Testosterone dietary supplements: reviews of doctors and experts
I. Testosterone: Key hormone male health
-
The role of testosterone in the body of a man: Testosterone, the main male sex hormone, plays a critical role in numerous physiological processes. It affects the development and maintenance of male sexual characteristics, including an increase in muscle mass, hair growth on the body, deepening the voice and the development of the genitals. In addition, testosterone is necessary to maintain a healthy bone density, the production of red blood cells, and also affects libido, erectile function, cognitive abilities and general mood.
-
Factors affecting testosterone levels: The level of testosterone naturally fluctuates during the life of a man. It reaches a peak in adolescence and early adulthood, and then gradually decreases with age, by about 1-2% per year after 30 years. However, in addition to age, other factors can affect the level of testosterone, such as:
-
Life: An unhealthy lifestyle, including improper nutrition, lack of physical activity, chronic stress, alcohol abuse and smoking, can negatively affect the level of testosterone.
-
Diseases: Some diseases, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, klyinfelter syndrome, can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels.
-
Medicines: Taking certain drugs, such as corticosteroids, opioid analgesics, antidepressants, can also reduce testosterone levels.
-
Injuries: Yaichk or pituitary injuries can disrupt testosterone production.
-
-
Signs and symptoms of low level of testosterone (hypogonadism): The low level of testosterone, also known as hypogonadism, can be manifested by various symptoms that can have a significant impact on the quality of life of a man. The most common features and symptoms include:
-
Libido reduction (sexual attraction): Reducing interest in sex is one of the most common signs of low level of testosterone.
-
Erectile dysfunction: Difficulties with achieving or maintaining an erection can be associated with a lack of testosterone.
-
Reducing muscle mass and strength: Testosterone plays an important role in building and maintaining muscle mass. A decrease in its level can lead to loss of muscle mass and a decrease in strength.
-
Increase fat mass: The low level of testosterone can contribute to an increase in fat mass, especially in the abdomen.
-
Fatigue and weakness: A sense of constant fatigue and weakness, even after a sufficient rest, may be a sign of hypogonadism.
-
Reduced bone density (osteoporosis): Testosterone is necessary to maintain a healthy bone density. Its deficiency can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
-
Mood swings and depression: The low level of testosterone can negatively affect the mood and lead to depression.
-
Reducing concentration and memory deterioration: Cognitive functions, such as concentration and memory, can deteriorate with a lack of testosterone.
-
Reducing hair growth on the body: A decrease in testosterone levels can lead to a decrease in hair growth on the face, body and in the pubic area.
-
Breast enlargement (gynecomastia): In some cases, a low level of testosterone can cause breast augmentation in men.
-
-
Diagnostics of low level of testosterone: If a man has signs and symptoms indicating hypogonadism, you must consult a doctor for diagnosis. Diagnosis usually includes:
-
Anamnesis collection and physical inspection: The doctor will ask questions about the symptoms, lifestyle, medications taken and diseases. A physical examination will help identify the signs indicating hypogonadism.
-
Blood test for testosterone levels: The main method of diagnosing hypogonadism is a blood test for testosterone levels. For an accurate assessment of testosterone levels, it is recommended to analyze in the morning, since the hormone level is the highest at this time of day. Typically, several tests are carried out to confirm the diagnosis.
-
Additional tests: The doctor may prescribe additional tests to identify the causes of low level of testosterone, such as analysis for luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle -stimulating hormone (FSH), prolactin, thyroid hormones and others.
-
II. Dietary supplement to increase testosterone: review and mechanisms of action
-
Categories of dietary supplement to increase testosterone: Bades to increase testosterone are represented by a wide range of products, which can be divided into several categories depending on their composition and mechanism of action. It is important to note that the effectiveness and safety of these dietary supplements can vary significantly, and before their use it is necessary to consult a doctor.
-
Plant extracts: Many dietary supplements contain plant extracts, which are claimed to have the ability to increase testosterone levels. The most popular plant components include:
-
Tribulus Terrestris (Tribulus Teretstris): This plant is widely used in traditional medicine to improve sexual function and increase libido. It is believed that the tribulus stimulates the production of luteinizing hormone (LH), which, in turn, stimulates the production of testosterone in the testicles. However, scientific studies do not always confirm the effectiveness of the tribulus in increasing the level of testosterone in healthy men.
-
Eurycoma Longifolia (Tongkat Ali): This plant, growing in Southeast Asia, is traditionally used to increase libido, improve fertility and increase energy levels. It is believed that Tongkat Ali increases the level of testosterone, reduces the level of cortisol (stress hormone) and improves spermatogenesis. Some studies show that Tongkat Ali can have a positive effect on testosterone levels and sexual function, especially in men with low testosterone levels.
-
Ashwagandha (Ashwaganda): This plant, widely used in Ayurvedic medicine, has adaptogenic properties, that is, helps the body adapt to stress. It is believed that Ashvaganda reduces the level of cortisol, increases the level of testosterone, improves muscle strength and endurance, and also improves cognitive functions. Some studies confirm the positive effect of Ashvaganda on testosterone levels, especially in men with infertility or prone to stress.
