Testosterone boosters are products that are known to boost testosterone levels in men.
Your testosterone levels tend to decrease with age.
However, there are supplements that might help you regain your testosterone levels.
This article will explore the types, benefits, and side effects of testosterone boosters for men.
Types of testosterone boosters for men
Testosterone boosters are supplements used by many men to overcome low testosterone symptoms, such as depressed mood, decreased energy levels, and low libido.
If you are experiencing low testosterone levels, several testosterone boosters are available to help you regain your testosterone levels to normal.
Apart from supplements, other testosterone boosters, such as Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT), are used to treat low testosterone in men.
It comprises testosterone gels, pellets, testosterone injections, and testosterone pills that are generally prescribed by doctors.
TRT may enhance heart health, bone density, strength, and muscle mass.
It may also boost libido and energy levels.
Testosterone booster supplements frequently contain vitamins, minerals, and plant extracts that may have qualities that boost testosterone.
While TRT has been scientifically approved, other supplements are not clinically tested or approved by the FDA or other regulatory authorities.
Hence, their safety and effectiveness can not be guaranteed.
Testosterone herbal supplements
Source: ildipappSupplements for boosting testosterone levels mainly consist of vitamins and ingredients like Tribulus Terrestris, Fenugreek, Zinc, Maca, and Ashwagandha.
A randomized controlled trial published by NIH suggests that Vitamin D supplementation may aid in boosting testosterone.
Additionally, an American Journal of Men’s Health (AJMH) study found taking Ashwagandha extract for 8 weeks helped increase testosterone levels.
However, the research findings on the effects of fenugreek, zinc, and Maca on testosterone are inconsistent and unclear.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved TRT for males who wish to treat low testosterone.
TRT can be administered in the form of gels, pellets, oral pills, and injections.
However, one needs a valid prescription from a certified doctor to purchase these different forms of TRT.
Testosterone injection is a cheap and popular option for boosting testosterone levels.
The shot is injected into the muscles to deliver testosterone into the body.
Depending on the patient’s need, the treatment’s dose and frequency may change.
A testosterone gel is applied to the clean skin of the shoulders, upper arms, and belly.
The hormone is then absorbed by the skin and into the bloodstream.
But for at least six hours following application, people who use topical therapies must be careful to prevent skin-to-skin contact with others.
The recommended daily dose for topical gels ranges from 40 to 100 mg, depending on the product.
Testosterone pellets are usually inserted under the skin of the buttock or upper hip.
The pellets disintegrate gradually and can administer TRT for three to six months.
Testosterone pills, when ingested, are transported to the circulation via the digestive system.
According to the patient’s requirements, the tablets are frequently recommended in particular amounts to assist in controlling the symptoms of low testosterone.
Ashwagandha can aid in boosting testosterone levels in men. Read our article: Unlocking the Potential: Does Ashwagandha Increase Testosterone Levels? to know more.
Benefits of testosterone boosters
Taking testosterone boosters may provide the following benefits when consumed appropriately by people with low testosterone:
- Improved energy levels
- Increased muscle mass
- Enhanced bone strength
- Better weight management
- Increased libido and sexual function
However, since there isn’t enough research on testosterone boosters, it’s crucial to consult your doctor before including any new vitamins or supplements into your regimen.
Risks associated with testosterone boosters
Source: pixelshotTestosterone boosters, besides being effective in treating low testosterone symptoms in males, may also have potential health risks.
Although the FDA had approved TRT as a prescribed method to cure low testosterone, it can cause the following side effects:
- Sleeping issues like Sleep Apnea
- Acne
- Increased count of red blood cells
- High prostate-specific antigen levels
- Male pattern hair loss
- Increased risk of heart problems or stroke
Moreover, many products that promise to increase testosterone levels include vitamins, minerals, and herbal remedies that might interfere with specific medicines.
For instance, ashwagandha may interact with thyroid treatments, sedatives, and medications for Diabetes, high blood pressure, and seizures.
It is challenging to determine how safe and effective supplements are since the FDA does not regulate them to the same standards as TRT.
If you’re planning on including a testosterone booster into your daily routine, talk to your doctor first to discover which supplement will work best for you.
Conclusion
Testosterone boosters for men are available in the form of herbal supplements and TRT.
However, their efficacy may differ depending on the booster type and the individual.
TRT, on the one hand, involves prescription medication in the form of gels, pellets, injections, and pills, but it can lead to some side effects.
On the other hand, to support the use of testosterone supplements containing plant extract and vitamins, further study is required.
Since the FDA does not regulate these substances and there is little proof that they work to raise testosterone levels, their safety and efficacy can not be guaranteed.
Hence, a doctor should always be consulted before beginning a new medication or dietary supplement to increase testosterone levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can testosterone be boosted naturally without any supplements?
Yes, several natural ways are there to boost your testosterone levels without consuming supplements.
These include dietary changes, regular exercise, stress reduction, and proper sleep.
Are testosterone boosters worth the money?
If you’re suffering from low testosterone symptoms like reduced libido or diminished muscle mass, it could be worth adding a testosterone booster to your regimen.
However, it is essential to consult with your doctor first to know whether you require a testosterone booster or not.
Do testosterone boosters really work?
Testosterone boosters are prescription and non-prescription products that claim to increase testosterone levels in the body and overcome low testosterone symptoms.
However, there is insufficient proof that these supplements work.
Can Fenugreek raise testosterone levels?
Yes, Fenugreek in herbal supplements can increase testosterone levels.
A study showed that intake of Fenugreek extract significantly affects serum testosterone levels in men.
Are testosterone pills a safer option?
Yes, testosterone pills can effectively treat low testosterone levels in men.
However, testosterone pills can lead to side effects like Sleep Apnea, acne, hair loss, and other skin problems.
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