Are Test Boosters Safe?
Written by Ben Bunting: BA, PGCert. (Sport & Exercise Nutrition) // British Army Physical Training Instructor // S&C Coach.
--
What is a Testosterone Booster?
Testosterone boosters are supplements that aim to increase the levels of testosterone in the body. These supplements can contain natural or artificial substances, and their effectiveness depends on the type of booster used.
Men who go to the gym and want to maximize their gains or those experiencing a natural decline in testosterone levels due to aging often use these boosters.
They can help reverse the side effects of low testosterone and promote muscle growth and physical fitness.
While there is debate over the effectiveness of some supplements, there is evidence and testimonials supporting their usefulness when the right one is used.
Are there different types of Testosterone Boosters?
Testosterone boosters come in a variety of forms, with numerous options available on the market.
While there are too many to list, some have gained popularity among those seeking to increase their testosterone levels. Some of the most commonly sought-after testosterone boosters include:
D-Aspartic Acid
D-Aspartic Acid, or D-AA, is a natural amino acid that can be found in certain foods and supplements.
It has been shown to increase testosterone levels and promote muscle growth, which makes it a popular choice among athletes looking to improve their performance.
However, it's important to be cautious when selecting a D-AA supplement, as not all products are created equal.
It's crucial to carefully read the ingredients list and ensure that the label clearly states "D-aspartic Acid" to ensure that you're getting a high-quality product with the accurate amount of D-AA needed for optimal results.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek, a plant native to southwest Asia, has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine for its various health benefits.
The plant produces pod-like fruits containing small, round yellowish-brown seeds that are commonly used in cooking.
Recent research has shown that fenugreek may help promote healthy blood glucose levels, reduce high cholesterol, and even improve skin health.
Additionally, it is believed to be a natural testosterone booster, making it a popular supplement among athletes and bodybuilders.
Zinc
In order to ensure proper testosterone production in your body, it is crucial that both diet and lifestyle support it.
This means avoiding foods containing antinutrients that interfere with absorption while making sure there is enough zinc available in your diet for testosterone production.
Zinc is an essential mineral, essential to bodily processes. Research suggests it can also help increase testosterone.
One clinical trial involved giving 100 men with low levels of the hormone either a placebo or supplement containing zinc, magnesium and vitamin B-6.
Those taking the latter experienced higher testosterone and luteinizing hormone levels than those who received neither treatment.
High-grade zinc supplements come in various forms, including zinc gluconate and picolinate (a chelated form more easily absorbed by your body), both usually found in multivitamins; alternatively, you may opt for taking zinc citrate or orotate directly as well.
Zinc's effects go beyond testosterone production: it also plays an essential role in DNA synthesis and other essential metabolic processes.
Zinc deficiency has been linked to hypogonadism; studies show even moderate deficiencies can result in testicular failure and decreased testosterone levels.
Furthermore, zinc appears able to block aromatase enzyme which converts testosterone to estrogen by binding its active site.
Vitamin D3
Vitamin D3, the "sunshine" vitamin so essential for bone health, has become an increasingly popular supplement among men looking to increase libido and testosterone levels.
Studies are beginning to establish an association between vitamin D intake and production of male anabolic hormones such as testosterone.
Testosterone is an essential steroid hormone produced during puberty that plays an integral part in increasing muscle mass, strengthening bones, and increasing energy.
Low testosterone levels may result in decreased libido and sexual drive as well as erectile dysfunction in men.
Body's testicles produce testosterone naturally; this process is managed by the luteinizing hormone (LH).
LH stimulates testicles to produce more testosterone; in one study, researchers discovered those with lower 25(OH)D concentrations responded less favorably to LH than those with normal or high vitamin D levels.
These findings show how vitamin D impacts the functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.
Vitamin D increases cAMP production in Leydig cells, thus suppressing LH release and increasing expression of Calbindin-D28K; an intracellular calcium binding protein involved with homeostasis regulation.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a well-known herbal supplement with multiple health advantages, including balancing hormones and providing energy.
Used since Ayurveda began thousands of years ago, ashwagandha has long been valued for its rejuvenating effects as a remedy against fatigue and its ability to increase testosterone levels has long made it popular for men's sexual health and its use can increase testosterone levels considerably.
