe School of Pharmacology

Before we get into that, let's do a quick recap of what Cialis (Tadalafil) is. It's a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, which works by relaxing blood vessels, facilitating an increase in blood flow. Typically, it's used to treat erectile dysfunction and benign prostatic hyperplasia. However, aside from increasing the yaw of your Johnson, it appears the science of Cialis has some other unintended benefits.

“The Pump” Ain’t Just for Your Muscles

Relaxed blood vessels and increased blood flow? Sounds like a recipe for a great pump during a workout, doesn't it? That's exactly the logic some gym-goers are following. The idea is that the increased blood flow provides more nutrients to the muscles, promoting growth and recovery. That and the ego pump of looking slightly inflated.

But the benefits might not stop at the pump. Some studies suggest Cialis may improve oxygen delivery and overall endurance capacity, an attribute highly sought after by both endurance athletes and those just looking to power through their workout. But this is Natty Lyfe after all, so you probably know where this is headed.

Tips & Tricks for Natty Pumps

Cialis is in fact a prescribed medication (unless your in Mexico, then everything is natty). This means it’s both harder to obtain, and may have other health implications that you should consider before snorting with your pre-workout (don’t do that).

Given we are Natty Lyfe, we’re going to jump into a few alternatives that help with “the pump”.

Beetroot Powder: The Superhero in Disguise

You might know beetroot as that earthy vegetable that leaves a stain on everything it touches. But did you know it's also a powerhouse for improving blood flow? Beetroot is rich in dietary nitrates, which your body can convert into nitric oxide. This magic molecule helps to relax and dilate your blood vessels, increasing blood flow to your muscles and giving you that much-coveted pump. Next time you’re out on a date and you’re feeling nervous, order beet salad to start and thank me later.

L-Arginine and L-Citrulline: The Dynamic Duo

These two amino acids are often found in pre-workout supplements and for good reason. They both play a role in the production of nitric oxide, just like beetroot. L-Arginine is directly used by the body to produce nitric oxide, while L-Citrulline is converted into L-Arginine, which then goes on to produce nitric oxide. Next time you order your pre-workout, check to see if they are in it. Think of them as the Batman and Robin of getting swoll.

Pomegranate Pre?

While I personally hate the little seeds you have to consume when eating the fruit; Pomegranate is also a potent provider of antioxidants that can boost your nitric oxide levels. You won’t catch me staining my clothes trying to eat one of these but the juice ain’t half bad.

Dark Chocolate and Leafy Greens

Yes, you read that right. Dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa) and leafy greens like spinach and arugula can also help increase nitric oxide and improve blood flow. They're rich in flavonoids and nitrates respectively, both of which are beneficial for nitric oxide production. Just don’t mix the two 🤮.

The Key Ingredient: Nitric Oxide

Are you following along? The main ingredient here is nitric oxide. And how does your body get it? Foods that are heavy in nitrates and nitrites that are then converted into nitric oxide. Not to be confused with Nitrous Oxide that makes your car go vroom but loosely following the same principles. It makes your muscles go brrrrrr.

Other foods that are good sources of nitrates and nitrites:

Garlic, citrusy fruits, nuts, seeds, watermelon, meat & dairy, red wine, shellfish & seafood. Regular exercise also helps stimulate NO production - duhhh.

You can also try adding some salt to your water before you workout and eating a banana. The salt will help with hydration, muscle function and fatigue while the carbs and potassium will help with maintaining fluid balance and strength exertion.

Who knew a salty liquid and Johnson shaped food could benefit your lifts? 🍆🌊

Unpacking Ejaculoids: Buckle Up

No, it's not a term from a sci-fi movie. Ejaculoids, often referred to as load volumizers, are a class of dietary supplements geared towards men. The primary claim? To increase the volume and intensity of male ejaculate. They've been making a splash (pun intended) in the supplement world, but what's the real deal?

The Science (or Lack Thereof)

Let's get this out of the way first: research on ejaculoids is sparse. The scientific community hasn't put a lot of focus on studying these supplements, so any claims about their efficacy should be taken with a splash of salt (another intended pun). However - if anyone is looking for a test subject, hit me up…

The Ingredient List:

Despite the lack of solid scientific backing, ejaculoids often contain several ingredients that are known to have positive effects on various aspects of male sexual health. These can include:

• Zinc: A mineral that plays a crucial role in sperm production and testosterone metabolism.

• Maca root: An Andean plant often used as an aphrodisiac and energy booster.

• L-arginine: A recurring theme of today I guess?

Conclusion:

Save your money.

Wishing you a productive and activity filled weekend. Got any thoughts about topics you’d like us to research? Don’t be scared to leave a comment. And once again, please share this with a friend - I owe people money. And let’s face it, your dad could use this information.