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Testosterone is known as the dominant male hormone because it is. The importance of it cannot be stated enough. This raises the question, just how is it produced in the body? You might not have asked that question if you’re producing it just fine, but it’s interesting to know if you’re an anatomy or science buff!
Main purpose
Before we get to the actual production of testosterone, let’s delve a little deeper into its main functions in the body. Do you know that tingling sensation you get south of the border when you’re about to have sex with your partner? That’s called arousal and it’s directly related to testosterone.
Do you know how you’re able to lift over 300 lbs on the bench press? Well, you can thank testosterone for that.
When you check yourself out in the mirror and see those rippling muscles, guess what? Testosterone is responsible.
Simply put, it’s the muscle behind your muscle, the uplifting substance behind your good mood, and the stuff that gives you energy throughout the course of the day. It is the most important hormone in your body.
Can you have a too high level of testosterone?
The testes
Down below the belt, you have a pair of testicles, also known as the family jewels, grapefruits, nuts, and sack. Pardon the expressions, but you’re an adult and can handle the verbiage!
Pay attention to the first syllable of “testicles.” The word “testes” is the scientific way of saying testicles and it is here that testosterone is produced and distributed to the body. Now notice how the first syllable of testosterone is also “test.” See how it all comes together.
And just for the record, this is also the location where sperm cells are produced (1). This is why testosterone is called the male sex hormone.
Factors affecting test production
Your body naturally produces testosterone, but there are certain things that can affect your production. For example, being overweight and sedentary can have a negative effect. Eating foods high in estrogen, like flax seeds and soy, can have a negative effect. And drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can also have a negative effect.
On the flip side, there are things you can do to boost your levels of testosterone. In similar fashion to certain foods lowering it, there are certain foods that can raise it, like broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale, collards, and cabbage. These are all known as cruciferous vegetables.
Ironically, foods that are high in cholesterol and saturated fat also have a positive effect. But you want to eat just enough of these to get the benefit without going overboard. Eggs, avocados, coconut oil, and pork rinds fall into this category.
Lastly, the way you work out can contribute to testosterone production. When you lift heavy weights and do intense training, a signal is sent through your system that it needs to pump out more testosterone to meet the demands that are placed upon it. This effect is magnified when you do compound exercises with heavy weights and sprint intervals.
Women and testosterone
It’s worth mentioning that women also produce testosterone, but to a much lesser degree. In their case, it is produced in the ovaries, which is also the location where the dominant female hormone, estrogen, is produced. Even though they don’t have as much testosterone as men, it’s still important to women for muscle gain and preservation.
Conclusion
The way the body works is really fascinating. The more you get in tune with it, the longer and happier life you can lead. And now that you know more about testosterone, you can ensure that your T-levels stay elevated and you can dominate in everything you do!
