Testosterone dietary supplements: recommendations of specialists
Disclaimer: This article is exclusively informational in nature and is not a replacement for consultation with a qualified medical specialist. Reception of any dietary supplements should be agreed with the doctor, especially in the presence of chronic diseases, medication or pregnancy.
Section 1: Testosterone – key hormone of male health
Testosterone is the main male sex hormone, androgen, which plays a critical role in the development and maintenance of physiological functions in men. It is secreted mainly by Lydig’s cells in the testicles, and a small amount is produced by the adrenal glands. In women, testosterone is also present, but in significantly smaller concentrations and has a different functional meaning.
1.1 The role of testosterone in the body of a man:
- Development of sexual characteristics: Testosterone is responsible for the development of primary sexual characteristics (penis, testicles) during the period of intrauterine development and secondary sexual characteristics (hair growth on the face and body, voice change, increased muscle mass) during puberty.
- Sexual function: Testosterone plays a key role in libido (sexual transmission), erectile function and spermatogenesis (sperm production).
- Muscle mass and strength: Testosterone stimulates protein synthesis, which leads to an increase in muscle mass and strength. It also helps to reduce fat mass.
- Bone density: Testosterone is necessary to maintain healthy bone density. The low level of testosterone can lead to osteoporosis.
- Mood and cognitive functions: Testosterone affects mood, energy and cognitive functions, such as memory and concentration. The low level of testosterone can manifest itself in the form of depression, fatigue and reduction of cognitive abilities.
- Steaming: Testosterone stimulates the production of red blood cells (red blood cells).
- Metabolism: Testosterone affects the metabolism of glucose and lipids, helping to maintain a healthy level of blood sugar and cholesterol.
1.2 Signs of low level of testosterone (hypogonadism):
Symptoms of low level of testosterone (hypogonadism) can be diverse and vary from person to person. It is important to note that not all symptoms are necessarily present at the same time, and some of them may be associated with other diseases. The most common symptoms include:
- Libido decrease: Reducing sexual attraction or interest in sex.
- Erectile dysfunction: Difficulties in achieving or maintaining an erection.
- Fatigue and weakness: A constant feeling of fatigue, lack of energy and general weakness.
- Reducing muscle mass: Loss of muscle mass and strength, despite exercise.
- Increase fat mass: Accumulation of fat, especially in the abdomen.
- Mood swings: Irritability, depression, anxiety.
- Reducing cognitive functions: Difficulties with memory, concentration and attention.
- Hair loss: Enhanced hair loss on the head and body.
- Breast enlargement (gynecomastia): Development of the chest gland in men.
- Reduced bone density: Increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
- Reduction in the volume of the testicles: Reducing the size of the testicles.
- Infertility: Problems with the conception of a child.
- Sleep disorders: Insomnia or other sleep disturbances.
1.3 Diagnostics of low level of testosterone:
Diagnosis of hypogonadism includes the collection of an anamnesis (medical history), physical examination and blood test for testosterone levels. It is important to measure both general testosterone and free testosterone (testosterone not associated with blood proteins), since it is free testosterone is biologically active.
- Blood test: The level of testosterone is usually measured in the morning, as it has daily vibrations and reaches a peak in the morning. To confirm the diagnosis, a re -measurement of testosterone levels may be required.
- Other tests: The doctor may prescribe additional blood tests to exclude other diseases that can cause similar symptoms such as thyroid diseases, diabetes mellitus or vitamin D. deficiency.
- Anamnesis assessment and physical inspection: The doctor collects information about the symptoms, medical history, drugs taken and the lifestyle of the patient. A physical examination includes an assessment of sexual characteristics, the size of the testicles, the presence of gynecomastia and other signs of hypogonadism.
Section 2: Factors affecting testosterone levels
The level of testosterone can vary depending on age, genetics, lifestyle and the presence of certain diseases.
