Just about health: testosterone is the main male hormone. Testosterone is one of the most important male hormones.

The main male sex hormone (androgen), which plays a key role in the development of male reproductive tissues (testicles, prostate gland), in the formation and development of male secondary sexual characteristics; occupies an important place in metabolism, sexual desire, mood regulation; affects the cognitive functions of the brain (the ability to understand, learn, study, realize, perceive and process the information received).
Normal testosterone levels play a huge role in maintaining optimal weight and also reduce the risk of degenerative diseases such as osteoporosis, heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
Testosterone is an anabolic steroid hormone also used by athletes to build muscle mass, increase physical energy (strength) and endurance. Long-term use of it can cause a temporary decrease in the production of your own testosterone.

Physiological action of testosterone

The physiological effect that the testosterone hormone has on the body of mammals, including humans, can be classified as:

Anabolic action includes accelerating the growth of muscle mass and physical strength, increasing bone density (bone calcification), stimulating linear bone growth, and promoting bone maturation. The anabolic effect of testosterone stimulates protein synthesis in the body, participates in the regulation of lipoprotein synthesis by the liver, modulates the synthesis of b-endorphins ("happy hormones"), insulin, provides a delay in the body of nitrogen, potassium, calcium, sulfur, phosphates, as well as sodium, chlorine, water.

Androgenic action in men, it is expressed by the formation of the reproductive system according to the male type, the development of male secondary sexual characteristics in the puberty period (change in voice timbre, growth of beard and axillary hair, etc.), activates sexual desire, spermatogenesis and potency, is responsible for the psychophysiological characteristics of sexual behavior.
In women, testosterone is involved in the mechanism of regression of the follicle in the ovaries and in the regulation of the level of gonadotropic hormones of the pituitary gland.

The action of testosterone can be classified by time periods.

prenatal period

In the prenatal period (from 4 to 6 weeks of pregnancy) under the action of androgens occurs:
Genital virilization (in this process, the role of testosterone is much less than dihydrotestosterone).
Development of the prostate and seminal vesicles.
Feminization or masculinization of the fetus occurs, i.e. formation of the sex of the unborn child. Gender identity is biological in nature, it is inherent in every person from birth and is not a subject of choice, it is not subject to education.

early childhood period

An increase in the level of androgens (testosterone) begins, which is observed in both boys and girls and is expressed:
Adult type of body odor. The sebaceous and apocrine glands become active during puberty. Apocrine sweat (apocrine) glands - (they are located in the armpits, around the nipples of the breast and in the groin), begin to function when puberty is reached, when the hormonal status in the body changes. The glands secrete a secret (sweat) that is believed to act on a subconscious level as a signal to attract the opposite sex.
Increased oily skin and hair, acne. Most often, acne (acne) forms during adolescence, as a rule, this is caused by an increase in testosterone levels, which steadily rises during puberty, regardless of the sex of the child.
The appearance of hair on the pubis and in the armpit, the growth of hair on the upper lip. Beginning of puberty.
"Growth spurt", accelerated maturation of the bones of the skeleton

puberty

Puberty, or puberty, is the time when abrupt changes occur in the physical condition of a teenager, in particular, a "growth spurt", the formation of secondary sexual characteristics; girls have menstruation (menarche), boys have the ability to ejaculate. In addition, this period is characterized by important changes in the psyche.
The average age of puberty for women ranges from 10-13 years, and for men, about 10-14 years. Puberty in girls occurs earlier than in boys.

The effect of pubertal hormones:
Enlargement of the sebaceous glands, this can lead to acne. Reduction of subcutaneous fat on the face.
Enlargement of the phallus, clitoris. Increased libido. The growth of spermatogenesis, male fertility.
Pubic hair extending to the thighs and up to the navel, growth of facial hair (sideburns, beard, mustache), legs, chest, underarms.
Hair loss on the head (androgenetic alopecia).
Increased strength and muscle mass.
Lowering and coarsening of the voice. Adam's apple growth.
The growth of the jaw, forehead, chin. The shoulders become wider and the chest expands.
Completion of bone maturation.

Biosynthesis of testosterone

The largest amount of testosterone (> 95%) in men is produced by the testicles. In the testicles of men, testosterone is secreted by the Leydig cells of the testes. In small amounts in both sexes, testosterone is produced by the adrenal cortex and even the skin (Zouboulis CC, Degitz K 2004).
The female body produces testosterone in much smaller quantities than the male. The ovaries are responsible for the synthesis of testosterone in women, in addition, the placenta is able to secrete testosterone.
Like other steroid hormones, testosterone is derived from cholesterol.

The amount of testosterone produced is regulated by hormones that are produced in the brain appendage - the pituitary gland, under the influence of neuroendocrine transmitters of the hypothalamus (liberins and statins).
The mechanism of testosterone synthesis can be considered on the so-called "Arc of the hypothalamus-pituitary-testicles".

When testosterone levels are low, the hypothalamus, located just above the brainstem, releases the hormone gonadorelin, or gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which in turn stimulates the pituitary gland to release follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). Further, these two hormones, circulating in the blood, stimulate the testicles to produce testosterone.
Subsequently, these hormones are involved in the regulation of blood testosterone levels: elevated testosterone levels feed back on the hypothalamus and pituitary gland to inhibit the release of GnRH and FSH/LH, respectively. Those. we see a feedback system hypothalamus - pituitary gland - testicles.

Most testosterone circulating in the blood is bound to a carrier protein that helps it move in the blood plasma from where testosterone is produced to the areas (target tissues) it affects. This protein is called sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG).
When testosterone is transferred via SHBG, it is considered "bound". In the form associated with transport proteins, the testosterone hormone is inactive and is not available for metabolic inactivation. Bound testosterone cannot play an active role in the body, and only unbound or free testosterone, entering various cells of the body, has its androgenic and anabolic effect. So anything that affects the function or amount of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) can also affect total circulating active testosterone.

Testosterone level

On average, in an adult male, the concentration of testosterone in blood plasma is 7-8 times higher than in an adult woman, and, due to the fact that the metabolic requirements of testosterone in men are greater, its daily production is approximately 20 times greater in men than in men. women who are more sensitive to the hormone testosterone.
Testosterone levels can be identified with a simple laboratory blood test. Blood sampling for analysis is usually scheduled in the morning, when, regardless of sexual activity, testosterone levels are highest, during the day testosterone levels can drop by as much as 13%.

