Testosterone is responsible for almost all masculine characteristics. Men have significantly higher levels of testosterone than women. Scientists have been carrying out thorough research on the hormone and people can now access testosterone supplements to boost the natural levels present. But, who exactly should take the supplements? What are the best testosterone booster ingredients on the market? How should you take the pills?
Who needs Testosterone Boosters?
Normally, people with low testosterone levels require a boost. After the age of 30, the testosterone levels in most men start to get depleted at a slow rate and many people opt for boosters as they grow older.
However, bodybuilders have a greater need for testosterone. Most cannot pack enough muscle with the natural testosterone produced by their bodies. Of course, avoiding stress, eating a proper diet and getting enough sleep help to naturally prevent depletion of testosterone levels. The problem here is that bodybuilders need to work harder and, therefore, get stressed. Eventually, this increases cortisol levels and consequently, testosterone levels go down.
Testosterone boosters are developed to inhibit the production of cortisol, and this helps to maintain the hormone at an ideal level.
The boosters are also manufactured with estrogen inhibitors. This is because testosterone is naturally converted to estrogen, meaning they all increase in direct proportion. Because of estrogen inhibitors, the overall amount of estrogen in your system will go down. This will prevent the development of undesirable features such as man boobs.
Some indicators of low testosterone levels include:
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Increased body fat
- Tender/swollen breasts
- Lower sex drive
What Testosterone Booster Ingredients Should You Look Out For?
There are lots of ingredients that are used in the manufacture of these supplements. Some have not been proven to work, while others have sufficient scientific backing. Here are the best and most reliable ingredients for testosterone boosters:
D-Aspartic Acid
- D-Aspartic Acid
DAA is produced naturally in the body, albeit in low amounts. The amino acid is responsible for production and regulation of hormones. DAA testosterone supplements work by maximizing the production of luteinizing and gonadotrophin hormones. This results in higher testosterone levels in the body.
Side effects of DAA include increased hair growth, heightened aggression, acne, and intensified appetite levels. Also, you can expect to experience enhanced libido. These side effects occur in a small percentage of users and are not really serious. That said, it is important to follow the instructions given by the manufacturer.
Tribulus Terrestris
- Tribulus Terrestris
This is another common ingredient in testosterone boosters. The ingredient is extracted from a plant known as the puncture vine and has been used in many cultures to treat a variety of medical conditions. Historically, the plant has been proven to boost testosterone levels. Also, scientists have carried out research on mice, and the results have shown that the extract boosts libido. The ingredient can also help women manage their menopause symptoms. Generally, it can help people balance their hormones.
The plant has also been identified as an energy booster, and this will help you sustain the strenuous workouts in the gym. Another advantage of this plant is that it improves the circulation of blood around the body. Blood vessels will also expand as the blood flows through them.
You should never take more of this plant than is recommended. Also, make sure you take breaks from the supplement. Otherwise, you may experience some side effects. For example, you might feel warmer than usual. Because the supplement increases energy levels, you may also get restless and even fail to sleep at night. Some users also report an increased heart rate. If you experience any of these side effects, you should reduce your dosage.
- Fenugreek
Fenugreek has also been used for medicinal purposes for hundreds of years. It has been used to treat stomach problems and improve digestion. Traditional societies also used the plant to treat erectile dysfunction.
In tests, subjects who took the plant have shown an increase in muscle strength and libido. The plant contains chemicals that help to prevent the breakdown of testosterone in the body, and this helps to maintain high levels of the hormone. Reductase and aromatase are the two enzymes responsible for the breakdown of testosterone, and the plant helps to inhibit them. Subjects in tests have also shown an increase in body strength and lean muscle mass. They also experienced a decrease in body weight.
Fenugreek is more effective when taken with other supplements such as magnesium.
How Should You Take Testosterone Boosters?
The supplements are taken differently. Most, however, are meant to be taken in the morning and at night before going to bed. In some cases, you will have to take the supplements a few minutes before your workout. All manufacturers of testosterone supplements include details on how their products should be taken, and this should be followed to the letter. Otherwise, you may experience side effects.
It is also important to take breaks in between cycles. Also, you need to make sure you are exercising enough and taking a proper diet. Testosterone will not naturally enlarge your muscles if you don’t supply your system with enough protein and amino acids.
Are Testosterone Boosters Dangerous?
Testosterone boosters work differently to deliver similar results. That means you cannot get a single list of the side effects of all testosterone boosters. It is worth mentioning that natural supplements are generally safe, especially for men over the age of 40. If you stick to the recommended dosage, there is also no reason why you should experience side effects. Also, you should not use the supplements excessively. Use them in cycles and you will experience the benefits without risking your health.
The ingredients used to boost testosterone do not all work well together. Some do not even interact well with other common ingredients. It is prudent to do research on the different ingredients in a supplement before you start taking it.
The short term side effects associated with testosterone boosters are not major. If you experience any medical conditions because of using the supplements, you should quit using it. Many manufacturers offer money-back guarantees on unopened bottles and you can take advantage of such offers in case the products cause unwanted side effects.
The research on long-term side effects of testosterone boosters has not been conclusive. Regardless, there is no reason to believe that the supplements will have negative effects in the long-term.
Conclusion
Bodybuilders need testosterone to maximize their potential. Natural levels of the hormone are not sufficient for people who want to build muscle and cut fat. Fortunately, testosterone boosters are available to supplement the natural levels of the hormone. There are many different types of boosters on the market, and they are made using a wide variety of ingredients.