2.1 Age:
The level of testosterone usually reaches a peak aged 20 to 30 years, and then gradually decreases by about 1-2% per year after 30 years. This is a natural aging process, known as age -related hypogonadism or late hypogonadism.
2.2 Life:
- Nutrition: The lack of nutrients, such as zinc, magnesium and vitamin D, can negatively affect testosterone levels. A balanced diet rich in proteins, healthy fats and carbohydrates is necessary to maintain the optimal level of testosterone.
- Physical activity: Regular physical exercises, especially strength training, can stimulate testosterone production. However, excessive training without sufficient recovery can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels.
- Dream: The lack of sleep can negatively affect the level of testosterone. It is recommended to sleep at least 7-8 hours a day.
- Stress: Chronic stress can increase the level of cortisol, stress hormone, which can suppress testosterone production. It is important to manage stress using relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga or nature walks.
- The use of alcohol and drugs: Alcohol abuse and drugs can negatively affect the level of testosterone and testicular function.
- Smoking: Smoking can reduce testosterone levels and negatively affect overall health.
2.3 diseases and medicines:
- Obesity: Overweight, especially in the abdomen, can reduce testosterone levels, since the adipose tissue contains an enzyme aroma that turns testosterone into estrogen (female sex hormone).
- Diabetes sugar: Diabetes mellitus can negatively affect the level of testosterone and the function of the testicles.
- Thyroid diseases: Thyroid diseases, both hypothyroidism (reduced thyroid function), and hyperthyroidism (increased thyroid function), can affect the level of testosterone.
- Chronic diseases: Chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, kidney and liver diseases, can reduce testosterone levels.
- Medicines: Some drugs, such as opioid analgesics, glucocorticoids (steroids) and some antidepressants, can reduce testosterone levels.
Section 3: Dietary supplements to maintain testosterone level: review and recommendations
Many dietary supplements are declared as a means to increase testosterone levels. It is important to understand that the effectiveness of most of them is not scientifically proven, and their use should be justified and agreed with the doctor. Some dietary supplements can interact with medicines or have side effects.
3.1 dietary supplements with scientifically confirmed efficiency (to a certain extent):
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays an important role in the development of testosterone. Vitamin D deficiency is common, especially in regions with insufficient sunlight. Studies show that taking vitamin D additives can increase the level of testosterone in men with vitamin D. Dosage recommendations: from 2000 to 5000 IU per day, depending on the level of vitamin D in the blood.
- Zinc: Zinc is necessary for the production of testosterone and maintaining sperm health. Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels. Studies show that taking zinc additives can increase the level of testosterone in men with zinc deficiency. Dosage recommendations: from 15 to 30 mg per day.
- Magnesium: Magnesium is involved in numerous biochemical processes in the body, including testosterone production. Studies show that taking magnesium additives can increase the level of testosterone, especially in men engaged in physical exercises. Dosage recommendations: from 200 to 400 mg per day.
- D-asparaginic acid (DAA): DAA is an amino acid that is involved in the production of hormones, including testosterone. Some studies show that DAA can increase testosterone levels, but other studies do not confirm this effect. Dosage recommendations: from 2000 to 3000 mg per day.
- Tribulus Terrestris Tribulus: Tribulus is a plant that is traditionally used to increase libido and improve sports results. Some studies show that the tribulus can increase libido, but its effect on testosterone levels remains controversial. Dosage recommendations: vary depending on the concentration of saponins in extract (usually from 250 to 750 mg per day).
- Pajuk (Fenugreek): A fencth is a plant that is traditionally used to increase libido and improve sports results. Some studies show that the fencing extract can increase the level of testosterone and libido. Dosage recommendations: from 500 to 600 mg of extract per day.
3.2 dietary supplements with less confirmed efficiency or requiring additional research:
- Ashwaganda (Ashwagandha): Ashvaganda is an adaptogenic plant that is traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to reduce stress and increase energy. Some studies show that Ashvagand can increase testosterone levels and improve sperm quality, but additional studies are needed to confirm these effects. Dosage recommendations: from 300 to 500 mg extract per day.
