How to Increase Testosterone Naturally

Today, more than ever men are looking for healthy ways to increase testosterone naturally. A 1999 study found that thirty percent of men and forty percent of women in the United States suffer from sexual dysfunction, are unable to achieve orgasm or have no interest in sex. Studies show that as we get older, become less physically active, neglect our diet and gain weight, our testosterone levels become depleted which diminishes sexual desire.

Symptoms that often accompany this condition are increased levels of fat (especially around the waist), slowing metabolism, low energy, lack of stamina, decreasing muscle mass, irritability, feelings of depression and memory loss. Studies confirm that excessive weight around the mid section have a direct impact on testosterone levels. The loss of testosterone has been found to trigger an increase in estrogen levels which leads to andropause (male menopause). Another study confirmed that when levels of HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) are low and LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) are high, testosterone levels are low.

There are a number of other factors that contribute to low testosterone levels. Habitual use of medications such contraceptives, tobacco, cholesterol lowering drugs, anti-ulcer drugs, antidepressants, beta blockers, oral contraceptives, blood pressure medications and alcohol all contribute to diminished libido. Chronic stress causes major disruptions in hormone levels which result in decreased testosterone levels and lack of desire for intimacy. Exposure to a variety of chemicals transmitted through air, diet and skin has decreased the sperm count of modern man to half of what it was fifty years ago. Tap water has been found to contain chemicals known as xenoestrogens which increases estrogen and decreases testosterone in the body.

The good news is that going on a healthy diet and losing weight (especially around the mid section) will increase testosterone levels. Replace refined foods such as white flour products, white sugar products and simple carbohydrates with a diet of raw fruits, vegetables and whole grain products. Organic eggs are an excellent source of protein and many other nutrients. Raw nuts and healthy oils such as flax oil and olive oil should also be added to your diet. A good combination of healthy foods will allow you to feel full on smaller portions and eliminate food cravings.

To maximize the production of testosterone begin a regular weight training program and engage in cardiovascular exercise such as cycling, jogging or aerobic training to shed the pounds. Use stress reduction techniques such as listening to soft music, going for a quite walk with your pet, deep breathing and laughter to minimize stress. Use positive language in response to stressful situations because this will subconsciously direct the mind to seek effective solutions. Avoid synthetic cosmetics and deodorants, chlorine bleach and other chlorinated products, drink purified water and eat organic food whenever possible. Organic meat and dairy products are preferable to regular meat and dairy products because they contain no hormones and will not decrease testosterone levels.

Natural supplements with no serious side effects have been found effective at directly or indirectly increasing sexual drive. They include the amino acid L- arginine, muira puama, tribulus terrestris, red clover extract, maca, stinging root nettle, avena sativa, muira puama, saw palmetto, zinc, vitamin C, ginkgo biloba, panax ginseng, gotu cola and elk antler velvet. Horny goat weed is a popular and effective way to increase testosterone levels and activate neurotransmitters instrumental in sexual arousal and performance. Many of these herbs may be available in combination formulas online or at your local health store.

For those men experiencing andropause ( male hormone imbalance associated with aging) a natural progesterone cream is the key to increasing testosterone levels. To read progesterone cream reviews click here.