Testosterone levels decrease and increase. How to lower testosterone in men with drugs and folk remedies. Functions of testosterone in the body of men
What makes a man a man? It turns out that this is testosterone (male sex hormone), which is formed in the testicles and differs from the female sex hormone (estrogen) by one hydrogen atom! And therefore testosterone is very unstable, almost mutating into the female sex hormone estrogen. (But reverse mutation never happens!) Testosterone disappears even when the weather changes!
Testosterone is also a key hormone in building muscle. Let's try to figure out what foods and what lifestyle reduce the amount of our testosterone.
Especially dangerous are products that acidify the blood (they convert the hormone testosterone into estrogen) and products containing phytoestrogens and estrogens.
Among the products that appear on our menu every day, researchers identify the following testosterone destroyers:
Salt. It has been experimentally proven that high sodium levels reduce testosterone production.
Sugar. It provokes the production of insulin, which stops the process of testosterone production. And although the glucose contained in sucrose ensures sperm motility (which is why a man instinctively reaches for sweets), sugar is not exactly glucose. First of all, industrial sugar is full of chemicals. And secondly, it works better in combination with other components in their natural form (fruits, vegetables).
Dangerous products containing hidden sugar: fizzy drinks (Especially tonics, they hide sugar behind the bitterness of quinine) and sweet alcoholic drinks. Added to the effects of sugar, caffeine and alcohol is dehydration.
Caffeine. Caffeine destroys free testosterone. However, it acts in a short period of time and quickly breaks down. In addition, caffeine is recommended for baldness - after all, baldness is partly caused by the effect of testosterone on the hair roots.
Best Source of Caffeine - green tea and green coffee, brewed with water not hotter than 80 degrees (caffeine dissolves only in very hot water). In addition, they are very rich in polyphenols. Roasted coffee, like all fried fiber, is carcinogenic.
Meat. It is no secret that female hormones are given to animals to accelerate weight gain. Commercial beef, chicken, and pork contain 100% increased amounts of these hormones.
Products with high cholesterol. Cholesterol is animal fat. Its main source is fatty meat. Moreover, it is not cholesterol itself that is harmful. Cholesterol is needed because it is the main component in the synthesis of testosterone. Its excess is harmful. What is excess? The male body produces microscopically little testosterone. A few milligrams per day. Accordingly, the amount of cholesterol required for this is also insignificant.
Soy. Contains phytoestrogens - plant analogues of the female sex hormone. That is, these are hormones opposite to testosterone in action. In small quantities, soy is harmless. It contains complete protein.
Full fat milk. Especially natural ones. It contains natural bovine estrogen.
White yeast bread and pastries. It contains several factors that reduce testosterone: acids, yeast, sugar.
A large number of vegetable oil . Soy, corn and soybean products most strongly reduce testosterone linseed oil. To a lesser extent sunflower. Does not reduce - olive and nut. The harmless amount of sunflower oil ends at the sixth spoon per day.
Bird eggs. They contain many different hormones and cholesterol. In addition, the protein film located directly under the shell is toxic. It won't poison you, but it will have an effect on your body. Especially reproductive function.
Smoked meats. They contain smoking liquid. This causes toxic damage to the testicular tissue - the glands that produce 95% of the testosterone in the body.
Alcohol. A real poison for the testicles. As the level of alcohol in the blood increases, the amount of testosterone decreases. Drinking alcohol in quantities that can cause a hangover reduces testosterone levels by 20% within 12-20 hours. Moreover, the testicles affected by the “degree” are never fully restored.
The most sophisticated blow to male power is beer. In addition to alcohol, it contains phytoestrogens - female sex hormones.
Now we will offer several products and tips that increase testosterone levels:
Psychology: a man loves with his eyes! From the way his beloved looks, how the thermometer shows, the level of the male hormone can immediately jump or fall. So, women, remember your appearance constantly!
Testosterone is destroyed by stress hormones. Therefore, it is recommended to laugh a lot, do breathing practices, and normalize sleep.
Sleep: Testosterone (as well as another important hormone, melatonin) is produced during sleep, reaching its maximum concentration in the morning. Moreover, this process requires complete silence and complete darkness...
