Testosterone is a key male sex hormone that regulates fertility, muscle mass, fat distribution, and red cell production. Testosterone levels tend to drop with ageing; testosterone supplements are prescribed only for specified conditions, and not to counter the natural, age-related decrease. Replacement therapy is available, but it has its own risks and side effects.
Testosterone is produced primarily by the testicles in the Leydig cells. Females also produce testosterone usually in smaller amounts; usually in the ovaries and adrenal glands. The pituitary in the brain regulates testosterone levels, and this testosterone assists in the development of mature sperm.
Symptoms of Low Testosterone: 1) Reduced sex drive 2) Erectile Dysfunction 3) Low sperm count 4) Enlarged breast tissue 5) Loss of body hair, muscle bulk, strength 6) Increase in body fat.
Causes of Low Testesterone: 1) Trauma or infection of the testicles 2) Medications like opiate analgesics 3) Diseases like diabetes, kidney and liver disease, obesity, HIV/AIDs, and 4) Genetic diseases like Klinefelter Syndrome.
High Testosterone Effects: In men, high testosterone can lead to precocious puberty. In women, it may cause male pattern baldness, a deep voice, menstrual irregularities, swelling of clitoris, reduced breast size, change in body shape, acne, oily skin, facial hair growth, and increased risk of uterine fibroids.
Increase Testosterone Levels Naturally: 1) Exercise and lift weights 2) Eat adequate amounts of protein, fat and carbohydrates 3) Minimize stress and cortisol levels 4) Get some sun exposure or take vitamin D supplements 5) Consider taking supplements, especially Zinc 6) Get good quality sleep 7) Avoid oestrogen-like chemicals like BPA and parabens 8) Control alcohol intake
Foods that Increase Testosterone: These include fatty fish, dark leafy vegetables, cocoa products, avocados, eggs, berries, cherries, pomegranates, shellfish, carrots and beet.
Ayurvedic herbs that Increase Testosterone: Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Gokshur (Tribulus terrestris), Safed Musli (Chlorophytum borivilliunum), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Shilajit (Asphaltum punjabianum), Kraunch beej (Mucuna pruriens), and Adrak (Ginger).
Ideally, age related drop in Testosterone should be treated first by natural methods and food stuffs as mentioned above. If the response is not adequate, it is recommended that you seek the advice of an experienced and qualified Ayurvedic Physician for Ayurvedic herbal treatment.