What Foods To Eat To Raise Testosterone Deficiency?

Testosterone is the male sex hormone and is responsible for androgenic effects such as muscle and body hair growth, libido and bone health. Testosterone is also responsible for non-androgenic effects and is in fact found in women too. A deficiency of testosterone can result in low energy levels, low libido, muscle loss and low sperm count. Drugs, artificial hormones and supplements are available to help if you have a testosterone deficiency; however, eating certain foods can also help increase testosterone levels.

Oysters

Oysters are one of the best sources of the mineral zinc, according to the “McCance and Widdowson’s the Composition of Foods.” Zinc is essential for healthy testosterone levels and zinc deficiency can in fact cause impotence, delayed sexual maturation and low sperm counts. Oysters are also a good source of iron. Although iron does not appear to impact directly on testosterone levels, being deficient in iron will exacerbate some symptoms of testosterone deficiency such as lethargy and muscle weakness.

Liver

Vitamin A is essential for healthy testosterone levels and normal sperm production, as reported in the April 2010 issue of “The Journal of Clinical Investigation.” Liver and liver oils are the most concentrated sources of this vitamin, and will help to increase your testosterone levels if you are not currently getting enough of this nutrient. You should moderate your liver intake, however, because its extremely high concentration of vitamins and minerals can be harmful in excess.

Brazil Nuts

Eating Brazil nuts can help if you have a testosterone deficiency as they are high in selenium. This trace element plays an important role in testicular health and function. It also forms part of antioxidant enzymes that protect the body against damage by free radicals. Other foods high in selenium include tuna and turkey.

Peanut Butter

Many athletes consume peanut butter for its testosterone-boosting properties. This is due to the type of fat found in this food -- it is mostly of the monounsaturated type. This kind of fat is heart healthy and is needed by the body to produce hormones such as testosterone. Peanut butter and other foods high in fat, however, are also high in calories. Excess calories will cause weight gain -- moderate your intake of these foods if you are on a calorie-restricted diet.