Physical education: move. For every 3 hours spent sitting or lying down, you should get 20 minutes of physical activity (running and swimming are ideal, but an exercise bike or similar is fine). Even ordinary walking is a wonderful way to eliminate stagnation in the pelvis.
Temperature: Constant overheating of the testicles is extremely dangerous and leads to prostatitis and prostate adenoma. The temperature at which sperm are born should be approximately 3.5 degrees lower than body temperature. Therefore, warm blankets, tight jeans and panties, constant overheating of car seats, and a sedentary lifestyle act as testosterone killers. Men are recommended to sleep in a cool room.
Sunlight: Increases testosterone levels. Proven by scientists.
Food:
- greens in huge quantities: parsley, cilantro, celery, cabbage, lettuce, onions, wild garlic, watercress,
- tikvah (the main source of zinc, which is part of testosterone),
- berries, grapes,
- non-alcoholic red wine
- oil walnut, Sesame oil. Plus - olive oil, which helps in the restoration of tissues of the human body and increases hormone levels.
- spices in huge quantities: cardamom, capsicum, brown pepper, cilantro, turmeric, horseradish, and mustard!
For more complete information, we add that testosterone increases the onset of prostate cancer. Although, this is not the topic of this article and this issue must be dealt with separately...
Although testosterone is a male hormone, female body he is present too. The amount of testosterone determines the sexual activity of the fairer sex, their appearance and mood.
The level of testosterone in the female body is not constant. In the morning it is at its peak, and in the evening it gradually decreases. The testosterone level in the female half of humanity ranges from 0.40 to 3.75 nmol/l. However, often women are diagnosed with an increase in this hormone, and this has certain consequences that force a woman to look for various ways to lower testosterone levels.
Testosterone synthesis is provided by the ovaries and adrenal glands; in addition, it is synthesized in small quantities by the skin and placenta during pregnancy. The change in hormone concentration occurs due to the functionality of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. In the female body, the male hormone performs the following functions:
- responsible for the functionality of the reproductive system;
- forms an egg;
- increase muscle mass;
- provides the necessary bone density;
- regulates the functioning of the sebaceous glands;
- controls protein, phosphorus and nitrogen metabolism;
- reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular pathologies;
- increases endurance and stress resistance;
- participates in water metabolism;
- controls sugar levels.
If the level of testosterone in the female body fails, serious pathological processes can be suspected. Symptoms of fluctuations in hormonal levels vary depending on which direction the change occurs.
Causes of excess testosterone
Hormone levels may increase after exercise physical work– this is a normal phenomenon, but a pathological increase in the concentration of the male hormone can cause disturbances in the formation of the egg. In this case, hyperandrogenism develops. This disease may be of ovarian or adrenal origin. The reasons for the increase in hormones may lie in the following:
- adrenal hyperplasia;
- a certain phase of the cycle;
- period of bearing a child;
- taking certain medications;
- Not proper nutrition.
Apart from pregnancy, all other reasons for increased testosterone require adjustment.
Symptoms of excess testosterone in women
It is impossible not to notice the symptoms of hyperandrogenism, so diagnosing the disease is not difficult:
- excessive sebum secretion;
- acne;
- male physique;
- increased hair growth on the face and chest;
- rough voice;
- disruptions in the menstrual cycle;
- aggressiveness;
- clitoral enlargement.
The long course of the disease leads to the fact that the functionality of the ovaries is irreversibly impaired, which provokes persistent infertility.
Causes of testosterone deficiency
A lack of this hormone in a woman’s body can cause osteoporosis, diabetes, neoplasms in the mammary gland, heart disease, and inflammatory processes in the endometrium. The causes of low testosterone levels can be internal and external.
Endogenous (internal) reasons are as follows:
- pituitary and endocrine diseases;
- genetic predisposition;
- tumor processes in the ovaries;
- changes associated with age;
- autoimmune pathologies.