Normal total testosterone levels in men range from 300 to 1000 ng/dL (or 11-33 nmol/L)
Levels between 500 and 700 ng/dl are considered sufficient for young, healthy men between 20 and 40 years of age.

In women, the maximum concentration of testosterone is determined in the luteal phase and during the period of ovulation. In pregnant women, the concentration of testosterone increases by the third trimester, exceeding the concentration in non-pregnant women by almost 3 times. During menopause, testosterone levels decrease.
The normal testosterone level in women is 7-78 ng/dL (0.24-2.7 nmol/L).

Table. Testosterone levels in men and women

			Median ng/dl	Reference value, ng/dL
Testosterone level in a man 20-49 years old			625,0	286,0 - 1511,0
Testosterone levels in men over 50			438,0	212,0 - 742,0
Testosterone levels in adult women	After puberty and before menopause	Follicular phase	48,0	up to 118.0
		ovulatory phase	58,0	21,0 - 104,0
		luteal phase	44,0	up to 119.0
	General for women
	Pregnancy	First semester	70,0	3,0 - 230,0
		Second semester	90,0	30,0 - 200,0
		Third semester	110,0	30,0 - 190,0

In different clinical laboratories, testosterone content can be measured in different systems of units. Testosterone units: nmol/l or ng/dl.

Conversion factor: ng/dl * 0.0347= nmol/l

Low testosterone. Testosterone deficiency. Testosterone deficiency. Hypotestosteroneemia

Beginning at about 30 years of age, men experience a decline in testosterone of about 1.5 percent per year. Testosterone depletion is a normal consequence of aging in men and one of the reasons for the increased risk of developing it. Men with a 10-12% lower level of the male sex hormone testosterone are effeminate, soft, and sensitive. Conversely, those whose serum testosterone levels are 10-12% higher than normal are characterized by aggressiveness and a reduced sense of self-preservation. It is worth the representatives of the stronger sex to get a little nervous, overwork, get sick or starve, as the level of the male hormone testosterone in the blood decreases. A lack of the male hormone testosterone in the blood can cause changes in men's behavior, making them more irritable and causing them to experience bouts of depressed mood.
Clinically, a decrease in testosterone is manifested by symptoms of hypogonadism (loss of muscle mass and strength, decrease in bone density, increase in the amount of adipose tissue, decrease in sexual desire, etc.).
Generally, a male's plasma total testosterone level below 300 ng/dl is considered low, and treatment is often given when total testosterone levels are below 350 ng/dl.
After menopause, only a small amount of testosterone is produced in the body of women, and in later life, women are at a much greater risk of developing osteoporosis / osteopenia and other chronic diseases.

Testosterone deficiency (also called hypotestosteronism or hypotestosteroneemia) is an abnormally low production of testosterone. This may be due to testicular dysfunction (primary hypogonadism) or due to hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction (secondary hypogonadism) and may be congenital or acquired.

What interferes with testosterone production?

First, alcohol. Ethyl alcohol inhibits the synthesis of the male sex hormone testosterone. The second antipode of testosterone is excess weight. Excess body fat over time can turn a man into a middle-sex creature. The fact is that in the male body, in addition to androgens and testosterone, a small amount of female hormones is always produced, and in the female - male. If a man's weight is 30% higher than normal, the endocrine system stops the production of testosterone and increases the production of estrogen and progesterone. Under their influence, the male figure takes on effeminate forms. Here you can advise to do strength exercises. Scientists have long found out that testosterone levels increase significantly after exercising with dumbbells.

Causes of low testosterone levels

Decreased testosterone levels are caused by:
∙ Violation of the production of gonadotropic hormones of the pituitary gland (including hyperprolactinemia);
∙ Reception of glucocorticoids (reduce the sensitivity of tissues to thyroid hormones and sex hormones);
∙ Adrenal insufficiency;
∙ Hypogonadism;
∙ Chronic prostatitis (men);
∙ (men);
∙ Taking drugs such as: danazol (low dose), buserin, carbamazepine, cimetidine, cyclophosphamide, cyproterone, dexamethasone, goserelin, ketoconazole, leuprolide, levonorgestrel, magnesium sulfate, methandrostenolone, methylprednisolone, metyrapone, nafarelin (women), nandrolone, octreotide, oral contraceptives in women, pravastatin (men), prednisone, pyridoglutethimide, spironolactone, stanozolol, tetracycline, thioridazine;
∙ Easily digestible carbohydrates, vegetarianism, fasting, alcoholism, low-fat diet (in women).

High testosterone

It is known that high testosterone levels increase libido, so a man who has a high level of this hormone is usually sexually active, easily aroused and tireless in sex.
However, there are negative signs that indicate that a man has high testosterone levels.
∙ Often an excess of testosterone is the cause of teenage skin problems (acne, blackheads and oily skin).
∙ A high level of testosterone provokes an increase in hematocrit (the part of the blood volume attributable to red blood cells).
∙ Exacerbation of sleep apnea. Apnea is a condition characterized by the interruption of pulmonary ventilation during sleep for more than 10 seconds.
∙ Increases susceptibility to.
∙ High testosterone contributes to excessive body hair and causes "male" type, thinning hair.
∙ Exogenous testosterone causes suppression of spermatogenesis and can lead to infertility.
∙ It is believed that high levels of testosterone in men accelerate the aging process.
Sometimes testosterone is called the hormone of winners. Its level in the blood rises after a victory won in a fight, after a successful solution of some problems. The feeling of satisfaction and festive mood that surrounds the winner slows down the production of stress hormones that ensured the achievement of victory. There is an increased release of testosterone. It is clear that stress hormones (cortisol) and testosterone act in opposite ways.
Recent studies (2012) showed that men with increased testosterone levels lied less. According to the researchers, the testosterone hormone most likely enhances feelings of pride and the desire to create a positive image of yourself in your own eyes.

Causes of high testosterone levels

An increase in testosterone levels is caused by:
∙ Itsenko-Cushing's disease and syndrome;
∙ Adrenogenital syndrome (women);
∙ Testosterone-producing neoplasms of the testicles (men);
∙ XYY chromosome set (men);
∙ Virilizing ovarian tumor (women);
∙ Decreased levels of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG);
∙ Taking drugs such as: danazol, dehydroepiandrosterone, finasterin, flutamide, gonadotropin (in men), goserelin (in the first month of treatment), levonorgestrel, mifepristone, moclobemide, nafarelin (men), nilutamide, oral contraceptives (women), phenytoin, pravastatin (women), rifampin, tamoxifen;
∙ Excessive exercise.