-
Fenugreek (Coshenian City Council): This plant is used as a spice and a drug. It is believed that the fences increase the level of testosterone, improves libido, increases muscle mass and reduces blood sugar. Some studies show that the fencing can have a positive effect on testosterone levels and sexual function, especially in men with low libido.
-
-
Vitamins and minerals: Some vitamins and minerals play an important role in developing testosterone and maintaining its normal level. The most important of them include:
-
Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays an important role in various physiological processes, including testosterone production. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels. Studies show that the intake of vitamin D can increase the level of testosterone in men with its deficiency.
-
Zinc: Zinc is necessary for the normal operation of the reproductive system and the production of testosterone. Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels and a deterioration in spermatogenesis. Taking zinc can increase the level of testosterone in men with its deficiency.
-
Magnesium: Magnesium plays an important role in developing testosterone and maintaining its normal level. Magnesium deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels. Magnesium intake can increase the level of testosterone, especially in men engaged in intense physical exercises.
-
Brown: Bor is a trace element that can affect testosterone levels. Some studies show that boron intake can increase testosterone levels and improve cognitive functions.
-
-
D-asparaginic acid (DAA): DAA is an amino acid that is involved in the production of hormones, including testosterone. It is believed that DAA stimulates the production of luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone. Some studies show that DAA can increase testosterone levels, especially in men with infertility or low testosterone levels.
-
Creatine: Creatine is a popular addition used to increase muscle strength and endurance. Although creatine does not have a direct influence on the level of testosterone, it can indirectly influence it, stimulating muscle growth. An increase in muscle mass can help increase testosterone levels.
-
Aromatase inhibitors: Aromatase is an enzyme that turns testosterone into estrogen (female sex hormone). Aromatase inhibitors block this enzyme, thereby increasing testosterone levels and reducing estrogen levels. However, aromatase inhibitors can cause side effects, and they should be used only under the supervision of a doctor.
-
-
Dietary supplies mechanisms: Bades to increase testosterone can act in various ways:
-
Stimulation of the production of luteinizing hormone (LH): LH stimulates the testicles to the production of testosterone. Some dietary supplements, such as tribulus and DAA, can increase the level of LH, thereby increasing the production of testosterone.
-
Reducing the level of cortisol (stress hormone): Cortisol can suppress testosterone production. Some dietary supplements, such as Ashvaganda, can reduce the level of cortisol, thereby contributing to an increase in testosterone levels.
-
Blocking aromatase: Aromatase turns testosterone into estrogen. Aromatase inhibitors block this enzyme, increasing the level of testosterone and reducing estrogen levels.
-
Providing the necessary nutrients: Vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, zinc and magnesium, are necessary for the normal production of testosterone. Bades containing these substances can help maintain a healthy level of testosterone.
-
General health support: Some dietary supplements, such as Ashvaganda, have adaptogenic properties and help the body adapt to stress, which can indirectly affect the level of testosterone.
-
-
Efficiency and scientific validity: It is important to note that the effectiveness of dietary supplements to increase testosterone can vary significantly, and scientific data confirming their effectiveness are often limited or contradictory. Many studies are conducted in small samples or have methodological disadvantages. Therefore, before the use of dietary supplements, it is necessary to carefully study scientific data and consult a doctor.
-
TRIBULUS TERRESTRIS: Scientific research does not confirm the effectiveness of the tribulus in increasing testosterone levels in healthy men. Some studies show that tribulus can have a positive effect on libido, but not on testosterone levels.
-
Tongkat Ali: Some studies show that Tongkat Ali can have a positive effect on testosterone levels and sexual function, especially in men with low testosterone levels.
-
Ashwaganda: Some studies confirm the positive effect of Ashvaganda on testosterone levels, especially in men with infertility or prone to stress.
-
Fenugreek: Some studies show that the fencing can have a positive effect on testosterone levels and sexual function, especially in men with low libido.
-
Vitamin D: Studies show that the intake of vitamin D can increase the level of testosterone in men with its deficiency.
-
Zinc: Taking zinc can increase the level of testosterone in men with its deficiency.
-
D-paraginic acid: Some studies show that DAA can increase testosterone levels, especially in men with infertility or low testosterone levels.
-
III. Reviews of doctors and experts about dietary supplements for testosterone
-
General opinion of doctors: Most doctors and experts in the field of endocrinology and andrology relate to dietary supplements to increase testosterone with caution. They emphasize that dietary supplements are not drugs and do not pass strict clinical trials as medicines. Therefore, their effectiveness and safety are not always proven.
-
Criticism of Dads: Doctors and experts often criticize dietary supplements for:
-
Lack of strict clinical trials: Many dietary supplements do not undergo strict clinical trials that are necessary to confirm their effectiveness and safety.
-
Insufficient regulation: The production and sale of dietary supplements are regulated less strictly than the production and sale of drugs. This can lead to the fact that dietary supplements contain unexpected ingredients, impurities or do not correspond to the declared dosage.
-
Aggressive marketing: Bad manufacturers often use aggressive marketing, exaggerating the effectiveness of their products and not warning about possible side effects.
