FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
At Verve Health, we are driven by evidence-based personalized medicine leading to optimized health, longevity, vitality, and quality of life. We work directly with our partner compounding pharmacies to provide our patients with prescription medications including bioidentical hormones, compounded generic Semaglutide & Tirzepatide, Sexual health products, pharmaceutical-grade supplements and vitamins, and more in an effort to help extend health and lifespan and help our patients live productive, independent, and healthy lives.
We offer a variety of BHRT (Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy) treatments, sexual health, weight loss, aesthetics, IV vitamin drips and injections.
Unfortunately, due to our desire to employ the most up to date and evidence-backed treatments, at this time we are unable to accept insurance.
Each patient reacts to the medication differently, but we typically see weight loss of around 15% in a year. These changes can be improved by exercise, diet and lifestyle changes.
Our provider will recommend a unique weight loss program for you along with the medication. These often include exercise, diet and lifestyle changes to amplify the results.
Here at Verve Health, we want any weight loss to stay lost! We create custom plans for getting off your weight loss injections including plans for diet and exercise, systematic hormone plan if desired, and alternative hunger suppression supplements like Berberine.
Some patients prefer to be on their own schedule for payments and dosing. The Memberships are the most cost effective plans but at your consultation we will find the right treatment plan for you.
Hitting a plateau is common with any form of weight loss, including while using GLP-1 medications. Here are some key strategies to help break through it:
- Evaluate Your Diet: Ensure you're eating enough protein to preserve muscle mass and support metabolism.
- Incorporate Strength Training: Aim for at least 3 sessions per week to build muscle and improve fat loss.
- Adjust Activity Levels: Consider increasing daily movement, such as walking or resistance exercises.
- Track Your Intake: Small adjustments to portions or macros can make a difference.
If your plateau persists, we can help assess and adjust your plan. Reach out for personalized guidance!
- Evaluate Your Diet: Ensure you're eating enough protein to preserve muscle mass and support metabolism.
- Incorporate Strength Training: Aim for at least 3 sessions per week to build muscle and improve fat loss.
- Adjust Activity Levels: Consider increasing daily movement, such as walking or resistance exercises.
- Track Your Intake: Small adjustments to portions or macros can make a difference.
If your plateau persists, we can help assess and adjust your plan. Reach out for personalized guidance!
Nausea - Nausea can occur due to gastric emptying slowing down, a recent increase in weekly dose, or low blood sugar.
- Protein: When you begin to feel nausea, eat something higher in protein to bring sugar levels up to a more steady state.
- Protein Shake: If your appetite is quite suppressed and you aren’t feeling hungry, you can supplement with a healthy protein shake. We recommend Dr. Ben Bikman’s Hlthcode which is full of healthy ingredients: HlthCode Complete meal
- Decrease your medication dose: If your current dose is causing nausea and completely suppressing your appetite in a way that is unhealthy, decrease your dose for your next injection.
Bloating - Food sits in the stomach longer causing the feeling of fullness, which can lead to bloating.
- Foods: Steer clear of foods or beverages that cause bloating -beans, dairy, cruciferous vegetables, and carbonated drinks.
- Overeating: Overeating can cause bloating, so eat smaller meals which are more easily digestible.
- Move your Body: Exercise regularly to improve your digestion and help prevent bloating. Even a 5-10 minute walk following meals helps greatly with digestion.
Indigestion or heartburn - Stomach emptying is slower & food sits in your stomach longer (causing fullness).
- Smaller portions: Eat smaller portions which are more easily digestible
Say no to spicy or greasy foods: Steer clear of foods that are spicy or greasy if they cause heartburn
- Constipation - Gastric emptying is slowed causing food to move through your GI tract more slowly
- Move your Body: Exercise can help relieve constipation by stimulating the muscles in your intestines, promoting smoother movement of stool through the digestive system, and potentially reducing the time it takes for food to move through the large intestine
- Eat enough Fiber & Drink Plenty of Fluids: Increasing fiber intake and drinking plenty of fluids are key strategies for relieving and preventing constipation because fiber adds bulk to stool and helps it absorb water, making it softer and easier to pass
OTC Medications to help: Stool Softeners, Osmotic Laxatives, Bulk-Forming Laxatives, Stimulant Laxatives, Lubricant Laxatives.
Diarrhea
- Decrease your medication dose - if your dose has recently increased, it might be too much for you. You can decrease your dose for your next injection and allow the diarrhea to resolve.
- Drink plenty of fluids to avoid becoming dehydrated
- Avoid Certain Foods: Steer clear of dairy products, high-fiber foods, laxatives, coffee, alcohol, and soft drinks, all of which can exacerbate diarrhea. Eat Simple Foods: To help settle your stomach, stick to bland foods such as chicken broth, rice, potatoes, etc.
- You can take over-the-counter medications to help with diarrhea including: Citrucel dietary fiber supplement, Imodium (loperamide), Kaopectate (bismuth subsalicylate), and Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate)
- Protein: When you begin to feel nausea, eat something higher in protein to bring sugar levels up to a more steady state.
- Protein Shake: If your appetite is quite suppressed and you aren’t feeling hungry, you can supplement with a healthy protein shake. We recommend Dr. Ben Bikman’s Hlthcode which is full of healthy ingredients: HlthCode Complete meal
- Decrease your medication dose: If your current dose is causing nausea and completely suppressing your appetite in a way that is unhealthy, decrease your dose for your next injection.
Bloating - Food sits in the stomach longer causing the feeling of fullness, which can lead to bloating.
- Foods: Steer clear of foods or beverages that cause bloating -beans, dairy, cruciferous vegetables, and carbonated drinks.
- Overeating: Overeating can cause bloating, so eat smaller meals which are more easily digestible.
- Move your Body: Exercise regularly to improve your digestion and help prevent bloating. Even a 5-10 minute walk following meals helps greatly with digestion.
Indigestion or heartburn - Stomach emptying is slower & food sits in your stomach longer (causing fullness).