Stabilization of testosterone levels

∙ Diet is key to stabilizing testosterone levels. It should be a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, plant fibers, phytonutrients. Grains and glucose stimulate higher levels of insulin and cortisol. Cortisol is a regulator of carbohydrate metabolism in the body, and also takes part in the development of stress reactions (stress hormone), its high levels play a critical role in the process of blocking testosterone (cortisol is the antithesis to testosterone). A healthy blood sugar balance is critical to stabilizing cortisol and boosting testosterone levels.

∙ Mono- and polyunsaturated fats will not only help normalize cholesterol levels, but also qualitatively improve the catalytic processes in your body. An Iowa State University study noted that unsaturated fats help you absorb more of the nutrients you get from foods. For example, fat as one of the components of salad dressing contributes to better absorption of nutrients from vegetables. In addition, the consumption of unsaturated fats is directly related to testosterone levels. The meal plan should consist of a sufficient amount of good fats, such as,.

∙ Avoid xenoestrogens - synthetic compounds that have the same effect on the body as female sex hormones that reduce testosterone levels. Xenoestrogens are found in tap water, plastics, household cleaning products, deodorants, soaps, cosmetics, and body lotions.
Xenoestrogen bisphenol A (BPA) is a weak estrogen and for a long time it was believed that its doses received by a person in everyday life do not have a significant effect on health. But now it has been proven that, accumulating in the body, BPA can have a hormone-like effect on all organs and systems that have estrogen receptors.

∙ High intensity exercise is critical for boosting testosterone. Exercises should be explosive in nature with maximum muscle overload. Workouts should be short (5-30 minutes) with minimal rest between sets.

∙ Using high quality whey protein sources post-workout increases testosterone. This is due to the high concentration of branched-chain amino acids such as leucine in whey protein shake. Whey protein is obtained from the whey formed during the manufacture of cheeses.

(Zn). Zinc deficiency lowers testosterone levels. To increase testosterone levels, you first need to take care of your zinc levels in your body. Include seafood (for example, oysters are high in zinc), wholemeal bread, brown rice, green leafy vegetables, lean, lean meats, and brittle cheeses like Cheshire or Lancaster. One of the best sources of zinc is pumpkin seeds.
Zinc increases sperm count and sperm motility. High zinc levels also mean lower levels of estrogen and prolactin, thereby reducing the risk of prostate disease.
An excess of zinc can lead to mineral imbalances and can absorb other minerals, leading to immune problems.

∙ According to a study conducted by scientists from the Medical University of Graz, Austria, published in the journal Clinical Endocrinology, sunbathing increases testosterone in men. Since vitamin D is produced by the body when exposed to sunlight, scientists recommend that fair-skinned people get at least 15 minutes of sunbathing on their face and hands daily, while dark-skinned people may need three times as much. The researchers tested the relationship between vitamin D and testosterone on 2,299 men over several months. They found that vitamin D levels and testosterone levels peaked during the summer months and dropped during the winter. They also found that men who had at least 30 ng of vitamin D in every milliliter of blood had the highest levels of circulating testosterone.

∙ You also need to make sure that the body receives enough, especially B6 and B12, which bring testosterone and other sex hormones into a happy balance.

Testosterone and cardiovascular health

Recent studies have shown conflicting results regarding the importance of testosterone in maintaining cardiovascular health. However, maintaining normal testosterone levels in older men improves many parameters that reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, such as: increase in muscle mass, decrease in visceral fat mass, and.
Men with slightly above average testosterone levels are less likely to have high blood pressure, are less likely to have heart attacks, are less likely to be obese, and rate their health as good. However, men with high testosterone levels are more likely to be injured, consume more alcoholic beverages, are more likely to have had a sexually transmitted infection, and are more likely to smoke.

Testosterone and prostate cancer

Cancer of the prostate (prostate) can develop in any man older than 45-50 years. Its reasons have not yet been fully elucidated. The development of prostate cancer is associated with hormonal changes in older men, in particular, with high levels of testosterone, the male sex hormone. Prostate cancer is a hormone-dependent tumor, its growth is stimulated by testosterone. Therefore, in men whose blood testosterone levels are higher than normal, the occurrence of prostate cancer is more likely and its course will be more difficult.
A 2006 article in the journal Urology noted that: “Prostate cancer can become clinical within months to years of starting testosterone treatment. ... The physician, when prescribing testosterone supplements, must be aware of this risk to the patients receiving them. The doctor should often perform a digital rectal examination of the prostate during treatment.
With increased formation of dihydrotestosterone from testosterone in the prostate tissue, hypertrophy and hyperplasia of the prostate, the development of prostate adenoma and, possibly, an increased likelihood of developing prostate cancer are associated.

Testosterone, sex and family

Men with high testosterone levels are more likely to have extramarital sex and divorce.
Fatherhood lowers testosterone levels in men, suggesting that this occurs as a result of emotional and behavioral changes and promotes paternal care.
Marriage or commitment can actually lead to lower testosterone levels.
If "love has passed" in men, testosterone levels decrease, and in women, testosterone levels increase.
Men who watch sexually explicit films have an average of 35% higher testosterone levels than those who watch sexually neutral films. The maximum testosterone level reaches 60-90 minutes after the end of the film. Men who watch sexy movies also report an increase in optimism and a decrease in fatigue.

Testosterone and sports

Testosterone is an anabolic steroid hormone that acts by increasing muscle protein synthesis and is used by athletes to develop muscle, strength, and endurance. As a result, muscle fibers become larger and they recover faster than the average person. Testosterone is considered a form of doping in most sports. There are several methods to increase testosterone levels: intramuscular injections, transdermal gel and patches (testosterone is absorbed through the skin), implantable capsules, oral and nasal means. Long-term use of testosterone-boosting drugs can cause a temporary decrease in the production of your own testosterone hormone. And also, with a long course of testosterone in athletes, there was a decrease in testicles in size.

Testosterone and Women's Health

Testosterone patches are effective in treating low libido in postmenopausal women. Low libido can occur as a symptom or as a result of hormonal birth control. Women can also use testosterone therapy to increase vitality and energy, to treat or prevent loss of bone density, muscle mass, and to treat some types of .
Low testosterone levels after menopause in women can trigger the development of osteoporosis and other chronic diseases.
Women treated with testosterone, due to changes in bone and muscle density, may experience weight gain without an increase in body fat.
Undesirable effects of testosterone therapy in women can manifest themselves in the form of thinning hair, increased oiliness of the skin, which leads to the formation of acne.
There is a theoretical risk that testosterone therapy may increase the risk of breast or gynecological cancer.

