It’s not unusual to feel sluggish sometimes. We’ve all been there.
When you lack motivation, you barely wanna get out of bed, let alone hit the gym, or do something you usually enjoy.
Believe me, I’ve been there! But thankfully I found a few ways to boost my energy levels. It all comes down to living the best possible lifestyle, and keeping my testosterone levels right where they need to be.
But how did I do it? Well, it seemed my T levels were holding me back. Let’s start by taking a closer look at why they’re so damn important.
Can low testosterone really impact your life that much?
Yep! It’s surprising how much your testosterone levels come into play. When you have low T, it’s not just about feeling mentally low, not wanting to hit the gym and lacking performance in the bedroom, it can impact your life from all angles.
For example, when you’re feeling sluggish, it’s easy to over-indulge, leading you to eat, well, anything in sight. From this, it’s easy to feel disheartened, since chowing down on processed junk can start to ruin your progress in the gym. See? Crazy, huh?
Whether you’re going through a tough time or simply finding life to be a struggle, giving your T levels a boost can result in a clearer mind! Here’s how boosting your T can be a total game changer.
Plus of course, there are a few other things to consider:
Don’t skip breakfast
According to studies, those who eat breakfast each day report less fatigue. Yep, it really is the most important meal of the day, my friend.
Foods that are higher in fiber will keep you going until lunch!
Staying hydrated
Dehydration can leave you feeling drained and fatigued.
You don’t necessarily have to follow the “eight glasses a day” rule, but you do want to drink enough water to keep your body well hydrated. I always make sure I’m drinking – water that is! – wherever I am, especially at the gym. Or when you’re working out at home.
Eating nuts
Eat a handful of almonds or peanuts, which are high in magnesium and folate (folic acid). These nutrients are essential for energy and cell production. If you’re lacking these, it’s no surprise you’re feeling drained.
Keep moving
While you may not feel like you wanna workout, exercise is actually a natural energy booster! It’s easy to get bored with your regular workout routine, so don’t be afraid to mix things up and get those extra reps in.
Remember to listen to your body, if you’re struggling, try doing some cardio or yoga, to switch up your usual routine.
Get outside in the sun
According to research, even just a few minutes outside on a warm, sunny day can enhance your mood, as well as your memory! Make the most of the sun year-round, whether it’s a long walk, or an outdoor workout.
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Believe me, when I say, I totally get your pain. There’s nothing worse than that sluggish feeling. When every rep in the gym feels like a chore. When you can barely drag your butt to work, I feel you!
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For us guys, testosterone is the God of all hormones, it is quite literally what makes us men. Typically referred to as the male sex hormone, testosterone is responsible for muscle growth, bone density, body hair, and the changes in your voice when you’re going through puberty. In addition to this, testosterone also helps to regulate important functions, such as:
Sex drive
Muscle and bone mass
Muscle strength
Fat distribution
Red blood cell production
However, it is most unfortunate to find out that from the age of 30, our testosterone levels decrease by about 1% per year on average. Then, after 40, this can become 2% a year.
Those who have an interest in growing stronger muscles and getting bigger are always on the lookout for the best ways to boost testosterone. However, apart from getting a prescription or taking potentially harmful drugs, the only sure way to increase and maintain a healthy T level is by weight lifting and eating the correct diet.
In order to maintain high testosterone levels, it’s best to opt for foods that are high in magnesium, zinc, and vitamin K. These are foods such as:
Dark, leafy greens
Shellfish
Egg yolks
Oats
Beans
Nuts
According to experts, the best exercises to increase testosterone are the multi-joint exercises that use the biggest muscle groups, including:
Press-ups
Deadlifts
Bench press
Rowing
Squats
Overhead press
It is said that these exercises work because they boost the amount of muscle mass, and this is vital to the release of testosterone. So, in order to increase your T levels, make sure you prioritize those big lifts and ideally do a full-body workout three times a week.
Let’s take a look at what the T-boosting workout has got for us.
Testosterone boosting workout: how it works
Whilst this may not be the flashiest of workouts, all the exercises you’ll do will help to maximize your gains so your time in the gym is well spent.
Try the following workout three times a week on non-consecutive days. Doing so gives the added bonus that weekends would then be rest days. With each workout, switch up the routine by doing a different variation of squats and deadlifts.
For deadlifts you can do a:
Suitcase deadlift
Sumo deadlift
Deficit deadlift
Romanian deadlift
Then, when it comes to squats, you’ve got:
Front squats
Back squats
Safety bar squats
When doing a deadlift or back squat, opt for a weight that is at 80% of your one-rep maximum. For the bench press, shoulder press, or bent-over row, go for 70%.
Deadlift
Stand up straight with your feet hip-width apart. Then, bend your hips back to stretch down and grab the bar, your hands should be just outside your knees.
Keep your lower back in its natural arch and drive your heels into the floor. Pull the bar up until you’re standing with your hips fully extended and the bar is in front of your thighs.
Repeat this for five reps, do five sets, and have five minutes rest.
Back squat
To get started, get a barbell set up on a power rack at shoulder height. Stand in front of the bar and grasp it with both hands at shoulder width. Next, raise your elbows so that your upper arms are parallel to the floor.
Take the bar out of the rack and let it rest on your upper back, keeping your elbows up will keep the bar stable. Then, step back and part your feet shoulder-width apart with your toes slightly turned out. Once you’re in position, squat as low as you possibly can without losing the arch in your back.
As was the case with the deadlifts, try and do five reps per set for a total of five sets, then have five minutes rest.
Bench press
Take hold of the bar just outside shoulder-width and arch your back so there is space between your lower back and the bench.
Pull the bar out from the rack and lower it down to your sternum, tuck in your elbows to your sides. Once the bar touches your body, push your feet into the floor and use the force to drive yourself and push the bar up.
Go for 8 reps, and four sets, and give yourself a two-minute rest.
Bent-over row
Grasp the bar at shoulder width and let it hang in front of your thighs. Bend at your hips and lower your torso so that it’s almost parallel with the floor.
Then, bend at the knees in order to take the pressure off of your hamstrings. Squeeze your shoulders together and pull the bar towards your stomach.
Repeat this for 8 reps, complete four sets, and give yourself two minutes rest.
Shoulder press
Adjust the seat of the machine so that the handles are at shoulder level. Then, if you are someone that experiences shoulder problems and the machine allows it, grab the handles so that your palms face each other. Alternatively, grasp them with your palms facing forward as normal.
Ensure that your elbows follow a normal pressing path as your press the handles overhead.
Once back in the starting position, repeat this move for 8 reps per set, complete for sets, and take a two-minute rest.
Chinup
Grab a pull-up bar underhand at shoulder width.
Hang from the bar and then pull yourself up until your chin is over the top of the bar.
Repeat for eight reps, do four sets, and allow two minutes rest.
Push-up
Start by placing your hands on the floor shoulder-width apart. Keep your core engaged, your whole body in a straight line, and squeeze your shoulder blades together.
Lower your body until your chest is around an inch from the floor. Then, push through your arms to get back to the starting position.
Repeat this for 10 reps and go for four sets, then rest for two minutes
The bottom line
What a great workout to try if you’re wanting to up those T levels. With the added bonus of weekends off and different variations, there are no downsides.
None of the above exercises are overly difficult or confusing, they allow you to do you.
As recommended, get through the workout and aim to do it three times a week.
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As men, we know that our testosterone is important to us. It plays a huge role in many aspects of our lives, including mood, energy, sex drive, muscle growth, fat loss, and much more.
Many of us don’t pay close enough attention to our testosterone levels and how they can affect our mental health – which is why today I want to talk about the relationship between low T and depression.
