Testosterone is an important sex hormone that plays a crucial role for many aspects of sexual health and body composition.

What are testosterone boosters?

A testosterone supplement or “T booster” refers to any natural or artificially produced substance that can be used for the purpose of increasing testosterone levels.

Testosterone boosting supplements

Here are 5 of the best testosterone boosting supplements:

D-aspartic acid

D-aspartic acid (DAA) is a natural amino acid that can help boost testosterone levels. Research suggests that it works mainly by increasing levels of follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone (LH). LH stimulates Leydig cells in the testes to produce more testosterone.

Ginger

Ginger is a common household spice that has been so popular in alternative medicine for centuries. It has been famously known for its anti-inflammatory properties. But some research also suggests that ginger extract may also improve testosterone levels in men, particularly in oxidative stress conditions.

Stinging Nettle

Urtica Dioca or known as stinging nettle plant is a popular remedy for many uses ranging from chronic pain to treating seasonal allergies. It is also commonly used for hormonal balance as it contains compounds that help in increasing the amount of free (active) testosterone and act as natural estrogen blockers.

Tongkat Ali

Longjack (Eurycoma Longifolia) or commonly known as Tongkat Ali is a shrubby tree native to Southeast Asia.

A study suggests that Tonkat Ali helps increase low testosterone, male fertility, anxiety, athletic performance, and muscle strength.

Zinc

Zinc is the second most abundant micronutrient which can’t be stored in the body, thus regular dietary intake is required. Having a zinc deficiency can lead to a number of health issues which includes low testosterone levels. Zinc is considered as a hormone balancer which helps hormones such as testosterone. In a study, it is found that men who received a daily dose of zinc (30 milligrams) showed increased testosterone levels.

Are They Safe?

Over the years, the number of men who take testosterone supplements has dramatically increased. Debates have come out as to whether it is safe or not.

Most of these T booster supplements will likely only have noticeable benefits in individuals with fertility issues or low testosterone levels.

Some also appear to benefit athletes or dieters, who often experience significant decreases in testosterone due to oxidative stress.

There are studies that say testosterone supplementation can be associated with heart attack. On the other hand, a more recent study by the National Institutes of Health concluded the opposite, that in fact testosterone supplementation does not harm the heart but rather may even protect it.

Bottom line

Defining your goals in taking testosterone supplements is essential. The testosterone needed for muscle building and sexual enhancement is clearly different.
From these varying needs, we can say that testosterone supplements, just like any medicine, should be taken into consideration. Before rushing into over- the -counter stores and choosing a testosterone supplement, the best thing to do is know your body’s needs and most importantly, consult your doctor for a more precise prescription.