More

    Testosterone Booster: What Is It & Are There Side Effects?

    We know that testosterone is the male hormone that induces that “masculinity factor”. But what happens if the body fails to make enough of this required testosterone? One may then suffer from multiple sexual and health concerns. As an alternative solution, the testosterone hormone is  available in the form of supplements known as testosterone boosters to alleviate the associated issues of deficiency. In this article, we’ll discuss testosterone, the results of a deficiency, what a testosterone booster is, how it can help and what the side effects of the boosters are.

    Testosterone & Sexual Maturation

    Testosterone is a hormone essential for both men and women. In males, testosterone is responsible for developing masculine characteristics such as the development of facial hair and an increase in the size of muscles. Testosterone plays a crucial role in several masculine functions to including sexual maturation in males.

    Testosterone works to control almost all steps of the sexual maturation in males. It is achieved by bringing about masculine changes such as:

    • Fat distribution 
    • Increase in muscle size and strength 
    • Induces sexual drive
    • Increases bone mass
    • Maturation and production of sperms (spermatogenesis)
    • Red blood cell production

    Results of Testosterone Deficiency 

    Testosterone levels peak at puberty and decline after the 30’s. But in some cases, the hormone is deficient to being with. Testosterone levels of 300-1000 ng/dL are considered normal and anything below this is considered as a testosterone deficiency. The consequences of this inadequacy can manifest as:

    1. Lower semen volume: semen quality is important for the motility of sperms. Testosterone deficiency may lower semen volume
    2. Reduced sexual drive: low testosterone levels may reduce sexual drive leading to loss of libido
    3. Difficulty in erection: in addition to stimulation of sexual drive, testosterone triggers an erection. Erectile dysfunction is the likely outcome of testosterone deficiency
    4. Loss of muscle strength and size: according to a study on low testosterone treatment, testosterone is directly involved in the development and increase of muscle mass. Testosterone deficiency may also cause muscles to lose strength and size, which can be a concern for some men
    5. Fatigue, mood changes and weak memory: testosterone deficiency can cast negative impacts on your mood and memory. Generalized fatigue can overtake the body, which is also accompanied by mood swings and impaired memory
    6. Reduced red blood cells (RBC): red blood cells are the primary cells in the blood that supplies oxygen to each cell of the body. According to one study, testosterone stimulates RBC production and regulates iron homeostasis. Therefore, testosterone deficiency can reduce the number of blood cells available

    Testosterone Boosters

    A simple solution to all the issues mentioned above is the introduction of testosterone boosters. If you have any of the testosterone deficiency symptoms, a testosterone booster is a possible solution. You can add natural testosterone boosting foods to your diet, but this can take a while to have an effect. Multiple organic and inorganic substances work as testosterone booster supplements and when taken in adequate amounts, they can stimulate and enhance testosterone production in your body. Testosterone supplement boosters include the following:  

    1. Vitamin D 

    Vitamin D is essential for the normal working of pretty much everything in your body. Studies have shown that Vitamin D is directly linked to improved sperm quality. Spend some time in the sun or load your diet with green veggies, boiled eggs and seafood

    1. Tribulus terrestris

    This is a famous herbal medicine (available in supplement form too). This has been shown to improve sexual drive and testosterone levels in animals. The herb is effective in treating erectile dysfunction and thus can boost sexual health

    1. D-Aspartic acid 

    D-Aspartic acid ((D-Asp) is an amino acid that exists naturally and works by boosting testosterone levels in men and increasing follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in women. Research showed that it is linked with steroidogenesis (hormone production) in lab rats. According to another study, D-Asp plays a significant role in the synthesis and release of testosterone in infertile men

    1. Ashwagandha 

    Ashwagandha is an ancient Indian herb that is excellent for boosting testosterone levels

    1. Zinc

    Zinc is an essential mineral that should be included in one’s diet. In a recent study, researchers found a correlation between decreased levels of zinc in patients and impaired sperm function and motility. Zinc is a supplement that can be of great help

    1. Fenugreek 

    Fenugreek is a herb that can be immensely beneficial in helping to boost testosterone levels. A 2020 meta-analysis indicates the significance of fenugreek supplementation in men with low serum levels of testosterone

    Side Effects Of Testosterone Boosters

    Improved muscle mass, sperm motility, sperm quality, increased semen volume and erectile dysfunction correction are some of the positive effects of testosterone boosters. However, some side effects may develop with prolonged and overuse of testosterone booster supplements. Some of these include:

    • Enlargement of male breasts 
    • Enlarged prostate
    • Higher than normal blood cell count
    • Hypertension
    • Liver damage
    • Acne 
    • Increased aggression

    The side effects may be mild or pronounced in some cases. Therefore, it is recommended to consult your physician before taking them. Testosterone is an essential hormone for sexual maturation and mass gain among other benefits. A deficiency of the hormone leads to erectile dysfunction and loss of libido. Improving testosterone levels by taking testosterone booster supplements is one way of dealing with this issue. But bear in mind the side effects that may develop with its prolonged use. We highly recommend you visit your physician before taking testosterone boosters.


    - Advertisement -spot_img
    - Advertisement -spot_img

    Recommended Articles