- Long -leaved eurecoma (Eurycoma Longifolia Jack/Tongkat Ali): The eurecoma is long -leaved – this is a plant that is traditionally used to increase libido and improve sports results. Some studies show that a long -leaved euricome can increase testosterone levels and improve sperm quality, but additional studies are needed to confirm these effects. Dosage recommendations: from 200 to 400 mg of extract per day.
- Maka Peruvian (Maca): Mac is a plant that is traditionally used to increase libido and fertility. Some studies show that poppy can increase libido, but its effect on testosterone levels remains controversial. Dosage recommendations: from 1,500 to 3000 mg of powder or extract per day.
- Diindolilmetan (DIM): DIM is a compound that is formed during the breakdown of glucosinolates contained in cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and cauliflower. DIM can help to balance the level of estrogen and testosterone in the body. Some studies show that DIM can reduce estrogen levels and increase the level of free testosterone, but additional studies are needed. Dosage recommendations: from 100 to 300 mg per day.
- Brown: Bor is a trace element that plays an important role in the metabolism of calcium and bone tissue. Some studies show that Bor can increase testosterone levels and reduce estrogen levels, but additional studies are needed. Dosage recommendations: from 3 to 6 mg per day.
3.3 important comments when choosing and receiving dietary supplements:
- Consultation with a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor in order to exclude contraindications and possible interactions with drugs.
- The choice of quality products: Choose dietary supplements from trusted manufacturers who adhere to GMP (good manufacturging standards) and undergo independent testing and efficiency.
- Dosage compliance: Strictly follow the recommended dosage indicated on the package of dietary supplements.
- Evaluation of the effect: Evaluate the effect of admission of dietary supplements in a few weeks or months. If there is no improvement in the symptoms or side effects occur, stop taking and consult a doctor.
- Realistic expectations: Bades are not a replacement for a healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet, regular physical exercises and enough sleep. They can be useful as an addition to these measures, but you should not expect miracles from them.
- Side effects: Some dietary supplements can cause side effects, such as digestive disorders, headaches, allergic reactions and others. In case of side effects, it is necessary to stop taking and consult a doctor.
- Interaction with drugs: Some dietary supplements can interact with medicines, enhancing or weakening their effect. Be sure to tell the doctor about all the dietary supplements to avoid undesirable interactions.
Section 4: Alternative ways to maintain testosterone levels
In addition to taking dietary supplements, there are other ways to maintain the optimal level of testosterone, which are not related to taking drugs or additives. These methods include a change in lifestyle and correction of existing diseases.
4.1 Healthy lifestyle:
- Balanced nutrition: Adhere to a balanced diet rich in proteins, healthy fats and carbohydrates. Use a sufficient amount of zinc, magnesium, vitamin D and other nutrients necessary for the production of testosterone. Limit the consumption of processed products, sugar and trans fats.
- Regular physical exercises: Do regular physical exercises, especially strength training. Power training stimulates the production of testosterone and contribute to an increase in muscle mass.
- Sufficient sleep: Sleep at least 7-8 hours a day. The lack of sleep can negatively affect the level of testosterone.
- Stress management: Manage stress using relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga or nature walks. Chronic stress can suppress testosterone production.
- Maintaining a healthy weight: Maintain healthy weight, as overweight, especially in the abdomen, can reduce testosterone levels.
- Limiting the use of alcohol and drugs: Limit the use of alcohol and drugs, as they can negatively affect testosterone levels and testicles.
- Refusal of smoking: Refuse smoking, as smoking can reduce testosterone levels and negatively affect general health.
4.2 Treatment of the underlying diseases:
- Obesity treatment: Treatment of obesity with a diet, physical exercises and, if necessary, drug therapy can increase testosterone levels.
