A review of dietary supplements for testosterone: efficiency and safety

A review of dietary supplements for testosterone: efficiency and safety

Section 1: Testosterone – key hormone and its role in male health

Testosterone, the main male sex hormone, plays a critical role in maintaining many physiological functions in men. It is androgen, which means that it contributes to the development and maintenance of male characteristics. The production of testosterone mainly occurs in the testicles, as well as in small quantities of the adrenal glands. The regulation of testosterone production is carried out by a hypothalamic-pituitary axis (GGG). The hypothalamus emits gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GNRG), which stimulates the pituitary gland to the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). LH, in turn, stimulates Leydig’s cells in testicles to the production of testosterone. FSG, although more associated with fertility, also plays a role in maintaining the function of testicles.

1.1. Physiological functions of testosterone:

• Development and maintenance of secondary sexual characteristics: Testosterone is responsible for the development of male characteristics during puberty, such as hair growth on the face and body, deepening the voice, increasing muscle mass and the development of the genital organs. He also plays a role in maintaining these characteristics in adulthood.

• Muscle mass and strength: Testosterone has an anabolic effect, contributing to the synthesis of protein and an increase in muscle mass. It also affects strength and endurance. Higher testosterone levels are usually associated with greater muscle mass and strength. This effect is mediated by the activation of anabolic signaling tracks such as MTOR (Michen Rapamycin in mammals).

• Bone density: Testosterone plays an important role in maintaining bone density. It stimulates the activity of osteoblasts, cells responsible for the formation of new bone tissue. The low level of testosterone can lead to a decrease in bone density and an increase in the risk of osteoporosis.

• Energy and mood: Testosterone affects the level of energy and mood. The low level of testosterone is often associated with fatigue, a decrease in motivation, depression and irritability. Testosterone affects neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which play a key role in mood regulation.

• Sexual function: Testosterone plays a decisive role in sexual function, including libido, erectile function and spermatogenesis (sperm production). It affects the activity of neurons in the brain responsible for sexual desire, and contributes to the flow of blood to the genitals necessary for an erection.

• Cognitive function: Some studies show that testosterone can affect cognitive function, including memory and concentration. However, the effect of testosterone on cognitive functions is complex and may depend on the age, testosterone level and other factors.

• Production of red blood cells: Testosterone stimulates the production of erythropoetin (EPO), a hormone that stimulates the bone marrow to the production of red blood cells. This helps maintain the normal level of hemoglobin and oxygen capacity of the blood.

1.2. Causes of low level of testosterone (hypogonadism):

Hypogonadism is a state characterized by insufficient testosterone production. It can be primary (problems with testicles) or secondary (problems with the pituitary gland or hypothalamus).

• Age: The level of testosterone naturally decreases with age, starting about 30 years. This process is known as age-associated hypogonadism or late hypogonadism (LOH).

• Diseases: Some diseases may affect testosterone production, such as:

  • Criptorism: Evaculation of the testicle.
  • Varicocele: The expansion of the veins of the seed cord.
  • Yaichk tumors: Tumors can disrupt the function of the testicles.
  • Egg injuries: Injuries can damage testicles and reduce testosterone production.
  • Klainfelter syndrome: The genetic state in which men have an additional X chromosome (XXY).
  • Kallmann syndrome: Genetic state characterized by GNRG deficiency.
  • HIV/AIDS: HIV infection can affect the function of the testicles.
  • Diabetes sugar: Diabetes can increase the risk of hypogonadism.
  • Obesity: Obesity is associated with a lower level of testosterone.
  • Chronic kidney and liver diseases: These diseases can disrupt metabolism and the production of hormones.

• Medicines: Some drugs can reduce testosterone levels, such as:

  • Opioid analgesics: Opioids can suppress the production of GNRG and LH.
  • Corticosteroids: Long -term use of corticosteroids can reduce testosterone levels.
  • Anabolic steroid: Exogenous steroids suppress the natural production of testosterone.
  • Some antidepressants: Some antidepressants, especially the SIOOS (selective inhibitors of the reverse capture of serotonin), can affect the level of testosterone.

• Life: Life lifestyle factors, such as:

  • Chronic stress: Chronic stress can increase the level of cortisol, which can suppress the production of testosterone.
  • Lack of sleep: A lack of sleep can reduce testosterone levels.
  • Inal meals: The deficiency of certain nutrients, such as zinc and vitamin D, can affect the production of testosterone.
  • Alcohol abuse: Alcohol abuse can damage the testicles and reduce testosterone production.

1.3. Symptoms of low level of testosterone:

Symptoms of low level of testosterone can vary from person to person and may include:

• Decrease in libido (sexual attraction).
• Erectile dysfunction (problems with achieving or maintaining an erection).
• Fatigue and low energy level.
• Reducing muscle mass and strength.
• Increase fat mass.
• Decrease in bone density.
• Depression and irritability.
• Problems with concentration and memory.
• Reducing hair on the body.
• Gynecomastia (breast augmentation).
• Reducing the size of the testicles.
• Infertility.