Researchers conducted a new clinical study to explore the effects of ashwagandha root extract on symptoms and hormone levels among overweight males suffering mild-to-moderate fatigue.
Participants were randomly assigned either ashwagandha or placebo capsules daily for eight weeks; fatigue, vigor, sexual vitality scores were assessed at weeks 4, 8, 12 and 16. Salivary levels of testosterone, DHEA-s and cortisol were also measured during this timeframe.
Results revealed that ashwagandha was superior to placebo in terms of relieving self-reported fatigue and increasing sexual vitality, although pretreatment symptoms scores were relatively modest and high placebo effects may have obscured statistically significant differences.
Furthermore, intake of ashwagandha produced significant increases in serum testosterone and reduced cortisol levels while there was only nonsignificant change to prolactin levels as observed with both treatments.
Recent trials demonstrated that taking ashwagandha supplements increased sperm concentration and semen volume among oligospermic men, reduced stress hormones, improved memory retention and cognition among healthy adults, while improving memory retention.
Boron
Boron may not be widely recognized as a hormone booster, but this mineral could have positive impacts on hormone function and assist with producing testosterone. Boron also helps the body absorb Vitamin D which is key for testosterone production.
Studies have clearly established the connection between boron and testosterone.
Boron has been found to increase testosterone, as well as decrease SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin).
When SHBG decreases, more free testosterone becomes available for body use; helping build muscles and increase strength.
One study followed bodybuilders for 7 weeks while they took either a boron supplement or placebo.
Plasma total and free testosterone, lean body mass, 1 repetition max bench press and squat were measured before and after.
Results demonstrated that taking boron significantly increased testosterone levels and decreased estradiol (a form of estrogen), when compared to control group.
Boron is a safe and effective supplement which can assist in increasing testosterone, while simultaneously decreasing SHBG (protein that binds with male hormones like testosterone unusably by the body).
Mucuna Pruriens
Mucuna pruriens, commonly referred to as velvet beans, is an all-natural and powerful testosterone booster, well known in bodybuilding circles.
Its potency lies in the seeds' high concentration of L-DOPA which converts naturally into dopamine and has many health and performance enhancing effects.
L-DOPA also serves as an effective Parkinson's disease treatment and has shown to boost libido, sperm parameters and Luteinizing Hormone levels in infertile men.
Studies have demonstrated that Mucuna Pruriens can increase blood levels of testosterone, LH, adrenaline and noradrenaline in both men and women.
Furthermore, its dopaminergic and serotonergic properties make it an effective mood enhancer while its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and convert into dopamine can provide nootropic brain boosting benefits.
For instance a study has demonstrated this increase in learning ability and speed during an artificial vocabulary test performance.
Mucuna pruriens' L-DOPA and sex hormone-regulating activities are an ideal way to address age-related declines in testosterone production that could negatively impact muscle growth and fat loss, making this supplement essential for older men wanting to maintain strength and muscle mass.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K2 may not get much press in mainstream media or fitness publications, yet it remains one of the most powerful nutrients for increasing testosterone.
A fat-soluble vitamin, it has long been recognized for its ability to optimize blood clotting biochemistry and strengthen bone health, improve prostate health and even help combat cancer; but what excites us most about vitamin K2 is its connection with testosterone production.
Researchers conducted numerous experiments using rats and mice, showing that supplementing with menaquinone-4 (MK-4) increased testosterone production in leydig cells - the main sperm producing cells found within the testis - without altering luteinizing hormone (LH) levels in bloodstream.
Furthermore, MK-4 treatments stimulated expression of CYP11A which is the rate-limiting enzyme of testosterone synthesis.
This finding is significant as it shows how vitamin K2 can effectively increase testosterone without modulating LH levels, as many high quality testosterone boosters on the market rely on this mechanism for doing so.
Well, fortunately you can easily obtain this vitamin through many sources - goose liver pate is an excellent source, along with egg yolks, grass-fed beef and fermented foods like natto.
Furthermore, many supplements also contain this essential nutrient; when selecting your supplement carefully.
Are natural testosterone boosters safe?
