Deer antler velvet has been marketed as a supplement with potential health benefits, and is derived from the antlers of male deer during the growth phase. The antler velvet is processed into a powder or liquid form for human consumption, and some of the claimed benefits include increased muscle mass, improved athletic performance, and enhanced sexual function. However, the question remains: is deer antler velvet worth it?
Research has shown that deer antler velvet contains a hormone called insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which can stimulate the growth of cells, including muscle cells. This has led to claims that deer antler velvet can help increase muscle mass and improve athletic performance.
In addition to its potential benefits for muscle growth and athletic performance, deer antler velvet has also been discussed as a sexual enhancement supplement. A few small studies have suggested that deer antler velvet may improve erectile function, but more research is needed to confirm these findings.
One of the main considerations when deciding whether deer antler velvet is worth it is the cost. Deer antler velvet supplements can be expensive, and there is little evidence to support their effectiveness. If you are considering taking deer antler velvet, it is important to weigh the potential benefits against the cost.
For instance, at Pure Velvet Extracts, our entry level deer antler velvet bottle sells for $100. Our strongest deer antler velvet supplement can be more than $250. We try to keep our prices as low as possible, but the high cost of making pure deer antler velvet makes it cost prohibitive. Those selling "cheaper" deer antler velvet supplements are actually selling diluted versions and "proprietary blends."
It is also important to purchase deer antler velvet supplements from reputable sources, such as Pure Velvet Extracts, to ensure that you are getting a high-quality product. However, it is always important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or medication, including deer antler velvet.
In conclusion, the evidence for the potential benefits of deer antler velvet is limited, and more research is needed to determine its effectiveness. While it may have some potential benefits for muscle growth and athletic performance, the evidence is not strong enough to recommend it as a supplement. The cost of deer antler velvet supplements may not be worth it for most people, but if you are interested in trying it, make sure to purchase from a reputable source such as Pure Velvet Extracts and consult with your healthcare provider beforehand.
]]>We wrote this poem about deer antler velvet to highlight its unique qualities and benefits. The poem highlights how deer antler velvet is a natural source of nutrition that is rich in minerals and helps boost strength and endurance. The poem also mentions the historical significance of deer antler velvet, as it has been sought after for its medicinal properties since ancient times. The aim of the poem is to provide a poetic representation of the natural beauty and power of deer antler velvet.
Our deer antler velvet poem
Deer antler velvet, a gift from the wild Nature's own remedy, so mild and so mild It grows and it sheds, each year it is new A source of nutrition, in red and in hue.
Rich in minerals, it aids with great power Boosts strength and endurance, in your finest hour A natural ingredient, free from any harm With benefits so vast, it will surely charm.
From ancient times, it's been sought after For its medicinal properties, now and ever after With scientific backing, its benefits are clear A natural way, to boost your overall gear.
So let's raise a glass, to this gift from the deer A natural treasure, we hold it so dear With its many benefits, its fame will endure Deer antler velvet, forever pure.
Why did we write this poem about deer velvet?
Deer antler velvet is a unique and fascinating substance that offers a wide range of benefits for overall health. Whether you are an athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or simply looking to maintain a youthful appearance, deer antler velvet is a natural way to boost your overall well-being. With its rich history and proven benefits, deer antler velvet is truly a gift from the wild.
]]>The rut, or the mating season for deer, is a time of year when male deer, also known as bucks, are particularly active and may engage in a variety of behaviors to attract females and mark their territory. One of these behaviors is rubbing the velvet off their antlers.
During the summer months, deer's antlers are covered in a soft, fuzzy tissue known as velvet. This velvet is rich in blood vessels and helps to nourish and support the growing antlers. As the antlers harden and mature, the velvet is no longer needed and is shed. This process typically begins in late August or early September and may take several weeks to complete.
To rub the velvet off their antlers, deer will often use trees or other objects as a rubbing surface. This can create distinctive patterns on the bark of trees and may be visible for several years. Bucks may also use their antlers to spar with other males or to defend their territory against intruders.
The process of rubbing the velvet off their antlers is not only a way for deer to shed the unnecessary tissue, but it is also a way for them to display their strength and attractiveness to potential mates. The size and shape of a deer's antlers can be an indicator of their health and fitness, and the more impressive the antlers, the more likely a buck is to attract a mate.
In addition to rubbing the velvet off their antlers, deer may also engage in other rutting behaviors, such as making vocalizations, marking their territory with urine, and chasing and herding females. These behaviors can be quite intense and may involve physical confrontations with other males.
The rut is a fascinating time of year for deer and offers a unique opportunity for observers to watch and learn about these amazing animals. If you have the opportunity to witness deer rubbing the velvet off their antlers or engaging in other rutting behaviors, be sure to do so from a safe distance and respect the deer's natural behavior.
]]>Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) is a hormone that plays a key role in the growth and development of the human body. It is particularly important for the growth of bones and muscles, and is often associated with athletic performance and muscle building. While IGF-1 is typically associated with men, it is also important for women, and low levels of IGF-1 can have negative effects on women's health.
One of the main reasons that IGF-1 is important for women is that it plays a key role in bone health. As women age, their bodies produce less estrogen, a hormone that helps to maintain strong bones. This can lead to an increased risk of osteoporosis, a condition in which the bones become weak and brittle. IGF-1 can help to counteract this effect by promoting the growth of new bone tissue and maintaining bone density.
In addition, IGF-1 is also important for maintaining muscle mass and strength. As women age, they naturally lose muscle mass, which can lead to a decrease in strength and mobility. Low levels of IGF-1 can accelerate this process, leading to an increased risk of falls and injuries. By maintaining healthy IGF-1 levels, women can help to preserve their muscle mass and strength, which can support overall health and well-being.
Furthermore, IGF-1 is also important for maintaining a healthy metabolism. Low levels of IGF-1 have been linked to an increased risk of obesity and other metabolic disorders, such as diabetes and heart disease. By maintaining healthy IGF-1 levels, women can support a healthy metabolism and reduce their risk of these conditions.
Overall, IGF-1 is an important hormone for women's health. By maintaining healthy IGF-1 levels, women can support bone health, maintain muscle mass and strength, and support a healthy metabolism. It is important for women to be aware of the role of IGF-1 in their health and to talk to their doctor if they have concerns about their IGF-1 levels.
]]>The most common question we get is - "is deer antler velvet a banned substance?" and the answer is "No." The 2nd most common question is when people assume it is banned and ask - why is deer antler velvet banned?
Here's an explanation of why deer antler velvet is actually NOT banned:
Despite its potential health benefits, deer antler velvet is not banned by any major sports organizations or governing bodies. This includes the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), and the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
While deer antler velvet has been placed on WADA's "monitoring list" in the past, it is currently not on the agency's list of prohibited substances. This means that it is not banned for use in sports, and athletes are allowed to use it if they choose to do so.
However, it is important to note that deer antler velvet is banned by some sports organizations, including the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) and Major League Baseball (MLB). These organizations have their own rules and regulations regarding the use of substances in sports, and they may choose to ban substances that are not banned by other organizations.