Exogenous (external) causes are as follows:
- there is too much magnesium and zinc in the diet;
- lack of balance in nutrition;
- eating large amounts of carbohydrate foods;
- excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages;
- long-term use oral contraceptives and some others medicines;
- excess weight;
- too little or too much activity;
- insufficient sunbathing;
- lack of intimate relationships.
Symptoms of low testosterone
If a woman reduced level of this hormone, the symptoms will be as follows:
- dry skin, brittle nails and hair;
- excessive fullness in the abdomen, arms and neck;
- depressive states;
- quiet voice;
- lack of libido;
- tachycardia;
- sweating;
- infertility;
- sleep problems;
- decreased concentration.
Principles of treatment
You can normalize hormonal levels with the help of medications or with the help of traditional medicine. It is very important to pay attention to nutrition during treatment. The fact is that there are products that can affect the concentration of testosterone in the blood of a woman or girl.
It must be said that it is not recommended to take any medications that can reduce or increase testosterone levels on your own; they can only be prescribed by the attending physician based on test results.
In some cases, surgical intervention is necessary - for tumors in the pituitary gland, for example.
As for products for reducing testosterone in women, they are as follows:
- Soybean and its products. Soy contains a large amount of isoflavones, which significantly reduce testosterone levels. In addition, soy and its products contain daidzein, which, when digested, is converted into an antiandrogen.
- Legumes. They contain substances (phytoestrogens) that suppress the synthesis of male hormones.
- Dairy products. Since milk-producing animals consume large amounts of grass, dairy products contain many phytohormones.
- Sesame and flaxseed. Testosterone levels are well reduced by lignan, which these products are rich in.
- Vegetable oils. Corn and flaxseed oil have a greater antiandrogenic and anti-aging effect.
What other foods reduce testosterone in women? There are actually quite a few of them:
- apricots;
- dates;
- sweet apples;
- broccoli;
- cauliflower;
- wheat;
- oats;
- lentils;
- beer;
- coffee and so on.
Therefore, with elevated testosterone, women are advised to adhere to a special diet.
Dietary rules for high testosterone
The diet must be discussed with your doctor, since a balanced diet is necessary for the health of the body.
Dietary nutrition should include following products, which can significantly reduce the concentration of the male hormone:
- Honey, jam, sweet fruits. Any sugars that increase insulin production are indicated for elevated testosterone. This is due to the fact that insulin has a detrimental effect on this hormone, and at the same time increases the synthesis of estrogen.
- Dried fruits. Dried fruits contain a large amount of fructose, magnesium, potassium, vitamins and amino acids; all these substances and microelements are indicated for use to reduce testosterone in women.
- Oats. Oatmeal significantly slows down the production of testosterone, and in addition, stimulates this hormone to convert into estrogen. It is advisable to cook the porridge in water, and then ready dish add milk, honey and dried fruits.
- Medicinal herbs, lowering testosterone concentrations. Mint works best with this. It can be added to salads, soups or brewed with tea.
It is important to understand that all methods of reducing testosterone must be discussed with a doctor. It is very important to determine the cause of high hormone levels and eliminate it. To stabilize hormonal levels, you need to treat the disease, and not just eliminate the symptoms.
The hormonal system is a complex and extremely sensitive mechanism to any changes, which must be adjusted carefully and under constant medical supervision. However, if you contact a competent specialist in a timely manner and strictly adhere to his recommendations, it is quite possible to normalize hormonal levels.
Testosterone is the main sex hormone for men. It consists of three parts: free testosterone and two protein forms. Produced by the adrenal cortex and gonads.
Functions of free testosterone:
- Participates in the development of male genital organs and secondary sexual characteristics.
- Responsible for the psychophysical state of a man.
- Regulates spermatogenesis and sexual behavior.
- Promotes recruitment muscle mass.
Level of testosterone in the blood
The average testosterone level in the blood of an adult male ranges from 8.5–38.5 nmol/liter. The level of the hormone directly depends on age.
Table of testosterone levels depending on age
Signs of elevated testosterone levels
The increase in testosterone levels in the male body is said to be:
- excessive excitability;
- decreased muscle tone;
- sudden weight gain for no apparent reason;
- short temper, irritability;
- lack of sexual desire, decreased libido;
- too much active growth body hair;
- memory impairment, sleep disturbance, suicidal thoughts;
- rapid fatigue during physical and mental stress;
- lack of appetite;
- increased sweating;
- the appearance of acne.
