Boosting testosterone naturally can have a positive impact on muscle strength, body composition, mood and self image. Here are some of the best ways to increase testosterone levels naturally:
Exercise Regularly: Particularly, strength training and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) have been shown to boost testosterone levels.
Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on whole foods with a balanced macronutrient profile—sufficient healthy fats, proteins, and carbs. Diets with a high proportion of monounsaturated and saturated fats have been linked to higher testosterone levels.
Get Enough Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night, as poor sleep can significantly lower testosterone levels. Depending on your own physiology, the needs vary. I feel 100% with 7 hours.
Manage Stress: Chronic stress elevates cortisol levels, which can inversely affect testosterone. Activities like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and regular leisure activities can help manage stress.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Overweight and obesity are associated with lower testosterone levels. Losing excess weight can help increase testosterone, not to mention a plethora of other health benefits.
Avoid Alcohol and Drugs: Excessive alcohol consumption and drug use can decrease testosterone levels and depress natural hormone production, so it's best to limit or avoid these substances. Save for special occasions.
Get Some Sun or Take Vitamin D Supplements: Letting direct sunlight contact face and chest can increase Vitamin D in the system and is linked to higher testosterone levels and better overall health. Vitamin D and K supplements are readily available as well.
Consume Plenty of Zinc: Zinc is essential for testosterone production, and supplementing with it can help if you have a deficiency. Eating foods high in zinc is of course another good solution.
Limit Exposure to BPA and Other Endocrine Disruptors: These can be found in certain plastics, and can mimic estrogen in your body, potentially affecting testosterone levels.
Stay Active: A sedentary lifestyle is associated with lower testosterone levels, so staying active and getting fresh air through general daily activity can help. Even a 20 min walk per day after eating can do wonders for digestion and stress levels.
Avoid Estrogen-like Compounds: Products that contain parabens and certain other chemicals can have estrogen-like effects, so choose personal care products carefully.
If you have any further questions about foods to consume and training advice for specific goals, I offer online services for both. #staygold