Testosterone dietary supplements: for men over 40 – a full guide for supporting health and well -being
Section 1: Testosterone and male health after 40 years – why is it important?
The age of 40 years is an important milestone in a man’s life, often accompanied by changes in a physical and emotional state. One of the key factors affecting these changes is the gradual decrease in the level of testosterone, the main male sex hormone. Understanding the role of testosterone and the consequences of its deficiency is necessary to maintain health and well -being at this age.
1.1. The role of testosterone in the male body:
Testosterone plays a critical role in various physiological processes, affecting:
- Development and maintenance of muscle mass: Testosterone contributes to the synthesis of the protein necessary for the growth and restoration of muscles. A decrease in hormone levels leads to a decrease in muscle mass and strength, which affects physical activity and general health.
- Bone density: Testosterone plays an important role in maintaining bone density, preventing osteoporosis and reducing the risk of fractures. With age and a decrease in testosterone level, the risk of osteoporosis is increasing.
- Energy level and metabolism: Testosterone is involved in the regulation of energy metabolism, affecting the level of energy and metabolic activity. The low level of testosterone can lead to fatigue, a decrease in endurance and weight gain.
- Libido and sexual function: Testosterone is a key hormone that determines sexual desire and erectile function. A decrease in hormone levels is often manifested in a decrease in libido, erectile dysfunction and a decrease in sexual activity.
- Sperm production: Testosterone is necessary for the production of sperm and maintaining fertility. A decrease in hormone levels can negatively affect the ability to conception.
- Red blood cells: Testosterone stimulates the production of erythropoetin, hormone, which stimulates the production of red blood cells. A decrease in testosterone levels can lead to anemia.
- Mood and cognitive functions: Testosterone affects mood, motivation and cognitive functions, such as memory and concentration. The low level of testosterone can lead to depression, irritability and deterioration of cognitive abilities.
- Hair growth: Testosterone affects the growth of hair on the body and face.
1.2. Reducing testosterone with age (Andropauza):
After 30 years, the level of testosterone in men begins to gradually decline, by about 1-2% per year. This is a natural process called Andropauza or age -related hypogonadism. However, the degree and speed of a decrease in testosterone vary in different men and depend on different factors.
1.3. Factors affecting testosterone levels:
Many factors affect the level of testosterone, including:
- Age: The main factor determining the decrease in testosterone levels.
- Life: An unhealthy lifestyle, including improper nutrition, lack of physical activity, smoking and alcohol abuse, can accelerate a decrease in testosterone levels.
- Chronic diseases: Chronic diseases, such as diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases and chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD), can negatively affect the level of testosterone.
- Obesity: Excess weight, especially abdominal obesity, is associated with a lower level of testosterone. The adipose tissue contains an enzyme aromatase that turns testosterone into estrogen, female sex hormone.
- Stress: Chronic stress leads to an increase in the level of cortisol, stress hormone, which can suppress the production of testosterone.
- Taking drugs: Some drugs, such as steroids, opioids and some antidepressants, can affect testosterone levels.
- Genetics: A genetic predisposition plays a role in determining the individual level of testosterone.
- Diseases of the pituitary gland and testicles: Diseases of the pituitary gland (gland that controls the production of hormones) and testicles (organs producing testosterone) can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels.
- Lack of sleep: A lack of sleep can reduce testosterone levels.
1.4. Symptoms of testosterone deficiency:
Symptoms of testosterone deficiency can vary from lungs to severe and include:
- Libido decrease: Reducing sexual desire and sexual activity.
- Erectile dysfunction: Problems with the achievement and maintenance of an erection.
- Fatigue and weakness: A constant feeling of fatigue and lack of energy.
- Reducing muscle mass and strength: Reducing muscle mass and difficulties with muscle building.
- Increase fat mass: Weight gain, especially in the abdomen.
- Reducing bone density: Increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
- Mood swings, depression and irritability: A feeling of sadness, irritability and a decrease in motivation.
- Problems with concentration and memory: Difficulties with concentration and memory deterioration.
- Insomnia: Slide problems.
- Reducing hair on the body: Reducing hair growth on the body and face.
- Breast enlargement (gynecomastia): Development of the chest gland in men.
1.5. Diagnosis of testosterone deficiency:
Diagnosis of testosterone deficiency includes:
- A history of anamnesis: Discussion of symptoms and medical history with a doctor.
- Physical examination: Inspection for signs of testosterone deficiency, such as a decrease in muscle mass and an increase in fat mass.
- Blood test: Measurement of testosterone levels in the blood. Usually, common testosterone and free testosterone are measured (testosterone, which is not associated with blood proteins and is available for tissues). The analysis is usually carried out in the morning when the level of testosterone is the highest. Repeated tests may be required to confirm the diagnosis.