Reasons for increased testosterone levels
The psychological and physical state of a man affects the hormonal balance in his body. Wrong lifestyle stressful situations, poor ecology, infectious diseases can lead to hormonal imbalance.
Cause temporarily increased testosterone Physical activity and strong sexual arousal may occur.
The use of anabolic steroids (athletes drink them to build muscle mass) leads to a surge in the hormone in the blood.
A number of diseases can also cause problems in the hormonal system:
- Androgen resistance (even in sufficient quantities, androgens do not perform their function as they should).
- Swelling of the ovaries and adrenal glands.
- Reifenstein syndrome (a genetic disease accompanied by partial or complete immunity to male hormones).
- Itsenko-Cushing syndrome (causes increased production of hormones).
- Dysfunction, hyperplasia of the adrenal cortex.
- Increased activity of the thyroid gland.
Possible consequences of increased testosterone levels
In addition to external deviations from the norm, a jump in the level of male hormone in the blood can lead to serious health problems:
- Acne ( hormonal disbalance leads to disruption of the sebaceous glands).
- Diseases of the cardiovascular system.
- Prostate cancer.
- Involuntary cessation of pulmonary ventilation during sleep (apnea).
- Liver disease (most often caused by steroid use).
- Infertility.
- Previous baldness.
Read also: Hormonal treatment for prostate cancer
How to lower testosterone levels in men
Your doctor will help you find out how to reduce testosterone levels in the blood. He will find out what the cause of hormonal imbalance is and prescribe appropriate treatment and diet. Testosterone levels can also be brought back to normal on your own using traditional methods.
Medical treatment
Medical treatment higher level testosterone comes down to prescribing drugs that regulate the functioning of the adrenal glands and slow down the functioning of the pituitary gland.
For achievement best result during drug treatment follows:
- Quit smoking and drinking alcoholic drinks.
- Stop taking hormonal altering steroid medications.
- Switch to proper nutrition.
- Get more rest.
- To live an active lifestyle.
Treatment with folk remedies
Simple folk remedies will help lower testosterone levels in the blood. Herbal infusions, tinctures and decoctions perfectly help fight hormonal imbalances. Before starting a course of herbal treatment, you should consult your doctor and make sure there are no contraindications.
Recipes for decoctions to normalize testosterone levels
- Pour 10 grams of licorice root into a glass hot water. Heat in a water bath for 20 minutes, then leave for two hours. Take a tablespoon 5 times a day.
- Crush 50 grams of the fruits of the sacred vitex (common twig) and pour in 500 milliliters of vodka (you can use 250 milliliters of 70% alcohol). Leave for two weeks in a cool, dark place. Drink 30 drops twice a day with water.
- For a liter of vodka, take 100 grams of crushed angelica roots and keep in a dark place for 3 weeks. Drink a tablespoon three times a day half an hour before meals. The course of treatment is continued for 40 days.
- A tablespoon of marina root is added to half a liter of 70% alcohol. Leave to infuse overnight in a tightly sealed container, then filter and put in a cool place. Take 50 milliliters 3 times a day for three months.
- Pour 100 grams of dried red clover flowers into a liter of hot water and leave for 2–2.5 hours. Drink the infusion a day in 3-4 doses, continue the course for two weeks.
Evening primrose oil regulates hormonal balance well. Take one capsule twice a day with meals.
Nutrition
Thoughtful nutrition is one of the main components of the fight against increased levels of male hormones. In order to adjust your diet, you need to know which foods increase the level of the hormone in the blood, and which ones do the opposite.
Testosterone is a steroid, or “male” hormone, which belongs to the anabolic androgenic group. Physical strength depends on its level in the blood. The work of many organs is also associated with the content of this hormone and its activity. Even your mental and emotional state is affected by testosterone. Its deficiency has serious consequences. To eliminate the existing deficiency, some men have to radically change their lifestyle. Others need to take medications prescribed by their doctor.
