TESTOSTERONE BOOST

Testosterone is a hormone produced within the testes. It promotes the progress of male sexual characteristics and is crucial for sexual health. This hormone is liable for male sexual and reproductive functions like growing beards, voice deepening, toning muscles and bones, and influencing reproduction. Though testosterone is related to masculinity, it is additionally present in women in much lower quantities.
Adequate amounts of testosterone are beneficial to health like sexual features and sufficient red blood cells, lowering the risk of hypertension and cardiac arrest.

Factors that may lower testosterone levels

Testosterone levels may decrease when the male reproductive organs (testicles) do not produce enough testosterone (We going to explain about some factor below). A decrease in testosterone levels may be as a result of any of the following conditions:

Injury or trauma that interrupts the blood supply to the testes.

Head injury

An infection of the testes

When excessive amounts of iron are present within the body may lower testosterone.

Excess estrogen in the body.

Cancer treatment using chemotherapy.

Aging

Medications used to treat epithelial carcinoma.

Alcohol abuse

Liver cirrhosis

Diabetes type 2

Chronic liver failure

Obesity

Puberty delay

Underactive thyroid

Congenital disability at birth

Sleep apnea

Tumors or malfunction in the pituitary gland.

Lower testosterone can result in inflammatory conditions on the internal body organs, like the lungs.

Abnormality in the hypothalamus (Kallman syndrome)

XXY syndrome

Excessive presence of prolactin (milk producing hormone)

Causes of Testosterone deficiency

Several factors may cause a deficiency of testosterone. Some of them include autoimmune disease, pituitary gland problems, and aging.

Aging

Aging is a factor leading to reduced testosterone production. A decrease in testosterone causes a decrease in estradiol as well. Testosterone levels are at peak value in ages 20 -30 and tend to reduce after 35.

Pituitary gland problems

Since the pituitary gland sends signals to the testicles to start producing testosterone, problems in the pituitary gland can also affect men’s health.

Testosterone Supplements

In 1937, testosterone was first prescribed as a clinical drug. Treatments are available for men who do not have enough testosterone production. Treatment of hypogonadism regulates testosterone levels, which can contribute to improvements in certain health conditions, like muscle and bone health, improved mood, and elevated energy levels.

Vitamin D

This fat-soluble vitamin is also known as the “sunshine vitamin.” Sunlight triggers the production of this vitamin in the human body. Limited sun exposure can lead to diminished levels of vitamin C. Sunlight exposure can significantly regulate (boost) testosterone levels, resulting in improved hormonal balance and improved men’s health. A vitamin D supplement and vitamin D-rich food can help eliminate vitamin D deficiency.

Fenugreek

Fenugreek is a popular herb that is reported to increase testosterone levels. A study conducted in 2011 reported improved strength in men who consumed fenugreek supplements.

Ginger

Ginger is a herb that has proven health benefits for centuries. It has multiple health benefits, such as regulating cholesterol levels and a significant reduction in inflammation. Some studies have shown that ginger can increase testosterone levels along with improving sperm count and quality. Although more scientific evidence is needed regarding ginger and its effects on testosterone, there is no harm in consuming ginger, as it has no adverse effects.

D-Aspartic Acid

It is a naturally occurring amino acid that can boost testosterone levels. Research suggests that D-Aspartic acid works by increasing a hormone, known as a luteinizing hormone, which stimulates the testes to produce more testosterone. A study suggested that consuming D-Aspartic acid for only 12 days may cause increased luteinizing hormone, resulting in improved sperm quality. However, some recent studies suggest that taking D-aspartic acid may increase strength and muscle mass; however, it does not affect testosterone levels.

Magnesium

Magnesium directly affects testosterone production, as magnesium converts vitamin D into its active form. A daily intake of 30 mg is recommended by health authorities (FDA) to ensure healthy testosterone levels.