In the United States, deer antler velvet is legal and can be purchased without a prescription. It is classified as a dietary supplement, and as such, it is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). While the FDA does not approve dietary supplements for safety or effectiveness before they are marketed, it can take action against a supplement if it is found to be unsafe or if the claims made about it are false or misleading.
In summary, deer antler velvet is not currently banned by any major sports organizations or governing bodies. However, it is banned by some sports organizations, and it is regulated as a dietary supplement by the FDA in the United States.
The next time someone asks you if deer antler velvet is banned, just explain that it's actually not.
As with all supplements, you should, however, speak with your primary physician before considering taking deer antler velvet.
]]>Deer antler velvet is a substance that is taken from the antlers of deer, specifically male deer that are in the velvet stage of antler growth. It is believed to have various health benefits, including improving athletic performance, increasing strength and endurance, and aiding in the recovery of injuries.
So how long does deer antler velvet stay in your system?
If you are considering taking deer antler velvet, you may be wondering how long it stays in your system. The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including the specific form of deer antler velvet you are taking, the dosage you are taking, and your individual metabolism.
One of the active ingredients in deer antler velvet is insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), a hormone that plays a role in muscle growth and repair. IGF-1 is rapidly broken down and eliminated from the body, with a half-life of approximately 20-30 minutes. This means that after 20-30 minutes, half of the IGF-1 in your body will be eliminated, and after another 20-30 minutes, half of the remaining IGF-1 will be eliminated, and so on.
However, it is important to note that the effects of deer antler velvet on the body may last longer than the actual substance itself. For example, deer antler velvet is believed to improve muscle strength and endurance, and these effects may persist for a longer period of time after the substance has been eliminated from the body.
It is also worth noting that (at the date of this article) deer antler velvet is not currently on the World Anti-Doping Agency's (WADA) list of prohibited substances. This means that it is not banned for use in sports, and athletes are allowed to use it if they choose to do so. However, all sports organizations are different, so you should always check with your specific org before drawing any conclusions.
In summary, the length of time that deer antler velvet stays in your system depends on the specific form of deer antler velvet you are taking, the dosage you are taking, and your individual metabolism. The active ingredient IGF-1 has a half-life of approximately 20-30 minutes, but the effects of deer antler velvet on the body may last longer.
]]>Deer antler velvet is an amazing supplement. The reasons to try it out (which we allow you to do, risk free) are plentiful. But what is the BEST reason to take deer antler velvet?
As with many answers - it depends...
There are a number of potential benefits associated with deer antler velvet, including improving athletic performance, boosting the immune system, and reducing inflammation. However, the best reason for people to start taking deer antler velvet may vary depending on their individual needs and goals.
For athletes and bodybuilders, the best reason to start taking deer antler velvet may be to improve athletic performance. Our strongest deer antler velvet supplement is believed to increase muscle strength, improve endurance, and speed up recovery times, which can be beneficial for anyone looking to enhance their physical performance.
For people who are looking to support their immune system, the best reason to start taking deer antler velvet may be to boost immune function. The supplement is believed to contain compounds that can help to support the immune system and protect against illness and disease. It may also have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation in the body and promote overall health. Most looking for immune support tend to try our best selling deer antler velvet.
For those looking for joint health support, the best reason to start taking deer antler velvet may be to support your overall joint function. Deer antler velvet is believed to have joint support properties that may help to improve overall health and wellbeing.
It's important to note that while deer antler velvet may have potential health benefits, it is not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle and should not be used as a replacement for traditional medical treatment. If you are considering taking deer antler velvet or any other supplement, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new regimen.
]]>If you talk to anyone who takes deer antler velvet, they likely rave about it. But what gets people started? What is the typical person trying to get out of committing to daily use of deer antler velvet?
Deer Antler Velvet is believed to have a range of health benefits, including supporting athletic performance and immune system function. Many people start taking deer antler velvet for one or more of these reasons.
One of the most common reasons people start taking deer antler velvet is to improve their athletic performance. The supplement is believed to increase muscle strength, improve endurance, and speed up recovery times. It may also help to reduce muscle soreness and fatigue, making it a popular choice among athletes and bodybuilders.
Another reason people may start taking deer antler velvet is to boost their immune system. The supplement is believed to contain compounds that can help to support the immune system and protect against illness and disease. It may also have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation in the body and promote overall health.
It's important to note that while deer antler velvet may have potential health benefits, it is not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle and should not be used as a replacement for traditional medical treatment. If you are considering taking deer antler velvet or any other supplement, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new regimen.
]]>It's fascinating how infrequent IGF-1 is mentioned as it relates to wellness. For men especially, IGF-1 levels play a significant role in performance and recovery.
Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) is a hormone that is important for a number of different processes in the body. In men, IGF-1 plays a key role in promoting muscle growth, bone health, and overall physical development.
One of the main functions of IGF-1 in men is to stimulate the growth and development of skeletal muscle. This hormone helps to increase the production of proteins in muscle cells, which results in an increase in muscle size and strength. Additionally, IGF-1 can help to improve muscle endurance and reduce muscle damage following exercise.
Another important function of IGF-1 in men is to promote bone health. IGF-1 helps to stimulate the production of new bone cells, which can help to prevent osteoporosis and other conditions that cause weak bones. It can also help to repair damaged bones and improve overall bone density.
In addition to its effects on muscle and bone, IGF-1 is also important for overall physical development in men. This hormone can help to regulate metabolism and energy levels, and it can also help to improve cognitive function.
Overall, IGF-1 is an essential hormone for men, and maintaining healthy levels of this hormone is important for promoting muscle growth, bone health, and overall physical development.
If you have any questions or would like to learn more about the benefits of IGF-1, please don't hesitate to contact us.
]]>If you are looking to boost your testosterone levels, there are several exercises you can do to support healthy testosterone production. Here are five of the best exercises to boost your testosterone levels and improve your overall health and well-being.
Weight lifting: Weight lifting is one of the most effective exercises for boosting testosterone levels. Resistance training, such as lifting weights, has been shown to increase testosterone levels and improve muscle mass and strength.
High-intensity interval training (HIIT): HIIT is a type of exercise that involves short bursts of intense activity followed by periods of rest. This type of exercise has been shown to increase testosterone levels and improve overall fitness.
Sprinting: Sprinting is a high-intensity exercise that can help to boost testosterone levels and improve muscle mass and strength. Sprinting involves short bursts of intense activity, followed by periods of rest, and can be done on a track, on a bike, or on a treadmill.
Jumping rope: Jumping rope is a fun and effective way to boost your testosterone levels. This high-intensity exercise involves rapid, repetitive movements that can help to increase testosterone levels and improve overall fitness.
Plyometrics: Plyometrics is a type of exercise that involves explosive, high-intensity movements that can help to boost testosterone levels and improve muscle power and endurance. Examples of plyometric exercises include jump squats, plyometric push-ups, and box jumps.
Overall, incorporating these exercises into your fitness routine can help to boost your testosterone levels and improve your overall health and well-being. By engaging in regular physical activity, you can support healthy testosterone production and enjoy the benefits of increased muscle mass, strength, and energy.
