Testosterone is an androgynous sex hormone, produced in the testicles (in smaller amounts it is also secreted in the ovaries) and it is often associated with “masculinity”. In the first place, this hormone plays a key role in the male reproductive function. Testosterone promotes increase of muscle mass, hair growth, bone density maintenance, production of red blood cells and emotional health. 

According to medicine, testosterone is a catalyst for prostate cancer, which could lead to orchidectomy (the surgical removal of one or both testicles). Latest findings register different results. They are connected to the fact that the prostate gland in order to maintain optimal health. Testosterone levels in men decreases with age – the decline starts in the 30ties and progresses with the years passing by.

Testosterone decline is connected with over activity of the enzyme 5 – alpha reductase, which converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). As testosterone levels decline, the risk of prostate enlargement, hair loss and cancer increases.

Toxins that inhibit hormone production

Unfortunately, the use of chemicals that cause testosterone decline even in early childhood is widespread. It has been recently discovered that statins (a group of cholesterol – reducing medications) and active ingredients in herbicides can also affect testicle’s ability to secrete testosterone. 

A large amount of chemicals is constantly being disposed in nature. These toxins cannot be neglected as they are dangerous to both animals and people, especially to the endocrine system. What is even more troublesome is that many of these endocrine – disrupting chemicals (EDCs) have the same abilities to disbalance sex hormones. 

Toxins that harm male health from earliest age

Sexual development in girls and boys tends to be starting earlier than expected nowadays. In a research, published in Pediatrics magazine, boys have started developing sexually six months to two years prior to established medical standards and it is all due to chemical exposure. Earlier puberty is not something to be underestimated since it has a significant effect on physical and psychological development of children, including increased risk of cancer disease. Premature puberty leads to emotional and behavioral problems, such as:

• Low self – esteem
• Depression
• Digestion problems
• Alcohol abuse
• Earlier loss of virginity and multiple sexual partners
• Increased risk of sexually transmitted diseases 

Pregnant women and breastfeeding moms, exposed to EDCs transfer the chemicals to their children. Exposure to EDCs during pregnancy has a negative effect on the development of male fetuses. The more women are exposed to substances causing hormonal disorders, the higher the chance their sons have smaller genitalia and long – term reproductive problems. EDCs are a threat to male fertility as they can cause testicle cancer and decrease the number of spermatozoids. All these birth defects and abnormalities are associated with impaired testosterone production. 

How to limit toxin exposure

It is unlikely that you will manage to avoid EDCs altogether. However, there are a number of practical strategies that you can try in order to limit toxin exposure as much as possible. The first step is to stop using Teflon – coated cookware. Replace them with ceramic products. Stop consuming canned foods because they contain bisphenols – harmful chemicals that damage many vital systems in the body. 

Remove all cleaning products that contain chemicals, including: artificial aromas, softeners, vinyl bathroom curtains, shampoos and personal care products, etc. Replace them with certified natural cosmetics instead. Bet on organic foods that are grown without chemical intervention. 

How population aging is connected to decline in testosterone levels

As it was already mentioned, testosterone decreases with age. Nonetheless, there are ways to help maintain and increase the hormone levels. If you suspect that your testosterone levels have decreased, you should check if you have the following symptoms: 

• Decreased sex drive
• Erectile dysfunction
• Low mood and depression
• Memory problems
• Concentration issues

A blood test is not always enough to define whether the amount of testosterone in your body is altered because the hormone’s levels vary throughout the day. The best option is to opt for saliva diagnostics with hormone panels. If you live in Bulgaria, the holistic clinic DetoxCenter is the best option for such a testing. The test assesses the main sex hormones: estrogen (estrone, estradiol, estriol), progesterone and testosterone and adrenal hormones: DHEA and cortisol. These seven hormones and their ration in the body provide important information regarding deficiency/ surplus and individual daily levels. After the results are carefully examined by specialists, you will be provided with options for an individually – adapted course of treatment. 

Nutrients that stimulate testosterone levels

Zinc 

Zinc is an important element that participates in testosterone production. According to a research, around 45% of men over the age of 60 have low zinc levels, resultant from insufficient intake of the mineral. It has been established that consumption of supplements with zinc for a period of six weeks improves testosterone levels in men with low levels. The following foods increase production of male hormones:

• Oysters
• Protein – rich foods, such as meat and fish
• Legumes
• Fermented foods and drink like kefir and Kombucha

You can also start taking dietary supplements with zinc in order to increase testosterone levels. Just be careful not to exceed recommended daily intake because it might cause side effects, such as nausea or disturbance in the absorption of important minerals, including copper.  

Vitamin D

Vitamin D insufficiency is a rapidly growing epidemic worldwide and has a profound effect on men’s health. Substances extracted from vitamin D steroid hormones are key to male health. They play an important role in the development of the sperm nucleus and help maintain its quality and the number of spermatozoids it contains. Vitamin D increases testosterone levels and helps improve libido. There are two suitable sources of vitamin D:

• Healthy sun exposure
• Vitamin D supplements

Up – Ultimate Performance (Epimedium)

The main active ingredient in the dietary supplement UP! is icariin, which is extracted from the Epimedium plant (Epimedium brevicornum). Icariin is a unique sexual stimulant that functions identically to sildenafil – by inhibiting PDE – 5 enzymes. Epimedium, aka Horny Goat Weed (literally translated as “the weed of the horny goat”) is a perennial plant, growing in southern China, some parts of Europe and Asia. It is used for increasing the libido, in case of infertility, joint problems, for toning and when exercising, as well as for kidney and liver disease.

Additional benefits from UP! intake:

• It possesses adaptogenic properties. The herb increases epinephrine, norepinephrine and serotonin levels, which leads to increased energy. It also reduces cortisol levels when they are elevated, therefore it has an anti – stress effect.
• It lowers blood sugar levels, it is used for treatment of lumbago, arthritis, stiffness and weakness in limbs, high blood pressure, chronic bronchitis.
• Researches on the effect of epimedium on people and animals indicate that it supports bone health, increase in muscle mass, along with loss of body fat, all resultant from decreased cortisol levels. The weed has a positive effect on the immune system. 

Stress levels affect testosterone secretion

The production of cortisol, aka stress hormone, blocks the effect of testosterone. Chronic stress can affect testosterone secretion and have a negative impact on health in general. This is why reducing stress is as important as healthy diet and physical activity. You can try different approaches to stress reduction, including meditation and yoga. Relaxing techniques, such as deep breathing and visualization encourage your emotional health. Always keep in mind that your emotional health is closely linked to your physical state. You should pay attention to the quality of your thoughts and the food you eat.