Testosterone and hair loss

In men, approximately 5-7% of testosterone is metabolized into the more active androgen dihydrotestosterone. With increased formation of dihydrotestosterone in the hair follicles, excessive body hair and / or "male" type of baldness (androgenetic alopecia) on the head in both sexes is associated.
Unlike other androgens such as testosterone, dihydrotestosterone cannot be converted to estradiol by the aromatase enzyme.
Men with androgenetic alopecia typically have higher levels of 5-alpha reductase, decreased total testosterone, increased levels of unbound (free) testosterone, and higher levels of total free androgens, including dihydrotestosterone.
The 5-alpha reductase genes are responsible for converting free testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, so drugs that inhibit testosterone conversion (eg, finasteride) are used to treat hair loss.
Women with elevated levels of dihydrotestosterone may develop androgynous secondary sexual characteristics (deepening of the voice, growth of facial hair). Women are less likely to suffer from classic male pattern baldness. Instead, the hair becomes thinner throughout the scalp. This type of androgenetic alopecia in women rarely leads to complete baldness.

New discoveries
In August 2012, scientists from the University of Pennsylvania stated that prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) is present on the scalp of balding men at much higher levels than usual, inhibiting hair growth and preventing hair follicles from maturing. Dr. George Cotsarelis and his team report that negotiations are underway with several pharmaceutical companies and treatments for androgenetic alopecia will be available within two years.

A study by Korean scientists in 2012 found that Grateloupia elliptica, a red algae native to Jeju, South Korea, has great potential for treating androgenic alopecia as well as alopecia areata.

The effect of medicinal plants on testosterone

Testosterone levels decline with age, but numerous herbs and nutrients can help increase blood levels of this hormone. Low testosterone levels increase the risk of heart problems, depression, osteoporosis, and dementia. Decreased testosterone causes a condition known as andropause.
An increase in testosterone in the blood will help restore health and reverse the signs of aging.

∙ Most clinical studies on fertility show that the leaves do not affect the fertility of men and women. However, one study found that an aqueous extract of stevia leaves lowered testosterone and sperm levels in male rats.

∙ Japanese researchers have shown that the root's active ingredient, glycyrrhizic acid, causes a clinically insignificant decrease in testosterone levels. Licorice preparations reduce high testosterone levels in women with ovarian cysts and increase their fertility. A large amount of licorice with prolonged use can increase blood pressure.

∙ According to some advertisements representing Tribulus terrestris ( Tribulus terrestris) in the sports nutrition market, it follows that tribulus promotes muscle building by increasing the synthesis of the testosterone hormone. The plant was borrowed from Ayurvedic Indian medicine. But these claims are based on obscure and questionable evidence, not on the results of serious scientific research. There are no positive data on the effect of Tribulus terrestris extract on androgen production.
Tribulus terrestris has indeed been used in Indian medicine as a stimulant. As a result of numerous studies conducted on laboratory animals, it was found that some substances contained in Tribulus terrestris promote sperm formation, increase libido, thereby affecting the level of reproduction of offspring. But it is rather difficult to judge the similar effect of this herbal remedy on people, since such studies have not been conducted. So all such statements are more conjectural than undeniable. Serious doubts have been raised about the effect of this plant on muscle growth and testosterone production in humans. In any case, Tribulus terrestris should only be used under the supervision of a physician or herbalist.
P.S. The generic name for Tribulus Terrestris is Puncture Vine. A study was found in which, under the influence of tribulus, an increase in testosterone in chimpanzees by more than 50% was observed. The effects were noticeable only after a few days.

∙ Muira Puama ( Ptychopetalum olacoides) - South American shamans and healers have used this plant from the Brazilian rainforests for generations. Muira Puama is considered the most powerful aphrodisiac and has been used for many centuries as the most effective remedy for impotence and as a tonic for the nervous system. It relieves stress, optimizes the functions of the nervous system, and especially that part of it that is responsible for the "erotic mood" of a man. As a result of studies conducted at the University of California (UCLA), it was possible to prove that Muira Puama increases testosterone production in men.

∙ Highlander multiflorous ( Poligonum mutliflorum) (Chinese Fo Ti, Hoshou Wu) is used in Oriental medicine as an aphrodisiac and longevity remedy. Knotweed is a natural testosterone booster.

∙ The root has been used in South America as a drink to increase male power. In a test involving men with prostate cancer, maca increased libido but slightly increased blood testosterone levels.

∙ and cauliflower contain natural ingredients that help the body eliminate estrogen, thereby increasing testosterone.

∙ Tea with helps to reduce testosterone levels

∙ Another way to increase testosterone is to consume foods rich in essential amino acids -.
A recent study found that men taking about two grams of L-arginine per day for two weeks experienced improved testosterone production. Another study where men took five grams of L-arginine per day showed similar results.

∙ Smilax forget-me-not flower or Sarsaparilla ( Smilax myosotiflora) is a herbaceous shrub that grows in the tropical evergreen forests of Thailand, in Eastern India, on the Malay Peninsula, in China, Japan and the Pacific Islands. It has been used for centuries in oriental medicine and is known for its powerful stimulating effect. Moreover, this applies to both men and women. For a long time, this plant was considered magical, and only recently the mechanism of its action was discovered.
Smilax stimulates the production of testosterone by the body by blocking the action of statins, activates the synthesis of corticoid hormones (powerful anti-inflammatory agents), reduces excessive production of pituitary luteinizing hormone (occurs with hypogonadism, gonadal dysgenesis, castration syndrome), stimulates the work of Leydig cells (cells that produce testosterone in men ), helps to increase the quantity and quality of sperm (which improves reproductive function).

∙ Studies have also shown that acetyl-L-carnitine supplementation increases testosterone production. Acetyl-L-Carnitine is used to burn fat and build muscle, this essential nutrient increases testosterone and luteinizing hormone levels.

The importance of androgens (male sex hormones) in the life of the stronger sex is very high, so it is important to know how and where testosterone is produced in men. Before understanding the question of where in the male body and how the androgen testosterone is produced, you need to study its properties.

It was found that the hormone affects the strengthening of the skeleton, the production of sperm, male strength, acceleration of metabolism, fat burning. The hormonal compound is responsible for the manifestation of male character traits, strengthening the walls of blood vessels, strengthening the immune defense of the male body and gaining muscle mass. It is this compound that affects the development of broad shoulders, the formation of narrow hips, muscle development, hair growth on the face and body.