]]>Testosterone is the primary sex and anabolic hormone in males. It’s vital role is to promote the development of male reproductive system organs like the prostate and testes. In addition, it encourages the development of male sex characteristics such as building muscle mass and growth of body hair.
Testosterone is produced by the testes and gives men their characteristic deep voice, muscles, and facial hair. In addition, testosterone boost mood, promotes bone strength, and aids thinking ability.
According to scientific research, testosterone decline with age is inevitable. Because of this age-related decline, the low testosterone level in old males has been commonly referred to as "Male Menopause." However, in males, this does not occur quickly as in females. Instead, testosterone levels fall gradually over a long time.
In normal males, testosterone levels are high during adolescence or puberty and early adulthood. However, after 30 years of age, the levels start declining.
The prevalence of biochemical testosterone decline increases with aging. This decline is also associated with illnesses and debilitation that come with aging. Some male patients with low testosterone levels present with symptoms of aging. This phenomenon has raised eyebrows as to whether some of the manifestations of aging result from low testosterone. Some of the presentations that cut across include low energy levels, tiredness, low libido, decreased sexual performance, mood changes, and depression.
Unfortunately, the overlap in clinical presentation has made the diagnosis of hypogonadism in aging men difficult.
Furthermore, several significant clinical findings and disease states are linked to low testosterone. These disease states include Alzheimer's disease, obesity, frailty, hypercholesterolemia, heart diseases, and high blood pressure.
The extent of involvement of testosterone in the development of these diseases and how testosterone supplementation could be useful is an important question to modern researchers.
Age-related hypogonadism may occur due to two reasons;
In primary hypogonadism, the testicles are diseased but the hypothalamic-pituitary axis is normal. On the other hand, there is dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary pathway in secondary hypothyroidism with normal testicles.
Since testosterone decline occurs gradually, the signs and symptoms of low testosterone levels are not obvious. Again, low testosterone can present as obesity, psychological stress, substance use, and solid organ dysfunction.
Testosterone is the primary hormone in driving sexual desire and libido. Therefore, a decline in testosterone levels with age will mean progressive loss of libido suppose there is no intervention with supplements. One of the most significant worries of aging men is declining sexual desire and performance. Indeed, this can bring a client to the gynecologist.
As men age, they can manifest sex function-related issues that can come about due to low testosterone levels. This includes a low desire for sex, fewer erections, and infertility. However, these manifestations do not occur suddenly; thus, if you note them suddenly, low testosterone is not the only cause.
Several physical changes can occur as testosterone levels fall with age. Testosterone is responsible for increasing muscle mass and body hair. In general, it contributes significantly to the masculine nature of men. As testosterone levels decline, the reverse is seen. The most common physical changes of age-related hypogonadism are;
Low testosterone levels can lead to loss of sleep (insomnia) and other changes to the sleep pattern.
Low testosterone level leads to feelings of sadness and depression. In addition, low testosterone levels may lead to poor concentration, memory dysfunction, and low self-esteem and confidence. These effects come about because of irritability, low sex drive, and fatigue accompanying low testosterone.
Like any medical condition, making a diagnosis of low testosterone requires extensive history taking, physical examination, lab investigations, and to some extent, imaging. Imaging and investigations will rule out organic causes of hypogonadism. Physical examination is also essential since it will help a clinician diagnose organic disorders like liver, thyroid, and kidney disease that may cause low testosterone levels.
After inquiring about the symptoms and doing a thorough physical examination, a doctor will also measure the level of testosterone in your blood. Testosterone levels usually vary throughout the day, but an early morning test is preferred since they are high in the morning.
Apart from age, here are the other causes of low testosterone levels in males:
Men can have low testosterone levels with no symptoms. In such cases, we recommend no treatment. However, if you have low testosterone levels with symptoms like sexual dysfunction and fatigue, testosterone replacement therapy is crucial.
Again, even if you have a low testosterone level with symptoms, testosterone replacement therapy should not be your first line of treatment. Before starting replacement therapy, it is prudent to identify and treat treatable causes like liver, kidney, and thyroid disease before opting for hormone replacement.
Hormone replacement is a choice you must make with your doctor by weighing the potential risks and benefits. There are several therapy options that you may consider; they include:
You can spread topical testosterone gels onto the skin of the shoulders, arms, forearm, legs, or thighs. After applying the gels, wash your hands and cover the area with a piece of cloth to avoid exposing others to testosterone.
You can also apply a testosterone skin patch once daily. However, we usually recommend evening applications. Skin patches slowly release testosterone into the skin for systemic absorption in small doses.
Several testosterone injectables are given every 14 days. Following injection, testosterone levels rise to peak levels before they fall again. This brings about a roller-coaster effect that manifests with a spike in mood and energy levels that trails off.
Testosterone pellets are implanted under the skin of the buttock and thighs. Pellets can stay in situ for three to six months, after which they are replaced. The pellets release a small amount of testosterone throughout this period into circulation.
Upon initiation of therapy, men recognize improvement within 4-6 weeks of medications. However, it may take three to six months to improve muscle mass.
Oral therapy is in tablets or capsules. Tablets can be attached to the gums or inner cheeks twice a day. On the other hand, capsules are swallowed for gastrointestinal absorption. In the oral cavity, testosterone is absorbed directly into the bloodstream by the mucosa of the oral cavity.
The testosterone replacement results are variable and impossible to predict since our bodies respond differently. Despite the variation, a large percentage of men experience the following positive responses;
Although testosterone replacement has several advantages for men, its use has a few downsides and contraindications. The use of testosterone replacement therapy may lead to the development of acne, rash, itching, and irritation at the site of application.
Many researchers agree that testosterone replacement therapy's benefits and side effects are yet to be fully unmasked.
You should avoid using testosterone replacement therapy if you have any of the following health conditions;
In summary, testosterone is a hormone responsible for manly features. It is secreted from the testes. With age, its level falls due to testicular atrophy (primary hypogonadism) or hypothalamic-pituitary disorders. Suppose deficiency causes symptoms, a doctor can prescribe exogenous testosterone.
]]>Hormones are pretty fascinating. They play such a significant role in how our body and mind function. And while it's pretty well known that as we age, men's testosterone levels drop, not many are aware these levels fluctuate during the seasons as well.
Similar to deer, our hormone levels are affected by the amount of sunlight we get during the day. Less sunlight means lower testosterone levels.
The bad news is, we've just entered into those shorter days. The good news is, once we're back in the sun that testosterone will be back in full swing (although slightly lower as years go by).
We see this seasonal testosterone boost occur to an extreme level when deer are "in velvet." Deer Antler growth during the summer months is the fastest growing mammal tissue on earth. Why? because the hormonal process during velvet stage takes this seasonal testosterone boost to a whole new level.
Harnessing the power of this process is what makes pure form deer antler velvet so amazing. It's why we, and our loyal following, swear by it (only in pure form).
This is why I personally take Premium for the sunnier half of the year, but move up to Elite Antler during the Winter months.
So as we enter these winter months - make sure you get out during the middle of the day when there's still some sunlight. And if you haven't yet, be sure to supplement that process with our Deer Antler Velvet.