What is testosterone?
This is a hormone that is produced in large quantities by Leydig cells in the testicles of men. This substance is produced in small quantities by the adrenal cortex. Among its main functions, doctors note the following:
- regulation of spermatogenesis;
- increased sex drive;
- influence on muscle growth;
- ensuring nitrogen and phosphorus metabolism in the body;
- formation of secondary sexual characteristics.
There are two types of testosterone: biologically active and free. Its indicators change throughout a person’s life. However, there are certain parameters according to which full male health is determined at any age. A fluctuation within 12-22 nmol/l is considered normal.
Free testosterone has a greater effect on the body. It is responsible only for secondary sexual characteristics and attraction to opposite sex. Its level also depends on age. IN healthy body in men under 50 years of age, the norm is 5-30 nmol/l. After 50 years - 5-19 nmol/l. Low levels of free testosterone in men (less than 5 nmol/l) are a reason to consult a doctor.
It is worth noting that these indicators may vary depending on external factors and the conditions of the laboratory where the analysis was taken. For example, after intense exercise and before sexual intercourse, the level of testosterone in the blood usually increases. Its decrease sometimes indicates serious problems health issues that cannot be ignored. The reasons for low testosterone levels in men will be discussed below.
Prevalence of pathology
With age, testosterone levels in the body gradually decrease. This condition is known in medical practice as “andropause”.
For most representatives of the stronger sex, the so-called physiological decline begins at the age of 30-35 at a rate of 1-3% per year. This process stops after 50 years. Such hormonal imbalance can happen at any age. Today, doctors are especially concerned about the fact that a decrease in androgens is already observed in young men. In this case, the process speed is up to 5% per year.
The development of andropause occurs gradually. Therefore, the first symptoms of low testosterone levels in men go unnoticed. If at this stage you consult a doctor and tell about the existing disorder, the situation can still be corrected. It is corrected by regular physical activity, proper nutrition and taking vitamin and mineral complexes.
Reasons for the shortage
All reasons for the development of andropause can be divided into three conditional groups: age-related, hereditary and the influence of external factors.
Age-related decline in testosterone is considered a natural process. If the failure occurred before the age of 30-40, you should look for other causes. Most often they are hidden in a violation of the basic functions of the endocrine system.
Pathologies of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, testicular dysfunction - these disorders affect the synthesis of testosterone. They are usually characterized by congenital etiology. For example, many boys are born with underdeveloped testicles. The organ may be completely absent or have pronounced abnormalities. Sometimes the testicles are located outside the scrotum, which also causes disruption of their function.
Low testosterone levels in men can be caused by external factors. Among them special attention deserve:
- Unhealthy lifestyle (alcohol abuse, smoking).
- Low physical activity. Moderate exercise and strength exercises promote synthesis. Excessive activity has the opposite effect.
- Deficiency of proteins, vitamins and minerals in the diet.
- Sexual abstinence, lack of a regular sexual partner.
- Frequent emotional turmoil. Stress promotes increased production of adrenaline, which inhibits testosterone production.
- Excess body weight. Excess weight not only suppresses the production of androgens, but also stimulates the production of female sex hormones.
- Taking certain medications (analgesics, antidepressants, potency stimulants).
Certain medical conditions can also contribute to the development of andropause. These include hypertension, kidney pathologies, and increased bilirubin levels.
What does a man with low testosterone look like?
For the strong half of humanity, this hormone plays an important role in life. It affects the development of the genital organs, libido levels and sexual performance. Testosterone can turn a man into a real superhero who can do anything. Social and physical activity, happy fatherhood, willpower and muscle power - all this depends on the content of this hormone in the blood.
A decrease in its indicators always indicates health problems. This hormone has a strong external effect on the body; its deficiency always manifests itself very clearly.
The main signs of low testosterone levels in men are:
- Permanent or temporary lack of sexual desire.
- Decreased quantity and quality of erections.
- The appearance of depression, worsening mood for no apparent reason.
- The development of gynecomastia, accompanied by abnormal growth of the mammary glands.
- Lack of pleasure from sexual intercourse.