- Other tests: The doctor may prescribe other blood tests to assess the general state of health and exclude other causes of symptoms.
1.6. The importance of consulting a doctor:
It is important to consult a doctor to diagnose testosterone deficiency and determine the optimal treatment plan. Self -medication can be dangerous and lead to undesirable side effects. The doctor can evaluate your state of health, exclude other causes of symptoms and recommend the most suitable course of treatment, which may include a change in lifestyle, hormonal therapy or dietary supplements.
Section 2: Bades to increase testosterone: what is it and how they work?
Bades (biologically active additives) to increase testosterone are products containing various vitamins, minerals, herbs and other substances, which are claimed to increase the level of testosterone in the body. It is important to understand that dietary supplements are not medicines and do not undergo strict quality control and effectiveness, such as drugs.
2.1. Mechanisms for the action of dietary supplements for testosterone:
Bades to increase testosterone can act in various ways:
- Stimulation of testosterone production: Some ingredients, such as tribulus Terright and fencing, are allegedly stimulated by the production of luteinizing hormone (LH), which, in turn, stimulates testicles to production of testosterone. However, scientific evidence of the effectiveness of these ingredients is limited.
- Blocking the transformation of testosterone into estrogen: Some ingredients, such as DIM (dyindolilmetan) and the mushroom extract of champignon, is claimed to block the enzyme aromatase, which turns testosterone into estrogen. This can lead to an increase in testosterone levels and a decrease in estrogen levels.
- Improving blood circulation: Some ingredients, such as L-arginine and pine cortex extract, are allegedly improved in blood circulation, including in the genital organs, which can improve erectile function.
- Reducing the level of cortisol: Some ingredients, such as Ashvaganda and Rodiola, pink, are allegedly reduced by the level of cortisol, stress hormone, which can suppress the production of testosterone.
- Providing the necessary nutrients: Some vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, zinc and magnesium, are necessary for the production of testosterone and maintain the health of the reproductive system. The deficiency of these nutrients can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels.
2.2. Key ingredients of dietary supplements for testosterone:
The most common ingredients contained in dietary supplements to increase testosterone include:
- Tribulus Terrestris Tribulus: It is traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine as an aphrodisiac. It is believed that it can increase the level of luteinizing hormone (LH), which stimulates the production of testosterone. However, scientific evidence of its effectiveness for increasing testosterone levels is limited and contradictory. Some studies show a slight improvement in libido, but do not affect testosterone levels.
- Pajuk (Fenugreek): Grass, whose seeds are traditionally used to improve lactation in nursing mothers. It is believed that it can increase the level of testosterone by blocking enzymes that turn testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DGT) and estrogen. Some studies show that the fences can improve libido and sexual function, but additional studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness in increasing the level of testosterone.
- D-asparaginic acid (D-ASPARTIC ACID): The amino acid that is involved in the production of hormones, including luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone. Some studies show that it can increase the level of testosterone, but the effect may not be temporary and not observe in all men.
- Vitamin D: It is important for many body functions, including bone health, immune system and testosterone production. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with a low level of testosterone. Reception of additives with vitamin D can increase the level of testosterone in men with vitamin D. deficiency.
- Zinc: The mineral necessary for the production of testosterone and the health of the reproductive system. Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels. Reception of supplements with zinc can increase the level of testosterone in men with zinc deficiency.
- Magnesium: A mineral involved in more than 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, including testosterone production. Magnesium deficiency is associated with a low level of testosterone. Reception of additives with magnesium can increase the level of testosterone, especially in men engaged in intense physical exercises.
- Ashwaganda (Ashwagandha): Adaptogenic grass used in Ayurvedic medicine to reduce stress and improve general health. Some studies show that Ashvagand can reduce cortisol levels and increase testosterone levels, as well as improve muscle strength and endurance.
- DIM (Diindolylmethane): The compound that is formed during the splitting of the Indol-3-carbinol contained in cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and cabbage. It is believed that it can block the enzyme aromatase, which turns testosterone into estrogen.
- Champignon mushroom extract: It also contains substances that can block the enzyme aromatase.
- L-arginine: The amino acid that is involved in the production of nitrogen oxide, which relaxes blood vessels and improves blood circulation. This can improve the erectile function.
- Pine bark extract: Contains antioxidants that can improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation.
- Urtica dioica Extract): It is believed that he can contact a globulin connecting sex hormones (GSPG), freeing more testosterone in the bloodstream.