Despite the fact that this hormonal substance belongs to male hormones, it is also produced in the beautiful half of humanity. In this case, it is synthesized by the adrenal cortex and ovaries. If testosterone in women is produced in excess, then there will be a change in appearance, a masculine appearance and a failure of the female reproductive system with irregular menstruation.

The process of testosterone synthesis itself is influenced by many factors. For example, its production occurs when eating food with hot spices, while exercising in the gym. Some scientists argue that the level of this hormone in a man rises when he talks with a representative of the opposite sex he likes.

Now let's talk about where and how testosterone is produced in men? All sex hormones are produced in such endocrine glands as the testes (hormone-producing cells of the sex glands), testicles (they produce about 5-12 mg per day), and the adrenal cortex. Their production is programmed and regulated by the pituitary and hypothalamus, which, in turn, receive a command from the brain.

How to determine how much testosterone is in the body? Laboratory diagnostics, which involves donating blood for analysis, will help you find out the exact value. The norm in women is 0.24-3.8 nmol / l. In men, the rate is much higher: from 11 to 33 nmol / l.

Production Factors

Among the factors influencing the synthesis of the hormone, age is the main one. In adolescence, the hormone is produced in the maximum amount. At an older age, its synthesis gradually decreases, annually by 1%. A decrease in production is observed from 25-30 years.

Lifestyle also affects the amount of testosterone produced. Abuse of alcoholic beverages, an inactive lifestyle, smoking and obesity negatively affect the production of hormonal compounds. However, to accelerate the production of testosterone will allow a balanced diet, following the rules of a healthy lifestyle.

Negative psycho-emotional environment and frequent stressful situations have a bad effect on the synthesis of hormonal substances. This is because the stress hormone, cortisol, will block the synthesis of testosterone.

The quantitative content of testosterone in the body depends on the time of day. Immediately after waking up, the percentage of testosterone is maximum, in the evening it decreases, and before going to bed the minimum value of this indicator is reached.

Proper physical activity and regular sports lead to an increase in testosterone production, but overwork and overexertion reduce the secretion of this hormone.

Men with low hormone levels

How to find out which men have almost no testosterone production? In order to understand in time that you have a lack of this hormone, you need to carefully monitor your health and immediately note any changes. Among the signs indicating a low level workings testosterone, experts distinguish:

• Reducing the area of ​​hair growth (armpits, groin, legs, face, chest);
• A sharp decrease in the body's immune defenses;
• The formation of body fat;
• Decreased testicular density;
• Osteoporosis;
• low libido;
• Sensitivity, femininity, softness;
• Hypotonicity of the muscular frame and skin;
• Depression, irritability, insomnia, tearfulness;
• Prostration.

If you notice these above signs in yourself, you should days contact a specialist and take a blood test. For 8 hours before the procedure, you should give up cigarettes, cancel physical activity for 24 hours.

In addition to these symptoms, doctors recommend paying attention to the waist circumference of a man. If your waist is less than 94 cm, then you have a high concentration of the hormone. A waist circumference of more than 102 cm indicates a deficiency of this substance. Men with a normal level of testosterone production are in the interval between these indicators.

Boosting testosterone production in men

If you passed tests to determine the amount of this hormone and the endocrinologist did not notice serious violations, then you can increase testosterone in natural ways, without using pharmaceuticals.

You can restore low testosterone in the body with the help of proper nutrition, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and playing sports. Let's consider each item in more detail.

Proper nutrition

To restore the synthesis of the hormone, it is necessary to establish a clear diet. To do this, you need to eat small meals 4-6 times a day. day, distributing it so that in the morning the body receives most of the calories.

On the other hand, carbonated drinks, excess sugar and salt, artificially smoked products, soy, vegetable oil (with the exception of olive oil), caffeine, imported meat and products containing preservatives, dyes, and harmful food additives should be abandoned.

What supplements or foods will help restore testosterone production? This:

• Foods high in calcium, zinc and selenium (cottage cheese, cheese, garlic, milk);
• Natural dry red wine;
• Spicy spices (garlic, curry, red pepper, cardamom);
• Meat of domestic production;
• Healthy fats (tropical fruits, egg yolk, olive oil, any nuts);
• Fish, seafood;
• Vitamins of groups A, B, D, C and E;
• Carbohydrates;
• Acid L-arginine;
• Dietary supplements (ginseng, a complex of amino acids for men, omega-3 fatty acids, yohimbe, etc.);
• Cabbage because it contains diindolylmethane.

Healthy lifestyle

Why can men's health deteriorate? Much depends on the wrong and unhealthy lifestyle. If you give up bad habits (alcohol, smoking), prevent overheating of the testicles, get enough sleep, fight excess weight, have a regular sex life, keep a daily routine, avoid stressful situations, over time you will be able to normalize testosterone production.

• Interesting to read:

In order for a man to increase testosterone produced in the body to a normal level, you need to choose a set of exercises for training. You can find suitable options on your own on the Internet or consult with an instructor.

At first, power loads should be gentle, then their gradual increase is recommended. In order not to get the opposite effect, it is necessary to alternate load and rest. In addition, it is important to avoid overvoltage.

Testosterone is a male sex hormone (one of the androgens), which is synthesized by endocrine glands - male testes and adrenal glands.

Many men are wondering how to increase testosterone production to improve potency and give a more masculine appearance.

Contrary to popular belief, testosterone is produced not only in men, but also in women. In the fair sex, this hormone is produced in small amounts by the ovaries and adrenal glands.

Testosterone in men is responsible for the process of masculinization in boys, affects male puberty, regulates spermatogenesis, promotes the development of secondary male sexual characteristics. Due to the normal level of androgens in men, a traditional sexual orientation and correct sexual behavior are formed. In addition, testosterone in men affects metabolism, supporting phosphorus and nitrogen metabolism.

Testosterone synthesis is regulated by pituitary hormones. In women, testosterone in the body is normally produced by the endocrine glands - the ovaries, turning into estrogen (female sex hormones) in the follicle cells, which help increase the growth of the mammary glands and regulate the menstrual cycle, and the adrenal glands. Increased secretion of testosterone by the adrenal glands and its elevated level in women leads to menstrual irregularities and the appearance of a masculine appearance.

Medical standards for testosterone in men are considered to be 11-33 nmol/l in men and 0.24-3.8 nmol/l in women.

