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Abstract

As men age, testosterone levels tend to decline — sometimes leading to fatigue, lower libido, and reduced muscle strength. While testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is often prescribed, it can raise safety concerns, especially in older adults. Recent research points to D-Chiro-Inositol (DCI), a natural compound known for improving insulin sensitivity, as a potential alternative.^†

In this small clinical study, ten older men with low-normal testosterone levels took 600 mg of DCI twice daily for 30 days. Results showed increases in testosterone and androstenedione, decreased estrogen levels, improved blood sugar control, and even better grip strength and sexual function — all without side effects.^†

These early findings suggest that DCI may safely support hormonal and metabolic health in aging men, offering a natural way to maintain vitality and well-being.

Why Testosterone Declines with Age

As men grow older, testosterone production naturally slows down. This process, sometimes called late-onset hypogonadism, can cause symptoms like reduced sexual desire, weaker erections, loss of muscle strength, and increased body fat. Traditional treatment involves testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), but this approach isn’t always ideal — especially for older men — due to potential cardiovascular and prostate risks.

That’s why researchers are exploring safer, non-hormonal alternatives to support testosterone production naturally.

D-Chiro-Inositol: More Than a Blood Sugar Regulator^†

D-Chiro-Inositol (DCI) is part of the inositol family, natural compounds that help cells respond to insulin. DCI supports energy metabolism by improving how the body processes glucose and glycogen — but emerging evidence shows it also plays a role in hormone balance.

In both men and women, DCI appears to regulate an enzyme called aromatase, which converts testosterone into estrogen. By reducing aromatase activity, DCI may help maintain a healthier testosterone-to-estrogen ratio — an especially valuable effect for older men whose hormonal balance tends to shift with age.

The Study: A Pilot Test in Older Men

Researchers from Italy and Bulgaria conducted a 30-day pilot study involving ten men aged 65–75 who had low-normal testosterone levels and signs of functional hypogonadism. Each participant took 600 mg of DCI twice daily (1,200 mg total per day).

The team measured several indicators before and after treatment, including testosterone, estrogen, blood sugar, insulin resistance, waist circumference, weight, and physical strength. Participants also completed a standardized questionnaire about sexual function.

Key Findings: Better Hormones, Stronger Bodies

After just 30 days of DCI supplementation, participants showed:
- Higher testosterone and androstenedione levels
- Lower estrogen levels, improving the testosterone-to-estrogen ratio
- Reduced blood sugar and insulin resistance^†
- Decreased weight, waist circumference, and BMI
- Improved grip strength and self-reported sexual performance

Importantly, no side effects were reported during the study, highlighting DCI’s excellent safety profile.

Why It Matters

The results suggest D-Chiro-Inositol may help aging men naturally restore healthy testosterone levels and improve metabolic health — all without the risks associated with synthetic hormone therapy. Improved muscle strength and sexual function indicate not just hormonal, but overall vitality benefits.

While this was a small, short-term study, it opens the door for larger trials exploring DCI as a  natural, complementary or alternative approach to testosterone replacement in older men.^†

The Bottom Line

For men seeking a natural way to maintain energy, strength, and sexual health as they age, D-Chiro-Inositol shows real promise. By helping regulate both insulin and aromatase — two key pathways in metabolism and hormone production — DCI supports a balanced, healthier aging process.^†

Future research with more participants and longer follow-up periods will determine just how far these benefits extend. But for now, D-Chiro-Inositol stands out as a safe, natural ally for men’s hormonal health.^†

†These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug administration.
  These statements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

REFERENCE:

D-Chiro-Inositol improves testosterone levels in older hypogonadal men with low-testosterone

Maurizio Nordio et al.

Basic and Clinical Andrology

November 12, 2021