- Smaller portions: Eat smaller portions which are more easily digestible
Say no to spicy or greasy foods: Steer clear of foods that are spicy or greasy if they cause heartburn
- Constipation - Gastric emptying is slowed causing food to move through your GI tract more slowly
- Move your Body: Exercise can help relieve constipation by stimulating the muscles in your intestines, promoting smoother movement of stool through the digestive system, and potentially reducing the time it takes for food to move through the large intestine
- Eat enough Fiber & Drink Plenty of Fluids: Increasing fiber intake and drinking plenty of fluids are key strategies for relieving and preventing constipation because fiber adds bulk to stool and helps it absorb water, making it softer and easier to pass
OTC Medications to help: Stool Softeners, Osmotic Laxatives, Bulk-Forming Laxatives, Stimulant Laxatives, Lubricant Laxatives.
Diarrhea
- Decrease your medication dose - if your dose has recently increased, it might be too much for you. You can decrease your dose for your next injection and allow the diarrhea to resolve.
- Drink plenty of fluids to avoid becoming dehydrated
- Avoid Certain Foods: Steer clear of dairy products, high-fiber foods, laxatives, coffee, alcohol, and soft drinks, all of which can exacerbate diarrhea. Eat Simple Foods: To help settle your stomach, stick to bland foods such as chicken broth, rice, potatoes, etc.
- You can take over-the-counter medications to help with diarrhea including: Citrucel dietary fiber supplement, Imodium (loperamide), Kaopectate (bismuth subsalicylate), and Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate)
Each patient reacts to the medication differently, but we typically see weight loss of around 15% within a year. These changes are improved by exercise, diet and lifestyle changes.
Semaglutide (generic for Ozempic, Wegovy) is a GLP-1 drug.
In studies over a year's time, participants on a healthy diet and exercise plan lost an average of 15% body weight.
For example, if you weigh 200 pounds, you can expect within one year (if you follow a healthy diet and exercise plan) to lose 15% body weight or 30 pounds.
This is an average and there are folks who lose less, and more.
Semaglutide (generic for Ozempic, Wegovy) is a GLP-1 drug.
In studies over a year's time, participants on a healthy diet and exercise plan lost an average of 15% body weight.
For example, if you weigh 200 pounds, you can expect within one year (if you follow a healthy diet and exercise plan) to lose 15% body weight or 30 pounds.
This is an average and there are folks who lose less, and more.
Each patient reacts to the medication differently, but we typically see weight loss of around 18-22% within a year. These changes are improved by exercise, diet and lifestyle changes.
Tirzepatide (generic for Mounjaro, Zepbound) is a GLP-1 +GIP drug. In studies over a year's time, participants on a healthy diet and exercise plan lost an average of 18-22% body weight.
For example, if you weigh 200 pounds, you can expect within one year (if you follow a healthy diet and exercise plan) to lose 18-22% body weight or 36-44 pounds.
This is an average and there are folks who lose less, and more!
Tirzepatide (generic for Mounjaro, Zepbound) is a GLP-1 +GIP drug. In studies over a year's time, participants on a healthy diet and exercise plan lost an average of 18-22% body weight.
For example, if you weigh 200 pounds, you can expect within one year (if you follow a healthy diet and exercise plan) to lose 18-22% body weight or 36-44 pounds.
This is an average and there are folks who lose less, and more!
Semaglutide and tirzepatide are both medications that belong to a class called GLP-1 receptor agonists (glucagon-like peptide-1) and are used to help manage type 2 diabetes and aid in weight loss. However, there are some differences between them in terms of their mechanisms of action, efficacy, and potential for weight loss. Here’s a breakdown of each:
Semaglutide:
Brand Names: Ozempic (for diabetes), Wegovy (for weight loss)
Mechanism of Action: Semaglutide works by mimicking the natural hormone GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar by:
Stimulating insulin release when blood sugar levels are high.
Inhibiting glucagon release, which helps reduce liver glucose production.
Slowing gastric emptying, which helps control appetite.
Increasing satiety (feeling of fullness), thus reducing food intake.
Indications: It is primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes and also approved for chronic weight management in obese or overweight individuals.
Weight Loss: Semaglutide has been shown to result in significant weight loss in people with obesity. In clinical trials, those using Wegovy (higher dose of semaglutide for weight loss) lost an average of 15-20% of their body weight.
Tirzepatide:
Brand Name: Mounjaro
Mechanism of Action: Tirzepatide is a dual agonist that targets both the GLP-1 receptor and the GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptor. This combination enhances its effects on glucose control and weight loss:
Increases insulin secretion in response to meals.
Reduces glucagon secretion, lowering blood sugar levels.
Slows gastric emptying and promotes satiety.
Dual action on GLP-1 and GIP receptors may offer a more powerful effect on insulin sensitivity and appetite control compared to semaglutide.
Indications: Tirzepatide is approved for type 2 diabetes management and has shown even greater weight loss benefits than semaglutide in clinical trials.
Weight Loss: In trials, tirzepatide has led to an average weight loss of 20-22% of body weight (higher than semaglutide), with some participants experiencing up to 25% weight reduction.
Key Differences:
Mechanism of Action: Semaglutide is a GLP-1 agonist, while tirzepatide is a dual GLP-1 and GIP agonist, making tirzepatide potentially more effective in both controlling blood sugar and promoting weight loss.
Weight Loss Potential: Tirzepatide appears to have a slightly greater potential for weight loss than semaglutide, with clinical trials showing more significant weight reductions.
Efficacy: Tirzepatide has shown more promising results in managing blood sugar levels and promoting weight loss in people with type 2 diabetes, although both medications are effective for these purposes.
Conclusion:
Both semaglutide and tirzepatide are effective medications for managing type 2 diabetes and aiding in weight loss, but tirzepatide may offer a stronger weight loss effect due to its dual action on GLP-1 and GIP receptors. If weight loss is a primary concern, tirzepatide might be the preferred option, although the choice between these medications should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider based on individual health factors.
Semaglutide:
Brand Names: Ozempic (for diabetes), Wegovy (for weight loss)
Mechanism of Action: Semaglutide works by mimicking the natural hormone GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar by:
Stimulating insulin release when blood sugar levels are high.
