Foods That Naturally Boost Testosterone
There are so many different ways to boost our T-levels these days, but rather than taking supplements and supplements with questionable side effects, we should really consider following nature’s lead. Not only will the Top rated testosterone booster naturally raise your testosterone levels even further, but in some cases it could also provide a more substantial health benefit. From soy to beets to cinnamon, here are some foods that can help you get in top shape.
- Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain an antioxidant called lycopene, which has been shown to increase testosterone levels in rats and may also be effective in humans.
It’s not clear how lycopene boosts T-levels, but researchers found that it works in much the same way that clomiphene does. Clomiphene is a medication that has been used for decades to help men with fertility issues. However, it can have unpleasant side effects including stomach ulcers and hot flashes. The biggest problem with clomiphene is that it must be taken daily and may actually boost estrogen levels more than testosterone. This is why researchers think that lycopene is more likely to be effective.
- Beans
Beans are a unique source of phytate. Phytate is an antioxidant that can protect your body against free radicals, while also helping to keep calcium in your bones, where it belongs. Phytate also appears to inhibit the ability of certain enzymes from breaking down testosterone.
It’s not clear how much phytate you need for this effect, but researchers have found that even small amounts of beans can boost testosterone levels. In one study, men who ate 3/4 cup of beans per day for six weeks experienced a 20% increase in testosterone concentrations. Another study reported similar results and showed that eating beans could improve sex drive and erectile function as well as boosting hormone levels.
- Cinnamon
Cinnamon contains a compound called cinnamaldehyde that has been shown to boost testosterone levels in a small study. One study showed that cinnamon can increase testosterone levels by as much as 12%.
- Beets
Beets are an excellent source of betaine, a molecule that helps your body get rid of homocysteine, an amino acid your body makes from protein. Homocysteine is potentially damaging to the body, but reducing it prevents major heart attacks and strokes. It’s also been linked to prostate cancer and osteoporosis.
- Soy
Soy is controversial, and some people believe that it will lower their testosterone levels. But research shows that soy can actually have the opposite effect because it contains high levels of isoflavones. These chemicals have been found to mimic estrogen, but in a good way. A few studies have even found that soy could help prevent prostate cancer. The best source of soy is edamame, which are soybeans in their most natural state – still in the pod. You can eat the beans like peas or steam them for a side dish.