Symptoms of low testosterone in men

• low libido;
• impotence;
• the appearance of body fat according to the female type;
• decrease in muscle mass;
• osteoporosis;
• decreased skin and muscle tone;
• irritability, tearfulness, insomnia, depression;
• prostration;
• decrease in genital hairline (groin, legs, chest, armpits, face);
• decrease in testicular density;
• effeminacy, softness, sensitivity;
• decrease in immunity.

Properties of testosterone

• increased metabolism, fat burning, increased muscle mass and strengthened bones;
• the formation of male secondary sexual characteristics;
• influence on spermatogenesis;
• effect on potency;
• the formation of interest in the female sex;
• increase immunity and strengthen blood vessels;
• influence on male character traits: aggressiveness, initiative and courage.

What determines the level of testosterone?

1. Times of Day. In men, increased testosterone in the blood is observed in the morning after waking up, by the evening the concentration of androgens in the blood decreases, reaching a minimum before bedtime.
2. Exercise stress. It has been proven that after sports activities, increased testosterone is observed in the blood. But with strong physical exertion and overwork, on the contrary, there is a decrease in the sex hormone.
3. Age. Age significantly affects the endocrine glands, reducing over the years. An increased level of male sex hormone occurs in young men during puberty. After 25-30 years, testosterone production begins to gradually decline by about 1% per year.
4. Lifestyle. The production of testosterone in the body depends on the lifestyle of a man. Proper nutrition and sports activities help, and alcoholism, drug addiction, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle, on the contrary, have a negative effect on the production of testosterone in the body.
5. Physical health. Some endocrine and oncological diseases seriously affect the production of androgens. Therefore, we must not forget that a sudden unmotivated decrease in male sex hormones is the reason for contacting a specialist doctor. A sharply increased level of testosterone can also speak of the disease.
6. Psychological condition. Stress and depression can negatively affect the level of testosterone in the blood. The reason for this is the stress hormone cortisol, which blocks the synthesis of testosterone in the body.

Determination of testosterone levels

A specialist doctor can identify a man with a low level of sex hormones in the blood by characteristic external signs (a decrease in male pattern hair, a decrease in muscle mass, a decrease in testicles, impotence, effeminacy and deposition of adipose tissue). However, for a more accurate determination of the sex hormone, it is necessary to take a blood test. It is advisable to take the analysis in the morning on an empty stomach. Before the procedure, it is recommended to limit physical activity for a day and stop smoking for 8 hours.

How to increase testosterone in the blood?

If you notice signs of a decrease in the male sex hormone, then first of all you need to determine the cause of these hormonal changes.

To do this, it is advisable to consult an endocrinologist to exclude serious diseases. If the specialist did not see any reason for concern and the decrease in testosterone is not much beyond the physiological age norms, then you can try to increase the production of testosterone on your own, without resorting to chemical hormonal drugs.

How to produce testosterone naturally?

Proper nutrition

1. Regime compliance. A proper diet will help. How do you develop the habit of eating right? Very simple. Try to eat 4-6 times a day in small portions, distributing the most calories in the morning.
2. Refusal of harmful products that negatively affect the production of testosterone.

These include:

1. Healthy foods that can help improve testosterone production include:

Workouts in the gym

Basic strength exercises with a gradual increase in load in the gym or at home with dumbbells can significantly lift. Suitable complexes can be found on the Internet or undergo initial training with an instructor. It is important not to overstrain in training and alternate loads with rest, otherwise you may get the opposite effect of training.

Healthy lifestyle

Refusal of alcohol and smoking, observance of the daily routine, proper sleep, lack of stress, regular sex life, as well as the fight against excess weight and the prevention of overheating of the testicles significantly improve men's health and help in the production of their own testosterone in a natural way.

Testosterone is the main male hormone. Below will be discussed:

• What is testosterone?
• What negatively affects him?
• What are the ways to increase it?

The essence of the concept of "testosterone". Not only a scientific approach

Testosterone is the main male hormone that provides primary and secondary sexual characteristics in men. It is also present in the female body, but in much smaller quantities.

Scientifically speaking, testosterone is the sum of bound and free testosterone, which results in total testosterone (TT). OT includes:

• Hormones that are in a free state (about 2%);
• Hormones that are associated with globulin (about 44%);
• Hormones that are associated with proteins, such as albumin (54%).

Most of the testosterone in the body of a man is in a bound state (proteins slow down its action). The active hormone is free and is responsible for the appearance of secondary signs of maturation and sexual desire. If there is less testosterone in the body than necessary, this leads to the following consequences:

• Weak erection;
• risk of impotence;
• Muscle and bone degradation;
• Violation of the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids;
• Risk of heart and vascular disease.

This male hormone performs a number of important functions that you need to know about:

• Promotes the development of the genital organs and the production of seminal fluid;
• Forms "male" behavior and attraction to the opposite sex;
• Promotes an increase in skin thickness and protein synthesis;
• Increases the work of the sweat glands;
• Accelerates the metabolic process;
• Helps strengthen the pelvic bones;
• Helps to store calcium.

The presence of a sufficient amount of this hormone in the male body can be determined even externally: broad shoulders, a more active metabolism (when compared with women), narrow hips. Another indirect method for determining a sufficient amount of testosterone in the male body is the hands and fingers, as well as the distance from the upper lip to the tip of the nose.

Known symptoms that can be used to judge testosterone deficiency:

• worsening mood, depression;
• insomnia, irritability;
• reduced hair growth on the face and body;
• increased sweating;
• decreased muscle mass and strength;
• anemia;
• decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, infertility;
• obesity (especially in the abdomen);
• constant fatigue.

There are a number of factors that negatively affect the total amount of testosterone in a man's body. These include:

• Intake of harmful drinks and foods (carbonated drinks, beer, butter, high-fat milk, salt and sugar, fatty foods high in cholesterol, fast food, etc.);
• Stress and any psychological disorders;
• Drug use and smoking;
• Leading a sedentary lifestyle;
• Taking certain medications;
• Diseases (diabetes mellitus, diseases of the endocrine system).

Important to remember:

A clear sign of a low concentration of testosterone in the male body is a waist circumference of more than 94 cm, as well as a total body weight that exceeds the norm by 30%. The body in this case blocks the natural production of testosterone and switches to the generation of female hormones - estrogen and progesterone.