Inhibiting glucagon release, which helps reduce liver glucose production.
Slowing gastric emptying, which helps control appetite.
Increasing satiety (feeling of fullness), thus reducing food intake.
Indications: It is primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes and also approved for chronic weight management in obese or overweight individuals.
Weight Loss: Semaglutide has been shown to result in significant weight loss in people with obesity. In clinical trials, those using Wegovy (higher dose of semaglutide for weight loss) lost an average of 15-20% of their body weight.
Tirzepatide:
Brand Name: Mounjaro
Mechanism of Action: Tirzepatide is a dual agonist that targets both the GLP-1 receptor and the GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptor. This combination enhances its effects on glucose control and weight loss:
Increases insulin secretion in response to meals.
Reduces glucagon secretion, lowering blood sugar levels.
Slows gastric emptying and promotes satiety.
Dual action on GLP-1 and GIP receptors may offer a more powerful effect on insulin sensitivity and appetite control compared to semaglutide.
Indications: Tirzepatide is approved for type 2 diabetes management and has shown even greater weight loss benefits than semaglutide in clinical trials.
Weight Loss: In trials, tirzepatide has led to an average weight loss of 20-22% of body weight (higher than semaglutide), with some participants experiencing up to 25% weight reduction.
Key Differences:
Mechanism of Action: Semaglutide is a GLP-1 agonist, while tirzepatide is a dual GLP-1 and GIP agonist, making tirzepatide potentially more effective in both controlling blood sugar and promoting weight loss.
Weight Loss Potential: Tirzepatide appears to have a slightly greater potential for weight loss than semaglutide, with clinical trials showing more significant weight reductions.
Efficacy: Tirzepatide has shown more promising results in managing blood sugar levels and promoting weight loss in people with type 2 diabetes, although both medications are effective for these purposes.
Conclusion:
Both semaglutide and tirzepatide are effective medications for managing type 2 diabetes and aiding in weight loss, but tirzepatide may offer a stronger weight loss effect due to its dual action on GLP-1 and GIP receptors. If weight loss is a primary concern, tirzepatide might be the preferred option, although the choice between these medications should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider based on individual health factors.
Preventing muscle loss during weight loss is a key goal to ensure that the weight you lose comes primarily from fat, not muscle. Losing muscle can slow down your metabolism and make it harder to maintain a healthy weight in the long run. Here are several strategies to help prevent muscle loss while losing weight:
1. Maintain a Protein-Rich Diet
- Protein Intake: Protein is essential for muscle preservation, especially during calorie restriction. Aim for around 0.8 to 1.2 grams of protein per pound of body weight, depending on your activity level and goals.
- High-Quality Protein Sources: Focus on lean protein sources like chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, tofu, and legumes. Protein helps repair and rebuild muscle tissues that can be broken down during weight loss.
2. Strength Training (Resistance Training)
- Lift Weights: Incorporating strength training exercises 3-4 times a week can help maintain or even build muscle mass while losing fat. Focus on compound exercises like squats, deadlifts, bench presses, and rows that work multiple muscle groups.
- Progressive Overload: Gradually increase the weight or intensity of your workouts to challenge your muscles and encourage growth or maintenance.
- Include Bodyweight Exercises: If you're new to lifting weights, bodyweight exercises (like push-ups, lunges, and squats) are also effective at maintaining muscle mass.
3. Create a Moderate Calorie Deficit
- Avoid Extreme Caloric Restriction: A drastic calorie deficit (such as cutting too many calories too quickly) can lead to muscle loss. Aim for a moderate deficit of about 500 to 750 calories per day, which typically leads to a weight loss of about 1-1.5 pounds per week. This allows for fat loss while minimizing muscle breakdown.
- Gradual Weight Loss: Slower, sustainable weight loss helps protect lean muscle mass, as your body has time to adjust.
4. Prioritize Strength over Cardio
- Limit Excessive Cardio: While cardio (like running or cycling) is important for heart health and fat loss, excessive cardio can lead to muscle loss, especially if you’re not strength training. Keep cardio sessions moderate and focus on a balanced exercise routine.
- Include HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training): HIIT can be a great alternative to long, steady-state cardio because it burns fat while preserving muscle, and it’s also time-efficient.
5. Stay Hydrated
- Proper hydration is essential for muscle function and recovery. Dehydration can affect your workout performance and muscle repair. Aim to drink enough water throughout the day, especially before and after workouts.
6. Ensure Adequate Rest and Recovery
- Sleep: Sleep is when muscle repair and recovery occur. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night to support muscle preservation and overall recovery.
- Rest Days: Overtraining can lead to muscle breakdown. Make sure to incorporate rest or active recovery days into your routine to allow muscles to repair and grow.
7. Incorporate Healthy Fats and Carbohydrates
- Healthy Fats: Healthy fats (such as those found in avocados, olive oil, and fatty fish) support hormone balance, including testosterone, which plays a role in muscle maintenance.
- Carbohydrates: Carbs are an important energy source, especially during strength training. Make sure to consume complex carbs like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to fuel your workouts and help prevent muscle breakdown.
8. Consider Supplements (Optional)
- Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs): Some people take BCAAs, which are amino acids that may help reduce muscle breakdown during periods of calorie restriction or intense exercise.
- Creatine: Creatine can help increase strength and muscle mass by improving workout performance. It’s particularly effective for maintaining muscle during a fat-loss phase.
9. Monitor Your Progress
- Track your muscle mass, strength levels, and overall progress. If you notice significant muscle loss, you may need to adjust your calorie intake, exercise routine, or protein consumption.
10. Avoid Fad Diets
- Extreme diets (such as very low-carb or very low-fat diets) can often lead to muscle loss. Focus on a balanced, sustainable diet that includes a variety of food groups and adequate protein, rather than cutting out entire food groups or relying on short-term fixes.
Conclusion
Preventing muscle loss during weight loss involves a combination of proper nutrition, strength training, and healthy lifestyle choices. By focusing on moderate caloric reduction, maintaining a high protein intake, engaging in regular strength training, and getting enough rest, you can help preserve lean muscle mass while losing fat. This not only supports a healthy metabolism but also ensures you maintain strength, function, and a toned physique.
