Testosterone is the main sex hormone in men, but it also has important functions in women. A person with a testosterone deficiency can also make lifestyle changes that can help increase their testosterone levels. Supplementation could help protect against deficiency, which may be associated with an increased risk of erectile dysfunction. When it comes to natural testosterone boosters, there are several options available.
Vitamin D, fenugreek, ashwagandha, D-aspartic acid, zinc, and DHEA are all supplements that have been studied for their potential to increase testosterone levels. While more research is needed, certain supplements may improve sexual function, according to some studies. Vitamin D is probably safe for most people, but researchers have yet to establish the safety and effectiveness of most supplements. Always check with a healthcare professional before using a supplement, as some have adverse effects and may interact with medications.
Exposure to sunlight may help increase testosterone levels, since this is the source of most of the body's vitamin D. Ashwagandha is an evergreen shrub whose roots and fruits have medicinal properties. Studies suggest that ashwagandha could increase testosterone levels, improving muscle mass and strength when combined with resistance training. Fenugreek is a plant in the Fabaceae family that has been linked to increased testosterone levels.
D-aspartic acid is a natural amino acid that can increase levels of follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone. Both can stimulate the body to release more testosterone. However, a subsequent study showed that taking 3 grams of D-aspartic acid did not affect testosterone levels. Taking 6 grams actually lowered levels. Zinc is an essential mineral for the healthy functioning of your body and zinc deficiency has been linked to low testosterone levels.
Zinc may promote testosterone production in the testicles and long-term zinc supplements may increase testosterone levels. Testosterone boosters are a general term given to a range of supplements that increase testosterone levels. If your symptoms are severe, there are other legal options you should consider, such as DHEA, a precursor steroid hormone available on prescription in the UK. However, it should be taken under supervision, as high doses can cause mood swings and aggressiveness along with other unwanted symptoms of too much testosterone. Other medications available from a specialist include clomiphene and HCG. Before taking any supplement, you should determine if low testosterone levels are actually the primary cause of your symptoms. Roked also recommends regular blood monitoring to make sure you're taking the right dose.
While steroids like DHEA can increase testosterone, if used in the wrong doses or by people who don't need them, they can raise T levels far beyond the normal (and safe) range. Emil Hodzovic, a competitive bodybuilder and doctor with Medichecks, steroids carry a number of risks, including liver damage, hormonal imbalance, high blood pressure, and an increased risk of stroke or heart attack. In one study, men with problems producing sperm took D-aspartic acid for 90 days and by the end of the trial their sperm count had more than doubled. If you have normal testosterone levels and are looking for a boost to gain strength, using D-aspartic acid may be less fruitful. Most people know that a lack of vitamin D can cause bones to become soft and weak but the vitamin in the sun has also been linked to low testosterone levels. In a study by the University of Graz when healthy overweight men received daily vitamin D supplements for a year their testosterone levels increased. Like vitamin D magnesium deficiency has been closely associated with low testosterone levels. In a study with taekwondo athletes and sedentary men magnesium supplementation increased testosterone levels in both groups. Studies suggest that DHEA is an effective testosterone booster.
In a study published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology it raised testosterone levels in middle-aged men and prevented it from declining during HIIT workouts. Ashwagandha is a natural herb backed by most scientific research. A study tested the effects of ashwagandha on infertile men and found a 17% increase in testosterone levels and a 16.7% increase in sperm count. It has also been shown to help increase free testosterone levels. Certain supplements and medications may be beneficial for people transitioning with a testosterone deficiency or for those looking for an extra boost in strength or muscle mass.
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