- Increased frequency of urination, but the process itself becomes less pronounced.
- Physical weakness.
- Impaired cognitive functions (absent-mindedness, memory impairment).
- Insomnia, constant fatigue.
In men, low testosterone levels negatively affect quality of life. Therefore, you should not hesitate to seek medical help. At the first symptoms of the disorder, you should consult a doctor and follow his recommendations.
Diagnostic methods
If you suspect a hormonal imbalance, you will need to undergo a comprehensive examination. It begins with studying the complaints of a potential patient. In most cases, a qualified endocrinologist understands the preliminary diagnosis after studying the clinical picture. However, symptoms alone are not enough to prescribe proper treatment. Therefore, the patient is prescribed blood and urine tests. Additional examination may be required bone tissue, since low testosterone levels in men are often accompanied by osteopathy.
Blood sampling is carried out in the morning. At this time, hormonal levels are most consistent with the real picture of general well-being. The day before the examination, it is recommended to avoid excessive physical activity and sexual intercourse.
Treatment at home
Early detection of low testosterone levels in men can be raised naturally. If the changes are minor, it may be enough to follow a diet for a while, limit alcohol consumption and smoking.
It is recommended to diversify the diet with seafood (shrimp, mussels, squid, seaweed). It is better to avoid animal fats. They can be replaced with vegetable ones. They are found in large quantities in pistachios, hazelnuts and other types of nuts. In general, such a diet is based on the principles of proper nutrition, when all junk food is prohibited. Your daily diet should include lean varieties of fish, vegetables and fruits, and cereals.
You can increase testosterone through moderate sports activity. Some men enjoy running, others prefer to spend their free time in the gym. As for the latter, it is better to work out with a trainer and try not to overload the body.
Taking medications
Drug treatment for low testosterone levels in men is prescribed by a doctor. Medications are usually used for advanced forms of the disorder. They contain the hormone testosterone itself. Among these medications, the most effective are: “Nebido”, “Androgel”, “Andriol”, “Omnadren”. They go on sale both in the form of tablets and capsules, and in the form of an injection solution.
"Vitrix", "Tribulus", "Evo-Test" are also used in the treatment of andropause. However, they do not contain testosterone, but the action is aimed at activating the natural production of the hormone.
The duration of such therapy, as well as the dosage of drugs, is determined by the doctor. Usually, after 2-3 weeks of treatment, the patient is asked to take tests again. Based on their results, one can judge the dynamics of recovery, and, if necessary, adjust the dosage of medications. In some cases, the medications presented are prescribed for life.
Consequence of hormonal disorders
The symptoms presented just above show how dangerous the consequences of low testosterone levels in men can be. The lack of adequate treatment always leads to a decrease in a person’s quality of life. Over time, he develops arterial hypertension, and osteoporosis is possible. Many representatives of the stronger sex have to hear the diagnosis of “infertility”.
When a hormonal disorder begins to develop as early as prenatal period, incorrect formation of the genital organs occurs. Some children develop female-type genitals.
Prevention methods
To restore hormonal balance, doctors advise reconsidering your lifestyle. Dosed physical activity, proper nutrition, absence of bad habits - all this allows you to normalize the condition of the body. A good night's rest will also benefit.
Testosterone is the leading androgenic hormone in the male body, which is responsible for sexual functions and the regulation of spermatogenesis. It stimulates muscle gain, physical activity, and protects the body from stress. Testosterone deficiency negatively affects both physical and emotional well-being. How to increase testosterone in men?
Testosterone in the male body
The hormone is produced in the adrenal cortex and testicles. The norm is 11-33 nanomol/liter. How does testosterone affect the male body? Its impact occurs in two main directions:
- androgenic: regulation of the processes of sexual development of the body. Progesterone activity promotes the development of sexual characteristics in boys during puberty,
- anabolic: synthesis of proteins, insulin, endorphins occurs, muscle fibers are formed, physical development of the body occurs.
In addition, testosterone performs a number of vital functions functions:
- takes an active part in metabolic processes,
- regulates weight gain and the formation of the anatomical shape of the body,
- controls blood sugar levels,
- stimulates resistance to stress,
- supports the level of libido and activity of a man.
