Testosterone is a male hormone produced by the testicles and helps the male secondary sex characteristics develop. It also helps maintain muscle mass, bone density, mood and reproductive functioning. Levels of this hormone may be lowered by testicular injury, cancer treatments, illness and medications, but there are ways to boost testosterone levels. Before using any supplements to increase your testosterone, consult with your doctor to make sure they are safe for you to use and appropriate for your situation.
Step 1
Go to your health-care provider and have blood tests done to ascertain whether you have low levels of testosterone and if you need to supplement. Talk with your doctor about healthy ways to supplement your hormone levels.
Step 2
Take a zinc supplement. A 2010 article in the "Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology," found that oral zinc helped raise testosterone levels of individuals with chronic kidney disease. Many studies have found similar results in different populations. Ask your doctor whether this may be helpful to you.
Step 3
Consume a DHEA supplement. DHEA is a hormone the body uses to make male and female hormones, and the body converts it to testosterone, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. You should take it under the supervision of your health-care provider to ensure that you are using it safely.
Step 4
Use testosterone replacement therapy. This is prescription-only and can be done via intramuscular injections, patches or gels, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Your doctor will supervise your hormone replacement therapy closely to help minimize side effects and ensure that you are tolerating the treatment.
References
- PubMed.gov: "Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology"; Treatment Options for Sexual Dysfunction in Patients with CKD: A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials; M. Vecchio et al; 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Dehydroepiandrosterone
- Cleveland Clinic: Testosterone Replacement Therapy
