What Can I Eat That Will Raise My Testosterone?

Testosterone is the primary male hormone that is responsible for many of the masculine characteristics that men possess. According to "Foundations of Nursing," when a man is deficient in testosterone, he may suffer a variety of symptoms, including hair loss and decreased muscle mass. Left untreated, low testosterone levels can result in infertility and osteoporosis. If you believe that you have low testosterone levels, see your doctor for testing and treatment.

Oysters

Oysters are rich in zinc, according to "Contemporary Nutrition," with a single oyster containing more than the RDA--recommended daily allowance--of zinc. According to "Foundations of Nursing," adequate levels of zinc in the body have been tied to increased levels of testosterone. The reverse has also been found to be true, according to "Introduction to Medical-Surgical Nursing," with decreased levels of zinc being tied to insufficient levels of testosterone. Oysters may be prepared in any way that you desire without diminishing their zinc content.

Beef

"Introduction to Medical-Surgical Nursing" suggests that you eat lean cuts of beef two to three times per week to increase testosterone levels because it has high levels of zinc and cholesterol. According to "Contemporary Nutrition," zinc and cholesterol are nutrients that your body relies on to manufacture testosterone. Inadequate levels of these nutrients leads to a decline in the production of testosterone. "Techniques of Healthy Cooking" suggests grilling, baking, broiling or pouching the beef to maintain its flavor and avoid adding extra fats and oils to the beef in the cooking process.

Bananas

Bananas are rich in potassium and B vitamins. These nutrients aid the production of testosterone. Bananas can be enjoyed in a variety of ways without altering their nutritional content. "Techniques of Healthy Cooking" suggests eating bananas by themselves as a healthy snack or grilling or baking them to enjoy them as part of a nutritious meal.

References

  • "Prescription for Natural Cures"; James Balch and Mark Stengler; 2004
  • "Foundations of Nursing"; Lois White, Gena Duncan and Wendy Baumle; 2010
  • "Contemporary Nutrition"; Gordon M. Wardlaw and Anne M Smith; 2007
  • "Introduction to Medical-Surgical Nursing"; Adrianne Dill Linton; 2007
  • "Techniques of Healthy Cooking"; The Culinary Institute of America; 2007

Article reviewed by Molly Solanki Last updated on: Nov 11, 2010

Must see: Photo Galleries