After all, it’s easy to ignore those nagging feelings… But, my friend, I’m here to tell you that anxiety and depression matter! And here’s how low T could be causing you to feel sluggish in several areas of your life.
What can affect your testosterone levels?
There are many things that can affect your testosterone levels. If I’m honest, it’s a bit of a vicious cycle! We fall into a slump of feeling crappy, skip the gym, eat more processed foods and feel worse… So it’s no surprise our T takes a hit.
Don’t worry, though! I’m here to help. Let’s start by taking a look at what can affect your T levels in the first place.
What you eat
The life you lead and the diet you eat can affect your testosterone levels. But did you know that some foods you’re unknowingly consuming could be stunting your testosterone?
Of course, certain foods can be bad for us in general (especially when we eat too much of them!), but what foods should you look to limit or avoid? We’ve made a list below of foods that could kill your T levels, and what you should look to add into your diet for an overall health boost!
Baked good/processed foods
Soy and soy-based products
Vegetable oil
Flaxseed
So, what should you be eating? The following foods have shown to…
While the odd beer won’t negatively impact your life, consuming too much alcohol can certainly lead to some negative effects.
Stress and anxiety
Our relationships, jobs, finances and families can add a great deal of stress to our lives, and we all deal with this in different ways. When we experience high stress for prolonged periods, this can lead to a constant stream of cortisol. This can then cause a weakened immune system, poor quality sleep and reduced testosterone levels.
Your health and wellbeing are incredibly important and should always be the main priority. Learning how to manage your stress and keep an eye out for any signs of low testosterone is also vital ahead of managing any low T and depression.
Symptoms of low testosterone include:
Loss of muscle mass
Anemia
Irritability and/or difficulty concentrating
Weight gain; particularly around the abdomen
Low sex drive
Fatigue
It is likely that there is a whole range of reasons as to why you’re stressed or anxious. Here are a few things you can try to help manage stress and low T:
Improve your diet: Eating a lower fat and higher protein diet can not only help balance out your testosterone levels, but it may help get you out of that slump too.
Good quality sleep: Sleep is vital to our hormone regulation. If you find that you’re constantly going to bed late, try winding down and settling into bed earlier to get plenty of rest.
Exercise: Even just a little exercise is great for boosting our mood. Cardio also releases endorphins, which can help reduce stress and boost T levels.
Sleep
As silly as it sounds, your sleep habits could be the reason for your low T and depression. Most of the testosterone men release in a day, as a night during sleep. So if you are not sleeping well or getting enough hours of rest at night, your T levels could be affected. Studies have shown that even just a week of bad sleep is enough to reduce your T levels by as much as 15%.
Exercise
Not moving your body and getting out of the house can be bad for your T levels and not to mention your mental wellbeing. Even a short walk in the fresh air will release those feel-good endorphins to give your mood a boost and make you feel a little lighter.
How to boost your T levels
There’s no need to suffer in silence. As well as opening up to a friend or family member about your worries or concerns, you can also look for ways to boost your T levels naturally, therefore supporting your mood and overall wellness!
Exercise more
Due to the fact that we men produce most of our testosterone when we’re asleep, it means our levels are at their highest in the morning. This may mean that if you work out in the morning, you could experience a spike in your T levels in the short term.
There may be certain exercises that are better than others at boosting T levels, but overall, any and all forms of exercise are good. The following exercises are said to give temporary boosts of testosterone.
Strength training: As this form of working out is around weight lifting and building muscle, it’s obviously the one that generates the most testosterone. Increasing your strength all over your body is great for your metabolism and to avoid injury. But if it’s upping the T you want to do, focus on lifting weights using larger muscle groups like arms, legs, chest etc.
HIIT (High-intensity interval training): This involves short bursts of activity over a certain period of time. You’ll exercise and then have a break of either the same amount of time or a little shorter and then repeat. This type of exercise is great as it really gets your heart rate going. For maximum benefit, exercise for 20 minutes to an hour.
Eat better
As we mentioned a little earlier, eating a healthy diet is essential to keep us energized for workouts, fuel for concentration, and just generally the energy for everyday life.
Eating a diet full of lean protein and low-fat options will help boost your muscle growth and keep your weight down, therefore keeping your T levels and a healthy level.
Examples of lean protein could be:
Chicken
White fish
Greek yogurt
Beans and legumes
Salmon
Eggs
Cottage cheese
We all know that we feel better when we eat better because we don’t feel sluggish and we have the motivation to exercise. This is not only great for our T levels but our mental health too.
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Ready to fight back against depression and low mood?
We totally get that life can be stressful sometimes! But that doesn’t mean you need to suffer from low mood and depression in silence. With the above tips, fighting back has never been easier.
Did you know that Testogen utilizes all-natural ingredients to safely and naturally elevate your T levels, supporting all-round male wellness and mood?
Life can be hectic and stressful, so if you’re finding yourself dragging yourself through the day or clock-watching until it’s time to slob on the sofa or go to bed, then you’re not alone.
We’re all guilty of reaching for a coffee or an energy drink to beat back tiredness, but did you know there are ways to enhance your energy levels naturally? Read on to find out about seven natural ways to combat fatigue and boost your energy levels.
Get more sleep
Yeah, we know, this sounds like a no-brainer but getting the right amount of sleep can be a gamechanger. According to the CDC, over a third of American adults don’t get the recommended seven hours of sleep each night. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine also suggests aiming for seven hours each night to avoid health conditions later in life, such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and impaired performance.
Struggling to get good quality shut-eye? Here are our top tips for healthy sleep:
Aim to go to bed roughly the same time each night and wake up approximately the same time every morning
Create the ideal sleep space that’s cool and dark, with no television or screens emitting blue light
Avoid caffeine and alcohol after lunch
Take a bath or read a book
Exercise
It might seem counterintuitive when you’re exhausted, but doing some exercise, even if it’s just a walk around your local area, can be a natural energy booster.
While it’s not entirely clear why there is a link between physical activity and a reduction in fatigue. It’s thought to be down to the rush of endorphins, as well as the sleep improvement when you’re regularly working out.
Limit your alcohol intake
There’s a reason why wine is also known as ‘sleepy juice’. That one glass with lunch could be contributing to your midday slump, and a few beers after work could be causing you to toss and turn all night.
Some people use alcohol to fall asleep, thinking that it’s good for getting in more shut-eye because it reduces the time to fall asleep. However, it disrupts your sleep and can lower the quality of your REM sleep for the night.
Stay hydrated
Did you know that one of the first symptoms of dehydration is feeling tired?
Fight back against fatigue by making sure you’re drinking enough water; the recommended amount is 13 glasses of water a day for men.
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Watch what you eat
One of our primary sources of energy is food, and the trick is to eat the right foods that keep your energy levels topped up. And to avoid processed foods which can trigger your energy levels to spike but will quickly drop, causing you to crash and feel foggy.
Choose foods with a low glycemic index (GI), foods with a low GI have sugars that our body absorbs slowly. Foods like whole grains, high-fiber vegetables, nuts, and healthy oils are all great foods with low GI.
If you feel like you’re missing out on anything, then you might want to top up your diet with vitamins, minerals, or other supplements to make sure you’re getting everything that you need.
Unlock your inner Zen master
Ok, so you might not be able to eliminate all stress from your life, but it could be contributing to your feelings of exhaustion. Take some time to yourself every day to help you clear your mind. Plus, natural energy boosters that help you clear your mind include meditation, yoga, and tai chi.
As well as increased energy levels, it could help you sleep better and improve your overall mental wellbeing.
Use Testogen
There’s another way to put a spring back in your step: boost your testosterone!
Testosterone is powerful stuff, and fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of low T levels. With higher testosterone levels in your body, you can put the spring back in your step.