Section 2: Dad to maintain the level of testosterone: action mechanisms and composition

A huge number of biologically active additives (dietary supplements) are presented on the market, which claim to increase testosterone levels. It is important to understand that the effectiveness and safety of these additives are often not proved scientifically. Many of them are not properly regulated, and product quality can vary significantly. Before taking any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor.

2.1. Categories of dietary supplements for testosterone:

Bades designed to increase the level of testosterone can be divided into several categories, depending on their alleged mechanism of action:

• LH development stimulants: These additives say, they stimulate the pituitary gland to the production of more LH, which, in turn, stimulates the testicles to the production of testosterone.

• Aromatase inhibitors: Aromatase is an enzyme that turns testosterone into estrogen (female sex hormone). Aromatase inhibitors are claimed to block this process, thereby increasing the level of testosterone.

• Substances that increase the level of free testosterone: Most of the testosterone in the blood is associated with proteins such as globulin connecting sex hormones (GSPG). Only free testosterone can have a biological effect. Some additives are claimed to increase the level of free testosterone, or reducing the level of GSPG, or improving the release of testosterone from communication with proteins.

• Testosterone precursors: These are substances that theoretically can be transformed by the body into testosterone.

• Vitamins and minerals: Some vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D and zinc, are necessary for the normal production of testosterone.

• Plant extracts: Many plant extracts are traditionally used to increase libido and improve sexual function. Some of them are allegedly affected by testosterone levels.

2.2. The most common ingredients and their alleged effects:

• D-paraginic acid (D-AA): The amino acid, which is claimed, stimulates the production of LH and testosterone. Some studies show a slight increase in testosterone levels in men with a low level of testosterone, but additional studies are needed. The effect can be temporary.

• Tribulus Terrestris Tribulus: Plant extract, which is traditionally used to increase libido and improve sexual function. Research in humans show conflicting results regarding the influence of testosterone levels. Most studies do not find a significant effect on testosterone levels in healthy men.

• Fenugreek (Fenugreek): Plant extract, which is claimed, increases the level of testosterone and libido. Some studies show an improvement in sexual function and a slight increase in testosterone levels. Additional studies are needed to confirm these results.

• Zinc: The mineral that is necessary for the normal production of testosterone. Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels. Taking zinc additives can be useful for men with zinc deficiency, but does not necessarily increase testosterone levels in men with a normal zinc level.

• Vitamin D: Vitamin, which plays a role in various physiological processes, including testosterone production. Vitamin D deficiency can be associated with a low level of testosterone. Taking vitamin D additives can be useful for men with vitamin D deficiency, but does not necessarily increase testosterone levels in men with a normal level of vitamin D.

• Magnesium: A mineral that plays a role in more than 300 enzymatic reactions in the body. Some studies show that magnesium can affect the level of testosterone, especially among athletes.

• Clomiphen Citrate (Clomiphene Citrate): Estrogen receptor selective modulator (SMER), which is used to treat infertility in women. It is sometimes used by men to increase testosterone levels, as it stimulates the production of LH and FSH. However, the use of Clomifen citrate without a doctor’s prescription is not recommended and may have side effects.

• Diindolilmetan (DIM): The compound contained in cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage). It is claimed that DIM can affect the metabolism of estrogen and thereby increase the level of testosterone. However, scientific evidence of DIM effectiveness to increase testosterone levels is not enough.

• Urtica dioica root extract: It is alleged that nettle root extract can contact the GSPG, releasing free testosterone. However, scientific evidence of this hypothesis is not enough.

• The eurecoma is long -leaved (Eurycoma Longifolia), also known as Tongkat Ali: Plant extract, which is traditionally used to increase libido and improve sexual function. Some studies show that Tongkat Ali can increase testosterone levels and improve spermatogenesis. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results.

• Ashwaganda (Ashwagandha): Adaptogen, which is used to reduce stress and improve general health. Some studies show that Ashvagand can increase testosterone levels and improve muscle strength and mass.

2.3. Action mechanisms (alleged and proven):

The mechanisms of action of dietary supplements intended to increase the level of testosterone are often complex and not fully studied. Many additives have several alleged mechanisms of action, and the effect may depend on the individual characteristics of the body.

• Stimulation of LH production: Some additives, such as D-asparaginic acid and clomiphen citrate, states, stimulate the pituitary gland to the production of more LH. LH, in turn, stimulates Leydig’s cells in testicles to the production of testosterone. Clomiphen Citrate acts as a SMER, blocking the effect of estrogens in the pituitary gland and thereby increasing the production of GNRG and LH.