- Treatment of diabetes sugar: Monitoring of blood sugar in diabetes can improve testosterone levels and testicular function.
- Treatment of thyroid diseases: Normalization of thyroid function can improve testosterone levels.
- Correction of a deficiency of vitamins and minerals: Correction of deficiency of vitamin D, zinc, magnesium and other nutrients can increase the level of testosterone.
Section 5: Hormonal therapy with testosterone (GTT): When is it necessary?
Hormone therapy with testosterone (GTT) is a medical procedure in which testosterone is introduced into the body using injections, gels, plasters or other methods. GTT can be prescribed for men with clinically confirmed hypogonadism, in whom a low level of testosterone causes significant symptoms and worsens the quality of life.
5.1 Indications for GTT:
- Primary hypogonadism: Primary hypogonadism occurs when testicles do not produce enough testosterone due to damage or testicular disease. The causes of primary hypogonadism can be genetic (for example, Klyinfelter syndrome), acquired (for example, testicular injury, orchitis, chemotherapy) or idiopathic (unknown reason).
- Secondary hypogonadism: Secondary hypogonadism occurs when hypothalamus or pituitary glands (glands in the brain that control the function of the testicles) do not produce enough gonadotropic hormones (luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle -stimulating hormone (FSH)), which stimulate the eggs to the production of testosterone. The causes of secondary hypogonadism can be tumors of the pituitary gland, brain injuries, taking certain drugs or idiopathic.
- Late hypogonadism (age -related hypogonadism): Late hypogonadism is a gradual decrease in testosterone level, which occurs with age. GTT can be prescribed to men with late hypogonadism, in whom the low level of testosterone causes significant symptoms and worsens the quality of life.
5.2 Contraindications to GTT:
- Prostate cancer: GTT is contraindicated for men with prostate cancer, since testosterone can stimulate the growth of cancer cells.
- Breast cancer: GTT is contraindicated for men with breast cancer.
- Severe heart failure: GTT can worsen the symptoms of severe heart failure.
- Heavy Apnae of Sleep: GTT can worsen the symptoms of severe sleep apnea.
- PolycyTemia (increased level of red blood cells): GTT can increase the level of red blood cells and increase the risk of thrombosis.
- Desire to have children: GTT can suppress sperm production and lead to infertility.
5.3 risks and side effects of GTT:
- Increase in the risk of prostate cancer: Some studies show that GTT can increase the risk of developing prostate cancer, although this issue remains controversial.
- Deterioration of symptoms of benign prostate hyperplasia (DHCH): GTT can increase the size of the prostate gland and worsen the symptoms of DHCH, such as frequent urination and difficulty urination.
- Increase in the level of red blood cells (polycytemia): GTT can increase the level of red blood cells and increase the risk of thrombosis.
- Liquid and swelling delay: GTT can cause a delay in fluid and edema.
- Acne (acne): GTT can cause acne.
- Hair loss: GTT can accelerate hair loss in men prone to baldness.
- Gynecomastia (breast augmentation): GTT can cause gynecomastia.
- Reducing sperm production and infertility: GTT can suppress sperm production and lead to infertility.
- Improving cholesterol levels: GTT can increase cholesterol.
- Mood disorders: GTT can cause mood disorders, such as irritability, aggression and depression.
5.4 Methods of introduction of testosterone:
- Testosterone injections: Testosterone injections are the most common method of introducing testosterone. Injections can be made intramuscularly or subcutaneously. The effect of injection lasts from several days to several weeks, depending on the type of testosterone.
- Testosterone gels: Testosterone gels are applied to the skin once a day. Testosterone is absorbed through the skin into the blood.
- Plates of testosterone: Plates of testosterone are glued to the skin and replaced every 24 hours. Testosterone is absorbed through the skin into the blood.
- Bookcar tablets of testosterone: Building tablets of testosterone are placed between the gum and cheek and dissolve for several hours. Testosterone is absorbed through the mucous membrane of the oral cavity into the blood.
