Many men in the 30s will start feeling the effects
of a drop in testosterone. Symptoms of low testosterone can include lower sex
drive, muscle loss, and fatigue. Learn more about low testosterone and natural
test boosters which can help rejuvenate energy, mood, libido, and more.
Testosterone loss can be a chronic, serious
problem for men, and it can be caused by a variety of factors. While
testosterone levels begin to naturally decline at a rate of one to two percent
per year, drops can often be much sharper.
Some of the causes of low testosterone include:
High
Cholesterol Levels – High cholesterol levels are known to
cause drops in testosterone levels, as well as erectile dysfunction. One of the
top test boosters is to simply eat a healthy diet and keep cholesterol levels
in check.
Alcohol
– High consumption of alcohol can inhibit production of testosterone.
Common
Health Conditions – Many conditions can also reduce
testosterone levels including high blood pressure, kidney failure, stress,
tumors of the pituitary glands, congenital hormonal disorders, and infection.
Medications
–
Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, corticosteroids, and certain hormone therapies
can all cause low testosterone.
Because symptoms of low testosterone are often
similar to those of other conditions, it’s essential to check levels through
blood work. Once it has been diagnosed, you can determine the top test boosters
for your particular situation.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Some doctors will recommend testosterone replacement therapy for hypogonadism, which is the decreased functional activity of the gonads (testicles) which results in low testosterone production.
There are several therapy options:
Trans-dermal
Delivery
Testosterone can be delivered via patch that can be worn on the scrotum or on other areas such as the shoulder or back.
Testosterone can be delivered via patch that can be worn on the scrotum or on other areas such as the shoulder or back.
Gels
Testosterone replacement gels can be applied on the upper shoulder.
Testosterone replacement gels can be applied on the upper shoulder.
Oral
Pills
Pills are rarely recommended to patients because of the increased risk of liver disease with their use.
Pills are rarely recommended to patients because of the increased risk of liver disease with their use.
Mucoadhesive
Testosterone can be administered through the gum through this twice a day treatment option.
Testosterone can be administered through the gum through this twice a day treatment option.
Natural Test Boosters
A healthy, well-balanced diet coupled with regular exercise can definitely help improve testosterone levels in many men. Particular nutrients can be especially beneficial including:
Potassium
–
Can facilitate testosterone synthesis and sperm production. Sources include
spinach, bananas, citrus fruits, greens, melon, beets, and berries.
Vitamin
A –
Recent studies show that vitamin A can reduce production of estrogen in the
testes and boost testosterone. Sources include broccoli, spinach, squash, and
sweet potatoes.
Vitamin
B6 –
Like vitamin A, B6 may help increase testosterone production. Sources include
whole grains, nuts, and leafy greans.
Zinc
–
This mineral is a natural test booster that helps speed up testosterone
synthesis. Studies have proven that zinc may also prevent excessive function of
aromatase which converts testosterone into estrogen in the body.
Herbal Remedies for Raising Testosterone Levels
Along with a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals, herbs can also help increase testosterone production. These include:
Fenugreek
–
Supports testosterone production along with other components of male reproductive
function.
Tribulus
Terrestris – Stimulates hormone-producing
pathways
If you are
suffering from decreased testosterone production, you do have both medical and natural test booster options. The first step is to determine your baseline testosterone
level and to discuss with your doctor the right treatment options. For some,
the top test boosters are simply dietary changes, increased exercise, and
herbal remedies. Others will benefit from prescribed medications. Fortunately,
there are solutions for low testosterone, and with the right approach, you can
begin to feel like your old self again!