]]>Imagine on top of that, your income depends on helping people like yourself with their health and fitness goals? Wellness professionals are in a very tough situations right now.
At Pure Velvet, we work with many personal trainers and wellness professionals. We feel it's our duty to encourage whoever is in a position where they can do so, to help them out.
Here's some great ways to support your local gym, personal trainer, or alternative medicine professional.
Follow the new rules at your gym. Maybe you don't want to wear a mask, or maybe certain areas or equipment you usually use are not allowed. Regardless of your views on mask wearing etc, the gym has these new rules in place because they're required to do so. Meaning they might hate X or Y rule as much as you, but they need to make sure everyone follows it regardless.
Gyms have strict guidelines they need to follow. If you don't follow them, you're putting them at risk of being shut down again. Respect the gym owners that are having a tough time getting through this as well.
Try a virtual class. With classes cancelled to avoid gatherings, many workout class instructors are providing zoom class offerings. These are typically priced at a heavy discount given the obvious lack of venue. It's low cost - give it a try.
I personally struggled with this because my two dogs wouldn't stop jumping on me while I was following the instructor, but give it a try. Will it completely replace the class you used to take in person? No, it's going to fall a bit short of that. But they're usually cheap, it allows your instructor to make some money, and it's something new and fun to try.
Buy a gift card to use at a later date. This is a possible win-win situation. Suppose you usually get acupuncture regularly and now you can't because they're closed. You may be able to buy a gift card to use at a later date where they will give you a discount.
Same with a personal trainer or any other health and fitness professional. If they are low on cashflow, they may be able to offer a slight discount that you can redeem at a later date. Once they're back in business, you've already made the commitment, so you can't duck out.
Maybe you're also having financial issues due to the pandemic, or maybe you don't feel comfortable committing to a gift card right now. It costs nothing to send a note to a favorite fitness instructor or wellness professional and assure them you'll be back once things fully open up.
We're getting there. Things are starting to open up and from a non-scientist view, it seems we're starting to win the battle against this virus.
As you do start to get back into your regular workout routine - don't forget about us. Pure Velvet Extracts deer antler velvet plays a key role in helping the body and mind recover. If you've fallen off of your daily deer antler velvet dosage routine, now is a great time to get back on the Pure Velvet wagon.
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Males of all deer species, except the Chinese water deer, possess a set of two antlers of usually symmetrical proportions on either side of their foreheads. Antler growth is even more remarkable than their mere presence. Unlike horns, antlers are true bones that serve as branched extensions of the skull. Deer typically shed them annually. Interesting side notes are elk do not shed their antlers, and female reindeer or caribou normally have antlers. Very rarely do normal females of other deer species grow antlers.
Antlers start like most bone as cartilage. Bone for each antler grows from a cartilage base, also known as the pedicle. Velvet, the downy skin that covers antlers in their early stages, provides nutrition and blood supply for growth. Antlers are one of the fastest growing tissues in nature, growing up to an inch (2.5 centimeters) a day in elk. The quarter to half an inch per day by smaller species is still remarkable.
Velvet covers a deer's antlers until they reach full growth, which occurs after three to four months. Once this happens, blood supply is disrupted and the velvet peels away. At the same time, the antlers become hard and much less fragile.
Deer require a high protein diet to cope with antler growth that correlates with a stressful breeding season. A protein diet of 16 percent or more led to significant increase in length and breadth of antlers over those fed six percent protein or lower. Calcium and phosphorus, along with possible other minerals (potassium, manganese, and iron), are vital for healthy antlers and their growing needs.
When mating season ends, a deer usually sheds his rack. This will occur from late autumn to early winter. Mid to late spring signifies a start to the new cycle.
Relatively few factors affect antler size in adult deer.
Nutrition is the single most influential contributor to antler growth. Bone origin and expansion rate of antlers suggests significant energy output and a large requirement for vitamins and minerals. Simple observation illustrates that herd members with poorer nutrition have smaller (sometimes even deformed) antlers as opposed to their well-fed counterparts.
Hereditary traits are believed to have vital roles in antler size and rate of growth. Although a genetic influence is difficult to determine in a species so heavily hunted, regional variations in antler size and studies of captive herds support the theory of its significance.
It may not be possible to determine exact age by antler size, but maturity plays a factor. Young bucks under a year are still growing at a rapid rate and do not have extra resources to invest into antler growth. As buck growth tapers, antlers develop the capacity to become larger. Whitetail and mule deer are fully mature between four and six years old and at this time are able to reach their full antler potential.
Finally, a buck's health will determine how large his antlers will potentially grow. This is not always directly related to nutrition. Many deer with severe injuries to a leg, for example, will grow a small or defective antler on the affected side. Deer often have gnarled or stunted antlers for unknown reasons, perhaps related to past trauma or underlying illnesses.
In several game species, young bucks grow their first set of antlers when they reach ten months of age or become yearlings. This set is often represented by basic spikes but can be as much as ten points or five tines on each side.
Even at two and a half years old, ongoing data suggests a buck's antlers have likely only grown 25 to 35 percent of their full potential. A "typical" deer of this age has seven points and an outside breadth of about sixteen inches.
Maximum antler size is often not achieved until deer are five to eight years of age. Moose and elk may reach ten years of age before they peak. Depending on the type of deer, their antlers can be over twenty points and near twenty inches of inside spread. Moose antlers are closer to fifty inches of outside spread. The impressive fact is to imagine this amount of growth over a mere four months.
Once a deer passes his prime reproductive age, peak antler growth potential and size begins to slowly decline. This is related both to decreasing testosterone levels and lower ability to absorb nutrition (changes in metabolism, aging teeth, etc).
Deer antlers grow like any other bones in his body, but at an accelerated speed. They have been modified by natural evolution for mate rivalry and selection. Human activity in the form of trophy hunting has also contributed to larger racks. Ultimately, the most awe-inspiring antlers represent the crowning glory of a buck deer in his prime when he is at his healthiest and best able to help propagate his species.
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In fact, roughly 30% of our deer antler velvet customers are women.
We reported in the past, that roughly 30% of our sales are from women. Based on updated numbers, this percentage has actually grown. While we would never unveil individual's names, our largest business to consumer customer is actually a woman. Anyone doubting whether women would benefit or see value would be convinced otherwise by seeing her annual spend on deer antler velvet.
3rd party sources also show that women have an interest in deer antler velvet. If you go to demographics.io, you can see that they report 27% of those who search for deer antler velvet are women (picture shown to the right). Even outside of our data, it's safe to assume that if 27% of women are searching for deer antler velvet, then roughly the same amount are also taking the supplement.
It's no surprise that people would assume deer velvet is not popular among females. Deer Velvet Spray is often marketed as bodybuilding supplement, with the pitch of "boosting testosterone" and "building bulk muscle fast." While there are definitely women out there with some muscle mass, the majority tend to avoid bulking up.
Whether your goal is put on muscle mass or not, deer antler velvet has many health benefits for both men and women. It will not take a woman and boost her testosterone levels to where she is packing on muscle. That is not how any supplement works and it's not why most people take deer antler velvet.