- Testosterone implants: Testosterone implants are small capsules that are inserted under the skin and gradually release testosterone for several months.
Section 6: Monitoring the level of testosterone and health at the GTT
When conducting GTT, it is important to regularly monitor the level of testosterone and the general state of health in order to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment and identify possible side effects.
6.1 Monitoring of testosterone levels:
- Blood test for testosterone levels: The level of testosterone must be regularly measured using a blood test to make sure that it is within the normal range. The frequency of measurement of testosterone levels is determined by the doctor depending on the individual characteristics of the patient and the type of drug used.
6.2 Monitoring the general health of health:
- Blood test for prostatic specific antigen (PSA): The dog is a protein that is produced by prostate cells. GTT can increase the level of the PSA, therefore it is necessary to regularly measure the level of the dog in order to identify possible problems with the prostate gland.
- General blood test: A general blood test allows you to evaluate the level of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. GTT can increase the level of red blood cells, so it is necessary to regularly control this indicator.
- Lipidogram: The lipidogram allows you to evaluate the level of cholesterol and other blood lipids. GTT can increase cholesterol, so it is necessary to regularly control these indicators.
- Symptoms Assessment: It is important to regularly evaluate the symptoms of hypogonadism to make sure that GT is effective.
- Physical examination: Regular physical examination allows you to identify possible side effects of GTT, such as gynecomastia, fluid retention and edema.
6.3 Monitoring of testosterone dosage:
The doctor can adjust the dosage of testosterone depending on the level of testosterone in the blood, symptoms and side effects. The goal is to maintain the level of testosterone within the normal range and minimize side effects.
Section 7: future areas of research in the field of dietary supplements and testosterone
Studies in the field of dietary supplements and testosterone are ongoing, and future studies can lead to the development of more effective and safe means to maintain testosterone levels.
7.1 Studies of new dietary supplements:
Researchers study new dietary supplements that can increase testosterone levels or improve its effect in the body.
7.2 Studies of the mechanisms of action of dietary supplements:
Research is carried out to clarify the mechanisms of dietary supplements in order to understand how they affect the level of testosterone and other processes in the body.
7.3 Clinical Tests of Bad:
Clinical trials are necessary to confirm the efficiency and safety of dietary supplements.
7.4 Personalized approach to dietary supplement:
In the future, perhaps, a personalized approach to the use of dietary supplements, based on the genetic characteristics, lifestyle and other factors that affect the level of testosterone, will be developed.
Section 8: Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
- Can dietary supplements be completely replaced by GTT? Bades can be useful for maintaining testosterone levels in men with moderate deficiency, but they cannot completely replace GTT in men with clinically confirmed hypogonadism.
- What are the most effective dietary supplements for increasing testosterone? The effectiveness of dietary supplement to increase testosterone varies depending on individual characteristics. The most studied dietary supplements are vitamin D, zinc, magnesium, d-acaraginic acid, tribulus and fencing.
- Is it safe to take dietary supplement to increase testosterone? Most dietary supplements, if accepted in recommended doses, are considered safe for most people. However, some dietary supplements can cause side effects or interact with medicines. It is important to consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplement.
- How long should you take dietary supplements to see the result? The results from taking dietary supplements can be visible in a few weeks or months. It is important to observe the recommended dosage and evaluate the effect after a certain period of time.
- Where can you buy high -quality dietary supplements? High-quality dietary supplements can be bought in pharmacies, specialized sports nutrition stores and online stores. It is important to choose dietary supplements from trusted manufacturers who adhere to GMP standards and undergo independent testing.
This comprehensive article provides detailed information on the role of testosterone, factors affecting its levels, the efficacy of various supplements, alternative strategies for maintaining healthy testosterone, hormonal therapy considerations, and future research directions. It emphasizes the importance of consulting with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements and provides recommendations for safe and effective use.