Treatment of Low Testosterone: How to Boost Testosterone Levels?

What is Testosterone?

Testosterone is referred to steroid hormone from anabolic-androgenic group. It is secreted in the testes in men and is produced in the ovaries in women. Additionally, adrenal glands secrete testosterone but in small amounts. There are 2 basic functions of testosterone.

1. It is necessary to form and sustain sex organs in men. It also stimulates secondary male sex characteristics that are applied to both sexes. For instance, voice deepening or hair growth. Testosterone is connected with androgenic characteristics.
2. Testosterone enables easier muscle growth in addition to bone development and its maintenance. This function is referred to its anabolic properties.

The production of testosterone depends upon release of hormones from the brain. Hormonal signals go from the hypothalamus and pituitary gland and testosterone is produced as a result of that. The hypothalamus is near the brain stem - just above it, therefore it makes GRH (gonadotropin releasing hormone) in addition to other functions.

Low Testosterone

There are certain norms that enable right functioning of the human body. The level of hormones should be adequate to let the body function properly, low testosterone may cause a number of changes in body.

In order to find a testosterone level blood test is employed. It is needed to do it in the morning because it can be changeable during the day. The standard value for testosterone is 270-1070 ng/dl. (in males). It is influenced to some degree by the individual laboratory employed; therefore the range can be different. It is harder to trace the accuracy of tests in females.

With age the level of testosterone becomes lower. Therefore norm is different for different age. It is curious, but menopause doesn't affect reduced testosterone levels in females.

Causes of Low Testosterone

Low testosterone level can be entailed by various things. The problem can arise on the stage of testosterone production, for instance, when hypothalamus or pituitary fail to produce sufficient amounts of LH and FSH that promote testosterone production. Or organs which are in charge of testosterone production may not function in a right way or do not respond to signals sent by brain. Alterations in SHBG influence testosterone level that brings to number of consequences.

• The problem can be "primary". It is called so when the problem appear in the organs producing testosterone (testes, for instance). Medics call this condition "hypogonadism."
• The problem is connected with the pituitary and the way it controls testosterone. The medical term for it is "secondary hypogonadism."
• If the problem is thought to be at the level of the hypothalamus, it is called "tertiary hypogonadism."

Symptoms of Low Testosterone

In men the symptoms of low testosterone level are connected with period when they suffer from low testosterone.

When the level of testosterone is low in the fetus, it affects genital development. Slow development of penis and scrotum can be result. In some cases female genitalia can appear or ambiguous genitalia that do not belong to feature of definite sex. You should not forget that the male is defined not only by the way he looks. In addition to appearance the type of chromosomes plays its role.

When the problem of low testosterone level is revealed prior to puberty period or during it, the person can be not sexually mature. It is revealed by undeveloped muscle mass, bad growth of hair on the body, development of breasts, which is called gynecomastia. At the same time the voice doesn't deepen, while male organs do not grow.

When the problem arises in adulthood, low testosterone brings to lower sexual function. The man does not have sexual desire, suffers from male infertility and ED. Among additional signs of low testosterone level are hair loss, reduced muscle mass. Sometimes osteoporosis and low bone density can appear as a result of it.

How to Increase Testosterone Level?

When patient encounteres the problem of low testosterone level the cause should be determined by doctor and treatment must be based on this research.

Changes of testosterone with age are regarded as normal, therefore should not be treated. But there is no comprehensive conclusion of this fact and additional research is needed here. Nothing says at present about the link of testosterone in old men with health.

Sometimes testosterone replacement therapy and intramuscular injections are appointed to the patient. There are other methods to boost testosterone level such as a patch, gel (applied on skin), and putty (for gums). There are pros and cons of every low testosterone treatment. The doctor makes the decision what to use in each particular case. The solution is discussed with patient.

Natural Ways to Boost Testosterone

Testosterone plays a vital role in male health, affecting muscle growth, energy levels, libido, and overall well-being. Natural methods to increase testosterone levels can be highly effective, offering a safe and sustainable approach without synthetic hormones or medications.

Lifestyle Changes for Higher Testosterone

• Engaging in physical activity, particularly resistance training, is one of the best ways to naturally enhance testosterone production. Weightlifting, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and bodyweight exercises stimulate hormone release, helping maintain healthy levels.
• Lack of sleep negatively impacts hormone balance. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep per night to support testosterone production. Poor sleep reduces testosterone secretion, increasing stress hormones like cortisol, which can further lower testosterone levels.
• Chronic stress raises cortisol levels, which directly suppresses testosterone production. Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and spending time outdoors help manage stress and support hormonal balance. Reducing stress can lead to improved energy, mood, and overall health.

Dietary Adjustments to Support Testosterone

• A well-balanced diet rich in lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole carbohydrates promotes optimal testosterone production. Foods like lean meats, eggs, avocados, nuts, and seeds provide essential nutrients for hormone synthesis. Avoiding excessive processed foods, refined sugars, and trans fats also helps maintain hormonal balance.
• Staying hydrated is essential for metabolic processes, including hormone production. Additionally, excessive alcohol consumption can lower testosterone levels, particularly when consumed in high amounts over time. Reducing alcohol intake supports a healthier hormonal profile.