At Military Muscle, our supplements are designed to naturally improve your testosterone levels using scientifically selected natural ingredients.
This approach ensures that our products are both effective and safe to use, with minimal risk of side effects.
Are synthetic testosterone boosters safe?
Anabolic steroids are chemical derivatives of testosterone, a natural hormone produced in both men and women.
Doctors may prescribe anabolic steroids as part of treatment for various medical conditions including blood disorders, connective tissue disease, some cancers and sexual dysfunctions.
Non-medical use by bodybuilders and recreational users to increase muscle mass, build strength and cut body fat is not restricted.
Anabolic steroids fall under performance and image enhancing drugs (PIEDs), with misuse having serious health ramifications.
Anabolic steroids have the potential to lead to many damaging physical and psychological changes for men and women alike.
This may include high blood pressure, heart attack, liver damage, stroke and blood clots.
Furthermore, anabolic steroid use may cause anxiety depression as well as increased suicidal thoughts or attempts. Though some changes can be reversed or permanent.
People who use steroids for bodybuilding typically do so in the belief that doing so will enhance their athletic performance, however most professional sports federations ban anabolic steroids from competition and test competitors for them.
Furthermore, it may be illegal to possess, sell or supply anabolic steroids without first consulting with a physician and receiving written documentation of an order with face-to-face consultation from said physician.
Benefits of natural testosterone boosters
Testosterone plays an integral part in male body functions, from sperm production and bone strength to energy, mood and libido.
Over time, levels decline slowly with age causing muscle atrophy, fatigue and diminished sex drive.
These are effects which natural testosterone boosters aim to prevent or mitigate through nutrients such as aphrodisiacs, libido enhancers or herbs such as nettle leaf extract, fenugreek seed powder or mucuna pruriens which may increase testosterone.
Many of these supplements contain vitamin D3 to increase testosterone in people with low levels, as well as ashwagandha, an herb which works as an adaptogen to reduce stress and stabilize physiological processes.
They also include boron citrate which inhibits SHBG from binding with testosterone levels to increase free levels.
Furthermore, many have other benefits, including improving heart health, reducing inflammation, decreasing cancer cell growth and increasing blood flow to both brain and lungs.
Increased Muscle Mass
Testosterone boosters are supplements that can aid in increasing muscle mass.
Testosterone is a hormone that is essential for muscle growth, and by increasing its levels, muscle growth can be promoted.
Studies have shown that testosterone boosters are linked to increased muscle mass in men.
Therefore, if you're looking to build muscle, a testosterone booster may be a helpful addition to your fitness routine.
Improved Strength
If you're looking to improve your strength and gain lean body mass, a testosterone booster may be worth considering.
According to a study published in a leading science journal, men who supplemented with testosterone saw significant improvements in both strength and power.
Additionally, these men experienced greater gains in lean body mass compared to those who did not supplement with testosterone.
So if you're looking to take your fitness to the next level, a testosterone booster may be a helpful addition to your routine.
Improved Libido
Testosterone plays an important role in sexual desire and libido. Furthermore, some ingredients found in testosterone boosters have demonstrated an ability to raise sexual interest, erectile function and sperm health in studies.
Improved Bone Health
Testosterone boosters are supplements that can increase the levels of testosterone in the body. One of the benefits of these boosters is that they can improve bone density.
Testosterone plays a crucial role in promoting bone growth and maintenance, so increasing its levels can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Low levels of testosterone can make bones more fragile and increase the risk of fractures, even from minor impacts.
By taking a test booster such as Military Muscle, individuals can potentially improve their bone health and reduce the risk of bone-related injuries.
Reduce fat and improve body composition
Testosterone boosters are supplements that can help increase the levels of testosterone in the body.
One of the benefits of these boosters is that they can aid in reducing body fat. Testosterone plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, so having healthy levels of testosterone can promote fat loss.
Therefore, if you are looking to shed some pounds, incorporating testosterone boosters into your routine may be beneficial.
Improved mood
Testosterone boosters have been found to have a number of benefits, including improving mood and cognitive function.
Studies have shown that testosterone plays a role in regulating mood, so increasing its levels can lead to a better overall mood and reduced stress levels.
