Testosterone is one of the most important hormones in the male body. This essential hormone is responsible for a variety of functions that keep the human body healthy and functioning. While low testosterone has been associated with many ailments and issues, new research reveals the true impact that this hormone has on the male body. A lack of testosterone (T) can increase a person's risk for heart disease, prostate cancer and even death.
Low sex drive, muscle loss and frail bones are bad enough. Now death and prostate cancer have been added to the laundry list of issues deriving from low T. Many men suffer from lower levels of this hormone as they age. Some people see these results sooner than others. Fortunately, there are ways in which men can naturally increase their testosterone levels. Follow these five tips to increase your T-levels and your longevity.
Fat plays a huge role in the production of hormones. In fact, a man's T-levels will decrease as his waist expands. In other words, an increase in body fat will drive levels of T down. A four-point increase in body mass index will accelerate an individual's age-related T decrease by about 10 years. For the average man with a heigh of 5' 10", this only represents about 30 pounds. Unveiling those abs is a great way to gauge your level of body fat. When a six-pack is visible, you can worry less about losing T-levels as you age. In order to achieve this weight loss, you need to focus on a diet that is rich in proteins and fats. Carbs can still be eaten in moderation.
The activity of lifting weights has always been closely associated with 'manliness' and strength. Finnish researchers have conducted studies to help prove this common association. The researchers discovered that individuals who lifted weights on a regular basis experienced a significant boost in their levels of free testosterone. In fact, these men in the study saw a 49 percent increase in these free T-levels. As muscles become strengthened, the body naturally releases more testosterone. While lifting weights is one of the best activities to increase natural T-levels, you don't have to go overboard. These benefits can be seen with as little as two weight lifting sessions per week.
There is a lot of misinformation being spread regarding proper dieting. Fat has become a boogieman of sorts that all self-proclaimed 'health gurus' suggest to avoid. However, eliminating a large amount of fat from your daily food intake can lead to lower T-levels. The International Journal of Sports Medicine released a study with surprising results. The men who ate the most fat also had some of the highest T-levels in the sample group. These results shouldn't encourage you to eat more chips and fast food, however. There are still different forms of fat. Foods that are rich in monounsaturated fats should be preferred over others.
Alcohol doesn't bring any health benefits. While it can be fun to join the guys to the bar for a drink, too many happy hours can cause damage to your T-levels. A recent study out of the Netherlands showed that even moderate drinkers saw a decrease in their hormone production. The research revealed that drinking even a moderate amount for three weeks straight could lead to a 7% decrease in testosterone levels. You should keep the drinks to a one or two glass minimum each night to avoid these drops. Cutting back on liquor should also improve your health overall.
Stress a host of health defects. Studies have shown how stress and anxiety can contribute to a laundry list of diseases and ailments. Physical and mental stress has also been shown to reduce T-levels in otherwise healthy men. The human body produces more cortisol during stressful phases. At the same time, the body's testosterone production is limited. Individual's who experience a lot of daily stress should determine the causes of this anxiety. Yoga, meditation and other mindful practices have proven to be effective in reducing stress. You should consider utilizing one of these practices to help restore your T-levels.
While there are no shortage of steps you can take to help boost your testosterone levels naturally, in many cases, consultation with your physician is required in order to rule out more serious hormone related issues. Beyond ruling out possible health issues, physicians may recommend testosterone therapy. It's important to note that testosterone therapy comes in prescription form and is prescribed by a licensed physician only after they determine testosterone therapy is the correct form of action. Avoid online dispensaries and overseas marketplaces where the quality of the prescription may be questioned.
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