Thanks bro, but I should have clarified that those were posts made by other BOP members which is why I posted the links. Although I do not agree with the all of the info in the Aromasin article, I do feel that it contains some accurate and relevant information to this topic. I should have taken the time to just write out my perspective, but I was being lazy. So, here is my .02…….
Firstly, it should be stated that AAS based on the DHT structure are not subject to the aromatization process.
Now, assuming that you have maintained your estrogen level in normal range during cycle…. you should not need AI during pct. But this is where I stress the importance of blood work.
Yes, many steroid compounds do convert to estrogen via the aromatization process and some are worse than others. Also, it should be noted that estrogen will spike after a cycle. Did I mention the importance of blood work?
As most of us know, high levels of estrogen can lead to gyno, water retention, fat storage etc. and lowering estrogen too much will mess up your blood lipids. That being said, estrogen is necessary because it plays a role in IGF-1 levels, it can act as an anti-inflammatory and is also helpful when bulking because it can promote higher androgen receptor concentrations.
Higher levels of AAS equal higher estrogen levels and require more intense hormone control and heavier PCT. Our goal during cycle is to level out our estrogen. In PCT, we are also trying to achieve equilibrium of the HPTA, getting our FSH and LH back to normal. You know it......blood work!
When necessary, AI can be used during cycle to lower estrogen and can be used in PCT (usually in conjunction with a SERM) to get back to homeostasis. However, lowering estrogen with strong AI's can have a negative effect on cholesterol levels so always start with a low dose and adjust accordingly.
So, what is the secret to keeping your estrogen level balanced….the correct answer is that it depends on the person and the quantity/type of AAS used and the only way to truly know if you are within the clinically normal range is to have blood work done.
I typically run a low of AI during cycle and have a SERM on hand if I feel gyno symptoms arise. IMO, if I have to resort to a SERM, make sure blood work is done at that time! At this point, I would reduce the dosage of aromatizing AAS in my cycle or replace them with non-aromatizing steroids. Remember, blood work is the only true way to know if you are staying within range!
I hope this helps,
BL
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