Increasing testosterone: What dietary supplements really help?

Chapter 1: Testosterone: key role and consequences of deficiency

Testosterone is the main male sex hormone, androgen, which plays a critical role in physiological processes in both men and, although to a lesser extent, in women. It is synthesized mainly in Leydig’s cells in testicles in men and in small quantities in ovaries and adrenal glands in women. This hormone not only determines the male sexual characteristics, but also affects many other aspects of health, including muscle mass, bone density, mood, energy, sexual attraction and cognitive functions.

1.1. Physiological functions of testosterone

Testosterone has anabolic and androgenic effect. The anabolic effect is manifested in the stimulation of protein synthesis, which contributes to the growth of muscle mass and the strengthening of bones. Androgenic effect is associated with the development and maintenance of male sexual characteristics, such as hair growth on the face and body, coarsening of voice and the development of the genital organs.

• Development and maintenance of muscle mass: Testosterone stimulates the synthesis of protein in muscle cells, which leads to an increase in their size and strength. This is especially important for men striving to improve physical form and sports achievements.

• Maintaining bone density: Testosterone plays an important role in maintaining the mineral density of bones, which prevents the development of osteoporosis and reduces the risk of fractures.

• Regulation of libido and sexual function: Testosterone is a key hormone responsible for sexual attraction and erectile function in men. Its disadvantage can lead to a decrease in libido and erectile dysfunction.

• Sperm production: Testosterone is necessary for normal spermatogenesis, the process of formation of sperm in the testicles.

• Impact on mood and cognitive functions: Testosterone has an impact on mood, cognitive functions and overall well -being. The low level of testosterone can lead to fatigue, irritability, depression and memory worsening.

• The distribution of fat in the body: Testosterone affects the distribution of fat in the body, helping to reduce fat mass and increase muscle mass.

• Production of red blood cells: Testosterone stimulates the production of erythropoetin, hormone, which stimulates the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow.

1.2. The causes and consequences of testosterone deficiency

The level of testosterone naturally decreases with age, starting about 30 years. However, there are other factors that can lead to testosterone deficiency at a younger age.

• Age: With age, the production of testosterone in the testicles is gradually declining. This is a natural process known as age -related hypogonadism.

• Diseases: Some diseases, such as hypogonadism, diabetes, obesity, chronic diseases of the liver and kidneys, as well as infections, can lead to testosterone deficiency.

• Medicines: Some drugs, such as opioid analgesics, corticosteroids and antidepressants, can reduce testosterone levels.

• Life: An unhealthy lifestyle, including improper nutrition, lack of physical activity, excessive drinking and smoking, can negatively affect the level of testosterone.

• Stress: Chronic stress can lead to an increase in the level of cortisol, stress hormone, which can suppress testosterone production.

The consequences of testosterone deficiency can be very diverse and affect various aspects of health:

• Libido decrease and erectile dysfunction: These are one of the most common symptoms of testosterone deficiency.

• Reducing muscle mass and strength: Testosterone deficiency can lead to a loss of muscle mass and strength, which complicates the performance of everyday tasks and reduces physical performance.

• Increase fat mass: Testosterone deficiency can contribute to the accumulation of fat, especially in the abdomen.

• Fatigue and energy reduction: The low level of testosterone can cause a feeling of fatigue, weakness and energy reduction.

• Osteoporosis: Testosterone deficiency can lead to a decrease in bone density and increase the risk of fractures.

• Mood disorders: The low level of testosterone can cause irritability, depression, anxiety and mood deterioration.

• Deterioration of cognitive functions: Testosterone deficiency can negatively affect memory, concentration of attention and other cognitive functions.

• Reducing the quality of sperm: Testosterone deficiency can lead to a decrease in the quantity and quality of sperm, which can affect fertility.

Chapter 2: Diagnostics and treatment of testosterone deficiency

Diagnosis of testosterone deficiency includes symptoms, physical examination and laboratory tests. Treatment is aimed at restoring the normal level of testosterone and eliminating the symptoms of deficiency.

2.1. Diagnostics

• Symptoms Assessment: The doctor evaluates the presence and severity of symptoms indicating a deficiency of testosterone, such as a decrease in libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, muscle weight and an increase in fat mass.

• Physical examination: The doctor conducts a physical examination, including the assessment of the size of the testicles, the presence of gynecomastia (an increase in the mammary glands in men) and the distribution of hair on the body.

• Laboratory research: To confirm the diagnosis of testosterone deficiency, it is necessary to conduct laboratory tests, including determining the level of general testosterone in the blood. Additional tests, such as determining the level of free testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle -stimulating hormone (FSH) and prolactin, can also be prescribed.

  • General testosterone: This is the main indicator of the level of testosterone in the blood. Normal values ​​of the general testosterone vary depending on age and laboratory, but usually amount to 300 to 1000 ng/dl.

  • Free testosterone: This is part of testosterone, which is not associated with proteins and is available for exposure to tissue. Determining the level of free testosterone can be more informative than determining the level of general testosterone, especially in men with a high level of globulin, connecting sex hormones (GSPG).