1. Maintain a Protein-Rich Diet
- Protein Intake: Protein is essential for muscle preservation, especially during calorie restriction. Aim for around 0.8 to 1.2 grams of protein per pound of body weight, depending on your activity level and goals.
- High-Quality Protein Sources: Focus on lean protein sources like chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, tofu, and legumes. Protein helps repair and rebuild muscle tissues that can be broken down during weight loss.
2. Strength Training (Resistance Training)
- Lift Weights: Incorporating strength training exercises 3-4 times a week can help maintain or even build muscle mass while losing fat. Focus on compound exercises like squats, deadlifts, bench presses, and rows that work multiple muscle groups.
- Progressive Overload: Gradually increase the weight or intensity of your workouts to challenge your muscles and encourage growth or maintenance.
- Include Bodyweight Exercises: If you're new to lifting weights, bodyweight exercises (like push-ups, lunges, and squats) are also effective at maintaining muscle mass.
3. Create a Moderate Calorie Deficit
- Avoid Extreme Caloric Restriction: A drastic calorie deficit (such as cutting too many calories too quickly) can lead to muscle loss. Aim for a moderate deficit of about 500 to 750 calories per day, which typically leads to a weight loss of about 1-1.5 pounds per week. This allows for fat loss while minimizing muscle breakdown.
- Gradual Weight Loss: Slower, sustainable weight loss helps protect lean muscle mass, as your body has time to adjust.
4. Prioritize Strength over Cardio
- Limit Excessive Cardio: While cardio (like running or cycling) is important for heart health and fat loss, excessive cardio can lead to muscle loss, especially if you’re not strength training. Keep cardio sessions moderate and focus on a balanced exercise routine.
- Include HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training): HIIT can be a great alternative to long, steady-state cardio because it burns fat while preserving muscle, and it’s also time-efficient.
5. Stay Hydrated
- Proper hydration is essential for muscle function and recovery. Dehydration can affect your workout performance and muscle repair. Aim to drink enough water throughout the day, especially before and after workouts.
6. Ensure Adequate Rest and Recovery
- Sleep: Sleep is when muscle repair and recovery occur. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night to support muscle preservation and overall recovery.
- Rest Days: Overtraining can lead to muscle breakdown. Make sure to incorporate rest or active recovery days into your routine to allow muscles to repair and grow.
7. Incorporate Healthy Fats and Carbohydrates
- Healthy Fats: Healthy fats (such as those found in avocados, olive oil, and fatty fish) support hormone balance, including testosterone, which plays a role in muscle maintenance.
- Carbohydrates: Carbs are an important energy source, especially during strength training. Make sure to consume complex carbs like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to fuel your workouts and help prevent muscle breakdown.
8. Consider Supplements (Optional)
- Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs): Some people take BCAAs, which are amino acids that may help reduce muscle breakdown during periods of calorie restriction or intense exercise.
- Creatine: Creatine can help increase strength and muscle mass by improving workout performance. It’s particularly effective for maintaining muscle during a fat-loss phase.
9. Monitor Your Progress
- Track your muscle mass, strength levels, and overall progress. If you notice significant muscle loss, you may need to adjust your calorie intake, exercise routine, or protein consumption.
10. Avoid Fad Diets
- Extreme diets (such as very low-carb or very low-fat diets) can often lead to muscle loss. Focus on a balanced, sustainable diet that includes a variety of food groups and adequate protein, rather than cutting out entire food groups or relying on short-term fixes.
Conclusion
Preventing muscle loss during weight loss involves a combination of proper nutrition, strength training, and healthy lifestyle choices. By focusing on moderate caloric reduction, maintaining a high protein intake, engaging in regular strength training, and getting enough rest, you can help preserve lean muscle mass while losing fat. This not only supports a healthy metabolism but also ensures you maintain strength, function, and a toned physique.
While "normal" hormone levels refer to a range considered average within a population, "optimal" hormone levels represent the range considered best for achieving peak health and well-being, which may fall within the normal range but could potentially be slightly higher or lower depending on individual needs and circumstances; essentially, "optimal" implies the most beneficial level for your specific health, even if it's still within the "normal" range.
It is essential to understand that the benefits can take time to appear when starting Testosterone therapy and even more important to understand that everybody reacts differently.
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a long-term treatment, and the timeline for experiencing noticeable physical benefits can vary significantly from person to person. Here’s a more detailed look at what to expect and the hidden benefits of TRT:
Initial Effects (Within a Few Weeks to Months):
Mood & Energy: Many individuals report improvements in mood, energy levels, and a reduction in fatigue relatively quickly (within the first 2 to 4 weeks). This is often one of the first noticeable benefits, especially if low testosterone was causing irritability, fatigue, or depression.
Libido: Increased sexual drive and performance are often noticed within the first month or two, especially in men who had experienced reduced libido due to low testosterone.
Later Effects (within a few Months):
Muscle Mass & Strength: While significant changes in muscle mass and strength may not be immediately apparent, improvements in strength and lean muscle growth typically start to show around the 1-3 month mark, especially when combined with regular exercise.
Fat Loss: Many people begin to notice a reduction in body fat, particularly visceral fat (fat around internal organs), after a few months. TRT can help improve fat metabolism, although diet and exercise still play a key role.
Bone Density: TRT helps stimulate bone mineral density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis. However, these changes might take several months to become noticeable, and they're not easily observable without medical tests (like DEXA scans).
Long-Term Benefits (6 Months to 1 Year):
Cognitive Function: Improvements in cognitive function, such as memory, focus, and mental clarity, may take longer to become apparent, but they are often a significant benefit of TRT in the long run.
Prostate Health: TRT has been associated with a lower risk of developing prostate cancer in some studies, but it’s important to note that the relationship between TRT and prostate cancer is complex and requires careful monitoring. In the long term, TRT may also help with maintaining prostate health by preventing the development of certain types of prostate-related conditions.
Heart Health: Over time, TRT can improve cardiovascular health by enhancing circulation, improving cholesterol levels, and reducing the risk of heart disease. However, these benefits are gradual and may not be immediately observable.
