Can Eating Certain Foods Boost Testosterone Levels? UPMC HealthBeat

Overcoming Testosterone Deficiency with Diet

While the carnivore diet may increase testosterone, more studies are needed, and the impact of the carnivore diet on fertility may be overall negative. Some research indicates that a diet very high in fat and low in carbohydrates (similar to the carnivore diet or keto diet) may increase total testosterone levels. Protein foods contain amino acids, such as leucine, which plays a role in creating muscle proteins and the stimulation of testosterone production (10). Adequate protein intake ensures that the body has a sufficient supply of amino acids to support hormone synthesis. Most people know that ginger can add a satisfying zing to foods and drinks. Adding healthy omega-3 fatty acids into your diet can be very beneficial from several health standards, not just for boosting testosterone only. Dairy products, i.e., cheese or ice cream, contain high amounts of saturated fat.

It also helps when it comes to physical fitness which is why men tend to find ways to boost it as much as they can. What about those over-the-counter supplements that claim to boost testosterone? The only way to boost testosterone levels is through exogenous steroid use, which should be prescribed by a medical professional. You can also get zinc from skinless poultry and fatty fish, such as tuna, salmon, swordfish, mackerel, anchovies, sardines, and herring—all rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Testosterone, primarily a male sexual hormone, is produced mainly by the body’s gonads, which is where the medical name for low T—hypogonadism—comes from. In females, who typically have far lower testosterone levels than males, the gonads are the ovaries. The body’s adrenal gland also makes a small amount of testosterone in both sexes.

Researchers have established that being overweight or obese is one of the primary causes of low T in men. Studies have also shown that losing weight can result in naturally gaining back some testosterone (48). Among the biggest testosterone-killing foods are those that have been processed, meaning they’ve been canned, cooked, frozen, packaged, or had their nutritional content altered or removed. Cocoa products like dark chocolate and cocoa powder are also high in magnesium, but that’s not the only thing that gives them T-boosting cred.

Let’s explore these diets and educate you on how particular food choices can directly impact your testosterone levels and overall wellness. Ginger consumption has been linked to enhanced testosterone production, especially among males with oxidative stress conditions. Study participants typically used ginger supplements, which improve testosterone levels by enhancing luteinizing hormone production, normalizing blood glucose and reducing oxidative stress. There are a few factors, including lifestyle, body weight and not eating enough foods that boost testosterone.

Eating a healthy diet with enough fat is important for overall health and testosterone levels. Some types of fat contain cholesterol, which your body uses to make the hormone. Whole eggs contain cholesterol, which your body needs to make testosterone. A study published in 2020 followed young men on a weight training program over 12 weeks. The researchers found that men who ate eggs daily increased their testosterone levels. Results of a small 2013 study indicate that the oil may boost serum testosterone levels in healthy adults. There is no single food that can instantly boost a person’s testosterone.

Plus, no other food beats an oyster when it comes to containing zinc, one of testosterone’s most important allies. We’ll also look at which foods can kill testosterone, so you can limit the amount in your diet, and other ways to boost testosterone naturally. Research shows that when your liver does weed reduce testosterone not function optimally, it affects your testosterone output.

Want more meal plans that are tailored to your testosterone deficiency and underlying conditions? Men’s Health Clinic (MHC) has dietitians that can help you take your diet to the next level. What’s more, since we use a multidisciplinary approach, we also have other experts like psychologists and doctors that are ready to help you say goodbye to hypogonadism. While primary care physicians can administer testosterone treatments, more and more medical professionals are outsourcing testosterone replacement therapy to clinics like Volonte.

You don’t have to follow the Mediterranean diet to boost your testosterone levels; you can focus on healthy eating habits to see the benefits. Houman explained that ultra-processed foods and high-sugar diets can suppress testosterone by promoting insulin resistance. Antioxidants in fruits play an essential role in supporting hormonal health, including testosterone production. By combating oxidative stress, antioxidants help maintain optimal testosterone levels, which can be affected by factors such as aging and lifestyle. We’ll explore the top testosterone-boosting foods and how to incorporate them into your daily routine.