Biochemical component of testosterone and mechanisms of its action. How to increase testosterone in men - natural ways

Testosterone is a steroid hormone that is responsible for growth. In the male body, it is produced in the testicles (Leydig cells), and in the female body, in the ovaries. During the day, the male body produces about 7 mg of the hormone. The rate of formation largely depends on how quickly cholesterol is converted to pregnenolone. In the body of a healthy person, the chain of transformations looks like this:

Cholesterol -> pregnenolone -> dihydrosterone/progesterone -> testosterone

After that, the hormone enters the bloodstream, where it binds to proteins, forming globulin and albumen. This takes almost the entire synthesized hormone (up to 98%). The rest remains in a free state, being able to interact with other cells and influence them.

There are several natural ways to increase the concentration of the testosterone hormone in the body. First of all, it is necessary to deal with the exclusion of all harmful factors that inhibit the production of the hormone. For the best effect you need:

1. Get rid of bad habits (drinking alcohol, smoking);
2. Transition to a healthy and balanced diet;
3. Sports activities (not necessarily bodybuilding).

The effect of eliminating bad habits is clear to everyone and it is not worth dwelling on this point. But let's focus on the last two.

Secrets of a balanced diet

The first thing you need to pay attention to is vitamin and mineral complexes, which should be present in the daily diet. You are most likely deficient in zinc, magnesium, and vitamin D.

For a normal state and functioning, the body needs to consume the following amount of these elements per day:

• Zinc - 20 mg;
• Vitamin D - 500-1000 IU;
• Magnesium - 350 mg;
• Calcium - 2g.

To fill the gaps in essential micronutrients, include foods such as:

• Broccoli;
• Salmon;
• Eggs;
• Lemon;
• Strawberry;
• Potato;
• Lettuce leaves.

Also, a huge amount of the necessary substances for the production of testosterone is found in products such as:

Also, do not forget to include in your daily diet such healthy delicacies as various kinds of dried fruits.

Proper nutrition is good, and all the useful substances that they contain should make up for the lack of them in the body. And the best way to create an energy deficit is exercise. lasts at least 7-8 hours.

- Get rid of stress

Nervous tension promotes the release of cortisol into the blood. And he, in turn, strongly suppresses the action of testosterone. Forget about worries over trifles, stop getting upset over trifles and smile more often.

- Use cardio workouts

Include jogging regularly in your workouts. This type of exercise contributes to the rapid burning of fat in the abdomen. Otherwise, all these deposits will convert testosterone into female sex hormones.

- Positive emotional background

Not only muscle tone contributes to the healthy functioning of all body systems. Don't forget to keep your mind sharp. Rejoice more, create vivid memories and extreme situations that will accelerate the psyche to the desired state in order to create that very positive mood. Sign up for classes at a fitness club, after all, where the fair sex lives, or take a pretty girlfriend with you for company.

Liked? - Tell your friends!

Testosterone is one of the most important hormones produced by the endocrine system. It can be found in both sexes, but it is especially abundant in men. And for them it is important in the first place. It is this hormone that is responsible for those properties of the body of a man that make him biologically different from women. And therefore, it is extremely important for a man to maintain a sufficiently high level of this hormone. But, nevertheless, sometimes malfunctions occur in the functioning of the endocrine system, and the level of the hormone decreases. Can this phenomenon be prevented?

Norms of testosterone

In men, testosterone is synthesized in the gonads - the testicles (testicles), as well as in the adrenal cortex. According to the chemical structure, the substance belongs to the class of steroids. The pituitary and hypothalamus are also involved in the process of hormone synthesis, which secrete enzymes that command the endocrine system to begin hormone synthesis.

For the most part, testosterone in the body is associated with various proteins. Free testosterone makes up approximately 2% of the total hormone. Testosterone in young men aged 18-20 reaches its maximum concentration. Then the hormone levels begin to decline. From around age 35, testosterone levels drop by 1-2% per year. A decrease in the amount of the hormone in the blood in men with age is a natural process. However, it is not uncommon for a situation where a low level of the hormone occurs in young and middle-aged men. This situation, of course, is not normal and requires treatment.

The norm of testosterone in the blood in men for different ages

Why do men need testosterone?

Testosterone is responsible for the formation of the male body type. This process begins in infancy, continues through childhood and adolescence, and ends in adulthood. However, the role of testosterone is not only in the formation of reproductive organs and external sexual characteristics. Testosterone plays a significant role in metabolism, in maintaining human health. With its participation, the process of spermatogenesis is carried out. Testosterone is responsible for the formation of the muscular and skeletal system, for the regulation of body weight. Testosterone is also responsible for many mental processes. For example, testosterone counteracts the effects of the stress hormone cortisol. Due to the effect of the hormone, a man feels the joy of life and optimism.

Symptoms of low testosterone

Men with low testosterone have a number of symptoms that are often not associated with this cause. This:

• loss of interest in the world around
• decreased libido or impotence,
• obesity,
• feminization - loss of body hair, gynecomastia,
• decrease in muscle mass,
• memory impairment, distraction.

Causes of low testosterone

Hormone levels can decrease for various reasons. But, as a rule, they are divided into primary, caused by diseases of the endocrine system, and secondary, caused by external factors and factors associated with a person's lifestyle.

What factors can lead to a decrease in hormone levels? This:

• sedentary lifestyle,
• malnutrition,
• excess weight,
• unbalanced sex life
• bad habits,
• lack of sleep,
• medical treatment,
• exposure to harmful substances from the environment.

Sedentary lifestyle

It is well known that movement is life. This rule is true for all people, but especially for men. Nature arranged the male body so that it was convenient for him to constantly engage in various physical exercises. Previously, men were engaged in hunting, farming, cattle breeding and fought. All these activities required a lot of endurance and physical activity, which were maintained at the proper level due to high testosterone levels. Now, most men are engaged in sedentary work, which does not require a high level of the hormone.

Of course, there is no need to return to the habits of the ancestors in order to raise the level of the hormone, however, it is useful to remember that in order to maintain an optimal male form, regular exercise is necessary. It has long been established that intense physical exercise contributes to the production of testosterone in the blood in men. This is a natural reaction of the body, since without this hormone, muscle growth is impossible.

Improper nutrition

Not all foods that we consume contribute to maintaining sufficient testosterone levels. Food should contain the required amount of trace elements, vitamins, proteins, fats and carbohydrates, both from animal and vegetable sources. Both overeating and insufficient, irregular nutrition lead to the fact that testosterone decreases.

Excess weight

Extra pounds in a man is not just a defect in appearance that spoils the typical look of a tough macho. In fact, adipose tissue cells are factories for the production of the testosterone antagonist estrogen. In addition, in body fat, testosterone can also be destroyed and converted into estrogen.

