Hormone imbalance in men can impair physical, sexual and cognitive function. By increasing their testosterone levels, many men can improve the symptoms (including depression, low sex drive and weight gain) that accompany these impaired functions.
As men age, they produce less testosterone, but produce more estrogen. The excess estrogen tricks the brain into thinking enough testosterone is present, thereby slowing the secretion of luteinizing hormone. It also causes the body to produce more sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), which binds to free testosterone making it unavailable to cells. Because of this, the process of increasing testosterone can be complicated.
The Process
Step 1
Ask your doctor to order blood tests to check your hormone levels. These types of tests can assist you and your doctor in finding the exact reason for your symptoms.
If your testosterone levels are low, discuss hormone supplementation with your doctor. Doctors can prescribe testosterone in the form of shots, creams, pills and patches.
Step 2
Increase your zinc consumption. As men age, they produce more of the enzyme aromatase, which converts testosterone to estrogen. Life Extension doctors suggest using zinc, which is a natural inhibitor of this enzyme (see Reference 1). Zinc is also necessary for the production of hormones, including testosterone. Fish, shellfish, red meat and eggs are good sources of zinc. It is also readily available as an over-the-counter supplement.
Step 3
Strengthen the liver. A healthy liver helps the body rid itself of excess estrogen and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). Some medical professionals recommend using milk thistle for liver strengthening, as it has been shown to stimulate the regeneration of liver cells and increase antioxidants that promote liver detoxification, according to the National Institutes of Health (see Reference 2). Eliminating alcohol and NSAIDs can also benefit the liver.
Step 4
Lose weight. Aromatase enzyme is produced from fat cells so losing weight can decrease the production of this enzyme, prompting less testosterone to be converted to estrogen.
Tips and Warnings
- Don't expect overnight results. Balancing the hormones can take months, so it is important to stick to a healthy regimen in order to see improvement.
- Always consult a doctor when attempting to increase your testosterone, as there can be adverse effects if levels become too high.
References
- Disease Prevention and Treatment; Life Extension; 2003
- Milk Thistle Facts