-
The risk of side effects and drug interactions: Bades can cause side effects and interact with the drugs that the patient takes.
-
Masked serious diseases: Reception of dietary supplements can mask the symptoms of serious diseases, such as hypogonadism, and detain timely seeking a doctor and obtaining the necessary treatment.
-
-
Doctors’ recommendations: Doctors and experts recommend:
-
Do not use dietary supplements for self -medication: Do not self -medicate and do not take dietary supplements to increase testosterone without consulting a doctor.
-
Consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment: If you have signs and symptoms indicating a low level of testosterone, consult a doctor for diagnosis and prescribing adequate treatment.
-
Choose dietary supplements with caution: If you decide to take dietary supplement to increase testosterone, choose products of well -known and trusted manufacturers who have a good reputation.
-
Carefully study the composition and contraindications: Before using dietary supplements, carefully study its composition, contraindications and possible side effects.
-
Inform the doctor about the admission of dietary supplements: Be sure to tell your doctor that you are taking dietary supplements to avoid possible interactions with drugs.
-
Do not expect miracles: Do not expect dietary supplements instantly and radically increase your testosterone level. The effect of taking dietary supplements may be insignificant or completely absent.
-
Combine a reception of dietary supplements with a healthy lifestyle: To maintain a healthy level of testosterone, it is necessary to lead a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, regular physical exercises, sufficient sleep and avoid stress.
-
-
Alternative methods of increasing testosterone: Doctors and experts recommend starting with a change in lifestyle before resorting to admission of dietary supplements or hormonal therapy. Alternative methods of increasing testosterone include:
-
Proper nutrition: A balanced diet, rich in proteins, useful fats, complex carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals, is necessary to maintain a healthy level of testosterone.
-
Regular physical exercises: Regular physical exercises, especially strength training, can increase testosterone levels.
-
Sufficient sleep: A sufficient sleep (7-8 hours a day) is necessary for the normal production of testosterone.
-
Avoiding stress: Chronic stress can suppress testosterone production. It is important to learn how to manage stress using relaxation techniques, meditation or other methods.
-
Maintaining a healthy weight: Obesity can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels. Maintaining healthy weight can help increase the level of hormone.
-
Refusal of bad habits: Alcohol abuse and smoking can adversely affect the level of testosterone.
-
-
Hormone therapy with testosterone: In some cases, when a change in lifestyle and intake of dietary supplements do not lead to an increase in testosterone levels to normal values, the doctor may recommend hormone therapy with testosterone. Hormone therapy with testosterone is an effective method of treating hypogonadism, but it has its own risks and side effects, and it should be used only under the strict supervision of a doctor.
IV. Safety of dietary supplements for testosterone: side effects and risks
-
Possible side effects: Bades to increase testosterone can cause various side effects, depending on their composition and individual reaction of the body. The most common side effects include:
-
Gastrointestinal disorders: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain.
-
Headache and dizziness:
-
Insomnia:
-
Irritability and aggressiveness:
-
Acne (acne):
-
Hair loss:
-
Breast enlargement (gynecomastia):
-
Improving blood pressure:
-
Disorders of the liver function:
-
Allergic reactions:
-
Interactions with drugs: Bades can interact with the drugs that the patient takes, and enhance or weaken their effect.
-
-
The risks associated with an uncontrolled technique: An uncontrolled intake of dietary supplement to increase testosterone can pose a serious threat to health. Risks include:
-
Masks of serious diseases: Reception of dietary supplements can mask the symptoms of serious diseases, such as hypogonadism, and detain timely seeking a doctor and obtaining the necessary treatment.
-
Hormonal balance violation: An uncontrolled intake of dietary supplements can disrupt the hormonal balance in the body and lead to undesirable consequences.
-
Addition and addiction: Some dietary supplements can cause addiction and addiction.
-
Poor products: On the market there are many low -quality dietary supplements that may contain not declared ingredients, impurities or not correspond to the declared dosage.
-
-
Contraindications: Bades to increase testosterone have a number of contraindications. They are not recommended to accept:
-
In the presence of serious diseases: Cardiovascular diseases, liver and kidney diseases, prostate cancer, breast cancer.
-
With allergies to dietary supplements:
-
In adolescence:
-
During pregnancy and breastfeeding (for women):
-
-
The importance of consulting a doctor: Before taking dietary supplements to increase testosterone, it is necessary to consult a doctor. The doctor will conduct an examination, determine the cause of the low level of testosterone, evaluate risks and contraindications and select the most suitable treatment.
V. Conclusion
Bades to increase testosterone can be useful for some men with a low level of testosterone, but their effectiveness and safety are not always proven. It is important to remember that dietary supplements are not drugs and should not be used for self -medication. Before taking dietary supplements, it is necessary to consult a doctor. To maintain a healthy level of testosterone, it is necessary to lead a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, regular physical exercises, sufficient sleep and avoid stress. In some cases, the doctor can recommend hormonal therapy with testosterone, which is an effective method of treating hypogonadism, but has its own risks and side effects, and it should be used only under the strict supervision of a doctor.