Testosterone is often associated with facial hair, prominent muscles and illegal steroids. Naturally produced testosterone plays a very important role in the metabolic functions of males and females. Lowered testosterone is a chronic epidemic that is threatening lives all around the world. Boost your testosterone levels naturally through healthy lifestyle measures.
Testosterone is an anabolic steroid hormone that plays a critical role in metabolism, sex drive, muscle building, mood regulation, memory and cognitive functions. Normal testosterone levels help maintain optimal weight as well as reduce risks of degenerative diseases such as osteoporosis, heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers.
Women produce testosterone in the adrenal glands and ovaries, but in significantly lower amounts than men. In the man, testosterone is produced in the testes and adrenal glands.
It is present in the body at its peak in the early 20s, and then drops about 10 percent with each successive decade. Post-menopausal women lose the function of their ovaries and are at risk for low testosterone later in life. With inadequate testosterone, women are at much greater risk for developing osteoporosis and other chronic diseases.
Men are said to lose 1.5 percent of testosterone production each year beyond age 30. Men who lose a greater proportion of their testosterone are said to have andropause. The Alliance for Aging Research has indicated that one third of American men over the age of 39 have reported two or more symptoms of low testosterone. Symptoms of male andropause include lowered libido, decreased muscle mass, increased abdominal fat accumulation, depression and lack of drive.
The changes involved in andropause are gradual over time. They often go unnoticed for years. In a large study of 858 males over 40, men with low testosterone had an 88 percent increased risk of death compared with those who had normal levels.
The key to stabilizing testosterone levels begins with an anti-inflammatory diet loaded with phytonutrient rich fruits and vegetables. Grains and sugars stimulate higher levels of insulin and cortisol. Cortisol is the antithesis of testosterone. The body produces high cortisol levels when faced with chronic chemical, physical and emotional stressors. Healthy blood sugar balance is critical to stabilizing cortisol and boosting testosterone.
Healthy fat sources are also important for good hormone function. Fats and cholesterol form the structure and rigidity of cell membranes. Fats impact cell messaging by acting as enzyme and hormone regulators. A nutrition plan should consist of ample amounts of good fats such as avocado, coconut and olive oil. Saturated fats, cholesterol, conjugated linoleic acids and essential omega 3 fatty acid from healthy grass-fed animal products are excellent.
Read more: Natural News