September 10, 2022 - Parul Saini, Webmedy Team
Updated Version - July 8, 2023
Testosterone is a male sex hormone that plays a role in fertility, sexual function, bone health, and muscle mass. Some medical conditions, lifestyle choices, and other factors can influence the amount of this hormone in the body.
Loading...
Subscribe to Webmedy Youtube Channel for Latest Videos
A person's testosterone level will fall naturally with age by 1 to 2 percent per year. Some medical treatments can raise low testosterone levels, especially in younger men, but a person can also encourage the body to produce more by making some changes to the diet and lifestyle.
In this article, we list the best foods for increasing testosterone levels. We also describe products to avoid.
Oysters contain more zinc per serving than any other food. Zinc is important for sperm health and reproductive function. Males with severe zinc deficiency may develop hypogonadism, in which the body does not produce enough testosterone. They may also experience impotence or delayed sexual maturation.
Dark, leafy greens are an excellent source of micronutrients, including magnesium, a mineral that's critical for maintaining optimal testosterone levels, especially in older men.
It's thought that magnesium increases testosterone bioactivity in the body because magnesium reduces oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is an imbalance between antioxidant defenses and free radicals in the body. Oxidative stress and inflammation can reduce testosterone, so consuming nutrients that combat oxidative stress can help maintain healthy testosterone levels.
Egg yolks are rich in healthy fat, protein, and selenium, a mineral that acts as an antioxidant in the body. Eggs are a fantastic source of protein, cholesterol, vitamin D, and omega-3s, all of which aid in the production of testosterone. Eggs are very versatile ingredients and not only do they help increase testosterone levels, but the proteins in them also help build muscle.
Fatty fish is very beneficial because it is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. You can also boost your omega-3 fatty acid levels by taking fish oil or omega-3 supplements. Examples of fish that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids are:
Garlic contains a compound called allicin which can be useful for lowering your cortisol levels. Cortisol is produced in the adrenal gland, which is where testosterone is produced. When your body is under stress it produces cortisol and this has an impact on other bodily functions, including the production of testosterone. therefore, by reducing the amount of cortisol in your system you allow testosterone to be produced more effectively by the adrenal gland. Garlic doesn't itself boost testosterone but it is a cortisol reducer.
Berries, cherries, and pomegranates are high in flavonoid antioxidants, which may help protect testosterone-producing cells from damage and increase testosterone production. Pomegranates, berries, and cherries may protect against obesity-induced inflammation, which can lower testosterone levels.
Some foods can reduce a person's testosterone levels. People looking to raise their testosterone levels should avoid:
Besides dietary changes, you can increase your testosterone level by:
Diet and lifestyle impact hormonal health and may impact testosterone levels. Adding foods rich in nutrients important for maintaining optimal testosterone levels like vitamin D, magnesium, zinc, and flavonoid antioxidants may help support hormonal health.
Testosterone is the primary sex hormone in males, essential for sexual development and fertility, but it also influences muscle mass, bone density, fat distribution, and red blood cell production. In women, it is produced in smaller amounts and contributes to sex drive and bone density.
Symptoms of low testosterone may include reduced sex drive, erectile dysfunction, low sperm count, sleep disturbances, decreased motivation, increased body fat, reduced muscle mass and strength, decreased bone density, and mood changes.
Natural ways to increase testosterone include regular exercise and resistance training, a balanced diet rich in lean proteins, healthy fats, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, adequate sleep, stress management, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Foods beneficial for boosting testosterone include lean meats, fatty fish, eggs, fortified milk, oysters, shellfish, leafy green vegetables, and nuts and seeds which are high in vitamin D, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids, nutrients vital for testosterone production.
Foods and beverages to limit when trying to increase testosterone include alcohol, caffeine, sugary foods and drinks, soy products, and processed foods, as they can potentially decrease testosterone levels or interfere with the body's ability to produce testosterone.
Key vitamins and minerals for testosterone production include vitamin D, B vitamins, zinc, and magnesium. These nutrients can be found in a variety of foods, from fatty fish and shellfish to leafy greens and whole grains.
