14 Foods to Support Low Testosterone Treatment

14 Foods to Support Low Testosterone Treatment

Studies have found either no effect, increased testosterone in smokers, or the opposite. This article explores whether diet can lower testosterone and which foods may affect it. Testosterone is one of our key hormones for both men and women and as such it’s important that we pay attention to how it is being managed in our bodies. There is not enough data to suggest an exact number of whole eggs to eat per day to raise testosterone. However, the males in this study ate three whole eggs immediately after each of their thrice-weekly resistance training sessions. Research suggests this potent antioxidant can effectively boost the production of testosterone. Some studies have shown that males with lower vitamin D levels are more likely to have hypogonadism than those with higher levels.

You may be able to increase your levels naturally by lifting weights and getting more of certain nutrients. Dark, leafy greens are an excellent source of micronutrients, including magnesium, a mineral that’s critical for maintaining optimal testosterone levels, especially in older men. A review published in 2019 found that onions may help male testosterone levels. The study authors found that onions increase the production of luteinizing hormone, enhance the antioxidant defense mechanism in the testes, and defend against inflammation and insulin resistance.

The consumption of complex carbohydrates is important for optimizing testosterone levels and maintaining energy. This is especially true for athletes or men who engage in weight lifting. Like men, women with low testosterone levels often experience chronic fatigue, a stunt in their libido and a decreased sense of well-being. For those suffering from low testosterone, radical treatments like testosterone replacement therapy are testosterone shots covered by insurance not always necessary. There are simpler ways to manage Low-T – and testosterone-boosting foods are a great place to start. Much of the time, men in their 40s and 50 notice symptoms of lower testosterone — which may be a natural decline due to aging. But if you are overweight, have insulin resistance, are under lots of stress, or aren’t sleeping well, you might have worse symptoms.

This fat can contribute to inflammation, which in turn can lower free testosterone levels. Moreover, dairy products are often pasteurized, so they may lack essential vitamins like B12 or zinc, which are crucial in optimal hormone production. It’s no surprise that many men strive to keep their testosterone levels in check, but some may not realize that certain foods can further decrease testosterone.

If you’re not a fan of seafood, you can also get omega-3s in flaxseed, chia seeds, and walnuts. Throughout history, this fruit has been known as a symbol of fertility and a sex enhancer. Experts say that drinking pomegranate juice can boost your mood, improve your blood flow, and raise your testosterone levels. Load up on other foods high in zinc, like beef, pork, fortified cereal, pumpkin seeds, cashews, and yogurt. Let’s not forget zinc, which you’ll find plenty of within cuts of chuck roast and ground beef. Still don’t believe zinc doesn’t play an important role in keeping your hormones balanced? One study reported nearly a 75 percent decrease (15) in male volunteers’ T levels after 20 weeks of following a zinc-restricted diet.

The UPMC Men’s Health Center evaluates and treats conditions affecting men’s sexual and reproductive health. With years of clinical experience in male sexual medicine and surgery, our team has treated a wide variety of conditions and performed thousands of surgeries. We are dedicated to providing patients the highest level of quality care.

Cocoa is also high in flavonoid antioxidants, plant compounds that have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Pomegranates contain more than 60 hydrolyzable tannins, many of which account for the fruit’s antioxidant power. As such, pomegranates can help reduce stress as well as the risk of cardiovascular disease, combat viruses, and bacteria (26), and suppress inflammatory arthritis (27). Additional research reveals that DHA can improve men’s sperm quality and production (24).

Including these foods to raise testosterone in a balanced diet, alongside vitamin D and testosterone-supporting nutrients, can be beneficial for hormonal health. Including cruciferous vegetables in your diet can play an essential part in balancing estrogen levels, which is crucial for maintaining optimal testosterone production. Make sure to prioritize these best foods to boost testosterone for their important role in enhancing your well-being and supporting testosterone levels in men.