The health benefits that women often seek out when taking deer antler velvet is thicker looking hair, energy boost, muscle recovery, and revitalizing youth. Marketing initiatives supporting steroid-like benefits have overshadowed the other reasons that many people take deer antler velvet.
Hopefully this article will reduce the number of women who message us with uncertainty as to whether deer antler velvet is available for them.
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They are found from South America all the way to southern Canada, and are native to 17 different countries. They are not found in places like Alaska, Hawaii or desert areas, since those habitats are not suitable for their survival. Whitetail Deer actually date back to the Ice Ages and hold the distinction of being the oldest of the deer species.
Eating and sleeping seem to take up most of their day. They eat usually five times a day. Their food consists mainly of leaves, twigs, alfalfa, grass, corn, fruits and nuts, and even fungi. They are true herbivores, grazing on whatever plant foods are available. A fun fact is that chin whiskers tell the deer how far from the ground their lips are when feeding. A 150-pound deer (as a rule of thumb), needs to eat about 12 pounds of food each day. This equates to a formula of about 8 pounds of vegetation for every 100 pounds of the deer’s weight. Grazing and eating would seem to take up a lot of time. Surprisingly, on top of the time spent eating, they sleep between 60 and 70 percent of the time. You might say that almost all of their day is taken up either grazing, eating or sleeping. Whitetail Deer have the same number of teeth that a human has, which is 32. The front upper teeth, though, are missing, and instead the space is filled with a hard-surfaced pad of gristle. They have incisors on the bottom but not on the top, so instead of simply snapping a twig like a rabbit does, they have to use an upward motion. They do have both upper and lower molars, and the wear on these molars is how the age of a deer is determined.
Sparring helps develop the muscles and skills needed if they have to fight during breeding season. Sparring also tests for dominance and reaffirms the status quo in each fraternal group. This prevents fighting which could cause severe injuries or death.
Mating season is in November and December. The buck guards and mates with the female for a day, but then goes out in search of another female in heat. Gestation is normally 202 days during which time the female becomes very territorial. Births are mainly during the months of May or June, and the doe usually delivers one to three babies at a time. Twins are common and even triplets have been born. Does normally give birth away from the rest of the herd. In order to hide her babies from predators, the doe gives birth in an area of dense vegetation. For the first week, the doe will feed her fawn in the dense area where it was born. Since the doe goes back to join the herd after feeding, returning again for the next feeding time, it is very important that the babies are kept in a safe area. After the week is over, the fawn will then join the rest of the herd. An interesting fact is how quickly fawns learn. A newborn can stand within 20 minutes of birth, walk in about an hour, run a little bit within 24 hours and outrun a man in just five days! Frequently the mother will raise her daughters until adulthood. Then she will leave, giving the home to her daughters.
The size of the deer varies widely. Large males can stand as high as 42” at the shoulder and can weigh up to 400 pounds. The smallest, the Key deer of Florida, only stands about 30” at the shoulder and weighs only 50 pounds. Both the body and the antlers grow the largest in cold temperatures, and on productive agricultural soils, but are smaller in the tropics and on small islands. The adult has a bright reddish summer coat with the coat turning a duller gray-brown in the winter, with the underparts being white. The young deer have a reddish-brown coat with white spots, which help them blend in with the forest, thereby hiding them from their predators.
In the heat of the summer, these deer will inhabit meadows and fields and use clumps of broad-leaved forests for shade. For their beds, they will use piles of leaves or pine needles. During these summer months, they may live apart from each other, but when winter comes, they form large herds. They will trample down the snow in an area where they will herd together. This area is referred to as a “deer yard”. A typical home range is about one square mile.
Only bucks over a year old have antlers. The first set begins to grow at 10 months of age. Since most of a young deer’s nutrition is needed for its growing body, the younger deer have smaller antlers. Antlers are actually the fastest growing tissue known to man. During the time the antlers are growing, they are covered with “velvet”, a soft hairy skin that supplies blood to the growing antlers. When the antlers are full size, the velvet starts to die and fall off. The bucks will rub their antlers on brush and trees to help the velvet come off. The antlers are fully grown late summer, and it is during the winter that they will lose their antlers only to re-grow them the following year. As the buck ages, the antlers will grow more tines and eventually max out. As the deer grows older, after the antlers have maxed out, they will grow back smaller each year. Influencing the condition and size of the antlers is having nutritious food and good genes. The shape and configuration of the antlers are strictly genetic. Contrary to what many believe, you definitely can’t tell a deer’s age by the size of its rack. The age, as mentioned earlier, is calculated by the wear on the molars. Also incorrect is the notion that some hunters refer to the antlers as horns. Horns actually continue to grow for the life of the animal, whereas the antlers fall off in the winter and are re-grown in the next year. Examples of animals with horns are bulls, rhinos, sheep and buffalo.
The deer are very agile and fast. They have sprinting speeds up to 30 miles per hour and are able to leap up to 30 feet in a single bound. Despite the agility and speed, however, in the wild, they are preyed upon (especially the young) by bobcats, mountain lions and coyotes. The average life span of a domesticated Whitetail is between six and fourteen years. The longest living deer in captivity was 23 years old. Unfortunately, due to disease, auto collisions and hunting, the average life span, in the wild, is only between 1.5 and 3.5 years. It is very rare to find a Whitetail Deer, in the wild, live to be as old as 7 or 8. Those living in the wild might be free, but their lives are cut dramatically short.
The Whitetail Deer were formerly in abundance by unrestricted hunting. By the mid twentieth century, through game management measures, throughout North America, the population has been greatly restored. Where they are protected from an abundance of hunting and predators, although good for the deer, this has led to severe damage to agriculture and forestry. Due to so many collisions with cars and trucks, this has ended in injuries and fatalities for motorists. Along with more accidents, there is more dangerous transmittal diseases such as Lyme Disease. Not only that but the Whitetail Deer carries parasites that have killed populations of woodland caribou, moose and elk, and have even affected livestock.
The deer have very keen senses of smell, vision and hearing. There have been many stories, too, about how intelligent the deer are, especially with respect to hunters and predators. One thing is for certain, though: Whitetail Deer, whether intelligent or instinctive, are beautiful, graceful creatures that are amazing to watch.
Alternative medicine, in a nutshell, is therapeutical medical practice that is not classified as being traditional. This therapy is accessible in all sorts of diverse ways. People can get alternative medicine in nutritional supplement form if they wish. They can even get it in tea and vitamin formats.
At Pure Velvet, we do not consider our products a medicine in any form. We're neither a traditional medicine, nor an alternative medicine. That said, we have many friends who are involved in Acupuncture, Chiropractic care, and more, so we wanted to address common misconceptions about alternative medicine.
Misinformation about alternative medicine isn’t uncommon. There are actually an abundance of alternative medicine fallacies that are floating around in modern society. Learning about these fallacies can help people understand more about the core of alternative medicine and how it functions.
It isn’t uncommon for people to mistakenly think that alternative therapies essentially ignore contemporary ones that are out there. This isn’t based in reality. Alternative medicine practitioners do not exclusively utilize things that are completely natural. They do not balk at the idea of relying on standardized techniques and tools that are out there for them. People who practice alternative medicine frequently implement a combination of holistic and standard methods any time they’re treating their patients. They do this for purposes of reducing pain, boosting recovery and even keeping diseases of all kinds at bay.
