Testosterone replacement therapy can be helpful for health problems and signs of aging. Of course, you can first try changing your diet.
Testosterone replacement therapy: all the information
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a medical treatment that increases testosterone levels in people whose bodies do not produce enough testosterone.
- Testosterone therapy is prescribed by a doctor when men suffer from hypogonadism, an underactive testicle. Since hormones are produced here, the disease leads to a deficiency, which results in further symptoms such as decreasing bone density, fatigue, depression, reduced libido, erection problems or muscle loss.
- In addition to reasons such as illness and age, factors such as chronic stress, lack of sleep, obesity, unhealthy diet, alcohol consumption, drug abuse, certain medications and environmental toxins can lead to a testosterone deficiency. These influences disrupt hormone regulation and lower testosterone levels.
- Anyone who has a normal testosterone level has to pay for the therapy themselves. The supposedly positive effect on erectile function and sexual quality of life has not yet been proven in studies. If you decide to do this, you should definitely find a doctor to supervise you.
- Many young men choose TRT to increase muscle mass. However, this can be dangerous because it suppresses the body's own testosterone production, which can lead to infertility and dependence on therapy in the long term. It can also increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, prostate enlargement, acne and hormonal imbalances.
- These side effects can also occur in older patients. Mood swings, hair loss and gynecomastia are also among the side effects.
- Testosterone replacement therapy can be provided through injections, gels or patches, oral tablets or capsules, and implanted pellets. These methods ensure a continuous absorption of testosterone into the body, depending on needs and individual tolerance.
- The cost of TRT can vary greatly depending on the type of treatment, the country in which it is performed, and whether insurance covers some of the cost. In Germany they can range from around 30 to 150 euros per month.
Increase testosterone through diet
If you want to increase your testosterone level naturally, you should make sure you get enough sleep, exercise regularly and have a low stress level. Diet can also play an important role in supporting and increasing testosterone levels. Studies show that a diet with a balance of healthy fats, proteins and carbohydrates is beneficial.
- The consumption of sufficient high quality proteine.g. Eating foods such as meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, nuts and legumes can help promote testosterone production.
- Zink is an essential mineral for testosterone production. Foods like oysters, red meat, poultry, nuts, seeds (especially pumpkin seeds), and legumes are good sources.
- A sufficient one Vitamin D levels is important for hormone production. Foods such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), eggs and fortified products can help. Sunlight exposure is also an important source of vitamin D.
- Healthy fats can support the production of testosterone. So reach for avocados, olive oil, nuts and fatty fish.
- A diet high in sugar and highly processed foods can increase insulin levels and lower testosterone levels. That's why it's better to avoid too much Zucker and processed foods.
- Vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower and kale can help reduce estrogen levels and therefore improve the testosterone to estrogen ratio.
- Fruits and vegetables that are rich in Antioxidants (e.g. berries, nuts, green leafy vegetables) can promote overall health and reduce hormonal imbalances.
- Excessive alcohol consumption can lower testosterone levels, so you should keep consumption moderate.