Irregular sex life

Regular sex also contributes to the production of testosterone, especially in adulthood. However, it should not be too frequent (no more than 2-3 times a week), because in this case the opposite effect will be observed - the hormone level will decrease.

Alcohol

A popular stereotype associates masculinity with a tendency to consume alcoholic beverages in large quantities. And absolutely in vain. It has been established that alcohol negatively affects the centers of the brain responsible for the formation of the male hormone, as a result of which the body starts the reverse process - the conversion of testosterone into estrogen.

Surely, beer lovers can smile indulgently here - after all, their favorite drink contains relatively little alcohol, and for this reason, it would seem, should not seriously affect testosterone levels. But this is absolutely not true. Beer contains a large amount of plant estrogens. Thus, beer is an even greater enemy of the male hormone than strong drinks.

stress

During stress, the body produces a special hormone - cortisol. This hormone does not directly affect the amount of testosterone. However, cortisol can block testosterone receptors, making testosterone useless. Thus, stressed men experience the same symptoms as testosterone deficient men.

Lack of sleep

Most men are well aware of the feeling of a spontaneous morning erection. This phenomenon is largely due to the fact that in the morning there is the highest level of testosterone. Most of this hormone is produced at night, during sleep, and deep, not superficial.

Diseases

Many somatic diseases can cause a decrease in testosterone. This is especially true of diseases affecting the androgynous system, such as prostatitis. But diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, lipid metabolism disorders, and leukocytosis can also affect the level of the hormone.

Medical treatment

Testosterone is often reduced under the influence of medications. These include carbomazepine, veroshpiron, tetracycline, magnesium sulfate, glucocorticosteroids. As a rule, a decrease occurs only with prolonged use of drugs, and after stopping their intake, the hormone level returns to normal.

Environmental pollution

Modern civilization poisons our body with many chemicals that negatively affect testosterone levels. Especially a lot of these substances in the exhaust gases of cars. Studies show that gas station workers have lower levels of the hormone. But household chemicals are also not without substances harmful to the male hormone. In particular, these include bisphenols found in many personal care products and detergents - shampoos, lotions, liquid soaps, etc., as well as in plastic dishes.

How to increase testosterone in men?

If you do not know how to increase the level of this hormone, then you can consult a doctor for advice. However, before starting treatment, you should understand the origins of the situation. A decrease in the level of the hormone can be caused by a variety of reasons, and therefore the increase in testosterone in men depends on many factors. Of course, there are also hormonal preparations containing testosterone. However, they are recommended to be taken only in exceptional cases, for example, in cases of pathologies of the endocrine organs, since they will not replace the hormone produced naturally.

So, how to increase testosterone naturally?

Exercise

Men who exercise regularly do not usually have problems with testosterone. Most suitable for this purpose are exercises aimed at developing various muscle groups of the body, for example, on weight machines. Classes should be quite intense, but not very long. The main thing here is not to overdo it, because otherwise the body will perceive classes as stress, and at the same time cortisol will be produced. To increase the production of testosterone, it is enough to exercise for about an hour a day, and not every day, but 2-3 times a week.

Photo: ESB Professional/Shutterstock.com

Improve nutrition

To increase testosterone, you should streamline your diet, do not overeat, eat 3-4 times a day and no later than 3 hours before bedtime.

Maintaining a reasonable balance between proteins, carbohydrates and fats is what increases the level of the hormone. In addition, there are certain substances that directly stimulate the production of testosterone in the body.

Cholesterol

Most testosterone is made in the body from cholesterol. Therefore, the diet should include foods containing it in large quantities:

• fish,
• meat,
• liver,
• eggs,
• caviar,
• whole milk.

Of course, the measure should be observed here, since food rich in “bad” cholesterol can lead to problems with the cardiovascular system.

Zinc

Zinc will help increase the level of the hormone in the body. This trace element is directly related to the production of testosterone. There is a lot of it in seafood, fish, nuts, seeds - sunflower and pumpkin seeds, cheeses, and some vegetables.

What else can raise the level of the hormone? The diet is also recommended to include foods containing selenium, vitamins C and B, the essential amino acid arginine (meat, eggs, peas, sesame, almonds, cottage cheese, peanuts, milk), as well as cruciferous plants - cabbage, broccoli, etc. . Plain water also plays a significant role. It is necessary to drink plenty of clean water (at least 2 liters per day).

In addition to alcohol, coffee consumption should be reduced. It has been established that a single cup of coffee contributes to the burning of the male hormone in the body. True, this effect does not last long, however, regular coffee consumption can lead to the fact that testerone levels will drop significantly.

Another product that is harmful for maintaining a high level of the hormone is soy. Studies show that soy contains a lot of plant estrogens.

Exposure to harmful chemicals

To increase testosterone, you should also minimize the impact on the body of harmful substances contained in the city air. To do this, you should spend more time outside the city, in nature. When traveling by car and standing in traffic jams, you should completely close the windows. It is also recommended to stop using household personal care products containing bisphenol - lotions, shampoos, etc. For washing, you can use ordinary toilet soap. Even toothpastes contain bisphenol, so you should take the minimum amount of toothpaste - no more than a pea.

Dream

To increase testosterone, you need to get plenty of sleep, as good sleep affects the level of the hormone in the body. It is recommended to sleep at least 7 hours a day, and preferably 8-9 hours. It is important to consider that sleep should be deep, not superficial.

Regular sex life

The level of the male hormone is negatively affected by both abstinence from sexual activity and too frequent sex. It should also be noted that simple communication with the fair sex, as well as viewing men's magazines and frank videos, also contributes to the release of the hormone.

A tan

To increase testosterone, you should also sunbathe a lot. During exposure to the sun, vitamin D is formed in the body, which favorably affects the production of the hormone. This factor should also not be discounted.

Drugs that increase testosterone

However, natural methods require a lot of effort and time. If you do not know how to quickly increase the level of the hormone, then you can resort to the help of drugs. Now in pharmacies you can buy a lot of drugs to increase testosterone. These are dietary supplements, and hormonal drugs that should be taken as directed by a doctor. Testosterone preparations in a pharmacy are usually sold by prescription.

The main drugs designed to increase hormone levels:

• testosterone propionate (injections),
• testosterone undecanoate (tablets),
• proviron,
• hormone production stimulants (Cyclo-Bolan, Parity, Vitrix, Animal Test).

Do not confuse pills to increase testosterone levels and means to increase potency. The former do not directly affect potency, although they can indirectly have a positive effect on it. The principle of action of the latter, as a rule, is not associated with an increase in the level of the male hormone.