Plus, enjoy a better sex life and increased muscle mass, a lower body fat percentage, a brighter outlook, and more energy in general. In other words, testosterone is one of the most potent hormones your body produces.
Low testosterone in men can cause anxiety, fatigue, and depression problems. In addition, lower T levels can make it difficult to pack on muscle, even when you’re hitting the gym regularly.
Testogen increases your body’s natural testosterone, giving you an all-natural boost that’ll really get you going. Not only is it backed by clinical studies, but it is also made with 100% natural ingredients, with zero nasty side effects.
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Man running on road. Sport and fitness runner training for marathon run doing high intensity interval training sprint workout outdoors in summer. Male athlete sports model fit and healthy aspirations.
The acronym “HIIT” is very popular in fitness circles around the globe. It stands for High-Intensity Interval Training. You perform it by alternating back and forth between levels of all-out effort and easy periods of time, also known as recovery phases.
When it comes to your testosterone and HGH levels, HIIT can do a fun little dance that can boost both. All you need is a good amount of mental strength and the willpower to put your foot on the gas.
Weight loss
Any time you have excess fat in your abdominal area, you are at greater risk for diseases like atherosclerosis, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and fatty liver disease.
That’s because this visceral fat carries with it toxins that seep into the bloodstream. Also, excess stomach fat has a direct correlation with hormones. The more you have, the less optimal function you get. This means that your test and HGH levels take a snooze.
HIIT burns a lot of fat while you work out, plus you experience another acronym called EPOC. This stands for Excess Post-exercise Oxygen Consumption. In layman’s terms, your metabolism gets elevated for 24 to 48 hours after you’re done with a session.
You then experience greater overall weight loss, your hormones come back into balance, and you get more of a testosterone and HGH release.
4-minute rule
In order to really tap into the magic of HIIT, you need to go as hard as you can during your high-intensity bursts. It doesn’t matter if this is done on a bike, while running, while using a stair machine, or while gliding on an elliptical machine. Just know that you have to “sell out,” so to speak.
Your goal is to accumulate a minimum of 4 minutes of this all-out effort. For example, start with a light 5-minute jog to warm up. Then hit the gas and go all out for 30 seconds. Come back down to a light jog for 60 seconds to recover, then hit it hard again for 30 seconds. If you repeat this cycle eight times, you’ll have your 4 minutes.
It is this point that triggers a huge release of testosterone and HGH in your body. And, as mentioned previously, this is also what triggers your metabolism to rise for hours after you’re done. So you end up with multiple benefits.
Muscle mass
Muscle is metabolically active tissue. The more you have, the higher the amount of calories you burn. Additionally, when you do HIIT, you end up building more muscle due to the test and HGH release plus the extreme nature of the exercise.
All of that comes full circle because when you gain more muscle, you can go harder and for longer. This will circle back and continue to have a positive effect on your hormones.
VO2 test
To get perfectly dialed in, you are best served by getting a VO2 test done at a sports clinic or university. You will either run on a treadmill or ride a bike to do this test and it will determine exactly what heart rate you need to achieve to hit your ideal intensity. The person running the test will give you this information.
The guesswork will then be taken out and you’ll know what to strive for when you’re putting in your 4 minutes of high-intensity effort. You can wear a heart rate monitor during your workouts and refer to it to see where your heart rate is.
Fasting
The last thing to take into consideration is fasting. When you work out on an empty stomach, the release of testosterone and HGH is probably twofold, if not higher. As a rule of thumb, anywhere from 8 to 10 hours fasted is a good range to go for. In this case, it would be best to work out first thing in the morning, as you just got done sleeping and will be energized.
Our ultimate HIIT workout to boost your T levels
There are plenty of ways to say goodbye to boring old ordinary cardio… With these HIIT workouts, you’ll be working up a good sweat in no time.
Boost your testosterone with Testogen
Testogen boosts your testosterone naturally and reverses the symptoms of low T. So you can feel better, every day. Right now if you order two bottles of Testogen you get a third absolutely free!
The basic sprint interval
One of the easiest go-to HIIT workouts around. Perfect at the gym, or in the great outdoors. Simply warm up with a 3-minute jog, then quickly rocket your pace into a sprint for 15 to 20 seconds. After that, walk or slow yourself down to a job for around a minute. Then it’s back to sprints!
Continue this pattern for 10 rounds, for a sweaty 15-minute workout.
The bike sprint
Similar to the basic sprint interval, but instead you’re going to need a stationary bike. Get ready to feel the burn in your quads and hamstrings (and of course, give those T levels a huge boost!). Get pedalling as fast as you can manage for 30 seconds, with a reasonable amount of resistance.
After 30 seconds, slow your pedalling down for one minute. Repeat for 10 to 20 rounds, depending on your fitness ability and of course, how long you plan on spending in the gym!
The battle ropes blast
An easy workout that’s difficult to get wrong! Simply grab some battle ropes and get moving. Go as aggressive as possible for 30 seconds, resting for a minute. Repeat for 10 rounds.
The hill sprint
Yep, it’s running again! But this time, on an incline. Whether it’s running on a treadmill or darting up a hill, sprinting on an incline is much easier on your joints, while preventing you from overstriding.
Find a hill (or a treadmill) and sprint for 20 to 30 seconds. Walk back down to the start or lower the treadmill and slow yourself down. Repeat for 10 rounds.
The serious sled push
Sleds are an excellent tool in the gym to improve your anaerobic conditioning. What you’re looking for here is a super-intense burst of heavy pushing, at a weight of 70 to 85% of your max pushing capacity. Get pushing, rest for 3 mins and repeat for 4 to 5 rounds.
The all-out upper body HIIT
Grab yourself some dumbbells, it’s about to get sweaty! You’ll be pretty shattered after 15 minutes of this!
Close-Grip Chest Press – 30 seconds
Close-Grip Chest Press with Crunch – 45 seconds
Renegade Rows – 30 seconds
Weighted Walkout to Renegade Row – 45 seconds
Weighted Walkout to Renegade Row to Knee Raise and Twist – 75 seconds
Squat Hold – 45 seconds
Dumbbell Over-the-Shoulder Chops – 30 seconds
Squat and Over-the-Shoulder Chops – 45 seconds
Squat Thrust and Over-the-Shoulder Chops – 75 seconds
Cooldown Stretch – 45 seconds
Close-Grip Chest Press with Crunch and Leg Lowers – 75 seconds
Squat Hold – 45 seconds
Conclusion
There are many tricks of the trade to boost your hormones when it comes to diet and supplementation. But by incorporating HIIT into your workout regime for three days a week, you can boost your efforts even more. Give it a spin and see how quickly your body responds. It’s not out of the question to see results in as little as two weeks!
For a long time now, there have been a bunch of ‘treatments’ thrown around for men suffering from low testosterone. From natural plant-based foods, to testosterone boosting exercises, the answers are endless.
However, there has been one treatment for low testosterone that has constantly hung around: testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). But it doesn’t quite end there. This is where things start to get even tricker. Since there is another type of treatment becoming increasingly more popular: HGH treatment.
But what is ‘HGH treatment’ and does it actually work?
In short, HGH stands for ‘human growth hormone’, a protein produced by the pituitary gland. So, it’s about time we took a closer look at HGH treatment and explore some more as to why so many men are heading for this last last-ditch attempt treatment to reverse low T.
Human growth hormone: What’s it all about?
Now, what is HGH all about? And how does it affect your testosterone levels?
This all-important protein is produced by the pituitary gland, signalling muscle and bone growth in the body. If you’re wondering, ‘where have I heard of HGH before?’ the chances are, you’re thinking about anabolic steroids.
While the original intention of many anabolic steroids was to treat a variety of health conditions, they have long been used in a bodybuilding setting, despite their illegal status. In recent years, however, many men have turned to HGH in an attempt to reverse the effects of low testosterone and slow down the signs of ageing.