Natural Supplements for Testosterone Support

Herbal Testosterone Boosters: Several herbal supplements are known to support testosterone production naturally. These include fenugreek, ashwagandha, and tribulus terrestris, which may help improve testosterone levels and overall male health.

Vitamin and Mineral Supplements: Deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, zinc, and magnesium, can negatively impact testosterone production. Supplementing with these nutrients can help restore optimal levels and support overall hormone balance.

How Natural Supplements Work to Boost Testosterone

Natural supplements help increase testosterone levels by supporting the body's hormonal processes. They do not introduce synthetic hormones but instead enhance the body's ability to produce and regulate testosterone naturally.

Stimulating Testosterone Production

• The body produces testosterone primarily in the testes and adrenal glands, regulated by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. Certain natural compounds stimulate these glands, encouraging greater testosterone output. Herbal extracts like ashwagandha and tribulus terrestris have been shown to enhance this process.
• Luteinizing hormone plays a crucial role in testosterone production. Some natural supplements help increase LH levels, signaling the testes to produce more testosterone. Ingredients like fenugreek and D-aspartic acid have been linked to higher LH secretion.

Reducing Testosterone Breakdown

• The body naturally converts some testosterone into estrogen through an enzyme called aromatase. Natural compounds like indole-3-carbinol (found in cruciferous vegetables) and certain herbal extracts may help inhibit this conversion, preserving higher testosterone levels.
• Chronic stress increases cortisol, a hormone that negatively impacts testosterone. Adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha help reduce cortisol levels, creating a more favorable environment for testosterone production.

Enhancing Nutrient Availability

• Certain vitamins and minerals are essential for testosterone production. Zinc plays a key role in testosterone synthesis, while vitamin D acts as a hormone regulator. Magnesium supports overall endocrine function, helping maintain healthy testosterone levels. Many natural supplements include these nutrients to support hormonal balance.
• By stimulating testosterone production, reducing hormone breakdown, and providing key nutrients, natural supplements offer a safe and effective way to enhance testosterone levels.

Common Ingredients in Natural Testosterone Boosters

Natural testosterone boosters contain a variety of ingredients that work together to enhance hormone production, improve energy, and support overall male health. These ingredients typically focus on stimulating the body's natural ability to produce testosterone or help prevent its breakdown.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogen known for its ability to reduce stress and support hormone balance. Research has shown that it can increase testosterone levels by reducing cortisol, the stress hormone that can lower testosterone when elevated. Additionally, ashwagandha has been shown to improve energy levels, muscle strength, and overall well-being, making it a popular choice in testosterone-boosting supplements.

Fenugreek

Fenugreek is a plant extract commonly used to enhance testosterone levels and improve sexual health. It contains compounds called furostanolic saponins, which are believed to help increase the production of testosterone by stimulating the endocrine system. Fenugreek is also known to improve libido, increase muscle mass, and support healthy blood sugar levels.

Tribulus Terrestris

Tribulus Terrestris is a well-known herb that has been traditionally used to enhance male vitality and libido. While studies on its effectiveness in boosting testosterone levels are mixed, it is believed to increase luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, which can help stimulate testosterone production. Tribulus is often included in natural testosterone supplements for its potential to improve strength, stamina, and overall vitality.

D-Aspartic Acid

D-Aspartic Acid (DAA) is an amino acid that plays a role in the production and regulation of testosterone. Research suggests that DAA can increase the secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), both of which are involved in testosterone production. By enhancing these hormones, DAA helps support natural testosterone production, improving muscle growth and overall physical performance.

Zinc

Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a critical role in testosterone production. Zinc deficiency has been linked to lower testosterone levels, and supplementing with zinc can help restore optimal levels. It supports the endocrine system and aids in the regulation of various hormones, including testosterone. Zinc also supports immune health and plays a role in cell division, making it a crucial component in testosterone boosters.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is often called the "sunshine vitamin" because it is produced by the body in response to sunlight. It plays an essential role in testosterone production, with studies showing that men with sufficient vitamin D levels tend to have higher testosterone levels. Vitamin D helps regulate the body's calcium balance, which is important for muscle function and overall hormone health.

How to Prevent Low Testosterone?

Although there are natural products that increase testosterone levels, you can also adopt certain lifestyle changes in order to improve production of testosterone as well as overall health and well-being.

Here are a few evidence-based tips to prevent low testosterone levels:

1. Exercises and Weight Lifting. Exercising and other sport activities are effective way to prevent many diseases. Moreover, it can also increase your testosterone.
2. Proper Nutrition. Many clinical studies have confirmed that healthy diets are beneficial for maintaining high levels of testosterone in men.
3. Avoid Stress. Stress is dangerous for overall health and can cause many diseases. Stress may also decrease testosterone production.
4. Vitamin and Mineral Supplements. According to clinical studies, taking vitamin D supplements might cause an increase in testosterone production.
5. High-Quality Sleep. Not getting enough sleep can cause problems with different hormones, including testosterone.
6. Avoid Medications. Prescription medications are required in many diseases. Unfortunately, one of the most common side effect in men is low testosterone.

Reference

1. Healthline Media: 12 Signs of Low Testosterone
2. Medical News Today: Boost testosterone naturally
3. National Institutes of Health: Scientifically proven herbal aphrodisiacs