Natural testosterone is the male hormone that is produced in the testicles, and which gives men characteristics such as body hair, a deep voice, muscle mass, bone density, and a healthy libido. At normal levels, testosterone provides overall good health and well-being to males by maintaining lean muscle, fat distribution, bone density, and by improving sex drive, memory, and energy levels. It has also been known to improve depression, and reduce the risk of high blood pressure and heart attacks.
As men age, especially after 40, the level of natural testosterone production gradually drops, causing many to seek testosterone replacement therapy. If a man is experiencing extremely low testosterone levels, a physician may prescribe a cream or gel that can be applied daily to the skin. The cream is a mixture that contains some of the hormone in it, and when absorbed into the skin, it will help to increase natural testosterone levels back to normal. A physician may also prescribe a patch, injections, or oral supplements as part of the therapy.
There are also a number of simple lifestyle changes that can be made to help boost levels of natural testosterone without the aid of prescribed replacement therapies. Changes to diet and exercise can be very beneficial. In addition, taking certain herbal supplements may help the body produce more natural testosterone.
When considering an exercise program to help increase low testosterone levels, men should start with those that will cause the most amount of muscle stress. Exercises like bench presses, push-ups, chin-ups, squats, and lunges, all done at high intensity, will cause the major muscles of the body to be stressed. When the muscles are stressed, they signal the body to produce more male hormones.
Dietary changes can also play an essential role in boosting testosterone levels. Such foods as beef, chicken, eggs, and oysters are packed with key ingredients that help boost testosterone production. Increasing cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, turnips, and brussel sprouts, in the diet will decrease estrogen levels, the female hormone, and therefore help promote testosterone production.
The reverse is true with soy, so reducing consumption of foods with soy can help prevent increases in estrogen levels. Essential fatty acids (EFA) also help with the production of testosterone, and can be found in peanuts, flax seeds, avocadoes, and salmon. EFA’s are also found in olive oil and canola oil.
There are also several different herbs that are known to help increase natural testosterone levels. The most popular is called tribulus terrestris, or puncture vine, and has been clinically proven to boost strength and stamina. Another is called avena sativa, which is an extract from wild oats. Other herbs that may help boost low testosterone levels include chrysin, nettle root, and muira puama.
Many men will start feeling the effects of low testosterone levels as they head into middle age. There are, however, many different ways to solve the problem naturally, and without side effects. Whether it is a testosterone replacement program, with prescribed therapies from a physician, or lifestyle changes, a boost to natural testosterone levels can help with the overall well-being of men and leave them feeling fitter and happier.