• Aromatase inhibiting: Some additives are claimed, inhibit an aromatase enzyme that turns testosterone into estrogen. Inhibition of aromatase can lead to an increase in testosterone levels and a decrease in estrogen levels.

• Reducing the level of GSPG: Some additives, such as nettle root extract, are allegedly associated with GSPG, releasing free testosterone. An increase in the level of free testosterone can enhance its biological effect.

• Improving the function of the testicles: Some additives, such as zinc and vitamin D, are necessary for the normal function of testicles and testosterone production. The elimination of the deficiency of these nutrients can improve the function of the testicles and increase the level of testosterone.

• Reducing the level of cortisol: Some additives, such as Ashvaganda, are adaptogens and can reduce the level of cortisol (stress hormone). A high level of cortisol can suppress the production of testosterone, so a decrease in the level of cortisol can help increase testosterone levels.

Section 3: Efficiency of dietary supplements: Analysis of scientific data

The analysis of the existing scientific data on the effectiveness of dietary supplements intended to increase the level of testosterone is critical. Many statements about effectiveness are based on insufficient or poor -quality studies.

3.1. Meta-analyzes and systematic reviews:

Met-analyzes and systematic reviews combine the results of several studies to assess the overall effectiveness of a certain additive. They provide more reliable information than individual studies.

• D-paraginic acid: Met-analyzes show that D-asparaginic acid can slightly increase the level of testosterone in men with low testosterone levels, but the effect can be temporary. In healthy men with a normal level of testosterone, D-asparaginic acid usually does not have a significant effect on testosterone levels.

• TRIBULUS TERRSTIS: Met-analyzes do not confirm that Tertrix tribulus increases testosterone levels. However, some studies show an improvement in sexual function and libido.

• Fenugreek: Some meta-analyzes show that the carnity of the hay can improve the sexual function and slightly increase the level of testosterone. However, additional studies are needed with a more stringent design to confirm these results.

• Vitamin D: Met-analyzes show that vitamin D additives can increase the level of testosterone in men with vitamin D deficiency. However, in men with a normal vitamin D level, vitamin D additives usually do not have a significant effect on testosterone levels.

• Zinc: Met-analyzes show that zinc additives can increase testosterone levels in men with zinc deficiency. However, in men with a normal zinc level, zinc additives usually do not have a significant effect on testosterone levels.

• Tongkat Ali: Some meta-analyzes show that Tongkat Ali can increase testosterone levels and improve spermatogenesis. However, additional studies are needed with a more stringent design to confirm these results.

3.2. Quality of research:

It is important to consider the quality of research when assessing the effectiveness of dietary supplements. Some studies have disadvantages such as:

• Small sample size: Studies with a small number of participants may not have sufficient statistical power to identify significant effects.

• Lack of a control group: Studies in which there is no control group do not allow you to determine whether an improvement in the result of the additive or simply the placebo effect is an improvement.

• Non -easy design: In unhappy research, participants know what supplement they accept, what can affect their subjective sensations and results.

• Lack of standardized measurement methods: The use of different methods for measuring the level of testosterone can compare comparison of the results of different studies.

• Funding for research manufacturers of dietary supplements: Studies financed by dietary supplements can be shifted towards positive results.

3.3. Placebo-controlled research:

Placebo-controlled research is the gold standard for assessing the effectiveness of drugs and dietary supplements. In these studies, the participants are randomly distributed into two groups: one group receives an active supplement, and the other group receives a placebo (dummy). Neither participants nor researchers know who receives an active supplement, and who is a placebo (double blind research). A comparison of the results between groups allows you to determine whether an improvement in the action of an active additive is an improvement or simply a placebo effect.

Unfortunately, many dietary supplements to increase testosterone levels were not carefully studied in placebo-controlled studies.

Section 4: Bad safety: side effects and interaction

The safety of dietary supplements is an important aspect that must be taken into account before their use. Despite the fact that dietary supplements are often positioned as “natural” and safe, they can cause side effects and interact with medicines.

4.1. Side effects:

Side effects of dietary supplements can vary depending on the ingredients, dosage and individual characteristics of the body.

• D-paraginic acid: It can cause headache, irritability and mood change.

• TRIBULUS TERRSTIS: It can cause a stomach disorder, nausea and vomiting.

• Fenugreek: It can cause a stomach disorder, diarrhea and allergic reactions. It can also affect blood sugar.

• Zinc: High doses of zinc can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and copper deficiency.

• Vitamin D: High doses of vitamin D can cause hypercalcemia (an increased level of calcium in the blood), which can lead to nausea, vomiting, weakness and damage to the kidneys.

• Tongkat Ali: It can cause insomnia, irritability and anxiety.

• Clomiphene citrate: It can cause gynecomastia, visual impairment and mood change.

4.2. Interactions with drugs:

Bades can interact with medicines by changing their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It is important to inform the doctor about all the dietary supplements that you take, especially if you take any drugs on the prescription.