Additionally, testosterone can help boost cognitive function, leading to a healthier brain that is better equipped to handle mental challenges.
It's important to keep in mind that the effects of testosterone boosters can vary from person to person and are not guaranteed, but they can increase your potential to generate testosterone and help you maintain your masculinity as you age.
What are the alternatives to a testosterone booster?
While testosterone boosters and supplements are available, there are natural ways to increase testosterone levels without relying on these products.
Making lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, reducing stress, and maintaining a healthy diet can all help boost testosterone production.
Do more exercise
If you're looking for a natural way to boost your testosterone levels, regular exercise is a great place to start.
In particular, strength training exercises have been shown to be highly effective at increasing testosterone levels.
By building muscle mass through strength training, your body naturally produces more testosterone, helping to improve your overall health and well-being.
So if you're looking for a testosterone booster that's safe, effective, and easy to incorporate into your daily routine, consider hitting the gym and lifting some weights!
Get 8 hours of sleep
In addition to exercise and a healthy diet, getting enough sleep is crucial for maintaining optimal testosterone levels.
Research has demonstrated that men who consistently get less than six hours of sleep per night tend to have lower testosterone levels compared to those who get seven or eight hours of sleep.
So, if you're looking to boost your testosterone naturally, make sure you're getting enough quality shut-eye each night.
Minimise Stress
Testosterone is an important hormone that plays a vital role in men's health. However, stress can cause a decrease in testosterone levels, leading to a lower quality of life.
To combat this, it's important to find ways to reduce stress in your life. Regular exercise, yoga, meditation, and spending time with loved ones are all effective ways to boost your mood and increase testosterone levels.
Additionally, there are natural testosterone boosters available such as Military Muscle that can help support healthy hormone levels.
Healthy Diet
In addition to taking testosterone boosters, maintaining a healthy diet is essential for keeping testosterone levels in check.
Consuming foods that are high in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals can help to promote healthy testosterone levels. So, make sure to include plenty of nutrient-rich foods in your diet to keep your testosterone levels in check.
Reduce Alcohol
Testosterone boosters are supplements that can stimulate testosterone production in the body.
However, one of the most effective ways to naturally boost testosterone levels is to cut back on alcohol consumption. Alcohol can greatly impact testosterone production, both in the short and long term.
By reducing or eliminating alcohol from your lifestyle, you may see a significant increase in your testosterone levels and overall health.
A Food First Approach to Sports Nutrition
Food first approaches to sports nutrition are the gold standard for keeping athletes well fueled, prepared for training and competition and healthy.
Combining scientific knowledge with practical implementation and catering to individuals' gustatory preferences while providing ergogenic benefits from "real" foods, such as nuts.
Sports dietitians play an invaluable role in informing athletes of the benefits of using food first to meet their nutrient needs and as a last resort relying on supplements for weight management.
By teaching and supporting athletes to prioritize eating well and meeting nutrient needs through whole foods rather than supplementation alone, this approach helps address common issues of poor dietary intake and unintentional weight loss associated with high-level sport.
Pre-training meals that contain moderate- to-high levels of carbs have been found to have positive impacts on performance during exercise and early recovery periods.
Protein is another essential nutrient for athletes and this can be best met through real foods like meat, fish, nuts/seeds, low-fat yoghurt/low-fat milk products/whey powder/egg whites. Aiming for both carbohydrate and protein consumption during recovery periods for maximum success.
Should I use a testosterone booster like Military Muscle?
While testosterone boosters and supplements are available, there are natural ways to increase testosterone levels without relying on these products.
Making lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, reducing stress, and maintaining a healthy diet can all help boost testosterone production.
So if you're hesitant about using supplements, know that there are other options available to you.
However, if you want a helping hand...
Testosterone boosters are supplements that can aid in increasing testosterone levels, leading to faster progress in muscle building and overall fitness.
It is important to choose boosters with natural ingredients, as they are legal, have fewer side effects, and are less likely to cause harm in the long run.
One such natural testosterone booster is Military Muscle, which contains a blend of natural ingredients that help increase minerals and vitamins associated with boosting testosterone levels.
With regular use, these boosters can help you achieve your fitness goals and maintain your strength and vitality as you age.
