See 5-Methyl-7-Methoxyisoflavone.

Also known as “methoxyisoflavone” or “methoxy.”   5-Methyl-7-Methoxyisoflavone is a derivative of ipriflavone touted as a non-hormonal muscle-building supplement. A 2006 study on resistance-trained men, however, failed to find any benefit.

A synthetic derivative of the isoflavone daidzein. Ipriflavone was marketed as a non-estrogenic alternative treatment to counter post-menopausal bone loss and osteoporosis, on the strength of in-vitro and animal studies.  Controlled studies in humans, however, have had conflicting results. The safety of ipriflavone has also been questioned.

It’s also been claimed that ipriflavone and/or certain derivatives (such as 5-methyl-7-hydroxyisoflavone) can enhance muscle growth, but definitive proof is lacking.

Ipriflavone may also be known by a chemical name, 7-isopropoxyisoflavone.

Phytoestrogenic compounds isolated from a number of plants, esp. soy and red clover.  Soy isoflavones and red clover extracts are often added to “women’s” supplements, for prevention of osteoporosis, and treatment of premenstrual/menopausal symptoms. 

Soy isoflavones have antioxidant activity in-vitro, although their ability to increase plasma antioxidant capacity in humans is questionable.  Likewise, they appear to have little effect on metabolic parameters in post-menopausal women.  Variable, and similarly questionable results have been obtained in studies on both red clover and soy isoflavones for the relief of hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms.  Effects on bone density are also unclear at this time.  They may, however, have positive effects on levels of LDL (”bad”) cholesterol.

An isoflavone found in a number of plants, although soy is the primary food source.  Daidzein is a phytoestrogen, and exerts weak estrogenic effects in animal studies.  Intestinal bacteria play an important role in daidzein metabolism, which metabolize it to equol and/or O-desmethylangolensin – which are more biologically active than the parent compound.  Equol is thought to have protective effects against both breast and prostate cancers, as well as cardiovascular disease. Equol production varies widely amongst individuals, however, which may explain the failure of many clinical studies to find substantial health benefits from soy consumption.

The botanical name for oats.  Avena sativa extracts are often added to “male enhancement” and testosterone-boosting bodybuilding supplements, due to claims that they reduce SHBG (sex-hormone binding globulin) and increase libido.  Unfortunately, there is zero credible science behind these claims.

Nonetheless, oat extracts have therapeutic uses.  Oats are rich in beta-glucan: a soluble fiber that can help reduce serum cholesterol and improve postprandial glucose/insulin response.  Oats also contain polyphenolic compounds known as “avenanthramides”, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.  Avenathramides may also increase nitric oxide (NO) production (which would lend credence to the aphrodisiac claims), although this has not been confirmed by studies in animals or humans.

See Alpha-Glycerophosphocholine.

Abbreviated Alpha-GPC; also known as choline alfoscerate. Alpha-GPC is a derivative of the essential nutrient choline.   Choline serves a number vital functions, including maintaining the structure/function of cell membranes, normalizing homocysteine levels (via a metabolite, betaine), and serving as a precursor for acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter important to learning and memory.   Alpha-GPC has neuroprotective and cognitive effects, and may also potentiate growth hormone release.

See 7-Keto-DHEA.

7-Keto-DHEA is an acetylated form of a DHEA metabolite (7-oxo-DHEA) used in a number of weight loss supplements.  Unlike DHEA, it cannot be converted to androgens (i.e., testosterone) or estrogens. 

Several studies in humans indicate that 7-Keto-DHEA can modestly increase RMR and enhance weight/fat loss when taken in conjunction with a structured diet and exercise program.  Studies in rats have shown 7-keto may work by increasing levels of thermogenic enzymes.  It may also help reduce cortisol (stress hormone) levels.

Also known as 3-acetyl-7-keto-DHEA and 3-acetyl-7-oxo-dehydroepiandosterone.