Hidden Benefits of TRT
While many of the physical benefits of TRT can take time to become noticeable, there are several hidden benefits that improve your overall long-term health, even if they aren’t immediately visible:
Lower Risk of Heart Disease: TRT can improve cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure, and enhance blood flow, which can decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases over time.
Reduced Risk of Osteoporosis: By stimulating bone growth and improving bone density, TRT can help prevent osteoporosis, especially in older men, reducing the risk of fractures and maintaining mobility.
Improved Cognitive Function & Mood: While the mental clarity benefits might not be visible, many individuals experience improved focus, better memory, and enhanced emotional well-being over time. These cognitive benefits can be especially important for overall quality of life as people age.
Reduced Visceral Fat: TRT has been shown to help reduce visceral fat, the type of fat that surrounds internal organs and is linked to various chronic diseases such as diabetes and metabolic syndrome. This is a critical health benefit that may not be visually obvious but significantly impacts long-term health.
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a long-term treatment, and the timeline for experiencing noticeable physical benefits can vary significantly from person to person. Here’s a more detailed look at what to expect and the hidden benefits of TRT:
Initial Effects (Within a Few Weeks to Months):
Mood & Energy: Many individuals report improvements in mood, energy levels, and a reduction in fatigue relatively quickly (within the first 2 to 4 weeks). This is often one of the first noticeable benefits, especially if low testosterone was causing irritability, fatigue, or depression.
Libido: Increased sexual drive and performance are often noticed within the first month or two, especially in men who had experienced reduced libido due to low testosterone.
Later Effects (within a few Months):
Muscle Mass & Strength: While significant changes in muscle mass and strength may not be immediately apparent, improvements in strength and lean muscle growth typically start to show around the 1-3 month mark, especially when combined with regular exercise.
Fat Loss: Many people begin to notice a reduction in body fat, particularly visceral fat (fat around internal organs), after a few months. TRT can help improve fat metabolism, although diet and exercise still play a key role.
Bone Density: TRT helps stimulate bone mineral density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis. However, these changes might take several months to become noticeable, and they're not easily observable without medical tests (like DEXA scans).
Long-Term Benefits (6 Months to 1 Year):
Cognitive Function: Improvements in cognitive function, such as memory, focus, and mental clarity, may take longer to become apparent, but they are often a significant benefit of TRT in the long run.
Prostate Health: TRT has been associated with a lower risk of developing prostate cancer in some studies, but it’s important to note that the relationship between TRT and prostate cancer is complex and requires careful monitoring. In the long term, TRT may also help with maintaining prostate health by preventing the development of certain types of prostate-related conditions.
Heart Health: Over time, TRT can improve cardiovascular health by enhancing circulation, improving cholesterol levels, and reducing the risk of heart disease. However, these benefits are gradual and may not be immediately observable.
Hidden Benefits of TRT
While many of the physical benefits of TRT can take time to become noticeable, there are several hidden benefits that improve your overall long-term health, even if they aren’t immediately visible:
Lower Risk of Heart Disease: TRT can improve cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure, and enhance blood flow, which can decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases over time.
Reduced Risk of Osteoporosis: By stimulating bone growth and improving bone density, TRT can help prevent osteoporosis, especially in older men, reducing the risk of fractures and maintaining mobility.
Improved Cognitive Function & Mood: While the mental clarity benefits might not be visible, many individuals experience improved focus, better memory, and enhanced emotional well-being over time. These cognitive benefits can be especially important for overall quality of life as people age.
Reduced Visceral Fat: TRT has been shown to help reduce visceral fat, the type of fat that surrounds internal organs and is linked to various chronic diseases such as diabetes and metabolic syndrome. This is a critical health benefit that may not be visually obvious but significantly impacts long-term health.
TRT works by gradually increasing testosterone levels to a healthy range, and the body needs time to adjust to these changes. It’s not a quick fix, but over time, the cumulative benefits contribute to improved health and well-being. Consistency is key with TRT, and it’s often paired with regular monitoring by a healthcare provider to ensure testosterone levels are optimized and side effects are minimized.
It’s important to remember that while some benefits of testosterone replacement therapy may become noticeable within a few weeks or months (such as improvements in mood, energy, and libido), many of the most significant health benefits, such as reduced risk of heart disease, prostate cancer, osteoporosis, and cognitive decline, unfold more gradually over time. That’s why TRT should be considered as part of a long-term health strategy rather than a quick solution. Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is essential to track progress, make adjustments, and ensure you're receiving the full benefits of treatment.
It’s important to remember that while some benefits of testosterone replacement therapy may become noticeable within a few weeks or months (such as improvements in mood, energy, and libido), many of the most significant health benefits, such as reduced risk of heart disease, prostate cancer, osteoporosis, and cognitive decline, unfold more gradually over time. That’s why TRT should be considered as part of a long-term health strategy rather than a quick solution. Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is essential to track progress, make adjustments, and ensure you're receiving the full benefits of treatment.
While testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can improve many symptoms of low testosterone, such as fatigue, low libido, and mood issues, it can sometimes lead to concerns about hair loss. The key factor in this is Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a more potent derivative of testosterone.
DHT is produced when testosterone is converted by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. For men who are genetically sensitive to DHT, this hormone can shrink hair follicles, particularly on the scalp, leading to hair thinning and male pattern baldness. This is a common cause of hair loss, and it can be exacerbated by testosterone therapy, especially if the TRT increases the levels of DHT.
However, not all men on testosterone therapy will experience hair loss, as it largely depends on their genetic predisposition to DHT sensitivity. Some men may even find that their hair loss doesn't worsen, or they might have other factors that influence hair growth.
DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is a crucial hormone with significant physiological benefits. While it is often feared because of its association with hair loss and prostate issues, DHT has many essential roles in the body. DHT is crucial for sexual function, essential for normal prostate function, has positive effects on bone density, plays a role in protecting cognitive function as well as memory and focus, helpful in maintaining muscle mass, assists in the regulation of blood sugar by improving insulin sensitivity, has protective effects on the cardiovascular system, improves vascular health and maintains a healthy blood flow throughout the body, and is linked to better mood regulation and reduced symptoms of depression.