When you’re suffering from low testosterone, it’s no surprise you’ll find yourself searching the depths of the Internet looking for answers. We all want our problems fixed yesterday, after all.
Low testosterone symptoms can differ from one guy to the next, however, they often lead to some of, if not all of the following:
Low energy levels
Loss of muscle mass
No sex drive
Erectile dysfunction (ED)
Low mood
What are the benefits of HGH treatment?
As you would expect, the whole intention of testosterone replacement therapy is to increase your testosterone levels. However, before you even contemplate HGH treatment it’s worth noting that HGH actually has very little to do with your testosterone levels.
Huh? Yep, you heard me correctly. HGH isn’t actually involved in the production of testosterone. Which, well, pretty much makes HGH treatment totally extinct. But why are so many men looking for this type of treatment?
Well, the answers are in how HGH treatment does affect your body composition. This means that while treatment may not increase your testosterone levels, it can help combat weight gain and any loss of muscle mass – as a result of low T.
When paired with testosterone replacement therapy, HGH treatment can help increase lean mass, bone mineral density and encourage fat loss in men suffering from HGH deficiency. Further research has shown that a low dosage of HGH can have a significant impact on body composition, as well as cholesterol levels. On the surface, this looks great for men suffering from the effects of low testosterone.
As with any type of treatment, there are often side effects associated. Much like anabolic steroids – often used for bodybuilding – HGH therapy can come with the following:
Joint and muscle pain
Fluid retention
Gynecomastia
Carpal tunnel syndrome
While these side effects of HGH may not occur in everyone, the risks are heightened when taken by those whose HGH levels aren’t low, to begin with. This means that men with low testosterone seeking HGH treatment as the answer to low T could be causing more damage by doing so.
Excessive HGH
If you undergo HGH therapy due to low testosterone – not low HGH – you could end up with excessive HGH instead. This, in turn, can cause a spike in blood sugar levels, which may result in insulin deficiency and diabetic symptoms, as well as high blood pressure and heart concerns.
I’m sorry to say it, guys, but there’s even more bad news. Since HGH speeds up the growth of all bodily tissues, there is also a frightening risk of quickly metastasizing cancer tumors.
Overall, I’d recommend steering clear of HGH treatment for low testosterone.
So, who should undergo HGH therapy?
Since there are some pretty scary side effects of HGH treatment, those who do use it should carefully consider this option. Of course, it is only recommended that a select number of people should take HGH:
Those with growth disorders
Men with muscle wasting due to HIV/AIDS or chemotherapy
Patients with short bowel syndrome
Patients with rare pituitary tumors
Those with brain injuries
In these circumstances, HGH medications have been approved for patient use. However, it is not uncommon for bodybuilders and athletes to take HGH with the aim of developing huge amounts of muscle mass and speeding up recovery times.
HGH treatment for low T levels: Yes or no?
Of course, there are providers who may prescribe HGH therapy for low testosterone, but without a medical need for HGH, it could be dangerous.
Plus, as we touched upon earlier, HGH actually has very little to do with your testosterone levels, and so, won’t increase your T levels as you expect. Sure, it will help combat some of the symptoms of low testosterone (such as loss of muscle mass and weight gain), but it will not increase your T levels.
Here’s how to safely increase your testosterone
Boosting your testosterone levels shouldn’t come with a bucket full of side effects and potential long term concerns.
There is another way to naturally increase your testosterone levels and reverse the symptoms of low T: Testogen.
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Many of us don’t realise the impact our hormones can have until we start to notice some differences in the way our bodies respond. It’s only then that we (may) stand up and take notice, especially if we’re struggling to build muscle.
A healthy hormone system enables us to stay in shape, carry out our daily tasks and everything in between. This includes our ability to gain muscle and hit our body goals.
It’s easy to focus all of your efforts on a combination of nutrition and training, after all, it seems like the most obvious factors to pay attention to. But this often means that hormones are overlooked when it comes to building muscle.
When in fact, several hormones play an important role in strength training, including testosterone, growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1). This combination of hormones can stimulate muscle growth and strength building. But that’s not all.
Let’s take a closer look at whether your hormones are holding back your muscle gains.
What are the key hormones in bodybuilding?
Studies have shown that hormones and influence muscle growth and strength in different ways. While some specifically focus in on promoting muscle growth, others play a vital role in the way the body uses and stores glucose – supporting your training efforts.
As we touched upon above, testosterone (the make hormones produced predominantly in the testicles) is one of the key hormones for the development of muscle mass and strength, as well as common male characteristics, such as:
Sex drive
Fat distribution
Hair growth
Deepened voice
While women have a much smaller amount of testosterone in their bodies, to men, testosterone is pretty damn important. You may have already heard of testosterone referred to as an androgenic and anabolic steroid hormone, which refers both to male characteristics (androgenic) and the growth of body tissue (anabolic).
If you’re looking to build muscle and strength and feel like your efforts in the gym aren’t delivering, it could be due to your testosterone levels. As we get older, it is totally natural for our testosterone levels to gradually decrease. Yep, gradually. You shouldn’t experience a drop in your T levels overnight – if you do notice a significant change very quickly, it’s best to seek medical advice as soon as possible.
The effects of anabolics have been sought after for some time now. For decades, bodybuilders have found help in potentially deadly anabolic steroids, which are designed to stimulate muscle growth. It comes as no surprise that any form of testosterone has been banned in competitive sports.
Growth hormone and IGF-1
IGF-1 is ultimately responsible for anabolic muscle growth – with its production stimulated by growth hormone, which is produced by the pituitary gland. Much like testosterone, the production of growth hormone starts to naturally decline as we get older.
Both of these hormones play a key role in body fat, which means that if your body is producing less growth hormone and IGF-1, the more body fat you will accumulate.
Insulin
It’s highly likely that you’ve heard about insulin before. This storage hormone is produced by the pancreas, as a response to the food you consume. When you eat, the food you consume is broken down into glucose, fatty acids, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals.
Insulin stocks the stored form of glucose, known as glycogen, in muscles and your liver. It also enables amino acids to repair damaged tissues and build muscle mass. Since the production of insulin is largely influenced by exercise and diet (especially carbs and protein), these effects are considered anabolic.
Cortisol
Cortisol or “the stress hormone” as it is frequently referred to, is produced by the adrenal glands. When our body is physically, or emotionally under stress, its release is triggered. Both hydrocortisone and cortisone are the manufactured forms of cortisol. Cortisol is a catabolic hormone, breaking down tissue.
As well as this, cortisol helps to control inflammation and make glucose available by breaking down muscle whenever your blood sugar is low.
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Glucagon
Glucagon works by pushing the liver to give up its glucose stores, which can be incredibly important, especially if you eat fast or follow a low-carb diet. If insulin is anabolic, then glucagon is catabolic.
But why are hormones so important?
As well as supporting your general health (and even your libido), hormones play a vital role in regulating your metabolism, the response that rules your energy, as well as processing the food you consume.
During a heavy session in the gym (and post-workout) your body is flooded by a range of different hormones – either anabolic (those that use energy) or catabolic (those that release it). However, the effects of these hormones only impact the muscles stimulated during your exercise.
For muscle growth, you need a higher amount of anabolic hormones than catabolic. These hormones include:
Insulin
Insulin-like growth factors (IGFs)
Growth hormone (GH)
Testosterone
Can you enhance your hormones naturally?
Growth hormone, IGF-1, testosterone, and cortisol all respond to the intensity of weight training, which means that good nutrition and exercise can influence their production.
Insulin and glucagon are also influenced by exercise and diet, often in contradiction to the anabolic hormones. While working out is important to boost your hormone levels naturally, a healthy sleep schedule and rest between exercise is just as important.