2.3. The effectiveness of dietary supplements for testosterone: What does science say?
It is important to note that the effectiveness of dietary supplements to increase testosterone is often exaggerated. Many studies conducted on these additives have small samples, do not have control groups or are funded by additive manufacturers. In general, the scientific evidence of the effectiveness of most dietary supplements to increase the level of testosterone is limited and contradictory.
- Some additives, such as vitamin D, zinc and magnesium, can be effective for increasing testosterone levels in men with a deficiency of these nutrients.
- Ashvaganda can be effective for reducing stress and increasing testosterone levels, as well as improving muscle strength and endurance.
- The fencing can improve libido and sexual function, but additional studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness in increasing testosterone levels.
- The efficiency of the tribulus of the terrestris to increase the level of testosterone is not scientifically proven.
2.4. Risks and side effects of dietary supplements for testosterone:
Reception of dietary supplement to increase testosterone can be associated with various risks and side effects:
- Lack of quality control: Bades do not undergo strict quality control and effectiveness, such as drugs. This means that the composition and dosage of ingredients in dietary supplements can vary and not correspond to the stated label.
- Interaction with drugs: Bades can interact with the drugs that you take and enhance or weaken their effect.
- Side effects: Some ingredients contained in dietary supplements can cause side effects, such as stomach disorder, headache, acne, irritability and mood changes.
- Influence on hormonal balance: Reception of dietary supplements to increase testosterone can disrupt the hormonal balance in the body and lead to undesirable consequences.
- Health risk: Some ingredients contained in dietary supplements can be dangerous to health, especially for people with certain diseases.
- Masked serious problems: The use of dietary supplements can disguise the main cause of a low level of testosterone, for example, pituitary disease or testicles.
2.5. How to choose a dietary supplement for testosterone:
If you decide to take dietary supplement to increase testosterone, it is important to do it consciously and responsibly. Here are some tips on choosing a dietary supplement:
- Consult a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplement, consult your doctor. He can evaluate your health status, exclude other causes of symptoms and recommend the most suitable course of treatment.
- Learn the ingredients: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement and make sure that it contains ingredients whose effectiveness is confirmed by scientific research.
- Pay attention to the dosage: Follow the recommended dosage indicated on the Bad label. Do not exceed the dosage, as this can increase the risk of side effects.
- Choose trusted manufacturers: Buy dietary supplements from famous and reliable manufacturers who comply with quality standards.
- Check the availability of quality certificates: Look for dietary supplements that have passed an independent quality test and have appropriate certificates.
- Read reviews: Read the reviews of other buyers about the dietary supplement to learn about their experience.
- Be realistic in your expectations: Do not expect a dietary supplement will instantly increase testosterone levels and solve all your problems. Bades can be useful as an addition to a healthy lifestyle, but are not a replacement for proper nutrition, physical activity and sleep.
Section 3: Alternative ways to increase testosterone: lifestyle and natural methods
In addition to taking dietary supplements, there are alternative ways to increase testosterone levels, which include a change in lifestyle and the use of natural methods. These methods, as a rule, are safer and effective than taking dietary supplements, and can bring health benefits in general.
3.1. Proper nutrition:
Proper nutrition plays an important role in maintaining the optimal level of testosterone. Here are a few diet recommendations to increase testosterone levels:
- Use a sufficient amount of protein: Protein is necessary for the synthesis of testosterone and maintaining muscle mass. Include low -fat protein sources in your diet, such as chicken, fish, eggs, legumes and tofu.
- Get enough healthy fats: Healthy fats, such as mono -saturated and polyunsaturated fats, are necessary for the production of testosterone. Turn on in your diet products rich in healthy fats, such as avocado, nuts, seeds, olive oil and oily fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel).
- Limit sugar and processed products: Sugar and processed products can lead to an increase in insulin levels, which can inhibit testosterone production. Limit the consumption of sweet drinks, sweets, pastries and fast food.
- Use products rich in zinc and magnesium: Zinc and magnesium are necessary for the production of testosterone. Include in your diet products rich in zinc, such as oysters, beef, chicken, pumpkin seeds and cashews. Include products rich in magnesium in your diet, such as spinach, avocados, nuts, seeds and whole grain products.
- Use products rich in vitamin D: Vitamin D is necessary for the production of testosterone. Get vitamin D from sunlight, fatty fish, egg yolks and enriched products.
- Eat cruciferous vegetables: Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower, contain substances that can block the enzyme aromatase that turns testosterone into estrogen.
- Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can suppress the production of testosterone.
3.2. Regular physical exercises:
Regular physical exercises, especially strength training, can help increase testosterone levels.
- Power training: Power training stimulates the production of testosterone and contribute to an increase in muscle mass. Include exercises with scales in your training program, such as squats, bench press, deadlift and pull -ups.