  • Lutheinizing hormone (LH) and follicle -stimulating hormone (FSH): These hormones are produced by the pituitary gland and regulate the function of the testicles. Determining the level of LH and FSH can help determine the cause of testosterone deficiency.

  • Prolactin: This is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland. An increased level of prolactin can suppress testosterone production.

2.2. Methods of treatment

Treatment of testosterone deficiency is aimed at restoring the normal level of testosterone and eliminating the symptoms of deficiency. There are various treatment methods, including:

• Testosterone-off-room therapy (TZT): This is the main method of treating testosterone deficiency. TZT can be prescribed in various forms, such as injections, gels, plasters and tablets.

  • Injections: Testosterone injections are the most common and effective TZT method. Injections are usually made intramuscularly every 1-2 weeks.

  • Gels: Gels with testosterone are applied to the skin once a day. Gels provide a more stable level of testosterone in the blood than injections.

  • Plasters: Slateers with testosterone are glued to the skin once a day. Plaster also provide a more stable level of testosterone in the blood than injections.

  • Tablets: Tablets with testosterone are taken inside. However, tablets with testosterone can have a negative effect on the liver, so their use is limited.

• Clomiffen: This is a drug that stimulates the production of LH and FSH, which leads to an increase in testosterone production in the testicles. Clomiphen can be used to treat testosterone deficiency in men who want to maintain their fertility.

• Anastrosol: This is a drug that reduces the level of estrogen in the body. An increased level of estrogen can suppress testosterone production. Anastzole can be used to treat testosterone deficiency in men with an increased level of estrogen.

• Life change change: A healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, regular physical exercises, sufficient sleep and a decrease in stress, can help increase testosterone levels.

Important: Treatment of testosterone deficiency should be carried out under the supervision of a doctor. Self -medication can be dangerous and lead to undesirable side effects.

Chapter 3: Dietary supplement to increase testosterone: review and scientific data

Currently, there are many biologically active additives (dietary supplements), which are positioned as a means to increase testosterone levels. However, the effectiveness of most of these additives is not confirmed by scientific research. It is important to understand that dietary supplements are not drugs and should not be used to treat testosterone deficiency.

3.1. General principles for choosing dietary supplements

When choosing dietary supplements to increase testosterone, the following principles should be guided by:

• Study scientific data: Before buying Bad, study scientific research on its effectiveness. Pay attention to the sample size, research methodology and results.

• Choose quality products: Buy dietary supplements from well -known and trusted manufacturers that guarantee the quality and purity of their products.

• Pay attention to the composition: Study the composition of the dietary supplement and make sure that it does not contain harmful or prohibited substances.

• Consult a doctor: Before taking a dietary supplement, consult a doctor, especially if you have any diseases or take other drugs.

3.2. The most common dietary supplement to increase testosterone

Below is a review of the most common dietary supplements, which are positioned as a means to increase the level of testosterone, indicating the scientific data on their effectiveness.

• D-asparaginic acid (DAA): This is an amino acid that is involved in the regulation of testosterone production in testicles. Some studies have shown that DAA can increase testosterone levels in men with low testosterone levels. However, other studies have not confirmed this effect. In general, evidence of the effectiveness of the DAA to increase testosterone are limited.

• TRIBULUS TERRESTRIS: This is a plant that is traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to increase libido and improve sexual function. Some studies have shown that Tertrix tribulus can increase testosterone levels in animals. However, studies in public have not confirmed this effect. In general, evidence of the efficiency of the tribulus terrestors to increase testosterone are insufficient.

• Pajuk (Fenugreek): This is a plant whose seeds contain compounds that can affect the level of testosterone. Some studies have shown that the fencing can increase testosterone levels and improve libido in men. However, other studies have not confirmed this effect. In general, evidence of the effectiveness of the fencing for increasing testosterone is moderate.

• Zinc: This is a mineral that plays an important role in the development of testosterone. Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels. Some studies have shown that zinc additives can increase testosterone levels in men with zinc deficiency. However, zinc additives do not have a significant effect on testosterone levels in men with a normal zinc level.

• Vitamin D: This is a vitamin that plays an important role in the development of testosterone. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels. Some studies have shown that vitamin D additives can increase testosterone levels in men with vitamin D deficiency. However, vitamin D additives do not have a significant effect on testosterone levels in men with a normal level of vitamin D.

• Magnesium: This is a mineral that plays an important role in the development of testosterone. Magnesium deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels. Some studies have shown that magnesium additives can increase testosterone levels in men with magnesium deficiency. However, magnesium additives do not have a significant effect on testosterone levels in men with normal magnesium.

• Ashwaganda: This is a plant that is traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to reduce stress and increase energy. Some studies have shown that Ashvagand can increase testosterone levels and improve spermatogenesis in men. However, other studies have not confirmed this effect. In general, evidence of the effectiveness of Ashvaganda to increase testosterone are moderate.

• Creatine: Creatine is an amino acid that is mainly in the muscles and is used to produce energy during intense exercises. Although creatine is mainly known for its advantages for increasing strength and muscle mass, some studies show that it can also indirectly affect the level of testosterone. Creatine can increase testosterone levels by increasing muscle mass and intensity of training.