Good nutrition both before and after exercise
The type of foods you consume before, during, and post-workout can make a big difference in your training. Eating carbs before and during exercise can help minimize increases in cortisol.
Let’s put it simply: When your blood glucose supplies maintain a healthy level, cortisol does not need to be released and your muscle tissues won’t get burned up.
If you’re worried about low testosterone affecting your muscle growth, exercise can actually work to increase your T levels. Once exercise stops, testosterone will invariably drop as cortisone levels rise. To alleviate this effect, you need to eat protein post-workout to balance the testosterone-to-cortisone ratio in your bloodstream.
Before: Consume 20 grams of easily digested protein up to 45 minutes pre-workout
During: Sip a sports drink during workouts, especially if you go beyond an hour of exercise
After: Within 30 minutes post-workout, consume another 20 grams of protein with around 40 grams of carbs
It is important to consider not only what you are eating, but also when. For best results, recommend:
Eating fewer carbs, as this can increase your growth hormone
Eating carbs pre-workout or during your workout to minimize cortisol levels
Fasting – when done safely, this can increase GH levels
Eating protein post-workout to help keep your T levels topped up
Keeping your carb-protein ratio at approximately 3:1 after a heavy workout
Keeping all nutrition balanced
Workout strategies and healthy hormones – How to maximize muscle growth
High-intensity workout sessions raise testosterone, GH, and IGF-1 levels but also promotes spikes in cortisol. During endurance training, try to rest for 3 to 5 minutes in between sets. This stimulates T production and helps you to perform better once your body has had ample time to recover.
That means that those who are eager to build muscle should rest for 3 to 5 minutes between sets rather than the usual 1 to 2 mins usually recommended in regular fitness plans.
Sleep is also important! You should always try to get a good night’s rest and stick to a sleep schedule, as not only will you feel well-rested and ready to combat the gym, but your GH levels are stimulated during deep sleep.
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There are many things in life that can impact our testosterone levels. Throughout life, your sex drive can also change, especially as you get older.
Whether it’s natural ageing, medication or even lifestyle changes affecting your sex drive, you don’t need to suffer in silence. A flagging libido doesn’t have to be your new way of life, oh no!
This is where a testosterone supplement comes in. Boosting more than your sex drive, testosterone boosters can also improve sperm production, muscle mass, bone density and even your energy levels. Since testosterone plays such a huge role in a guy’s body, when your T levels take a dip, it can be incredibly noticeable in the bedroom – and beyond.
Testosterone is super important for any man, after all, it’s what makes us… Well, men.
At a young age, testosterone is responsible for deepening our voices, hair and muscle growth and rocketing our sex drive. So, naturally, as we get older, those all-important T levels can start to gradually decline.
If you feel as though you’re experiencing less interest in sex, aren’t up to your usual (high!) standards in the bedroom or are lacking energy, it may be time to find testosterone pills to reignite your libido.
But before you decide which testosterone supplement is for you, here’s a little more info!
Why is testosterone so important?
Testosterone is a primary sex hormone, responsible for the maturity of sex organs. While both men and women produce testosterone, men make much more (of course).
Through our teen years, a spike in testosterone is pretty noticeable, causing your voice to drop, increased body and facial hair and muscle growth. It also plays a crucial role in sperm production.
Each day, your T levels can vary, usually with a peak in the morning. Much like how testosterone varies daily, it can also fluctuate across your lifetime, with a gradual decline of around 1 to 2% after the age of 30.
As a result of this gradual decline, you may start to notice a lack of sex drive, erections that aren’t quite as firm as they were previously, as well as softer muscle tone.
While it is totally natural for your testosterone levels to drop as you get older (don’t worry!), there are several other causes of low testosterone, including:
HIV or AIDS
Testicular tumors
Injury to the testicles
Cancer treatments
Pituitary disorders
Inflammatory diseases
Testosterone boosters
When the body is unable to produce enough testosterone naturally, the condition Hypogonadism is usually mentioned – with many men immediately thinking the worst.
Although Hypogonadism means that your sex glands produce very little (or no) sex hormones – aka, testosterone – there are ways to kickstart production once again.
Some of which, can be lifestyle changes – which we’ll discuss a little more below. While the other option that can deliver faster results is a testosterone supplement.
But are testosterone pills worth it? Do testosterone boosters work, really?
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Do testosterone boosters work?
While the Internet is filled with hundreds, if not thousands, of different websites claiming to sell the one and only testosterone supplement or testosterone pills, there is proof behind (some of!) these natural testosterone boosters.
For example, Testogen – an all-natural, safe testosterone supplement – has been carefully formulated with natural ingredients that have been backed by science. We don’t believe in “secret” fillers and ingredients, we only use thoroughly researched ingredients that are backed by credible scientific data.
We’re totally transparent about what goes into Testogen, so you can rest assured you’re receiving the perfect dose of powerful, natural ingredients in our testosterone supplement.
However, although we’re upfront about what Testogen testosterone boosters include, be warned, many testosterone boosters and testosterone pills online are based on junk science with zero research.
Testosterone booster side effects
Low testosterone is a common concern for many men, with plenty turning to drastic measures in order to increase their testosterone levels.
Whether it’s unsafe testosterone boosters found online or another untested strategy, consuming and using unreliable and unapproved testosterone pills and boosters can lead to side effects.
Heart and prostate risks
As we mentioned above, opting for untested and unapproved testosterone pills is undoubtedly going to come with a variety of health risks.
Research has shown that testosterone gel in men over the age of 65 resulted in increased heart problems. While further research discovered that testosterone replacement therapy may increase prostate cancer risks and cardiac concerns.
Nevertheless, there are contradictory findings across the board when researching and trialling testosterone boosters and testosterone pills.
Other testosterone booster side effects
When digging a little deeper into the popular question, ‘do testosterone boosters work?’ we quickly found that testosterone therapy in itself raised a number of potential side effects.
As well as potentially putting your heart and prostate at risk, there are also a number of other testosterone booster side effects associated with testosterone therapy:
Sleep apnea
Increased acne
Enlarged breasts
Testicular shrinkage
What else could be affecting your sex drive?
Although low testosterone is typically the main cause for men with a flagging libido, there are other potential causes.
These psychological causes can contribute towards a low libido, including:
Stress
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship problems
There are also a number of physical causes which can cause your sex drive to take a hit, including:
Starting/changing medications, especially beta-blockers, antidepressants and opiates
Being overweight
Having a chronic illness
Natural ways to boost your testosterone
If you’re struggling with low testosterone, it can feel like an uphill battle trying to increase your T levels. But it doesn’t have to be! Thankfully, there are a number of natural ways to boost your testosterone, which you can get started on right away:
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Although there are plenty of risks associated with untested and unapproved testosterone boosters and pills, you can rest assured that Testogen’s 100% natural ingredients will deliver all the benefits – with ZERO side effects.
Yep, that’s right, with just four capsules a day you can safely increase your testosterone levels and improve your energy, performance, sex drive, fat loss and even muscle growth.
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Many of us understand how important our testosterone levels are in the first place, since this crucial hormone is linked with your sex drive, overall wellbeing and even your energy levels.
In fitness circles, whey protein and testosterone are frequently discussed. However, not often in the form of how one affects the other.
We take a closer look at the relationship between whey protein and testosterone, seeking the answer to the common question: Does whey protein increase testosterone?
Whey protein and testosterone
If you’re asking, ‘does whey protein boost testosterone?’ you’ve come to the right place. But first, let’s take a look at the relationship between whey protein and testosterone.
Every day we’re told to eat well and exercise regularly. For those keen to stay fit, build muscle and eat well – protein is a big factor. But is all that protein good (or bad!) for your testosterone levels?