Yes, there are potential downsides to too much DHT for some individuals who are genetically sensitive to DHT, but its benefits far outweigh the issues it can cause.
You will have the opportunity to discuss these concerns with your Verve Health provider, as they can help tailor a treatment plan that balances the benefits of TRT with any potential side effects, including hair loss.
DHT is produced when testosterone is converted by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. For men who are genetically sensitive to DHT, this hormone can shrink hair follicles, particularly on the scalp, leading to hair thinning and male pattern baldness. This is a common cause of hair loss, and it can be exacerbated by testosterone therapy, especially if the TRT increases the levels of DHT.
However, not all men on testosterone therapy will experience hair loss, as it largely depends on their genetic predisposition to DHT sensitivity. Some men may even find that their hair loss doesn't worsen, or they might have other factors that influence hair growth.
DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is a crucial hormone with significant physiological benefits. While it is often feared because of its association with hair loss and prostate issues, DHT has many essential roles in the body. DHT is crucial for sexual function, essential for normal prostate function, has positive effects on bone density, plays a role in protecting cognitive function as well as memory and focus, helpful in maintaining muscle mass, assists in the regulation of blood sugar by improving insulin sensitivity, has protective effects on the cardiovascular system, improves vascular health and maintains a healthy blood flow throughout the body, and is linked to better mood regulation and reduced symptoms of depression.
Yes, there are potential downsides to too much DHT for some individuals who are genetically sensitive to DHT, but its benefits far outweigh the issues it can cause.
You will have the opportunity to discuss these concerns with your Verve Health provider, as they can help tailor a treatment plan that balances the benefits of TRT with any potential side effects, including hair loss.
DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is a crucial hormone with significant physiological benefits. While it is often feared because of its association with hair loss and prostate issues, DHT has many essential roles in the body. Here's a deeper look:
Sexual Function: DHT is critical for the development and maintenance of male sexual characteristics. It plays a significant role in libido, erectile function, and overall sexual health. It's also involved in the development of the male reproductive system during fetal life and puberty.
Prostate Health: DHT is essential for the growth and maintenance of the prostate. While excess DHT can contribute to conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostate cancer in susceptible individuals, a balanced amount is necessary for normal prostate function.
Bone Health: DHT has positive effects on bone density. It helps in maintaining a healthy balance between bone resorption and bone formation, which contributes to preventing osteoporosis and promoting stronger bones, especially as individuals age.
Cognitive Function: DHT also plays a role in protecting cognitive function, especially in aging individuals. It can help preserve memory, focus, and other cognitive functions, possibly due to its neuroprotective effects.
Muscle Building: DHT is involved in muscle development and maintenance. It contributes to muscle strength, density, and overall lean muscle mass, which can be particularly helpful in maintaining muscle mass as one ages.
Blood Sugar Management: Studies suggest that DHT may assist in the regulation of blood sugar by improving insulin sensitivity, which is beneficial in preventing conditions like type 2 diabetes.
Cardiovascular Health: DHT has protective effects on the cardiovascular system. It may help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and improve blood circulation, thus contributing to heart health and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Reduced Stroke Risk: Some research indicates that DHT may reduce the risk of stroke by improving vascular health and maintaining a healthy blood flow throughout the body.
Mood and Depression: DHT has been linked to better mood regulation and reduced symptoms of depression. Lower levels of DHT, particularly in older individuals, have been associated with symptoms of depression and mood swings.
Sexual Function: DHT is critical for the development and maintenance of male sexual characteristics. It plays a significant role in libido, erectile function, and overall sexual health. It's also involved in the development of the male reproductive system during fetal life and puberty.
Prostate Health: DHT is essential for the growth and maintenance of the prostate. While excess DHT can contribute to conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostate cancer in susceptible individuals, a balanced amount is necessary for normal prostate function.
Bone Health: DHT has positive effects on bone density. It helps in maintaining a healthy balance between bone resorption and bone formation, which contributes to preventing osteoporosis and promoting stronger bones, especially as individuals age.
Cognitive Function: DHT also plays a role in protecting cognitive function, especially in aging individuals. It can help preserve memory, focus, and other cognitive functions, possibly due to its neuroprotective effects.
Muscle Building: DHT is involved in muscle development and maintenance. It contributes to muscle strength, density, and overall lean muscle mass, which can be particularly helpful in maintaining muscle mass as one ages.
Blood Sugar Management: Studies suggest that DHT may assist in the regulation of blood sugar by improving insulin sensitivity, which is beneficial in preventing conditions like type 2 diabetes.
Cardiovascular Health: DHT has protective effects on the cardiovascular system. It may help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and improve blood circulation, thus contributing to heart health and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Reduced Stroke Risk: Some research indicates that DHT may reduce the risk of stroke by improving vascular health and maintaining a healthy blood flow throughout the body.
Mood and Depression: DHT has been linked to better mood regulation and reduced symptoms of depression. Lower levels of DHT, particularly in older individuals, have been associated with symptoms of depression and mood swings.
Male pattern baldness (MPB), or androgenic alopecia, is indeed largely hereditary and cannot be fully prevented, but there are still effective strategies to support hair health and potentially slow the progression of hair loss. Here’s a deeper look at the suggestions you mentioned:
1. Taking Your Vitamins
Iron: Low iron levels can lead to hair thinning and hair loss, so ensuring you’re getting enough iron is important. Iron-rich foods like spinach, red meat, and legumes are excellent sources.
Zinc: Zinc is vital for the proper functioning of hair follicles. A deficiency in zinc can contribute to hair loss. Foods like pumpkin seeds, shellfish, and nuts are rich in zinc.
Vitamins A, B, C, D, and E: Each of these vitamins plays a unique role in maintaining healthy hair.
Vitamin A supports the health of the scalp and encourages hair cell growth.
B vitamins, especially biotin, are key for hair structure and growth.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect hair follicles from damage and promotes collagen production, which is necessary for hair strength.
Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to hair loss, so adequate sun exposure or supplementation can be helpful.
