The Wondrous World Of Shilajit – Five Health Benefits And Side-Effects
If you haven’t heard of shilajit before, don’t be distressed; you are not the only one. This superfood has been gaining traction and popularity just recently, and a lot of us are still oblivious to the amazing benefits of shilajit.
So, what exactly is shilajit? The name might sound unusual and unfamiliar, but the health benefits are nothing short of a wonder. Shilajit, also sometimes called mineral pitch, is found mainly in the rocks of Himalaya, the Tibet mountains, Altai, and Caucasus mountains. But you don’t have to go so far in the mountains to find this wonderful product; you can easily order from Superfoods Australia.
How is the shilajit formed? This wonderful substance is the result of a long process of decomposition of plant matter and minerals over centuries. It was traditionally sourced from India and Tibet, but the range of sources has widened to many countries. It looks like black tar and feels sticky, gooey, and glutinous. Even though the sight might be unseemly and unwelcoming, if taken properly, shilajit promotes better strength and endurance.
Read below to find out more about the health benefits of shilajit.
Prevents Iron Deficiency Anemia
One of the most common types of nutrient deficiency, iron deficiency, is the most common type of anemia. Iron deficiency anemia can be caused by a low-iron diet or the body’s inability to absorb iron and blood loss.
Iron is essential in the formation of red blood cells in the form of hemoglobin and myoglobin. Hemoglobin transports oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the tissues of the body, and myoglobin stores the oxygen for use when there is a shortage, especially during exercises.
Along with other minerals, shilajit is rich in iron and humic acid. Shilajit supplements can slowly increase the level of iron in the blood. It also contains fulvic acid, which helps in better absorption of vitamins and minerals. Not only does it help in better absorption, but it also increases the potency of vitamins and minerals.
If you are not sure whether you suffer from iron deficiency anemia or not, watch out for these symptoms: fatigue, headache, weakness, irregular heartbeat, and cold hands and feet. Before you decide to take shilajit supplements for iron deficiency anemia, it’s advisable to consult a doctor.
Acts As An Energy Booster
Shilajit is a powerful ayurvedic medicine or supplement for boosting endurance and strength. As we mentioned above, it is rich in fulvic acid, and this compound contains almost 45% oxygen. The high oxygen content can offset the increase of lactic acid and carbon dioxide during exercise.
Shilajit can also help prevent the symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. It is a long-term condition that causes fatigue and tiredness. Even the simplest task can be a challenge when you suffer from CFS.
CFS occurs when your cells don’t make enough energy due to mitochondrial dysfunction. Research on lab rats has shown that shilajit can help reduce fatigue and restore energy.
Improves Brain Function
Fulvic acid is a powerful antioxidant, and the amount of it in shilajit makes it a powerful ally of the brain. Our nervous system is composed of many important proteins, and one of them is Tau protein, but an accumulation of Tau protein can trigger damage to brain cells. Fulvic acid prevents the buildup of tau protein and improves cognitive health.
The accumulation of tau protein and inflammation in the brain are the leading causes of diseases like Alzheimer’s. Drug treatments are available for Alzheimer’s, but shilajit can prevent or reduce the symptoms. More research and clinical trials need to be carried out before a solid conclusion can be reached.
Improves Testosterone Level
We are all well aware that testosterone is primarily a male sex hormone, but did you know it is found in both men and women? Apart from the development of male sexual organs, it is also needed for the development of bone mass and muscles in both men and women. It’s also a source of energy and brain function.
As we grow old, the testosterone level normally decreases. The signs of a low level of testosterone are low libido or low sex drive, reduced production of semen in men, hair loss, fatigue, mood fluctuations, loss of sleep, increased body fat, and loss of muscle mass.
One study on healthy men of ages 45-55 years showed a significant rise in the level of total testosterone after taking purified shilajit for ninety consecutive days.
Slow Down Aging
Rich in fulvic acid, an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, shilajit is potent in reducing free radicals and cellular damage. These two factors are important in reducing the effect of aging. Regular use of shilajit can boost longevity and slow down the aging process.
Side-Effects And How To Use
Side-effects
This is a natural and safe herb, but like any other herb, you shouldn’t consume unprocessed and raw Shilajit. Raw and unprocessed shilajit contains heavy metal ions, fungus, free radicals, and other harmful substances that can make one sick. You should only buy purified shilajit to reduce any side-effects.
Also, keep in mind that shilajit is not yet FDA approved, and it isn’t monitored for quality, strength, and/or purity. Before you decide to buy shilajit, be sure to meticulously research your options and choose a reputable source like Superfoods Australia.
Don’t take this supplement if you suffer from any of these diseases: sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, or hemochromatosis. There’s also a chance of a small percentage of people to be allergic to shilajit. If you show signs of rash, dizziness, and/or an increased pulse, immediately stop taking shilajit.
How to use
Instructions will obviously come with every pack that you buy. Shilajit can be bought as powder supplements or in liquid form. For a liquid supplement, mix pea size in liquids and drink at least one to three times a day. For powder supplements, you can take it with milk twice daily. Check the instructions before you decide on how much to consume every day, but it shouldn’t exceed 300 to 500 mg per day.
Conclusion
Shilajit has more health benefits to offer than just the five listed above. You can also use it as a pre-workout supplement and for enhanced sports performance. Try shilajit for at least 2 weeks before you see any results, and make sure to consult a doctor before you decide to take shilajit.