• Anticoagulants (blood thinners): Some dietary supplements, such as the fenced carrion and garlic, can have anticoagulant properties and increase the risk of bleeding if they are taken along with anticoagulants such as warfarin.

• Antidiabetic drugs: Sennaya fan can reduce blood sugar and increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in people taking antidiabetic drugs.

• Drugs for the thyroid gland: Some dietary supplements can interact with preparations for the thyroid gland and influence their effectiveness.

• MAO inhibitors (monoaminoxidase): Some dietary supplements can interact with MAO inhibitors and cause serious side effects.

4.3. Contamination and fakes:

The dietary supplement market is not regulated as strictly as the drug market. This means that there is a risk of contamination of dietary supplements by other substances, such as heavy metals, pesticides and drugs. There is also a risk of fake dietary supplements when the product contains the ingredients not indicated on the label, or when the declared amount of ingredients does not correspond to the actual one.

4.4. Individual sensitivity:

Each person may have individual sensitivity to certain dietary supplements. Some people may experience side effects even when taking recommended doses, while others may not experience any side effects.

Section 5: Alternative methods for maintaining testosterone levels

Before resorting to dietary supplements, it is important to consider alternative, safer and scientifically based methods for maintaining the normal level of testosterone.

5.1. Life:

• Balanced nutrition: Healthy and balanced diet, rich in proteins, healthy fats, fruits and vegetables, is necessary for the normal production of testosterone. It is important to avoid processed products, sugar and trans fats.

• Regular physical exercises: Regular physical exercises, especially strength training, can increase testosterone levels. It is important to avoid overtraining, as this can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels.

• Sufficient sleep: A sufficient sleep (7-8 hours a day) is necessary for the normal production of testosterone. The lack of sleep can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels.

• Stress management: Chronic stress can increase the level of cortisol, which can suppress the production of testosterone. It is important to learn how to manage stress using methods such as meditation, yoga or nature walks.

• Maintaining a healthy weight: Obesity is associated with a lower level of testosterone. Maintaining healthy weight can improve testosterone levels.

• Alcohol use restriction: Alcohol abuse can damage the testicles and reduce testosterone production.

• Refusal of smoking: Smoking can affect testosterone levels and sexual function.

5.2. Medical methods:

• Putting therapy with testosterone (ZTT): ZTT is an effective method of increasing testosterone levels in men with hypogonadism. However, ZTT has side effects and requires medical observation. ZTT can be carried out using injections, plasters, gels or oral drugs.

• Treatment of the underlying diseases: If the low level of testosterone is caused by the underlying disease, such as hypothyroidism or kushing syndrome, the treatment of this disease can improve the level of testosterone.

5.3. Nutrients (through nutrition, not dietary supplements):

Obtaining the necessary nutrients from a balanced diet is preferable than taking dietary supplements.

• Zinc: Contained in meat, seafood, nuts and seeds.

• Vitamin D: Contained in oily fish, egg yolks and enriched products. Sunlight also promotes the production of vitamin D in the skin.

• Magnesium: Contained in green leafy vegetables, nuts and seeds.

• Protein: It is necessary for the synthesis of testosterone. Contained in meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes and nuts.

• Healthy fats: Necessary for the production of hormones. Contained in avocado, olive oil, nuts and fatty fish.

Section 6: Conclusion and recommendations

Bades to increase testosterone levels can be attractive to men who seek to improve their sexual function, muscle mass, energy and mood. However, it is important to understand that the effectiveness and safety of these additives are often not scientifically proven. Many of them are not properly regulated, and product quality can vary significantly.

Recommendations:

• Consult a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplement to increase the level of testosterone, you need to consult a doctor. The doctor can determine the cause of the low level of testosterone (if any) and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

• Do not rely on dietary supplements as the only solution: Bades should not be considered the only solution to the problem of low level of testosterone. It is important to focus on a healthy lifestyle, which includes a balanced diet, regular physical exercises, sufficient sleep and stress management.

• Choose quality products: If you decide to take dietary supplements, choose products from trusted manufacturers who have a good reputation and undergo independent testing.

• Be careful with statements about effectiveness: Do not believe blindly allegations of the effectiveness of dietary supplements. Carefully study scientific data and consult a doctor.

• Follow side effects: Follow your health and tell the doctor about all the side effects that you experience when taking dietary supplements.

• Do not exceed the recommended dose: Do not exceed the recommended dose of dietary supplements. High doses can be hazardous to health.

• Remember that ZTT is an effective method of treating hypogonadism, but requires medical observation.

In conclusion, maintaining a healthy level of testosterone requires an integrated approach, including a healthy lifestyle and, if necessary, medical treatment. Bades can be useful in some cases, but their effectiveness and safety should be carefully evaluated, and their use should be carried out under the supervision of a doctor.