Well, I think it’s fair to say there’s plenty of room for further research. During high-intensity exercise, your T levels can be temporarily increased – however, studies have shown that that increase may be stunted by the consumption of protein pre-workout or even after.
But… Not always.
So, what’s the deal? Should you be cramming as much protein into your diet as possible?
Just to add further confusion to the mix, studies have shown that high protein diets have the potential to lower resting levels of circulating testosterone. Meanwhile, others studies have shown that protein can increase this testosterone availability.
Previously, the potential for protein to decrease testosterone has been a big concern for many men. However, newer research has begun to paint a different picture.
Does protein increase testosterone?
What you eat can have a huge impact on your testosterone (and other hormones!) levels. Paying close attention to your calorie intake in the long term can affect your overall health, as well as your T levels.
Whether it’s constant dieting or over-indulging, both can cause havoc with your body’s natural testosterone production. In a roundabout way, eating enough protein can help your body to maintain healthy T levels.
If you’re at the heavier end of the scales, a healthy diet with a steady protein intake can aid weight loss – which in turn, can help increase your testosterone.
Does whey protein boost testosterone?
As mentioned previously, there is definitely room for further research. However, whey protein and testosterone have been linked in a positive way.
If you’re wondering, does whey protein increase testosterone, the answer is that whey protein can increase the uptake of testosterone. This means that your all-important T can be carried faster from your blood towards exercised muscles. This increase in testosterone concentrations could stimulate the production of more androgen receptors.
So, does whey protein increase testosterone? Well, over time, this increase in androgen receptors could be beneficial. In the long term, your muscles could become more sensitive to the presence of androgens, therefore requiring less protein – all while your body utilises every ounce of free T.
The problem is, there is no guaranteed result when it comes to whey protein and testosterone. While maintaining healthy testosterone levels is important, specific types of protein could potentially increase total testosterone while lowering circulating levels of T.
But what does that really mean?
Well, the protein itself isn’t reducing production, however, it is nudging that circulating testosterone to be removed from the bloodstream and enter all-important cells. So, really, it’s doing a great job in moving your T to places it is required.
But let’s go back to research. A study on rodents founds that whey protein and testosterone go hand in hand, after exercise. After receiving 500 milligrams of whey protein, researchers found a 90.5% increase in the intracellular concentration of testosterone within the muscle exercised. That’s huge!
The rodents during this study were also given 54 milligrams of leucine – with researchers finding that leucine alone caused a non-significant decrease in intracellular testosterone.
Whey protein side effects for men
Whey protein and testosterone can be a tricky area to look into yourself if you’re seeking ways to increase your T levels – or up your game in the gym. Many of us use whey protein for supporting weight loss, lowering cholesterol, lowering blood pressure and even for asthmas.
But, like anything, what about whey protein side effects for men?
While in moderate doses you’re unlikely to have any side effects (unless, of course, you’re allergic to whey), in very high doses you may experience the following:
Feeling fatigued
Nausea
Headaches
Stomach pains and cramps
Decrease in appetite
If you decide to use consistently high doses of whey protein, you may also break out in acne. For your own knowledge, there are three primary types of whey protein.
Whey protein concentrate – This concentrated form contains low levels of fat and carbohydrates. The lower end of this form can have around 30% protein, up to 90%
Whey protein isolate – This type of whey protein is processed further to remove all fat and lactose
Whey protein hydrolysate – Considered the “predigested” form, as it doesn’t require as much digestion as the above forms
Whey protein and estrogen
A common question regarding whey protein is actually less about whey protein and testosterone and more about whey protein and estrogen.
Since whey protein is made from cow’s milk, it’s not uncommon for a small amount of estrogen to be found since it is naturally found in cow’s milk. Whey protein and estrogen are closely linked due to this, however, levels of estrogen are very low. In other powders, such as soy, estrogen is a lot higher.
While testosterone is considered ‘the male hormone’ and estrogen, ‘the female hormone’, both are found in men and women. Of course, T levels are a lot lower in women, and the same for estrogen in men.
Studies suggest that whey protein may lower estrogen production, however, the small quantities of estrogen found in whey protein (combined with whey’s effects on digestion) could potentially have a negative impact on estrogen. Point of note: The study was conduction with men.
In terms of whey protein’s impact on the digestive system, it could potentially contribute towards high estrogen levels due to heavy metal and BPA found in some commercial protein powders.
The trouble digesting whey protein could also lead to disruption in your body’s ability to regulate estrogen production and inflammation in the gut.
Whey protein and testosterone: Should you skip shakes?
While there’s plenty of space for further investigation, whey protein and testosterone raises some interesting potential!
If you’re a fan of whey protein shakes, we don’t see any reason why you should skip it for fear of lowering your testosterone. When in fact, protein could be increasing your T levels!
Following an active lifestyle, a high protein diet and adding plenty of strength training into your regime can increase your testosterone levels – so get stuck in!
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Unless time decides to stand still, we’re all going to natural age (sorry!). Alongside ageing comes a number of things that can happen to your body – many of which are less than ideal.
For us guys, we start to notice a gradual decrease in testosterone after the age of 30. This isn’t something that happens overnight, nor should it be a significant decrease in a short amount of time! However, with testosterone levels dropping by around 1% each year, noticeable changes start to happen.
These effects include feeling fatigued, a loss in strength, a decrease in muscle mass, and even a lack of sex drive. Let’s be honest, we’d rather avoid all of these things.
It’s totally natural to turn to the Internet for solutions, seeking ways to increase your testosterone levels and get your libido back with the need for testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). During your sweep of the Internet, you’ll undoubtedly come across natural testosterone boosters and natural prohormones.
But wait, what’s the differences? Let’s talk prohormone vs testosterone boosters.
What are testosterone boosters?
Testosterone boosters or ‘test boosters’ are typically created using an all-natural formula, utilising herbs and botanicals to boost your testosterone levels. By increasing your T levels, it helps to reduce the common side effects of low T – helping you gain strength, muscle, energy and get your sex drive back.
Testosterone boosters typically work in two ways. One, by directly boosting your testosterone levels – as we mentioned above. And two, by limiting the hormones responsible for converting your T to estrogen.
Of course, much like women having small amounts of testosterone in their bodies, us men have some estrogen in ours. But keeping your estrogen (and testosterone) levels steady is crucial to avoid losing muscle and strength, or developing gynecomastia (man boobs).
When it comes to choosing the right test booster, many will do both of these things, helping to raise your T levels and block the conversion of too much estrogen.
Put simply, test boosters aren’t necessarily replacers, but hormone influencers. Many testosterone boosters work in several ways to boost your T:
By helping to stimulate the brain into signalling the testes to produce more testosterone
Decrease the level of testosterone that is converted into estrogen through aromatization
Steadies how much T is consumed by SHBG in your blood
What’s a prohormone?
Much like testosterone boosters, prohormones aren’t testosterone, but they are a non-active hormone that acts as a precursor to T. Once ingested, a prohormone works to convert to a target hormone through a specific conversion process.
However, unlike testosterone boosters, prohormones are made synthetically in labs which is why they are frequently associated with illegal anabolic steroids.
You may have heard the term ‘andros’ before now, which is a group of supplemental drugs – including:
Androstenedione
Androstenediol
Norandrostenedione
Norandrostenediol
But wait, how do prohormones work?
Instead of boosting your body’s natural testosterone levels, prohormones add hormones to your body by converting inactive hormones to active once ingested. This means that these hormones may already exist, but at lower levels than what’s required.
So, what’s the difference? It’s time for prohormones vs testosterone boosters.
Prohormones vs Test booster
So, who comes out top when it’s prohormones vs testosterone boosters?
Here are the main differences.