- High -intensity interval training (VITS): VITs can also help increase testosterone levels and improve the overall state of health.
- Cardione: Moderate cardio, such as running, swimming and cycling, are also good for health and can indirectly affect the level of testosterone, improving the overall state of health and reducing stress levels.
- Avoid overtraining: Crossing can lead to an increase in the level of cortisol, which inhibits the production of testosterone. Give your body enough time to relax and recovery.
3.3. Sufficient sleep:
A sufficient sleep is necessary for the production of testosterone. The lack of sleep can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels.
- Sleep at least 7-8 hours a day: Try to sleep at least 7-8 hours a day to maintain the optimal level of testosterone.
- Observe sleep mode: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day to regulate circus rhythms and improve sleep quality.
- Create comfortable sleeping conditions: Provide the dark, quiet and cool atmosphere in the bedroom.
- Avoid the use of caffeine and alcohol before bedtime: Caffeine and alcohol can disrupt sleep.
3.4. Reducing stress levels:
Chronic stress leads to an increase in the level of cortisol, which may suppress the production of testosterone.
- Manage stress: Find the ways of managing stress, such as meditation, yoga, tai-chi, walking in nature or communication with friends and relatives.
- Take a hobby: Do what you like and bring pleasure to reduce stress.
- Communicate with friends and loved ones: Support for friends and loved ones can help you cope with stress.
- Contact a specialist: If you experience severe stress, contact a psychologist or psychotherapist.
3.5. Weight optimization:
Excess weight, especially abdominal obesity, is associated with a lower level of testosterone. Fat tissue contains an enzyme aromatase that turns testosterone into estrogen.
- Reset excess weight: If you have overweight, try to lose it with proper nutrition and regular physical exercises.
- Maintain healthy weight: Maintain a healthy weight to maintain the optimal level of testosterone.
3.6. Moderate exposure to the sun:
The effect of sunlight stimulates the production of vitamin D, which is necessary for the production of testosterone.
- Spend time in the sun: Spend 15-20 minutes in the sun every day to get a sufficient amount of vitamin D.
- Use sunscreen: Use sunscreen to protect the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays.
3.7. Herbs and additives (with caution):
Some herbs and additives, as mentioned earlier, can help increase the level of testosterone, but their effectiveness is often exaggerated. It is important to consult a doctor before using any herbs and additives.
- Ashwaganda: It can reduce the level of cortisol and increase the level of testosterone.
- Zinc: It can increase the level of testosterone in men with zinc deficiency.
- Magnesium: It can increase the level of testosterone, especially in men engaged in intense physical exercises.
- Vitamin D: It can increase the level of testosterone in men with vitamin D.
3.8. Control over medication:
Some drugs can affect testosterone levels.
- Discuss the intake of drugs with a doctor: Discuss with the doctor the medicines that you take and find out if they can influence testosterone levels.
- Avoid steroids: Anabolic steroids can suppress their own testosterone production.
Section 4: Hormone therapy with testosterone (GTT): When is it necessary and how is it carried out?
Hormonal therapy with testosterone (GTT) is a medical treatment that is used to increase testosterone levels in men with confirmed testosterone deficiency (hypogonadism). GTT can be an effective treatment method, but it is important to understand the risks and advantages of therapy and consult a doctor to determine whether it is suitable for you.
4.1. Indications for hormonal therapy with testosterone:
GTT is usually recommended for men with confirmed testosterone deficiency, which causes significant symptoms, such as:
- Libido decrease and erectile dysfunction: A significant decrease in sexual attraction and difficulties with the achievement and maintenance of an erection.
- Fatigue and weakness: A constant feeling of fatigue and lack of energy that interfere with everyday activity.
- Reducing muscle mass and strength: A significant decrease in muscle mass and difficulties with muscle increasing.
- Reducing bone density: Osteoporosis or osteopenia associated with a low level of testosterone.
- Mood swings, depression and irritability: Significant mood changes, depression and irritability associated with a low level of testosterone.
GTT is not recommended for men who do not have confirmed testosterone deficiency or who have symptoms are mild and can be eliminated by changing lifestyle.
4.2. Contraindications for hormonal therapy with testosterone:
GTT has a number of contraindications, including:
- Prostate cancer: GTT can stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells.
- Breast cancer: GTT can stimulate the growth of breast cancer cells.
- Severe heart disease: GTT can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Severe liver diseases: GTT can aggravate liver diseases.
- Severe kidney diseases: GTT can aggravate kidney diseases.
- Polycythemia: GTT can increase the number of red blood cells, which can lead to polycythemia.