Vitamin E is another antioxidant that helps support scalp health and hair growth.
2. Including Enough Protein
Hair is primarily made up of keratin, a protein, so consuming adequate protein is essential for hair health. Foods like lean meats, eggs, legumes, and tofu are great sources of protein. A diet rich in protein helps promote hair strength, growth, and overall vitality.
3. Reducing Stress
Chronic stress is indeed a well-known factor that can trigger or exacerbate hair loss. Stress can lead to a condition called telogen effluvium, where a large number of hair follicles prematurely enter the resting phase of the hair cycle and subsequently shed. Managing stress through methods like meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or regular physical activity can help prevent stress-related hair shedding.
4. Haircare and Lifestyle Changes
Gentle Haircare: Using gentle shampoos and conditioners that suit your hair type and avoiding harsh chemicals or excessive heat treatments (like blow-drying or straightening) can prevent unnecessary damage to hair. Keeping your scalp clean and avoiding over-washing (which can strip natural oils) will also help keep hair healthy.
Avoiding Tight Hairstyles: Tight ponytails, braids, or buns can pull on hair, leading to a form of hair loss called traction alopecia. Opt for looser hairstyles to avoid unnecessary tension on hair follicles.
Maintaining a Balanced Diet: A diet full of whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats supports overall health, which in turn supports hair health. A balanced diet provides the nutrients necessary for hair follicles to function at their best.
Scalp Care: Massaging the scalp gently can help improve blood circulation to the hair follicles, promoting healthier hair growth. Additionally, keeping your scalp free of buildup (from excess oil, sweat, or products) can help prevent clogged follicles and hair thinning.
5. Other Potential Treatments
Minoxidil: For some individuals, using topical treatments like minoxidil (commonly used for MPB) may help slow the progression of hair loss and promote hair regrowth.
Prescription Medications: If genetics or hormones are a significant factor, medications like finasteride may be prescribed to reduce DHT levels and potentially slow hair loss in men.
Hair Transplants: In cases of significant hair loss, surgical options such as hair transplants can be effective in restoring hair.
Conclusion
While male pattern baldness is mostly driven by genetics and hormonal factors, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, stress management, and good hair care practices can help you manage hair health and potentially slow hair loss. There’s no surefire way to completely prevent MPB, but these strategies can help optimize the health of the hair that you do have, and may also support regrowth for some individuals. If you notice significant hair thinning or loss, it's always a good idea to consult with a dermatologist or healthcare professional to explore treatment options.
1. Taking Your Vitamins
Iron: Low iron levels can lead to hair thinning and hair loss, so ensuring you’re getting enough iron is important. Iron-rich foods like spinach, red meat, and legumes are excellent sources.
Zinc: Zinc is vital for the proper functioning of hair follicles. A deficiency in zinc can contribute to hair loss. Foods like pumpkin seeds, shellfish, and nuts are rich in zinc.
Vitamins A, B, C, D, and E: Each of these vitamins plays a unique role in maintaining healthy hair.
Vitamin A supports the health of the scalp and encourages hair cell growth.
B vitamins, especially biotin, are key for hair structure and growth.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect hair follicles from damage and promotes collagen production, which is necessary for hair strength.
Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to hair loss, so adequate sun exposure or supplementation can be helpful.
Vitamin E is another antioxidant that helps support scalp health and hair growth.
2. Including Enough Protein
Hair is primarily made up of keratin, a protein, so consuming adequate protein is essential for hair health. Foods like lean meats, eggs, legumes, and tofu are great sources of protein. A diet rich in protein helps promote hair strength, growth, and overall vitality.
3. Reducing Stress
Chronic stress is indeed a well-known factor that can trigger or exacerbate hair loss. Stress can lead to a condition called telogen effluvium, where a large number of hair follicles prematurely enter the resting phase of the hair cycle and subsequently shed. Managing stress through methods like meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or regular physical activity can help prevent stress-related hair shedding.
4. Haircare and Lifestyle Changes
Gentle Haircare: Using gentle shampoos and conditioners that suit your hair type and avoiding harsh chemicals or excessive heat treatments (like blow-drying or straightening) can prevent unnecessary damage to hair. Keeping your scalp clean and avoiding over-washing (which can strip natural oils) will also help keep hair healthy.
Avoiding Tight Hairstyles: Tight ponytails, braids, or buns can pull on hair, leading to a form of hair loss called traction alopecia. Opt for looser hairstyles to avoid unnecessary tension on hair follicles.
Maintaining a Balanced Diet: A diet full of whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats supports overall health, which in turn supports hair health. A balanced diet provides the nutrients necessary for hair follicles to function at their best.
Scalp Care: Massaging the scalp gently can help improve blood circulation to the hair follicles, promoting healthier hair growth. Additionally, keeping your scalp free of buildup (from excess oil, sweat, or products) can help prevent clogged follicles and hair thinning.
5. Other Potential Treatments
Minoxidil: For some individuals, using topical treatments like minoxidil (commonly used for MPB) may help slow the progression of hair loss and promote hair regrowth.
Prescription Medications: If genetics or hormones are a significant factor, medications like finasteride may be prescribed to reduce DHT levels and potentially slow hair loss in men.
Hair Transplants: In cases of significant hair loss, surgical options such as hair transplants can be effective in restoring hair.
Conclusion
While male pattern baldness is mostly driven by genetics and hormonal factors, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, stress management, and good hair care practices can help you manage hair health and potentially slow hair loss. There’s no surefire way to completely prevent MPB, but these strategies can help optimize the health of the hair that you do have, and may also support regrowth for some individuals. If you notice significant hair thinning or loss, it's always a good idea to consult with a dermatologist or healthcare professional to explore treatment options.
Short answer; no. Estrogen plays a critical role in male health, and while testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can lead to an increase in estrogen levels due to aromatization, it is not advisable to completely block estrogen in men. Estrogen is important for bone health, cardiovascular function, mental well-being, and sexual health. Completely blocking it can have significant negative effects, including increasing the risk of osteoporosis, cardiovascular problems, and mental health issues. For most men on TRT, maintaining balanced estrogen levels is key for long-term health and well-being. If you have concerns about elevated estrogen levels, it’s best to work with a healthcare provider to find an appropriate approach to manage it.