A testosterone booster stimulates your body to naturally increases its production of testosterone. It doesn’t add to your T levels, but simply encourage them while limiting testosterone’s conversion into estrogen.
While prohormones add hormones to your body, seeking out inactive hormones and converting them to active ones. While these hormones already exist naturally in your system, a prohome requires adding more hormones – in comparison to a test booster which raises your existing levels.
Prohormones vs testosterone: Which is the most effective?
There are plenty of natural ingredients that can act as a natural prohormone or test booster – having a huge impact on your T levels. These include:
Zinc – which plays a crucial role in your testosterone production. Even a mild deficiency can cause havoc with your T levels.
Vitamin D3 – Studies have shown that vitamin D3 can have a huge impact on your testosterone levels, boosting free T levels of men by around 20.27%.
D-aspartic acid – This amino acid is great at boosting your T, both elevating your existing testosterone levels and signalling further T production.
These and many others (listed below) are frequently found in natural testosterone boosters and natural prohormones. Other natural ingredients include:
Fenugreek extract
Korean red ginseng extract
Boron
Nettle leaf extract
Magnesium
Vitamin B6
Vitamin K1
This leads us to believe that a natural prohormone or natural testosterone booster can be relatively equally matched.
However, since most testosterone boosters are formulated with natural ingredients (when compared to predominantly synthetic prohomones) – test boosters come out top!
Side effects of prohormones
While there can be pros and cons to the many different types of prohormones on the market, it’s important to know what you’re letting yourself in for.
While you may (we can’t promise for sure!) experience an increase in testosterone with synthetic made prohormones, many men experience the following side effects:
Acne
Headaches
Feeling dizzy
Water retention
Low sex drive
Mood swings
Suppression
Gynecomastia (man boobs)
High blood pressure
Hepatotoxicity
While prohormones have become increasingly popular in bodybuilding circles, these type of androgens – may do more harm than good to your body in the long run.
However, if you’re looking for a ‘natural prohormone’ or natural testosterone booster, it’s worth noting that not all natural ingredients necessarily benefit your T levels. Here are some to avoid:
Saw palmetto
Ashwaganda
Maca root
Horny goat weed
Bulbine natalensis
Longjack
While there may not be extensive research to dispute the use of these main herbs and chemical compounds, there are studies that suggest they don’t work or may be unsafe.
Are prohormones backed by research?
Since prohormones are linked to anabolic steroids, research frequently disputes their safety and highlights the potential side effects.
Although some claim to be a ‘natural prohormone’, many are very much the same in terms of ingredients and require post cycle therapy (PCT) much like typical illegal steroids. PCT is usually required after a cycle of steroids – such as Dianabol – since these steroids can suppress your body’s natural production of testosterone.
So, are these types of prohormones worth it? Nope. While the intention of prohormones is to increase your testosterone levels and inhibit the conversion of T to estrogen, then having to follow it up with PCT can be draining and a health concern.
We’d always recommend a natural testosterone booster, that naturally increases your existing T levels.
Does a natural prohormone/test booster exist?
Of course, it does! However, it’s important to do your research to ensure you’re not buying a synthetic prohormone that claims to be natural.
Enter Testogen. Our scientifically-backed ingredients combine 100% natural and safe ingredients to naturally boost your testosterone levels and reverse the symptoms of low T.
Say goodbye to that flagging libido and decrease in muscle mass, and get used to improved energy, stamina, muscle growth and a sex drive beyond your wildest dreams.
There are many foods, herbs and nutrients backed by men looking to boost their testosterone and support their health. One of which is the Damiana leaf.
This Central American herb has been around for many, many years, frequently used in tribal medicine. However, if we’re being totally honest, there isn’t much around to support its claims.
When it comes to scientific research, there are few studies to show the true Damiana benefits for men. But of course, we’re here to take a look for ourselves.
What is Damiana?
A popular American herb, Damiana – or Turnera diffusa – is most commonly used for stomach problems and other minor health complaints. As well as being used as an aphrodisiac to increase your libido and testosterone levels.
It’s claimed that Damiana contains chemicals that may affect the brain and nervous system. Studies that take a closer look at Damiana benefits solely rely on lab rats, however, leaving us scratching our heads over Damian benefits for men.
When the Damiana herb has been examined in relation to people, sadly, we’ve only uncovered studies that research Damiana mixed with other herbs. Hmm! But let’s look a little closer into how Damiana and testosterone may work together…
Hormones and your sex drive
While testosterone is the most significant male sex hormone, there are a variety of bodily processes that can affect your sex drive.
Our bodies work in wonderful ways, but if something goes out of alignment, your libido may take a hit. Since testosterone is the main driver of your libido, if you suffer from low T, you could suffer from sexual dysfunction.
Damiana and testosterone have been associated with one another for some time now. Since it is considered an ancient aphrodisiac, it is relied upon by some who feel it has testosterone boosting effects.
Damiana effects on testosterone
As we mentioned previously, Damiana’s effects on testosterone has plenty of room for further research. However, we did uncover one study in particular. In said study, of 78 men suffering from sexual dysfunction, no change in testosterone levels were recorded.
With a lack of research on Damiana effects on testosterone and how it may benefit male health, we’re led to believe that it’s quite simply, a herb… With no impact on your T levels, especially when used individually.
During research, Damiana was found to be both anti-estrogenic and estrogenic at the same time. Although that doesn’t quite match up!
An anti-estrogenic are usually considered a class of drugs that prevent estrogens, commonly used in breast cancer treatment. But while it’s also estrogenic, using Damiana could result in men developing estrogen and feminine characteristics. A little puzzling if you ask us!
Aromatization and Damiana
As we age, our T levels can naturally begin to decrease. While this isn’t a sudden drop overnight, it can make an impact on your energy levels, sex drive and much more. This can make it difficult to balance androgen and estrogen in your body – and as we get older, more of your available T converts to estrogen. This process is called aromatization.
If your testosterone levels have a significant drop, you’ll suffer physically – losing a certain amount of strength, muscle mass and energy. As well as notice a dent in your libido.
Aromatase inhibitors are commonly used to boost and maintain your testosterone levels. When it comes to Damiana effects on testosterone, it features two compounds with anti-aromatase properties:
Pincocembrin – An antioxidant flavanone. This will help you to regulate your energy levels and is usually found in honey, marjoram and ginger root. T levels aside, it has been used to treat strokes and other health conditions.
Acacetin – Another antioxidant with similar anti-aromatase properties. This can also be found in silver birch and black locust trees, as well as Damiana. Typically used during post cycle therapy (PCT) after a steroid cycle.
Does Damiana work?
If you’re wondering, how long does Damiana take to work, firstly, we should be questioning whether Damiana works at all.
When we’ve dug a little deeper, some research found has focused on women with low sex drive – not quite the Damiana effects on testosterone we were looking for.
However, one study examining male rats proved that Damiana benefits for men included therapeutic properties on sexual dysfunction. Although, during the study, researchers weren’t solely examining Damiana effects on testosterone, and instead were combining Damiana with Yohimbine.
So, could Damiana have benefits for men? Potentially. But since there is little research behind this well-known herb, its true effects are pretty unknown.
When frequently paired with the likes of Yohimbine – commonly found in dietary supplements – it can be difficult to determine Damiana’s effects on testosterone alone.
Naturally boosting your testosterone
When talking about male health, there are many lifestyle factors that can impact your sex drive and your T levels. Since your hormones tell your body how to respond to many things, when the amount of certain hormones change in your body, it can have a dramatic effect.
Some foods can have a negative impact on your testosterone, including:
Soy products
Licorice root
Alcohol
Processed foods
Mint
Flaxseeds
Nuts
While a small amount of these foods in your diet isn’t going to turn your T levels upside down, understanding the impact of processed foods and excessive alcohol consumption is still pretty important!