Testosterone is a natural anabolic substance that is absolutely safe for the body, unlike its synthetic analogues. The maximum concentration of testosterone levels is observed at the age of 18, and after 25 years it begins to gradually fall. By the age of 35-40 years, hormone production decreases by about 1-2% every year. This decrease in hormone levels is a natural process and does not require treatment.
The effect of testosterone on the body different periods male development:
| Embryonic period | Under the influence of testosterone, the sex of the child is formed, then the fetus develops a prostate and seminal vesicles. |
| Puberty (transitional age in boys) | · The chest expands, the shoulders, chin, forehead, and jaw increase. · Increases muscle mass. · The sebaceous glands can work overtime, which often causes a rash. · Hair appears in the pubic area, armpits, and on the face. Gradually, hair appears on the chest, legs, and arms. · The genital organs become enlarged and libido increases. · The ability to conceive increases. |
| Mature men | · After 35 years, the level of the hormone gradually decreases, libido fades away. · Along with a decrease in testosterone levels, heart and vascular diseases develop, osteoporosis and disruptions in the functioning of the autonomic system may develop. · As you age, your risk of developing Alzheimer's disease increases. |
But the process of testosterone production can be disrupted under the influence of unfavorable factors:
- smoking, alcohol abuse,
- inactive lifestyle,
- chronic diseases,
- some drugs
- unfavorable environmental situation,
- excess weight, constant stress.
Testosterone levels: normal and abnormal
With age, the amount of testosterone gradually decreases; by the age of 60 it can drop by 50%. Moreover, an increase or decrease in hormone levels is noticeable even with a deviation from the norm of 5-15%. General content The hormone in the blood consists of a free part - 2% and a part that is bound to proteins - 98%.
Causes and consequences of decreased male hormone levels
A decrease in testosterone levels can be primary (testicular damage) and secondary (pathology of the hypothalamic-pituitary system). Unfortunately, low hormone levels are a common phenomenon in modern young men. What is the reason for this shortage? Both various diseases and lifestyle can affect the decrease in testosterone.
A decrease in hormone levels immediately affects metabolism and has typical symptoms:
- aching joints, decreased muscle mass,
- memory problems,
- erection problems, premature ejaculation,
- breast enlargement, excess weight,
- insomnia, decreased libido,
- reduction of hair.
Hormone deficiency provokes an increase in excess weight, a man becomes irritable and prone to depression, and the risk of developing various diseases increases. Factors, helping to reduce the level of sex hormones:
- stress,
- unbalanced diet,
- alcohol abuse,
- STI,
- taking certain medications
- genital injuries,
- sedentary lifestyle,
- irregular lovemaking,
- unfavorable environmental conditions.
If you see an overweight man, you know that he definitely has low testosterone levels in his blood. How to increase testosterone levels in men? Of course, there are effective drugs for such cases, but only a specialist can prescribe them after examination. First, let's look at natural and safe methods.
Nutrition
The production of hormones is a complex process that involves the joint work of organs and systems. What foods increase testosterone in men? For normal androgen production, you must first provide the body with useful substances:
| Minerals | To increase testosterone levels, it is important to consume enough zinc. With its deficiency, a drop in testosterone levels is observed. Zinc is found in the following foods: · seafood (shrimp, squid, oysters, crabs), · fish (herring, anchovies, carp), · nuts (pistachios, walnuts, almonds). It is important to provide the body with sufficient amounts of selenium, magnesium and calcium. |
| Vitamins | For full health, the body requires vitamins: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, responsible for the body’s defenses, inhibits the production of cortisol, Vitamin E – helps insulin in the fight against high blood sugar levels, · omega-3 and omega-6 – essential acids necessary for the production of testosterone, B vitamins |
| Proteins and fats | The basis of nutrition and testosterone synthesis. It is important to balance your diet in such a way that there is no deficiency in either protein or fat. Healthy fats: flaxseed oil, peanut oil, olive oil, bananas, salmon, egg yolks. |
| Water | Sufficient consumption of clean water is necessary for the smooth functioning of the body. |
Seafood is known for its ability to increase potency. - include parsley, spinach, dill in your menu - plant forms of testosterone,
- Dried fruits are very useful, they contain lutein,
- be sure to eat porridge - fiber is necessary for the body,
- avoid soy products,
- exclude beer, fast food, carbonated drinks, fast carbohydrates (baked goods, sweets),
- limit the amount of salt
- You can drink no more than one cup of natural coffee per day,
- products that increase testosterone in men should be natural, so try to buy meat in the markets, as imported meats can have the opposite effect. The fact is that to increase body weight, cattle are fed supplements containing hormones. And 80% of the hormones that are added to pig feed to quickly increase the amount of fat are female.
