Testosterone is the most important male sex hormone. This hormone is responsible for the development of male sexual characteristics. So it plays an important role in the growth and reproduction of hair, muscle mass, bone and reproduction (sperm production, sexual desire, erection).
It also plays a role in fat metabolism, with increased testosterone also increasing the efficiency of fat burning. It also has functions in the liver and central nervous system.
Testosterone is produced by Leydig cells in the testes. In women, it is also produced in the ovaries and adrenal glands, but in much smaller amounts. LH stimulates Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone. It has a stimulatory effect in close interaction with follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), which is also produced in the adenohypophysis.
Testosterone is a steroid hormone, but not because testosterone is also used as an anabolic steroid, the steroid name refers to their structure. Steroids are lipids that contain a so-called steran fatty acid. This skeleton, common to all steroid compounds, has differences in the different atoms attached to it.
Steroids also include all sex hormones (female, male) cortisol, cholesterol and many other compounds.
Androgenic hormones and other steroid hormones, including testosterone, are produced from cholesterol.
Sympoms of low testosterone levels include:
- Low libido
- Impotence
- Power loss
- Loss of muscle mass
- Obesity
- Sleep changes, circadian rhythm disrupted
- Mood changes
As we age, testosterone levels decline, so to avoid unpleasant side effects and maximise muscle mass, it's a good idea to boost testosterone levels naturally with supplements.
In childhood, low testosterone levels can prevent/delay growth and puberty. Hormone testing of children who are stunted from "late force" development may be important for this.
A number of testosterone boosting and hormone optimizing agents are available.
- Tribulus: an active ingredient extracted from cherry melon, used specifically for its testosterone-boosting effects.
- Maca extract: helps fertility, proper sperm count and function, enhances sexual desire.
- D-Aspartic Acid (DAA): helps boost testosterone by acting on the pituitary gland.
- Zinc: helps testosterone production. In a zinc-deficient state, blood testosterone levels may be reduced.
- Vitamin D: Has an effect on testosterone levels and fertility. Evidence for this is that testicular cells are full of vitamin D-sensing receptors.
If testosterone levels are reduced after a blood test or if you are experiencing the symptoms mentioned above, it is worth taking testosterone boosting supplements.