The Covid crisis brought immunity support to a heightened level that has never been experienced in the modern age.
As the Covid crisis peaked in growth and became a worldwide pandemic, search volume surged for immunity support related terms as people sought to defend against the terrible virus.
Since our Deer Antler Velvet product frequently shows up in Google Shopping results for "immune support" and "immune system supplements" - we experienced an increase in traffic to our site as a result.
Google Trends is one of the most simple, yet interesting tools available online. Shown below is a trend graph of search interest in "immunity support" and "immune support supplements" - both of which surged in activity as the Coronavirus spread.
Google Trends also shows which states within the US have the highest interest in the Coronavirus and immune support supplements. If you look at the heatmap below, you'll see that New Jersey, Washington, and New York had the highest interest, respectively. The next highest interest came from Texas and California.
But isn't that because those states have higher populations? No, Google Trends takes population into account when determining their trending data. It's likely that these areas had the highest interest in building support for their immune systems because they were hit the hardest by the Covid-19 virus.
Isn't it funny how priorities change when we're faced with a pandemic? Maslow's hierarchy of needs truly come into effect when it comes to focus on building muscle and looking good compared to staying healthy. In there chart below, you can see that right as "immune support supplements" surged, the volume for "gain muscle" significantly decreased. This is a clear sign that the idea of "health benefits" shifted from aesthetic to survival.
The point of this article is to share our interesting findings surrounding immune support supplements and how the interest in these products has surged as a result of the Covid pandemic. No one should be relying on any type of dietary supplement for protection or treatment of the Covid-19 virus, or any virus for that matter.
While other companies have started bidding on these keywords or tailoring advertisements toward those searching for immune support supplements, we feel this is an irresponsible approach - as anyone who has symptoms of Covid-19 should seek professional medical attention.
Take some type and check out Google Trends - let us know if you find anything interesting.
]]>Perhaps the world considers deer antler velvet an "essential product."
At Pure Velvet Extracts, we certainly consider deer velvet essential - and we assume our customers do as well. That's why we're proud of our ability to continue to fulfill all orders of deer antler velvet. That's one of the advantages of having a fully controlled process from Farm to Bottle. While Deer antler velvet has history in Chinese medicine, our process is fully US based and does not rely on any imports from China or other countries.
In other countries, these processes are much more lenient.
While many supplement brands may be concerned with supply shortages due to lack of importing abilities, Pure Velvet is reaping the benefits of being US based, providing jobs to US citizens, and relying on USA made quality in our product. While it doe increase the price of our product, the quality is worth it. Now our loyal customer base can have peace of mind knowing that their deer velvet dosage routine will be unaffected by the coronavirus.
We've had a relationship with many of our customers for years now, and we've really developed into a Pure Velvet family. We hope that all of our customers and regular blog contributors stay safe and wish you and your family the best during this difficult time.
]]>Dosage question from our customer
"Hey i just had to ask if i absolutely need to hold it under my tongue for 60 seconds. I tried a couple times but tastes too bad so i had to swallow it. Let me know any info! Thanks high hopes for this product and company!"
- Joe
Whenever you buy one of our deer antler velvet supplements, you'll receive a package with instructions on how to take it. Within the dosage instructions, we suggest holding the liquid extract under your tongue for 60 to 80 seconds. The reason we instruct you do this is to maximize the absorption of the deer antler velvet.
We understand why someone would be keen on skipping this step in the process, because pure form deer antler velvet tastes pretty bad. We've received negative reviews in the past for our supplement's bitter taste - but as one reviewer mentioned "that's not why we're here." The purpose of taking deer antler velvet is not to enjoy the taste, it's to unlock the numerous health benefits.
Especially when dealing with health and fitness supplements, no answer is simple. You can shorten the time that you hold the deer antler velvet under your tongue, and it should still promote the typical health benefits. That said, to maximize the impact of taking deer antler velvet, we recommend enduring the bad taste for the fully recommended timeframe.
We take deer antler velvet too. We also think it tastes terrible. The best approach, unless you feel something is wrong with the substance (in which case, you should definitely spit it out), is to hold it under your tongue for the fully recommended time. Or, at least try to make it past 30 seconds. Put your mind in a happy place and think about the health benefits of taking deer antler velvet that make it worth the poor taste.
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As a person gets older, his levels of testosterone gradually decrease. This can cause changes in physiological functions, such as low libido. While low testosterone levels may cause concern, it is a natural part of aging.
An increase in testosterone production starts at puberty and begins to fall after the age of 30 or so.
There are wide variations in the “healthy” or “normal” blood levels of testosterone. This depends on factors such as protein status, thyroid function, etc.
Recent guidelines released by the American Urological Association shows that the normal testosterone level for a man should be at least 300ng/dL. Low testosterone is diagnosed when the testosterone level falls below 300 ng/dL.
For females 19 years and up, normal levels of a testosterone range from 8 – 60 ng/dL according to the Mayo Clinic.
Testosterone reaches its peak levels at age 18 – 19 before it declines gradually throughout the remainder of adulthood.
Testosterone is the major male androgen. This is indisputable. However, it is only one of many.
The production of androgen requires a chain of complex events. Androgen production starts in the brain. Here, the hypothalamus produces the hormone – gonadotropin-releasing hormone. This hormone may also be called luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone. To simplify, hormones are chemical substances that are produced in a particular part of the body, and then perform their functions in another part.
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone is a hormone in the true sense of the word, but it doesn’t travel long distances; its action is in the brain, the pituitary gland specifically. The pituitary gland on its part secretes the follicle-stimulating hormone, and luteinizing hormone.
Both hormones are well-known for their actions on the ovaries of females, but they are equally important in men since they affect testicular function. Luteinizing hormone triggers the production of testosterone, while follicle-stimulating hormone, acting alongside testosterone, stimulates the production of sperm cells.
The Leydig cells in the testicles are responsible for testosterone production. Cholesterol serves as the starting point. Cholesterol is well-known for its deleterious effects on heart health, but equally plays a very vital role as the building block of both male and female sex hormones. After a series of steps, cholesterol converts to androstenedione.
Testosterone affects male metabolism and male anatomy in many ways. It is responsible for the increased muscle mass, the deep voice, and the strong bones that are characteristic of males. It stimulates erythrocytosis (red blood cell production) by the bone marrow. Testosterone also contributes to male behavior – the aggressiveness, sex drive, sexual performance, and normal erections. The stimulation of genital growth during puberty is caused by testosterone. It is also responsible for the production of sperm all through adult life. Testosterone also has a great influence on cholesterol metabolism, even though scientists aren't sure about the effects that this has on human health.
Testosterone acts directly on the body’s tissues, but some of its effects only occur after they have converted to dihydrotestosterone, another form of androgen. Dihydrotestosterone acts on the skin, giving rise to acne in some cases. It also acts on the hair follicles, causing the growth of hair on the chest, but often removing it from the scalp. Dihydrotestosterone is also responsible for the growth of prostate cells, contributing to prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia in elderly men.