Estrogen plays a critical role in male health, and while testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can lead to an increase in estrogen levels due to aromatization, it is not advisable to completely block estrogen in men. Estrogen is important for bone health, cardiovascular function, mental well-being, and sexual health. Completely blocking it can have significant negative effects, including increasing the risk of osteoporosis, cardiovascular problems, and mental health issues. For most men on TRT, maintaining balanced estrogen levels is key for long-term health and well-being. If you have concerns about elevated estrogen levels, it’s best to work with a healthcare provider to find an appropriate approach to manage it.
Estrogen plays a critical role in male health, and while testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can lead to an increase in estrogen levels due to aromatization, it is not advisable to completely block estrogen in men. Estrogen is important for bone health, cardiovascular function, mental well-being, and sexual health. Completely blocking it can have significant negative effects, including increasing the risk of osteoporosis, cardiovascular problems, and mental health issues. For most men on TRT, maintaining balanced estrogen levels is key for long-term health and well-being. If you have concerns about elevated estrogen levels, it’s best to work with a healthcare provider to find an appropriate approach to manage it.
Estrogen in men is primarily derived from the conversion of testosterone through an enzyme called aromatase. While men produce much lower levels of estrogen than women, it still has several important roles:
Bone Health: Estrogen helps regulate bone density. In men, it works alongside testosterone to prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of osteoporosis, particularly as they age.
Cardiovascular Health: Estrogen has protective effects on the cardiovascular system. It helps regulate cholesterol levels, improve blood vessel function, and support overall heart health.
Brain Function: Estrogen is involved in cognitive function and mood regulation. Low estrogen levels in men have been linked to a decline in memory and an increased risk of depression.
Sexual Function: Estrogen helps maintain libido and contributes to sexual health. It also plays a role in sperm production, though it’s less well understood than its role in females.
Bone Health: Estrogen helps regulate bone density. In men, it works alongside testosterone to prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of osteoporosis, particularly as they age.
Cardiovascular Health: Estrogen has protective effects on the cardiovascular system. It helps regulate cholesterol levels, improve blood vessel function, and support overall heart health.
Brain Function: Estrogen is involved in cognitive function and mood regulation. Low estrogen levels in men have been linked to a decline in memory and an increased risk of depression.
Sexual Function: Estrogen helps maintain libido and contributes to sexual health. It also plays a role in sperm production, though it’s less well understood than its role in females.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) aims to bring testosterone levels into a normal, healthy range for men who are deficient. However, when testosterone is introduced into the body through TRT, a portion of it will inevitably be converted to estrogen via aromatization. This is natural and, in most cases, beneficial for male health.
Blocking estrogen with aromatase inhibitors or other estrogen blockers during TRT can have several negative consequences:
Impact on Bone Health: Estrogen helps regulate bone density in men. Blocking estrogen can increase the risk of osteoporosis and fractures, especially as men age. This is one of the primary concerns when estrogen is blocked during TRT, as the body may be left without the estrogen necessary to protect bones.
Cardiovascular Risks: Estrogen is protective for the cardiovascular system. Research suggests that blocking estrogen could increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks or strokes. Estrogen helps maintain healthy blood vessels, cholesterol levels, and overall heart function, so reducing its presence could be harmful to heart health.
Mood and Mental Health: Estrogen has been shown to have neuroprotective effects, which means it helps protect the brain. Low estrogen levels can contribute to mood swings, irritability, and even depression. Blocking estrogen might worsen these symptoms and negatively affect mental health.
Sexual Health and Libido: While estrogen is not the primary driver of male libido (testosterone is), it still plays a role in sexual function. Low estrogen levels could lead to decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and a general decline in sexual health.
Testicular Health and Fertility: Estrogen is involved in regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, which plays a role in maintaining proper testicular function and sperm production. Blocking estrogen could interfere with this system and may negatively affect fertility.
Blocking estrogen with aromatase inhibitors or other estrogen blockers during TRT can have several negative consequences:
Impact on Bone Health: Estrogen helps regulate bone density in men. Blocking estrogen can increase the risk of osteoporosis and fractures, especially as men age. This is one of the primary concerns when estrogen is blocked during TRT, as the body may be left without the estrogen necessary to protect bones.
Cardiovascular Risks: Estrogen is protective for the cardiovascular system. Research suggests that blocking estrogen could increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks or strokes. Estrogen helps maintain healthy blood vessels, cholesterol levels, and overall heart function, so reducing its presence could be harmful to heart health.
Mood and Mental Health: Estrogen has been shown to have neuroprotective effects, which means it helps protect the brain. Low estrogen levels can contribute to mood swings, irritability, and even depression. Blocking estrogen might worsen these symptoms and negatively affect mental health.
Sexual Health and Libido: While estrogen is not the primary driver of male libido (testosterone is), it still plays a role in sexual function. Low estrogen levels could lead to decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and a general decline in sexual health.
Testicular Health and Fertility: Estrogen is involved in regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, which plays a role in maintaining proper testicular function and sperm production. Blocking estrogen could interfere with this system and may negatively affect fertility.
While estrogen plays a vital role in male health, too much estrogen can also lead to unwanted side effects, such as:
Gynecomastia (development of breast tissue in men)
Water retention and bloating
Emotional sensitivity or mood swings
For this reason, healthcare providers often monitor estrogen levels during TRT when needed, and if individuals experience symptoms of excess estrogen that do not resolve, they may consider interventions, but complete estrogen suppression is generally not recommended. Instead, moderate management is preferred, either through lifestyle changes, and dietary interventions.
Gynecomastia (development of breast tissue in men)
Water retention and bloating
Emotional sensitivity or mood swings
For this reason, healthcare providers often monitor estrogen levels during TRT when needed, and if individuals experience symptoms of excess estrogen that do not resolve, they may consider interventions, but complete estrogen suppression is generally not recommended. Instead, moderate management is preferred, either through lifestyle changes, and dietary interventions.
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