Exercise, particularly resistance and high-intensity interval training, can stimulate testosterone production. It also helps manage weight and reduce stress, which can both positively affect testosterone levels.
Lifestyle changes that can boost testosterone levels include maintaining a healthy weight, getting regular exercise, eating a nutrient-dense diet, getting sufficient sleep, and managing stress.
Some myths about increasing testosterone include the idea that only older men experience low testosterone, or that testosterone therapy can cure all symptoms of aging. In reality, testosterone levels can be influenced by a variety of factors, and therapy should only be considered under medical supervision.
Higher levels of body fat, especially abdominal fat, can contribute to lower testosterone levels as fat cells can convert testosterone into estrogen, the primary female sex hormone.
Stress can negatively impact hormones, including testosterone. Chronic stress can cause cortisol levels to surge, which can in turn reduce the body's ability to produce testosterone.
Good sleep is crucial for many aspects of health, including hormone production. Lack of quality sleep can negatively affect the normal rhythmic production of testosterone.
Healthy fats such as omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish, avocados, nuts, and seeds are vital for testosterone production, as cholesterol is a building block for testosterone.
Heavy alcohol consumption can interfere with testicular function and the production of testosterone. Moderate alcohol intake might not have a significant impact, but moderation is key.
Certain medications, including opioids, steroids, and some hormones, can decrease testosterone production. Always consult your doctor about potential side effects of medication.
Age does affect testosterone levels. After the age of 30, testosterone levels in men gradually decrease. This is a natural process, but a significant decrease or symptoms can be a sign of hypogonadism.
Testosterone supplements can help increase testosterone levels in the body, which can aid in muscle growth, improve mood, and increase libido. However, these supplements should only be used under medical supervision due to potential side effects like heart disease, prostate problems, and high red blood cell counts.
Processed foods and sugars can lead to weight gain and increased body fat, which can reduce testosterone levels. They may also cause spikes and crashes in blood sugar, which can impact hormone balance.
Medical conditions like hypogonadism, type 2 diabetes, obesity, liver disease, kidney disease, and HIV/AIDS can cause low testosterone levels.
The frequency for checking testosterone levels will depend on your age, health, and symptoms. If you're experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, it's best to consult with a healthcare provider who can provide guidance.
Vegetarian and vegan foods that can increase testosterone levels include nuts and seeds, fortified plant milks, legumes, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, particularly those high in vitamins and minerals important for testosterone production.
Yes, it's possible to have too much testosterone. Risks of high testosterone may include increased risk of blood clots, sleep apnea, heart disease, and certain types of cancer, as well as mood swings and aggression.
Some studies suggest that intermittent fasting may help boost testosterone levels by improving metabolic health and aiding weight loss. However, more research is needed, and it's important to approach such diets under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Red meat can be a good source of protein and zinc, two nutrients important for testosterone production. However, too much red meat may increase the risk of other health issues, so it's important to eat in moderation.
Protein can help boost testosterone levels by aiding in weight management and muscle growth. It can also help prevent spikes in blood sugar, which can negatively impact testosterone levels.
Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage may help boost testosterone levels as they contain compounds that help the body eliminate excess estrogen.
While low to moderate amounts of caffeine can potentially boost testosterone levels and athletic performance, excessive intake may increase cortisol levels, a hormone that can negatively impact testosterone when chronically elevated.
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts, are important for overall health and have been shown to potentially increase testosterone levels, possibly due to their anti-inflammatory properties and role in cell membrane health.
September 12, 2022
September 30, 2023
September 18, 2023
Stay informed.
Get access to award-winning industry coverage, including latest news, case studies and expert advice.
Success in Technology is about staying Informed!
Subscribe to Webmedy Youtube Channel for Latest Videos
Donate
Your generous donation makes a huge difference!
February 10, 2023
November 15, 2022
November 8, 2022
Stay informed.
Get access to award-winning industry coverage, including latest news, case studies and expert advice.
Success in Technology is about staying Informed!
Subscribe to Webmedy Youtube Channel for Latest Videos
Donate
Your generous donation makes a huge difference!