The testicles produce at least 95% of testosterone in the male. Testicular production of testosterone is controlled by luteinizing hormone. The other 5% is produced by the adrenal glands. Testosterone is also produced in the adrenal glands of women. In both genders, neither FSH nor LH contributes to the production of adrenal hormone production. Dehydroepiandrosterone is a major precursor of testosterone in both genders.
During its final phase of metabolism, testosterone is converted to estradiol, an important female hormone. The conversion occurs in fat cells, which explains why obese women and men have a higher level of estrogen than lean women and men.
Testosterone production starts early in the males. In most cases, it begins in the 7th week of embryonic development. It remains at high levels during fetal development but falls just before delivery. Male babies experience a blip in production of testosterone between the third and sixth month of life, but by 12 months of age, their levels fall back. Between 6 and 8 years of age, the production of adrenal androgen shoots, stimulating growth spurt but no sexual development.
Testosterone production receives a boost at puberty due to LH and GnRH surge. The increased testosterone stimulates the growth of muscles and bones, red blood cell production, growth of body and facial hair, enlargement of the voice box, the revival of reproductive and sexual function. In young men, testosterone production attains its peak at 17 years of age, with the levels remaining consistently high for 2 – 3 decades. On average, young men with no health issues can produce 6mg of testosterone daily.
Some men have high levels of testosterone throughout life. However, a decline in testosterone levels begins at about age 40 in some men. The decline in men is gradual compared to the precipitous drop that occurs in menopausal women. By 70 years of age, testosterone production will fall to less than 30% of normal. But that notwithstanding, the levels of testosterone remain within the normal range in at least 75% of elderly men. This explains why men in their 80s can still father children. It is worth noting that no study has established a link between low testosterone levels and the risk of erectile dysfunction.
The answer to the question “what impact does age have on testosterone level” is complex. There is no established single normal level for testosterone. Most healthy men exhibit a wide range – somewhere between 270 & 1070 ng/dL. But like other biological functions, production of testosterone waxes & wanes over a cycle of 24 hours. Production is high at 8 am and falls to its lowest at 9 pm.
Aging introduces a final complexity to the subject. Testosterone occurs in two forms in the blood – it may be bound to proteins or maybe free and move around unbound. Testosterone binds to globulin tightly. But weakly to albumin. Free testosterone and albumin-bound testosterone are biologically active. The androgen-binding protein increases with age, so even at old age, a man may have normal levels of testosterone, but low levels of biologically-active testosterone.
It may not be necessary for a man to understand the entire physiology of testosterone, but it is worth noting that these complexities contribute to the flaws in most researches on testosterone replacement therapy. If a man wishes to know where he stands, he should get his bioavailable or free testosterone levels measured. Measurement is best done early in the morning.
A 2005 study by Barrett-Conor shows testosterone levels as measured in healthy men between 40 – 79 years of age. This is illustrated in the table below:
Age |
Total testosterone |
Free testosterone |
Bioavailable testosterone |
40–49 |
252–916 |
5.3–26.3 |
101–499 |
50–59 |
215–878 |
4.2–22.2 |
80–420 |
60–69 |
196–859 |
3.7–18.9 |
69–356 |
70–79 |
156–819 |
2.2–14.7 |
41–279 |
Source: "Male Testosterone: What is normal?," Barrett-Conor, Clinical Endocrinology 2005;62(3):263–64. |
Testosterone study references
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The most important thing about New Year's resolutions, is to find something that's interesting enough to stay on your mind every day. If you're not reminded of your new routine daily.
That's the key to success. You need to be reminded of your resolution daily.
DAV is often paired with bodybuilding, long distance running, or sports. If your resolution is to focus on any type of health benefit, then adding deer antler velvet to your routine is going to help.
How does taking deer antler velvet help?
The recommended deer antler velvet dosage is 2/3 of a dropper taken daily. Any supplement you take daily is going to help you to stick to your new years resolution, whether it's fitness focused or not. Incorporating a commitment to maximizing the health benefits of deer antler velvet means that you'll need to incorporate it into your daily routine. This will serve as a daily reminder to not only take your DAV, but to focus on the other parts of your New Year's resolution as well.
Taking DAV daily will not only unleash the health benefits of deer velvet, but also remind you of the rest of your resolution goals.
If you don't want to start taking deer antler velvet, there are other similar options. Taking a daily multivitamin, like Centrum, or any other type of item you take daily (that's also healthy and approved by your doctor).
Even if it's not taking a supplement, find something that will remind you daily of your resolution. If you don't do that one thing on any given day, then you know you've dropped the ball. Forgetting one day doesn't mean you failed, it just means that you need to catch yourself and focus on getting back on the horse the next day.
Good luck to all of our health and fitness buffs. And Happy New Year!
]]>Article 1: Dosage: Instructions on how to take deer antler velvet
Our first article of the year was probably the most helpful of them all. Aptly titled, Deer Antler Velvet dosage instructions, we posted an article as a response to one of the most frequently asked questions we receive. Everyone asks "how do I take deer antler velvet?"
When you order our product, every box comes with specific instructions on dosage and delivery. However, we find many of our customers misplace the instructions or prefer additional clarification. You asked - we answered!
Article 2: The Big Question - Is Deer Antler Velvet Illegal?
Another common question we receive from people who are considering taking deer antler velvet is whether it's legal or not. The simple answer is - yes, it's perfectly legal to take deer antler velvet. The longer answer is that it's not only legal, but it's also allowed in sports.
Article 3: The "Free Deer" April Fools Joke
Was this article helpful? No. Did we have a few customer service calls that asked us if a deer would be shipped to their house? Yes. Was the customer service team angry with the content team for posting this article? Also yes. But this was one of the more interesting articles we were able to write.
Article 4: Deer Velvet Sprays as a Gift
We focused on those health conscious mothers with this article. For those who couldn't decide what to buy their mother for Mother's Day, we pointed out the reasons that deer antler velvet would be a great gift. It's definitely a unique product that most mother's wouldn't expect.
If your mother, or the mother of your kids, is a gym rat then this might be a great gift idea. It could also be a great gift to buy if your mother is a fan of acupuncture. Deer antler velvet is commonly referenced in acupuncture - referred to as Lu Rong.
Article 5: The North American Elk
Our product is sourced and created entirely within the USA. We use the great North American Elk to harvest our deer antler velvet. This article gives you more background on the North American Elk. If you're going to take deer antler velvet, why not learn more about the animal behind the product?
Article 6: Deer Antler Velvet is also called Lu Rong
Did you know that deer antler velvet is commonly referred to as Lu Rong? Acupuncturists often incorporate Lu Rong into their regimen. Given that both stem from ancient Chinese practices, the two tend to go hand in hand. If you've never tried Acupuncture or Deer Antler Velvet, maybe this article will inspire you to try one - or both!
Happy New Year Everyone! Cheers to 2020!
]]>Deer and reindeer are not all that different. In fact, the only difference is that regular deer adapt to warmer clients while reindeer adapt to colder climates. It gets chilly up there in the North Pole!
