Responsible for muscle growth and the libido, testosterone is a hormone found primarily in males. Testosterone levels peak in the early teens to mid 20s and start to decline after the age of 30. Although receiving testosterone replacement therapy is an option, another alternative is to consume the right supplements that have been scientifically proven to enhance testosterone levels. Consult with your health care provider before taking any supplements.
Resveratrol Extract
Resveratrol, the main compound found in wine, berries and grapes, might be an effective testosterone booster. Researchers from Chungbuk National University examined the impact of resveratrol supplementation on testosterone and sperm production in mice for 28 days. At the end of the study, scientists observed that mice taking resveratrol experienced significant increases in testosterone and sperm count levels, according to findings published in the January 2008 issue of the journal "Archives of Pharmacal Research."
Mucuna Pruriens
Mucuna pruriens is an herb that might enhance testosterone levels. Researchers from C.S.M. Medical University in India studied the impact of Mucuna pruriens on male infertility. Infertile men received Mucuna pruriens and were measured for testosterone, luteinizing hormone, sperm count and dopamine before and after treatment. At the end of the study, scientists discovered that infertile men consuming Mucuna pruriens experienced significant increases in testosterone and luteinizing hormone. Luteinizing hormone boosts testosterone by signaling to the testes to increase testosterone production, according to research reported in the December 2009 issue of the journal "Fertility Sterility."
Vitamin D
In addition to improving bone health, vitamin D might also positive effect testosterone levels. Researchers from the Medical University Graz in Austria investigated the role of vitamin D in male reproduction. Men participating in a coronary angiography were measured for vitamin D and testosterone levels. Scientists found that men with adequate vitamin D levels had higher testosterone levels than those with inadequate levels, according to research published in the August 2010 issue of the journal "Clinical Endocrinology."
References
- PubMed: Trans-Resveratrol relaxes the corpus cavernosum ex vivo and enhances testosterone levels and sperm quality in vivo
- PubMed: Mucuna pruriens improves male fertility by its action on the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis
- PubMed: Association of vitamin D status with serum androgen levels in men