Zinc

Zinc is an essential nutrient, and its deficiency can hinder testosterone production. Usually, athletes and people who sweat a lot tend to lose more zin. So, they are more prone to zinc deficiency. Sources of zinc include grains and nuts. The recommended daily intake of zinc for men is around 11 mg, and exceeding the recommended intake may cause nausea and vomiting.

Tribulus Terrestris

Also known as Puncturevine, Tribulus Terrestris is an ancient herb used in medicine for centuries. Nowadays, its effects on sexual health are being investigated, and some evidence suggests that it may increase libido.

DHEA

Dehydroepiandrosterone is a hormone produced by adrenal glands and ensures healthy levels of estrogen and testosterone. DHEA supplements are also available in the market and may benefit people with low testosterone levels. The use of DHEA is banned in sports.

Symptoms of low testosterone

The most common symptom of low testosterone is low libido. Other symptoms include:

Infertility

Mood swings

Fatigue

Weaker muscles

Lower concentration

Memory loss

Obesity or weight gain

Gynecomastia (development of the breast)

Lower hemoglobin levels and anemia

Low self-esteem

Hair loss

Osteoporosis (thinning and weaker bones)

Inability to achieve and hold an erection

It can also cause sleep apnea, a condition characterized by interrupted sleep and loud snoring.

How to boost testosterone levels

Testosterone boosting therapy, also known as testosterone replacement therapy, can help avoid the problems related to low testosterone levels.
Using testosterone replacement therapy can increase bone density and muscle strength, contribute to loss of body, improve sexual drive and erection, increased mental alertness, improved mood, and self-esteem.
These benefits that come from testosterone replacement therapy is achievable in one or more of the following ways:

Using medication to boost testosterone levels

Application of testosterone boosting pellets under the skin can boost testosterone levels.

Intramuscular testosterone boosting injections regulate testosterone levels

Taking vitamin D and zinc supplements.

Application of testosterone boosting patches onto the arms. Legs, buttocks, or back.

The application of testosterone-boosting gel on the body can also increase testosterone levels.

Risks of using medication for enhancing testosterone levels:

Using a testosterone gel could cause skin irritation and affect a person who comes in contact with the person who has applied it.
Testosterone replacement therapy could lead to prostate cancer for men who have an enlarged prostate, causing urination problems.
Testosterone boosting medication can contribute to breast cancer, increased red blood cells, and decreased sperm count.
Some medications can lead to oily, acne-filled skin.
There is a risk of excessive hair growth.
The medication can result in congestive heart failure.

Using natural remedies and lifestyle change to boost testosterone levels

Natural remedies, food, herbs, and lifestyle changes can positively boost testosterone hormone levels.

Lifestyle

Increased physical activity and regular exercise like weight lifting may boost testosterone levels.

Striving to keep stress levels to a minimum can positively affect the hormone.

A person should get adequate quality sleep.

Getting regular exposure to sunlight, jokingly referred to by some as “sunning your balls.”

Avoiding excessive exposure to estrogen-like chemicals

Control the consumption of alcohol, chronic drugs, and marijuana.

Getting proper medical attention for diabetes

Controlling weight or cutting excess weight

Live a contented, laughter-filled life. They say, “laughter is the best medicine.”

Food

Testosterone hormone is produced in the body using fat-soluble vitamin D and zinc. Therefore, it is necessary for anyone seeking to spike their
testosterone levels to consume food rich in these two nutrients. Examples of these fat-soluble vitamins and zinc-rich foods include

Oily fish like tuna, sardines, and salmon contain high zinc.

Egg yolks

Apple peels

Beef liver

Spinach contains folic acid and magnesium.

Oysters are high in zinc.

Almonds

Crab or lobster

Ginger

Garlic

Tomatoes

Carrots

Avocados contain zinc and antioxidant vitamin E

Lemon and other citrus fruits

Bananas

Chili peppers

Coffee or caffeinated drinks.

Breakfast cereals fortified with vital vitamins, especially vitamin D, including oats and oatmeal, boost the hormone.