So to answer the frequently asked question - yes, reindeer go through a velvet stage with their antlers just like regular deer do. That said, there is no reported company that provides reindeer velvet as a supplement. All brands use deer that are more adaptable to a warmer climate.
Therefore (and some may view this as unfortunate), when you buy deer antler velvet, it does not have any reindeer velvet in it.
]]>In a world that's focused on weight loss, most bodybuilders are more concerned with weight gain. A pound of muscle is harder to build than a pound of fat, and there are only so many steaks you can eat in a single day. To make up the difference, the average bodybuilder turns to protein supplements. Whether they enjoy post-workout shakes or a steady stream of sports bars, your athlete is almost definitely looking for more ways to cram protein into their daily diet. What to Use: Whey Protein For centuries, concerned mothers have told growing kids to drink plenty of milk. That's because dairy products are a good source of whey protein.
Whey protein is easy to consume and contains a ton of essential amino acids. Although you can get a decent amount of whey by eating dairy products, taking it as a direct supplement will let you maximize your protein intake.
The best way to consume whey protein is as a protein powder. Every bodybuilder has their favorite protein shake, but if you're looking for a place to start, try Optimum Nutrition's Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder. The ingredients are simple, and you can get it in chocolate, strawberry, or vanilla.
Most bodybuilding supplements promise that they can enhance your performance. This vague term might refer to increasing your strength, improving your resilience, or giving you more energy so that you can keep working out for longer.
Obviously, there's no substitute for training and hard work. But it turns out that a few select supplements actually can make your performance better - assuming that you take them regularly and keep up your training regimen.
Since the 1990s, creatine has been the shining star of the supplement industry. Creatine is one of the few supplements with effects that have been corroborated by clinical studies.
Creatine is naturally produced by the body and plays an important role in muscular health. Creatine increases the amount of energy that your muscles are able to produce; this lets you lift more and work out for longer periods of time.
It's worth noting that there's such a thing as creatine saturation. When you first start taking creatine supplements, most manufacturers recommend that you take a "loading dose" for the first few days. After the loading period, you can greatly decrease your intake while maintaining the same effects.
MuscleTech's Platinum Creatine Monohydrate Powder is a simple and flavorless supplement that you can add to your normal protein shakes. The powder has been micronized, which makes it fluffier and easier to consume.
Everyone who's worked out has experienced that sore-muscle feeling the next day. Pushing yourself past your limits causes damage, and the process of repairing that damage results in stronger muscles that can handle more the next time around.
The normal remedy for muscle damage is rest. Unfortunately, it's almost impossible to convince a passionate bodybuilder to stay out of the gym for a day or two. Muscle-repairing supplements can help speed up the recovery process, reducing the chance of injury and letting your dedicated athlete get back to their favorite activity.
There are a ton of supplements that promise to help with muscle recovery, and they usually contain one key ingredient: glutamine.
Glutamine is an amino acid that is naturally produced by the muscles in your body. Amino acids are the building blocks that proteins are made from. When you have damaged tissues or organs, your body automatically sends glutamine through the bloodstream to help repair those areas.
Glutamine is one of the most abundant amino acids found in the body, but that doesn't always mean there's enough. Bodybuilders are constantly damaging and repairing muscles, so taking a glutamine supplement can be a good way to increase their internal stores.
If you're looking for a no-frills glutamine supplement, we recommend Optimum Nutrition's Glutamine Caps. Each of the 120 capsules contains a full gram of pure l-glutamine. The only other ingredient is magnesium stearate, which acts as a release agent.
One of the struggles of bodybuilding is the daily grind. It's hard to find the energy and motivation needed to push past that wall and go to the gym for yet another day in a row. Even athletes who love their craft might find themselves burnt out and exhausted, especially if they aren't seeing the gains they've been looking for.
Many nutrition supplements strive this problem by promoting healthy energy levels. The reasoning is that if you aren't as tired, you'll be more motivated. An additional health benefit of deer antler velvet and IGF-1 is that it promotes hormone balance and can help with muscle rejuvenation.
Deer antler velvet has been used in natural medicine for hundreds of years, but it's only recently been marketed as an athletic supplement. As the name suggests, this product is shed from the antlers of deers right before mating season every year. The shed velvet contains a variety of proteins and hormones that are thought to provide performance-enhancing effects.
Deer antler velvet contains a growth hormone called IGF-1. Although the science isn't fully out, existing studies have shown that IGF-1 can help encourage cellular regrowth. Some athletes have reported feeling stronger and more energetic after taking regular deer antler velvet supplements; others use it to assist with muscle repair.
We recommend our best selling deer antler velvet supplement - Pure Velvet: Premium Antler. The top selling supplement contains 2000mg of pure deer antler velvet. It's optimal strength and price point make it the best choice on the market.
]]>Initially, our inspiration came from the success we see with our deer antler velvet for humans. Our return customer rate is a true sign that our supplement is delivering value to our customers. If antler sprays are providing value to humans, why can't we also create a formula that provides these same health benefits to animals?
The 2nd piece of our inspiration came from antler chews. These chews have emerged over the years as the best natural chew toy for dogs. While we're not in the market of selling chew toys, the concept did play a role in encouraging us to expand our antler product selection to include a dog supplement.
Pure Velvet Extracts for pets was born. Now your dog can enjoy the numerous health benefits of deer antler velvet.
We spent significant time aligning on the proper formula for canine deer antler velvet delivery. As with all of our deer products, purity was key. We needed to ensure we did not include unnecessary filler or synthetic IGF-1. In our opinion, the optimal way to unlock the health benefits of supplements is to rely on pure form delivery as opposed to synthetics created in a lab.
Pure form deer antler velvet does not taste good. I think everyone that takes deer antler velvet can agree on that. That's why our deer antler velvet for dogs comes in flakes that include elk liver and pumpkin extract. Sprinkle it on your dog's food and he or she will enjoy the extra topping. It's not recommended that you feed the deer velvet flakes separately to your pet, as it goes nicely with a healthy serving of dog food.
]]>Thanksgiving weekend is always a big shopping time of year. Black Friday and Cyber Monday especially drive strong sales for businesses across the US. While most people flock to the electronics stores to buy TVs and other equipment, it may be smart to consider buying deer antler velvet at this time as well.
While often categorized as an herbal supplement, lu rong is actually not derived from herbs. Rather, it is naturally extracted from deer antlers while in the velvet stage of antler growth.
Many acupuncture therapists take deer antler velvet and recommend it to their clients.
Health Benefits of lu rong (deer antler velvet):
These health benefits of lu rong make it a perfect match for people who do acupuncture therapy or enjoy taking herbal medicines (to be clear, lu rong is not an herbal medicine).
Where can I buy lu rong?
Lu rong is often available for purchase in Chinese Herbal shops, as deer velvet usage originated in the Chinese herbal culture. However, many local Chinese medicine stores sell lu rong in forms that still need to be ground and/or liquified before using. That's why it's best to buy lu rong from a brand that sells lu rong in a usable form.
That's where Pure Velvet Extracts comes into play. We have the highest 80:1 extract ratio and the strongest form of pure deer antler velvet. All orders ship for free with a 100% money back guarantee.
Unsure which Antler Velvet supplement is right for you? Compare them
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