- Apnee in a dream: GTT can aggravate apnea in a dream.
- Pregnancy planning: GTT can reduce fertility.
4.3. Forms of hormonal therapy with testosterone:
GTT is available in various forms:
- Injections: Testosterone injections are the most common GTT form. Injections can be made intramuscularly every 1-4 weeks.
- Gels: Gels with testosterone are applied to the skin daily.
- Plasters: Slateers with testosterone are glued to the skin daily.
- Handicraft tablets: Tablets with testosterone dissolve under the tongue 2-3 times a day.
- Bookcar tablets: Tablets with testosterone are placed between the cheek and the gum twice a day.
- Implants: Implants with testosterone are introduced under the skin every 3-6 months.
The choice of GTT form depends on individual preferences, convenience and the presence of side effects.
4.4. Monitoring hormone therapy with testosterone:
During GTT, it is necessary to regularly control the level of testosterone and other health indicators.
- Blood tests: Blood tests are carried out to control the level of testosterone, hematocrit (the number of red blood cells), cholesterol and other health indicators.
- Prostate examination: Regular examinations of the prostate gland (including an analysis for the PSA – a simple -minded antigen) are necessary to detect prostate cancer.
- Side effects monitoring: The doctor should regularly check the presence of side effects, such as acne, breast augmentation (gynecomastia), fluid retention and mood changes.
4.5. Risk and side effects of hormonal therapy with testosterone:
GTT can be associated with various risks and side effects:
- Acne: GTT can cause acne.
- Breast enlargement (gynecomastia): GTT can stimulate the development of the chest gland in men.
- Liquid delay: GTT can lead to liquid retention and edema.
- Mood changes: GTT can cause mood changes, irritability and aggression.
- Reduced fertility: GTT can suppress its own testosterone production and reduce fertility.
- Increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases: Some studies show that GTT can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, but additional studies are needed to confirm this.
- Increase in the risk of prostate cancer: GTT can stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells.
- Polycythemia: GTT can increase the number of red blood cells, which can lead to polycythemia.
- Apnee in a dream: GTT can aggravate apnea in a dream.
4.6. Alternatives of hormonal therapy with testosterone:
Before the start of GTT, it is important to consider alternative treatment options, such as:
- Life change change: Proper nutrition, regular physical exercises, sufficient sleep and a decrease in stress.
- Treatment of concomitant diseases: Treatment of diseases that can affect the level of testosterone, such as diabetes, obesity and chronic diseases.
- Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy can help cope with depression, anxiety and other psychological problems that can be associated with a low level of testosterone.
4.7. The importance of consulting a doctor:
It is important to consult a doctor to diagnose testosterone deficiency and determine the optimal treatment plan. Self -medication can be dangerous and lead to undesirable side effects. The doctor can evaluate your state of health, exclude other causes of symptoms and recommend the most suitable course of treatment, which may include a change in lifestyle, hormonal therapy or dietary supplements.
Section 5: Bades and hormonal therapy with testosterone: joint use and warnings
The joint use of dietary supplements and GTT requires special caution and mandatory consultation with a doctor. Not all dietary supplements are compatible with GTT, and some can have a negative effect on the body.
5.1. Possible interactions:
Some dietary supplements can interact with GTT, enhancing or weakening its effect, as well as causing side effects. For example:
- TRIBULUS TERRSTIS: Theoretically, the GTT effect can enhance, but there is no scientific evidence of this.
- Fenugreek: It can interact with drugs affecting blood sugar.
- Vitamin D, zinc, magnesium: It can be useful as an addition to the GTT to maintain overall health, but do not replace GTT.
- Ashwaganda: It can reduce the level of cortisol and help to cope with stress, which can be useful during GTT, but you must be careful.
5.2. Risks of joint use:
The joint use of dietary supplements and GTT can lead to the following risks:
- Unpredictable effects: The interaction of dietary supplements and GTT can be unpredictable and cause undesirable side effects.
- Hormonal balance violation: Some dietary supplements can violate the hormonal balance in the body, which can negatively affect the effectiveness of the GTT.
- Overdose: The combined use of dietary supplements and GTT can lead to an overdose of certain substances and cause toxic effects.
- Side effects disguise: Bades can mask the side effects of GTT, which will make it difficult to identify and treatment.
5.3. Recommendations for joint use:
If you accept GTT and consider the possibility of using dietary supplements, follow the following recommendations:
- Be sure to consult your doctor: Discuss with the doctor all the dietary supplements that you accept or plan to take. The doctor can evaluate potential risks and advantages of joint use of dietary supplements and GTT.
- Tell the doctor about all drugs and additives that you accept: The doctor must