Medically CitedIntroduction
In the male body, testosterone is an essential hormone. It is essential for numerous biological processes, such as bone density, sex desire, muscle growth, and energy levels in general. Men's testosterone levels naturally decrease with age, causing a variety of changes in their physical and mental characteristics.
As a result, testosterone boosters which aim to raise the body's synthesis of this hormone have become increasingly popular. But with so many items available, it's critical to distinguish reality from fiction.
Understanding Testosterone Boosters
Dietary supplements called testosterone boosters are made up of a combination of herbs, vitamins, and minerals that are supposed to encourage the body's normal production of testosterone. These over-the-counter medications do not contain real testosterone and are not governed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), in contrast to prescription testosterone replacement therapy. Rather, they depend on components that allegedly instruct the body to increase hormone production. [1]
Ingredients commonly found in testosterone boosters
Common ingredients found in testosterone boosters include:
D-aspartic acid
According to certain research, the amino acid D-aspartic acid may boost the synthesis of the hormones follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone. These hormones are essential in telling the body to increase its testosterone production. The results of studies on the possibility that D-aspartic acid can genuinely raise testosterone levels, however, have been conflicting; some have shown an increase, while others have found no impact or even a drop. [2]
Zinc
Zinc is a crucial mineral that affects testosterone synthesis and several facets of male reproductive health. Low testosterone levels can be caused by zinc insufficiency, which is why zinc is included in many testosterone booster pills. On the other hand, prolonged usage of excessively high doses of zinc may cause adverse effects such as nausea, appetite loss, and decreased levels of iron and copper in the body. [3]
Magnesium
Another element included in some testosterone supplements is magnesium, which may raise blood levels of both free and total testosterone, according to a study. Those who exercise tend to have higher levels of testosterone than sedentary persons do, according to research on the relationship between magnesium and testosterone. The ideal dosage still requires further investigation. [4]
Vitamin D
Certain testosterone booster formulations contain vitamin D due to research showing a correlation between low vitamin D status and reduced testosterone levels in men. According to one study, after a year of supplementation, testosterone levels were elevated by about 20% when given vitamin D. Obtaining enough vitamin D through diet, supplements, or sun exposure may help maintain normal testosterone levels. [5]
Fenugreek
Although there is conflicting data, fenugreek, a herb used in traditional medicine, has been reported to increase testosterone. When administered to healthy men, fenugreek supplementation has been shown in some small trials to boost testosterone, but in other research, there was no discernible difference in testosterone levels when compared to a placebo. Further investigation is still required. [6]
Benefits of Testosterone Boosters
The following advantages are allegedly possible with testosterone booster pills, according to their proponents:
1. Gained strength and muscular mass: Higher testosterone levels are linked to better physical performance and enhanced muscle growth.
2. Enhanced libido and sexual function: Testosterone is essential for both achieving and maintaining sexual desire.
3. Enhanced energy and mood: Some people believe that increasing testosterone can help with sadness, anger, and weariness that are caused by low testosterone.
4. Increased bone density: By keeping bones robust and healthy, testosterone may lower the chance of osteoporosis.
Risks and Side Effects
Although testosterone boosters may appear enticing, it's important to think about the risks and adverse consequences that could occur:
1. Absence of regulation: The safety, efficacy, and purity of these supplements are not assured because the FDA does not regulate them.
2. Medication interactions: Certain components of testosterone boosters may have negative interactions with prescribed medications.
3. Hormone imbalances: Improperly raising testosterone levels might throw off the body's delicately balancing other hormones.
4. Damage to the liver and kidneys: If certain substances are taken in excess, such as large quantities of zinc or vitamin D, the liver and kidneys may be strained.
5. Prostate problems: Excess testosterone has been associated with a higher chance of prostate difficulties, such as cancer.
Conclusion
Although using testosterone boosters to counteract age-related testosterone reduction may seem like a tempting solution, their efficacy and safety are actually in doubt. Although these supplements have not been shown to significantly raise testosterone levels in many trials, there is still reason to be concerned about the possible hazards.
It's important to speak with a healthcare provider before taking any testosterone boosters so they can evaluate your unique needs and suggest the best course of action. The best strategy to support healthy testosterone levels may ultimately involve leading a healthy lifestyle that includes frequent exercise, a balanced diet, and stress reduction.
Disclaimer: The data in this article is not meant to replace expert medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment; rather, it is meant purely for informational reasons. Each person will respond differently to testosterone boosters, and there may be hazards involved. Before beginning any new dietary supplement or treatment, always get advice from your doctor or other trained healthcare practitioner.
This is especially important if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are currently taking other medications. The authors of this article disavow any particular testosterone booster product and accept no liability for any negative effects that may arise from using or abusing these supplements.
6 sources
We review published medical research in respected scientific journals to arrive at our conclusions about a product or health topic. This ensures the highest standard of scientific accuracy.
[1] Clemesha CG, Thaker H, Samplaski MK. 'Testosterone Boosting' Supplements Composition and Claims Are not Supported by the Academic Literature. World J Mens Health. 2020 Jan;38(1):115-122. doi: 10.5534/wjmh.190043. Epub 2019 Jun 14. PMID: 31385468; PMCID: PMC6920068.[2] Roshanzamir F, Safavi SM. The putative effects of D-Aspartic acid on blood testosterone levels: A systematic review. Int J Reprod Biomed. 2017 Jan;15(1):1-10. PMID: 28280794; PMCID: PMC5340133.
[3] Prasad AS, Mantzoros CS, Beck FW, Hess JW, Brewer GJ. Zinc status and serum testosterone levels of healthy adults. Nutrition. 1996 May;12(5):344-8. doi: 10.1016/s0899-9007(96)80058-x. PMID: 8875519.
[4] Cinar V, Polat Y, Baltaci AK, Mogulkoc R. Effects of magnesium supplementation on testosterone levels of athletes and sedentary subjects at rest and after exhaustion. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2011 Apr;140(1):18-23. doi: 10.1007/s12011-010-8676-3. Epub 2010 Mar 30. PMID: 20352370.
[5] Pilz S, Frisch S, Koertke H, Kuhn J, Dreier J, Obermayer-Pietsch B, Wehr E, Zittermann A. Effect of vitamin D supplementation on testosterone levels in men. Horm Metab Res. 2011 Mar;43(3):223-5. doi: 10.1055/s-0030-1269854. Epub 2010 Dec 10. PMID: 21154195.
[6] Wankhede S, Mohan V, Thakurdesai P. Beneficial effects of fenugreek glycoside supplementation in male subjects during resistance training: A randomized controlled pilot study. J Sport Health Sci. 2016 Jun;5(2):176-182. doi: 10.1016/j.jshs.2014.09.005. Epub 2015 Mar 7. Erratum in: J Sport Health Sci. 2018 Apr;7(2):251. PMID: 30356905; PMCID: PMC6191980.
**This is a subjective assessment based on the strength of the available information and our estimation of efficacy.
*Result may vary. If you have a serious medical condition, or have a history of heart conditions we suggest consulting with a physician before using any supplement. The information contained in this website is provided for general informational purpose only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease and should not be relied upon as a medical advice. Always consult your doctor before using any supplements.
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