Testosterone Enhancing Foods for Male Health
By Pauline Rai - Homeopath (DiHOM, RHOM, FLT HCP)
A healthy body composition of muscle to fat ratio is fairly dependent on the balance of hormones. Elevated estrogen levels have an impact on increasing fat ratios, as well as reducing libido. One way to remedy this is to try an estrogen – blocking diet to complement supplements and exercise.
Phytochemicals which are found in a variety of foods function to block abundant estrogen production. They are absolutely essential to the body being able to rebalance hormonal activity.
Cruciferous Vegetables such as broccoli, kale, cauliflower, cabbage, brussel sprouts, bok choy, collard greens, turnips, and rutabaga have high levels of phytochemicals. These could be added as a side dish to any meal.
Whole unrefined grains such as barley, wheat, oats, rye, corn, rice, and millet found in breads cereals and pasta contain a high source as well.
Pomegranates are known for the antioxidant effect on healthy metabolism. Researchers have found that the phytochemicals in pomegranates have anti-estrogenic activity. Can be consumed by drinking the juice or eating the seeds.
Onions and garlic are ingredients that can be added to any main dish and triggers the body to create testosterone. In addition the phytochemicals serve to protect sperm.
Protein. The ideal amount of protein varies based on age, sex, and level of physical activity. Items such as lean poultry, beef, fish, eggs, and beans, are required by the body for lean muscle. When we don’t get enough, the body makes a substance that binds with testosterone making it less available, reducing the amount of free testosterone.
Vitamin D enriched foods:
Vitamin D, considered a prohormone is involved in the synthesis of hormones. Salmon, tuna, and mackerel, are testosterone boosting.
Magnesium
Spinach, almonds, cashews are packed with a high content .This mineral blocks a particular protein from binding to testosterone thus increasing free testosterone.
Zinc
Oysters, beef and beans are good sources of Zinc. This mineral helps the body make testosterone. You can also find this fortified in cereals as well.
Alcohol
Beer can be detrimental for testosterone levels to drop, increasing estrogenic hormones.
The above recommendations are not an exhaustive list. A good balanced nutrition plan of proteins, fats and carbs for your body composition based on age, gender and physical activity can be calculated to establish baselines in Individual nutrition. In addition supplements can be beneficial to enhance diet and exercise.
At Firstline we offer hormone testing through RMA , an accredited lab for individuals who would like to restore hormone balance. Some common Hormone conditions are:
- Bone Loss
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Memory Loss
- Apathy, Grumpiness, Depression
- Breast Enlargement
- Prostate Enlargement
- Weight Gain, Improper Fat to Muscle Ratio
For further information contact us by email – info@firstlinenutrition.ca, with a subject heading: “Male Hormone Test Kit” and an information sheet will be sent out regarding testing.