Low fat or skimmed milk

Some varieties of food lower testosterone levels or make it difficult for the body to use this hormone. A number of these are:

Soy products like edamame, tofu, and protein isolates contribute to lower testosterone.

Alcohol

Dairy products like cows’ milk that consist of synthetic or natural hormones also reduce testosterone.

Licorice

Spearmint and peppermint

Inadequate amounts of green leafy vegetables

Excessive amounts of omega-3 fatty acids

Herbs

Some herbs are known to spike testosterone levels. The foremost common research-based herbs include:

Ashwagandha.

Tongkat Ali

Shilajit

Horny goat weed

TESTOSTERONE SUPPLEMENTS

Testosterone is a primary male hormone that ensures the normal functioning of male sex organs. It is vital for the health and wellbeing of men. It is also present in women but in minimal amounts. The production of testosterone is controlled by the pituitary gland, a pea-sized organ located at the base of the brain. Testosterone is responsible for ensuring healthy puberty, i.e., normal physical development of male features (transformation of boys to men) in boys, such as muscular strength, deeper voice, and body hair. It is also essential for optimal sperm production in men.

According to the American Urological Association, testosterone levels less than 300 nanograms per deciliter are referred to as testosterone deficiency. Usually, testosterone levels are highest in the morning and lowest at night. Hormonal imbalance can lead to several health problems.

Doctors usually prescribe blood tests to measure levels of testosterone. Testosterone deficiency, also called hypogonadism, is characterized by symptoms like:

Reduced energy levels and fatigue

Weight gain leading to obesity

Low libido / Reduced sex drive

Erectile dysfunction

Loss of muscle mass

Mood swings and Depression

Osteoporosis (decreased bone strength)

SUPPLEMENTS

Supplements employed in the treatment of low testosterone levels in either of the following two ways:

to directly boost testosterone and other related hormones levels

to decrease the likelihood of the testosterone levels dropping or conversion of testosterone hormone into estrogen.

The most common supplements are:

Vitamin D

Zinc

Tribulus Terrestris, also called puncture vine, goat head, caltrop, or Gokshura, is one well-known supplement.

D-Aspartic Acid

Fenugreek

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)

Conclusion

Generally, a healthy lifestyle will keep testosterone levels at a normal range.
Eat a properly balanced diet that provides all the necessary nutrients and mainly composed of fresh rather than processed food. Regular active exercise, controlling weight gain, and avoiding drug and alcohol abuse are good ways to prevent the risk of having low testosterone levels. When it comes to genetically caused low testosterone, there are still no known ways of prevention.

Most of the overhyped products advertised as testosterone boosters are available in the market, but the truth is that they do more harm than good. Although some of the supplements may work, they are still not a healthy alternative to a balanced diet.

So the best solution is to switch to natural ways to increase testosterone by adopting a healthy lifestyle accompanied by a balanced diet. A balanced diet covers up almost all nutritional deficiencies, hence keeping most health issues at bay.

To maintain healthy testosterone levels, a healthy diet and adequate quality sleep are a must, along with weight monitoring. Also, people suffering from testosterone deficiency should take a diet rich in zinc, magnesium, and vitamin D. However, some remaining deficiencies can easily be fixed by supplements. Still, expert medical advice may be needed if a healthy diet combined with supplementation does not yield desired results.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

TATYANA DYACHENKO

Tatyana is a part-time sex, health and CBD blogger with a handful of magazines and blogs. Tatyana has been featured in magazines such as Cosmopolitan, Teen Vogue. Vice, Tatler, Vanity Fair and many others. Tatyana enjoys pursuing her flare for creativity through modelling, graffiti art, astronomy and technology. She also enjoy cycling across London on an iconic Boris bike that has come to define London. You are most likely to bump into Tanya in Brick Lane or Camden Town where she enjoys spending most of her time.

See author's posts

TESTOSTERONE BOOST