What Is Post Cycle Therapy (PCT)? Full Guide by 5XL Nutrition

If you’ve just completed a steroid or SARMs cycle, your body needs time to recover. This is where Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) comes in. But many gym-goers ignore it — and that’s a big mistake.

In this blog, we’ll explain what is PCT, why it’s crucial for muscle retention and hormone recovery, and how 5XL Nutrition’s Test Up can support your journey.

What Is Post Cycle Therapy (PCT)?

Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) is a supplement protocol that helps your body restart its natural hormone production — especially testosterone — after using anabolic substances like steroids or SARMs.

Why Do You Need PCT?

When you take steroids, your body stops making natural testosterone because it’s getting it from outside. Once the cycle ends, your body is left confused, and your testosterone stays low. This can lead to:

• Muscle loss

• Fat gain

• Low energy

• Mood swings

• Low libido

• Gynecomastia (man boobs)

To avoid all this, you need PCT to bring your hormones back to normal.

Key Goals of Post Cycle Therapy

1. Restore Natural Testosterone Production

2. Prevent Estrogen Buildup

3. Protect Muscle Gains

4. Support Mood and Libido

5. Detox Liver and Internal Organs

When to Start PCT?

It depends on what you used during your cycle:

A typical PCT lasts 4 to 6 weeks.

Best Supplements to Use in PCT

Let’s look at the key supplements that support a successful Post Cycle Therapy:

1. Testosterone Booster (Like Test Up)

After a cycle, natural testosterone drops. A test booster helps bring it back faster.

5XL Nutrition’s Test Up contains natural herbs and minerals like:

• Tribulus Terrestris – Supports libido and testosterone

• Fenugreek Extract – Boosts free testosterone

• Ashwagandha – Reduces cortisol, improves recovery

• Zinc + Magnesium – Essential for hormone function

👉 Take 1–2 capsules daily for 4–6 weeks.

2. Estrogen Blockers

After a cycle, estrogen levels often rise, causing water retention, acne, or even gynecomastia. An estrogen blocker helps control this.

If you’re using SARMs or mild steroids, a natural anti-estrogen like DIM (Diindolylmethane) can be enough. Advanced users may need Arimistane-based supplements.

3. Liver Support (Optional but Recommended)

If your cycle included oral compounds, your liver takes a hit. Use liver support supplements like:

• Milk Thistle

• NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)

• Alpha Lipoic Acid

Good news: 5XL Nutrition’s NAC can also be added to your PCT protocol for liver detox.

Sample PCT Protocol (Using 5XL Nutrition Products)

Here’s a simple 4-week plan:

Signs Your PCT Is Working

• Energy levels rising

• Better mood and sleep

• Muscle strength returns

• Libido improves

• No signs of estrogen side effects

Common Mistakes in PCT

❌ Skipping PCT entirely
❌ Using steroids without a proper plan
❌ Not managing estrogen
❌ Taking underdosed or fake supplements
❌ Expecting instant recovery

Remember: Your body needs support and time to recover naturally.

Why Choose 5XL Nutrition for PCT?

At 5XL Nutrition, we believe in clean, effective, and genuine supplements. Our products like Test Up are:

• Lab-tested

• 100% Natural

• Made for Indian athletes

• Safe for long-term use

We don’t promote steroid use, but we do promote smart recovery for those who have cycled.

Final Thoughts

So, what is Post Cycle Therapy (PCT)? It’s your body’s recovery phase — and skipping it can destroy your gains.

If you want to:

✅ Keep your muscle
✅ Bring back your hormones
✅ Stay healthy long-term

Then PCT is a must.

Use trusted products like Test Up, Ashwagandha, and NAC from 5XL Nutrition to make your recovery fast, safe, and effective.