How Does Shilajit Make You Feel?
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Have you heard of shilajit before? If not, you’re missing out! This unique substance has some incredible effects on the body and mind. Let’s explore how does shilajit make you feel.
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A Substance That’s Been Used for Centuries
Shilajit has been used in traditional Indian medicine and folklore for centuries. In Sanskrit it's called the “conqueror of mountains and destroyer of weakness.” But what exactly is it?
Shilajit is a thick, sticky tar-like substance found primarily in the rocks of the Himalayas at altitudes between 1000 and 5000 meters. It’s formed from the slow decomposition of plant matter that gets trapped in the cracks and crevices of rocks.
How does this strange tar-like substance make people feel?
Key Effects of Shilajit
Shilajit is considered a rejuvenator and adaptogen in Ayurvedic medicine. This means it may:
- Reduce fatigue
- Improve physical performance
- Enhance mood
- Support cognition
Let’s break these key benefits down further.
Less Tiredness and Fatigue
Feeling tired? Shilajit could help!
Many people report feeling less fatigue when taking shilajit regularly. A 2021 study found participants had nearly 50% greater muscle endurance during exercise after taking shilajit for 4 weeks.
Researchers think fulvic acid, one of the main bioactive components in shilajit, helps improve energy metabolism inside cells.
Have you noticed feeling less tired when taking shilajit supplements? I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments!
Better Physical Performance
In addition to less fatigue, shilajit may also enhance physical performance.
The same 2021 study above found those taking shilajit for 4 weeks could perform muscle-building exercises for significantly longer before getting exhausted.
Other research shows shilajit can lower heart rate and oxygen consumption during physical activity too. Together this suggests an ergogenic effect - meaning it allows you to put in more “work” before hitting fatigue.
Mood Enhancement
Who couldn’t use a mood boost every now and then?
Evidence shows shilajit may have psychological benefits in addition to reductions in tiredness and better physical performance.
One study gave participants shilajit for 90 days. 63% reported improvements in mood compared to only 37% in the placebo group. Researchers think the interplay between mitochondria and cellular energy may play a role.
Have you noticed mood enhancement when taking shilajit regularly? Let me know in the comments!
Final Thoughts
As we’ve explored here, shilajit may:
- Reduce fatigue
- Enhance physical performance
- Improve mood
While more research is still needed, the early human, animal, and cellular evidence is quite promising for this unique tar-like substance.
So in summary - how does shilajit make you feel? Many people report feeling less tiredness, better work output during exercise, and improvements in mood.
Frequently Asked Questions on Shilajit
Shilajit is a fascinating health supplement, but you probably have lots of questions. Let’s explore some common FAQs about shilajit.
What Exactly is Shilajit?
Shilajit is a thick, sticky, tar-like substance primarily found in rocky mountain regions above 1000m in altitude. It’s created from centuries of slow decomposition of plant matter trapped in rock crevices. Shilajit contains a dense network of nutrients like fulvic acid, vitamins, and more.
Is Shilajit Safe?
Research shows shilajit is likely safe when taken in moderation. However, high doses may potentially interfere with certain medications. As with any new supplement, discuss shilajit with your doctor before taking it, especially if you have any medical conditions or take prescription medicines.
What’s the Best Way to Take Shilajit?
Shilajit comes in two main forms – powder and resin. Shilajit powder can be mixed into smoothies, teas, or water. The dose is normally 300-500 mg per day. Shilajit resin can be dissolved under the tongue or mixed with milk. Only a small pea-sized amount is needed in each serving.
When’s the Best Time to Take Shilajit?
The optimum time depends on why you’re taking shilajit. If using it for energy, many people prefer taking shilajit early in the day. For immunity, digestive health or general wellness, anytime can work. Always take shilajit with meals to enhance absorption.
How Quickly Does Shilajit Work?
Benefits develop gradually over weeks and months. However, many people report subtle boosts in energy, cognitive function, mood, immunity, and exercise performance within days or weeks. Be patient, stick with it, and track any changes you notice!
Where Can I Buy Quality Shilajit?
Not all shilajit is created equal. Focus on resin form over powder. Look for brands that test for heavy metals and other contaminants. Himalayan shilajit is regarded as the most potent. Many specialized health stores carry shilajit supplements these days.
Summary
Shilajit, a tar-like substance found mainly in the Himalayas, has been used in traditional Indian medicine and folklore for centuries. This unique substance forms from the slow decomposition of plant matter trapped in mountain crevices. Modern research suggests shilajit offers several health benefits, including reduced fatigue, improved physical performance, and enhanced mood.
Four major components of shilajit may contribute to effects inside the body: fulvic acid, shilajitins, dibenzo-alpha-pyrones (DBPs), and traces of various minerals & vitamins. Fulvic acid improves transport of nutrients into cells. Shilajitins act as antioxidants to support energy metabolism. DBPs, fulvic acid, and shilajitins all appear to have a regenerative impact on certain structures inside cells, such as mitochondria.
Human study data and lab research on shilajit show that people who take it regularly report less tiredness and greater muscle endurance during exercise. Since fulvic acid and other components help transport nutrition into cells, shilajit may also reduce fatigue and support physical performance by enhancing energy metabolism inside cells. Additional evidence finds shilajit can lower heart rate and oxygen consumption during physical activity as well.
Supplementing with shilajit may also provide psychological benefits. In studies comparing shilajit to placebos, participants assigned to the shilajit group were significantly more likely to report improvements in mood. Mechanisms may involve interplay between cellular energy, mitochondria, and uptake of micronutrients that support nervous system function.