• Urtica dioica root extract: Nettle root extract contains Lignans, which can be associated with GSPG (globulin connecting sex hormones). GSPG binds testosterone in the blood, making it less accessible to the body to use. Binding to the GSPG, the nettle extract of nettles can release more free testosterone, which potentially leads to an increase in its activity.

• Forkskolin (Coleus forskohlii): Forcoline is a compound obtained from the Coleus Forskohlii plant, which is traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine. Some studies show that Forscolin can stimulate the production of cyclic AMF (TsAMF), molecules, which plays an important role in the regulation of various cellular processes, including testosterone production.

3.3. Important warnings

It is important to understand that dietary supplements are not a panacea and cannot replace a healthy lifestyle and a full treatment of testosterone deficiency. Before taking dietary supplements, it is necessary to consult a doctor in order to exclude contraindications and evaluate possible risks.

• Interaction with drugs: Bades can interact with drugs, enhancing or weakening their effect. This can lead to undesirable side effects.

• Side effects: Some dietary supplements can cause side effects, such as digestive disorders, allergic reactions and hormonal disorders.

• The inconsistency of the composition: The composition of the dietary supplements indicated on the label may not correspond to the actual composition of the product. This may be due to the dishonesty of the manufacturer or with the low quality of raw materials.

• Lack of evidence of effectiveness: The effectiveness of many dietary supplements is not confirmed by scientific research. In some cases, dietary supplements can only have a placebo effect.

Chapter 4: Alternative methods for increasing testosterone

In addition to TZT and dietary supplements, there are alternative methods that can help increase testosterone levels naturally. These methods include a change in lifestyle, proper nutrition, regular physical exercises and a decrease in stress.

4.1. Change in lifestyle

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

• Reducing stress: Chronic stress can lead to an increase in the level of cortisol, stress hormone, which can suppress testosterone production. It is necessary to learn how to cope with stress using various techniques, such as meditation, yoga and breathing exercises.

• Alcohol use restriction: Excessive alcohol consumption can negatively affect testosterone levels.

• Refusal of smoking: Smoking can reduce testosterone levels and negatively affect male fertility.

4.2. Proper nutrition

Proper nutrition plays an important role in maintaining the normal level of testosterone. It is necessary to include in the diet products rich in nutrients that are necessary for the production of testosterone.

• Squirrels: Proteins are building material for hormones, including testosterone. It is necessary to consume a sufficient amount of protein from various sources, such as meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes and nuts.

• Fat: Fats are also necessary for the production of testosterone. It is necessary to consume healthy fats, such as olive oil, avocados, nuts and seeds. Transfiders and excessive consumption of saturated fats should be avoided.

• Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are a source of energy for the body. It is necessary to use complex carbohydrates, such as whole grain products, vegetables and fruits. Simple carbohydrates such as sugar and white flour should be avoided.

• Vitamins and minerals: Vitamins and minerals play an important role in the development of testosterone. It is necessary to consume foods rich in vitamins and minerals such as zinc, vitamin D and magnesium.

  • Products rich in zinc: Oysters, red meat, poultry, nuts, seeds, legumes.

  • Products rich in vitamin D: Fat fish, eggs, mushrooms, enriched products.

  • Products rich in magnesium: Green sheet vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grain products.

4.3. Regular physical exercises

Regular physical exercises can help increase testosterone levels. Especially effective are strength training using heavy weights.

• Power training: Power training stimulates testosterone production and contribute to the growth of muscle mass. It is recommended to perform strength training 2-3 times a week.

• High -intensity interval training (VITS): Vit is short periods of intensive load that alternate with periods of rest. VIIT can increase testosterone levels and improve the overall state of health.

• Cardio-training: Cardio training, such as running, swimming and cycling, is useful for health and the cardiovascular system and can help reduce stress.

Important: Before starting training, you need to consult a doctor in order to exclude contraindications.

Chapter 5: Prospects for research in the field of increased testosterone

Studies in the field of increased testosterone continue, and scientists study new approaches and methods that can help restore the normal level of testosterone and improve male health.

• New drugs: New drugs are being developed that can more effectively and safely increase testosterone levels.

• Gene therapy: The possibility of using genetic therapy is being studied to restore testosterone production in testicles.

• Individual approach: Methods of an individual approach to the treatment of testosterone deficiency are developed, based on the genetic characteristics and lifestyle of the patient.

• New generation dietary supplements: New dietary supplements are studied, which can have a more pronounced effect of increasing testosterone.

Conclusion

Testosterone plays an important role in male health. Testosterone deficiency can lead to various problems, such as a decrease in libido, erectile dysfunction, muscle weight loss and an increase in fat mass. There are various methods of treating testosterone deficiency, including TZT, dietary supplements and a change in lifestyle. Before starting treatment, it is necessary to consult a doctor in order to exclude contraindications and evaluate possible risks.

Further studies in the field of increased testosterone are necessary for the development of more effective and safe methods for treating testosterone deficiency and improve male health.