Weight normalization
How to increase testosterone production in men? Overweight men need to get rid of extra pounds. It has been proven that obese men have reduced levels of testosterone production. Male sex hormones are converted into female hormones in adipose tissue. Therefore, sports and proper nutrition are the companions of a real healthy man.
Physical exercise
It has been proven that power training with weights contribute to the production of testosterone. Basic recommendations:
- The optimal duration of training is an hour,
- number of workouts – 2-3 per week,
- you need to train the large muscles of the back, legs, chest,
- take the weight so that you can do the exercise 8 to 10 times, the last one with effort.
Get rid of bad habits
Under the influence of alcoholic drinks, testosterone is converted to estrogen. Any type of alcohol negatively affects the process of hormone production, and beer contains analogues of some female sex hormones. The exception is high-quality red dry wine, which is beneficial in moderation.
Physical exercise increase the level of male hormones. Limiting the amount of sugar in the diet
Elevated sugar levels lead to decreased testosterone production. In addition, excessive consumption of sweets leads to excess weight gain. Therefore, it is necessary to limit the amount of sugar and fast carbohydrates (pasta, baked goods).
Normalization of sleep
Healthy sleep is very important for men's health. Interestingly, most of the hormones are produced during the deep sleep phase. This is why lack of sleep leads to a sharp decrease in testosterone levels.
Avoid stress
Stress negatively affects the body as a whole and also contributes to the production of the hormone cortisone, an antagonist of male sex hormones. Try to maintain a stable emotional state.
Regular sex life
Active sex life stimulates the production of male hormones and has a beneficial effect on the entire body, it is pleasant and effective method increase testosterone in men. If you do not have a regular sexual partner, do not forget about safety, since STIs are dangerous to men’s health and often cause complications. It is also noted that simple communication with the fair half of humanity significantly increases testosterone levels.
Sunbathe
The sun is not only a source of vitamin D. Studies have proven that sun rays stimulate testosterone production. Therefore, in summer, do not forget to sunbathe.
Win!
Testosterone is the hormone of winners. Rejoice even in your minor achievements, enjoy life in all its manifestations.
A little about drugs
Only a doctor can prescribe medications containing hormones! Medicines that increase testosterone in men are prescribed by specialists when the level of the hormone is below 10 nanomoles per liter:
- Testosterone injections are prescribed for disorders of the gonads. Side effects– retention of fluid and salts in the body, swelling, increased libido.
- Oral medications (tablets).
- Gels.
- Testosterone patch.
Drugs that increase testosterone levels in men can only be prescribed by a doctor, since long-term use of such drugs can provoke the development complications:
- inhibition of hormone production by the body,
- development of gynecomastia (this is a pathology in which the mammary glands swell),
- the risk of developing heart and vascular pathologies and cancer increases.
Increased testosterone levels
Signs increased testosterone in men:
- increased body hair,
- well developed muscles,
- increased libido,
- impulsiveness, such men are very aggressive,
- On the head, unlike the body, a bald spot may appear.
The consequences of increased testosterone in men can be testicular tumors and infertility. Causes elevated hormone levels:
- tumors in the testicles,
- pathological processes of the adrenal glands,
- heredity,
- taking medications containing hormones,
- excessive physical activity.
Sources:
- Gladkova A. I. “Hormonal regulation of sexual function in men.” Kharkov, 1998.
- S. Krasnova. "Hormonal therapy", 2007.