XY Files

Evidence-based articles on testosterone, men's health, fitness, longevity, and sexual health.

Editors' picks

Blueprint supplements for vascular health: What research says

Blueprint supplements for vascular health: What research says

Dr. Susan Carter, MD avatar
Dr. Susan Carter, MD: Endocrinologist & Longevity Expert
Jan 30, 2026 · 12 min read

Research does not show that the branded “Blueprint Stack” supplement bundle itself improves vascular health outcomes in men; any likely benefit comes from the Mediterranean-style foods in the routine and the cardiometabolic improvements they support. This men’s health-focused Blueprint protocol review explains what’s in the stack based on public descriptions of Bryan Johnson’s Blueprint protocol, ...

Calories in a chicken and rice meal: What it actually is

Calories in a chicken and rice meal: What it actually is

Dr. Susan Carter, MD avatar
Dr. Susan Carter, MD: Endocrinologist & Longevity Expert
Jan 14, 2026 · 12 min read

A chicken-and-rice bowl can be roughly 555 calories when it lands around 45 g protein, 60 g carbs, and 15 g fat (protein and carbs are ~4 calories per gram, fat is ~9), so small amounts of added oil or sweet sauces can swing the total fast. Treat it as a scalable template. Adjust portions ...

The science of caffeine free energy drinks: How to boost focus without the crash

The science of caffeine free energy drinks: How to boost focus without the crash

Dr. Jonathan Pierce, PhD avatar
Dr. Jonathan Pierce, PhD: Clinical Psychologist & Neuroscience Specialist
Jan 10, 2026 · 12 min read

Non-caffeinated energy boosters, including caffeine-free energy drinks, may help support focus without a “crash,” largely by addressing fundamentals that influence energy and performance, such as hydration, electrolyte balance, and nutrient cofactors involved in energy metabolism. A “crash” is the rebound in sleepiness, brain fog, and low drive you feel when a stimulant wears off while ...

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Listen to the latest episodes on men's health, hormones, performance, and longevity.

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Fertility & reproductive health

Navigate conception with clarity and science. Explore semen analysis, male infertility evaluations, and preparation for assisted reproduction like IVF and IUI. Learn how hCG, enclomiphene, and targeted supplements can improve sperm count, motility, and semen quality. Clear, evidence-based guidance to improve fertility and reproductive outcomes.

Fitness & physical performance

Train with your hormones, not against them. We cover strength, hypertrophy, VO2 max, recovery, and injury prevention through an endocrine lens. Discover how training, nutrition, and daily activity can impact testosterone levels and support natural balance. Use estradiol balance for joint health, plan sleep taper cycles before competitions, and turn smart physiology into new PRs.

Lifestyle & longevity

Design daily habits that support hormonal balance and long-term vitality. Master sleep and circadian timing, eat for metabolic stability, and use micronutrients with purpose. Make informed choices about alcohol, nicotine, sauna, and cold exposure. We translate longevity research into clear, practical playbooks you can apply today.

Mental health

Everything you need to know about how hormones shape mood, focus, and emotional balance. We explore anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress response, and cognitive performance through the lens of neuroscience and endocrinology. Learn how to stabilize cortisol, support healthy testosterone levels, and rebuild mental clarity.

Sexual health

Start with what matters: desire, function, and comfort. We explain libido, arousal, erectile function, orgasm, and sexual pain, and how medicines and hormones influence them. Clear language, evidence-based guidance, and practical steps to understand your body and improve sexual well-being.

Testosterone 101

Everything you need to know about testosterone, backed by the latest research. We turn complex topics like diagnosis, dosing, delivery methods, and lab results into simple, practical insights. Understand TRT benefits and risks, maintain estradiol balance, and spot drug interactions - all grounded in evidence, not hype.

Authors and medical reviewers

Dr. Alexander Grant, MD, PhD

Dr. Alexander Grant, MD, PhD: Urologist & Men's Health Advocate

Dr. Alexander Grant is a urologist and researcher specializing in men's reproductive health and hormone balance. He helps men with testosterone optimization, prostate care, fertility, and sexual health through clear, judgment-free guidance. His approach is practical and evidence-based, built for conversations that many men find difficult to start.

Dr. Bruno Rodriguez, DPT, CSCS

Dr. Bruno Rodriguez, DPT, CSCS: Strength, Recovery, and Physical Therapy Expert

Dr. Bruno Rodriguez designs strength and recovery programs for professional athletes and patients recovering from surgery. He focuses on building strength, mobility, and effective recovery while lowering injury risk. His goal is for men to achieve the best performance in the gym and in daily life.

Dr. Jonathan Pierce, PhD

Dr. Jonathan Pierce, PhD: Clinical Psychologist & Neuroscience Specialist

Dr. Jonathan Pierce integrates clinical psychology with neuroscience to connect mood, motivation, and hormones. He helps men manage stress, low drive, and anxiety, then builds durable habits for focus, resilience, and performance at work and at home.

Dr. Susan Carter, MD

Dr. Susan Carter, MD: Endocrinologist & Longevity Expert

Dr. Susan Carter is an endocrinologist and longevity expert specializing in hormone balance, metabolism, and the aging process. She links low testosterone with thyroid and cortisol patterns and turns lab data into clear next steps. Patients appreciate her straightforward approach, preventive mindset, and calm, data-driven care.

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