Following a healthy lifestyle will benefit your mind and body in many ways, including your testosterone production.
Is there an alternative to Damiana out there?
Testogen is a 100% safe and natural testosterone booster, improving muscle growth, energy levels, performance, fat loss and your libido.
We don’t believe in packing hidden or “secret” fillers into our products, which is why we only use natural ingredients backed by clinical studies. Inside Testogen, you’ll find ingredients such as magnesium, fenugreek extract and vitamin D3.
Testogen is a complete testosterone support for male health and wellness, improving your performance in the gym and in the bedroom.
Conclusion
Sadly, there is little research into Damiana effects on testosterone and how it may benefit men.
Since there is so much room for further studies, if you are considering trying Damiana to boost your T levels, we’d strongly recommend you redirect your focus towards clinically backed natural ingredients.
Without trialling Damiana on its own to fully understand how Damiana and testosterone may work together, there is currently no clinical evidence to base this theory on.
While steroids are no new kid on the block, performance-enhancing drugs have risen in popularity in recent years. Today, they are very much the norm amongst bodybuilders, gym-goers and athletes looking to perform at the top of their game.
However, one particular chemical compound has begun to gain traction – known as prohormones. But what are prohormones?
Commonly referred to as over the counter androgens, many manufacturers claim that these muscle-building legal prohormone supplements can help you shred fat and build muscle.
Many gym-goers are looking for a quick and easy way to lose weight and build muscle. But, instead of sticking to a strict diet and fitness regime, they opt for steroids and supplements geared towards boosting performance and muscle size. Sadly, this quick fix has become the popular go-to in comparison to physiological effort and motivation to build muscle and get fit.
However, that’s not all. Many feel the pressure to perform in competitions, believing that steroids and apparently legal prohormones are the only way.
What are prohormones?
A common compound of illegal steroids, prohormones are a chemical compound designed to help sportsmen and women improve their physical performance and build muscle mass.
Pretty similar to popular steroids, prohormones have the benefit of helping bodybuilders shift their body composition within a relatively small timeframe. For those looking to cut body fat percentage and stack themselves with muscle, these compounds become incredibly tempting.
But what are prohormones and how do they work?
When taken, these compounds are converted by the body into anabolic hormones. These hormones help stimulate the body to grow muscle and generate protein synthesis.
However, the results of taking prohormones don’t last forever. In fact, they’re pretty temporary and come with a price. While the results may be tempting enough to consume them, prohormones can skyrocket your testosterone levels, leading to side effects similar to anabolic steroids – which FYI, are totally illegal.
Are prohormones legal?
Due to the nature of prohormones, many athletic associations have banned them entirely. If you are competing and required to undergo drug testing, you could easily test positive for drugs – according to what they deem illegal for athletes.
The world of steroids and supplements can be a daunting one. Especially when some manufacturers add prohormone mixtures without full disclosure. But how can that be right?
This is due to the way that the Federal Food & Drug Administration (FDA) regulates dietary supplements differently from other food and drugs. The manufacturers themselves are responsible for their evaluation – when it comes to the safety and labelling of products.
The history of prohormones
Back in 1996, prohormones were a new and exciting possibility for many athletes looking to up their game.
At the time, it wasn’t uncommon for sports superstars to take legal prohormones. Many became caught up in steroid scandals, changing the sports industry.
However, it took some time for the law to really get involved, when media attention got too much to ignore – In 2004 all prohormones became illegal, forming the Anabolic Steroid Control Act of 2004.
This law considered prohormones to be the same as illegal steroids that had previously ripped through professional sports. But that wasn’t the end for prohormones! Just a year later, manufacturers found a workaround to create ‘legal’ prohormones.
Do prohormones work?
While many sports stars have backed prohormones in the past, there are a variety of studios that both back their effectiveness and claim them totally ineffective.
For example…
Prohormones for physical performance
For many athletes, the opportunity to improve physical performance makes taking the likes of prohormones worthwhile. Studies have shown that prohormones may lead to anabolic/physical performance effects, however, their effects have been deemed not worth it.
The trouble is, like any steroid or illegal supplement, there are always side effects and room for complications. Orally ingesting prohormones (greater or equal to 200 milligrams daily) may increase testosterone, but also increases estrogen. In men, this can lead to dreaded man boobs – the complete opposite of your body goals!
When sportsmen and women were unsure on the dosage, taking an amount greater than 300 milligrams per day for a 12 week period has shown to have no positive effects on performance, and instead, cause a decrease in lipoprotein cholesterol.
But what is high density liporotein?
While we all hear about cholesterol in a negative way, some cholesterol is considered ‘good’ – one of which is high density lipoprotein. This type of cholesterol works to remove fat from the artery walls, lowering your risk of heart disease.
Prohormones for resistance training
To further examine the effectiveness (or ineffectiveness!) of prohormones, research has looked into the effects of serum testosterone and the changes in resistance training in men taking prohormones.
During the study, researchers analysed changes in T levels, estrogen, muscle fiber, body composition, muscle strength, blood lipids and liver function. During this research, there was no significant increase in lean body mass and decreases in fat mass – however, lipoprotein cholesterol was reduced after just two weeks.
To summarise: Research showed that prohormones gave no enhancements, and instead may result in negative health effects.
Prohormones for medicinal reasons
One study into secondary hyperparathyroidism (caused by a declining renal function in chronic kidney disease) showed that prohormones resulted in limited efficacy in later stages of the disease.
However, success with prohormones was only present in those at the early stages of the disease.
What are the side effects of prohormones?
Although some legal prohormone alternatives do exist, many return to the original prohormones for their desired results. Sadly, these can have devastating side effects.
While the body’s response to prohormones can differ from one person to another, there can be long term side effects of prohormones.
To keep yourself safe, avoid them altogether and avoid all side effects of prohormones. Otherwise, you could be quickly experiencing side effects similar to illegal steroids.
Here are some prohormones side effects to look out for:
Insomnia
Increased anxiety
Fatigue
Increased heart rate
Nausea
Acne
Headaches
Hair loss
Testicular shrinkage
Aggressive behavior
Stomach pain
Breast tissue growth (man boobs)
Lack of motivation
Increased or decreased sex drive
Significant mood swings
But what are the long term side effects of prohormones?
Well, these you’ll definitely want to avoid. Since some prohormones side effects can include cardiovascular concerns, such as heart attack and strokes, liver and other organ damage, lowered immune system, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels.
Since there are so many prohormones side effects, who should avoid them?
With little extensive research into these over the counter supplements, their impact on the body is simply – not worth it.
So, who should avoid prohormones? Everyone. But these categories, in particular, should really avoid using them:
Those who want to lose weight
People are who breastfeeding
Anyone under the age of 18
Women who are pregnant, or trying to get pregnant
Who should use prohormones?
Since prohormones are an illegal type of steroid, we’d recommend avoiding them altogether. With little research to back them and their ‘legal’ counterparts that have found a workaround the law, the ability to understand their benefit is tricky business.
With little research identifying prohormones as making a positive impact on muscle mass, opting for a well-structured workout regime and healthy diet will benefit you far more.
Consider adding high intensity weight training into your workouts, as well as bodyweight exercises at least two days each week. While the pandemic has had many of us sitting down far, far longer, gradually increasing the intensity of your workouts will benefit you greatly.
Try a legal, safe and side effect-free alternative
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With just four capsules a day, TestoGen naturally increases your testosterone levels, boosting your energy and maximising your workouts. Why opt for dangerous and unpredictable prohormones, when you can choose a natural alternative that really works?
Improve your energy, libido, fitness levels and muscle growth, all in one, with no sign of dreaded man boobs and horrid side effects.
