The Science Behind Testosterone Boosters

Testosterone. That's the magic hormone that kicks in during the teen years to jump-start puberty in boys. It's responsible for the transition from a young boy's body to the physique of a man. Muscles grow. Hair grows in new places, the voice deepens, and sexual maturity begins to take root. 

A man's body produces testosterone well into old age, but sometimes he may need a bit of a boost to maintain the physical condition he wants. So, what does he need to know about testosterone boosters?

"Free" vs. "Bound" vs. "Total" Testosterone

"Total" testosterone is exactly what it sounds like. "Total" references the entire amount of all the testosterone hanging out in the bloodstream.  Medical science divides this male hormone into two main types: "free" and "bound" testosterone. 

Of all the testosterone the male body produces, approximately 98 percent is attached to the protein albumin or the glycoprotein sex-hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). This is what's referred to as "bound" testosterone. The remaining 2 percent is the "free" hormone that's floating around the body.

What Are Testosterone Boosters?

The National Institutes of Health tell us many adults and children in the United States are taking one or more dietary supplements daily. These dietary supplements may contain myriad ingredients, including minerals, vitamins, herbs or other botanicals, enzymes, and amino acids. For example, many popular health-support supplements usually contain minerals like iron and calcium, vitamins D and B12, herbs such as garlic or echinacea, and products like probiotics, glucosamine, and fish oils. 

Supplements with specific ingredients and targeting specific consumers will have some of these same ingredients mixed with their main active components. Supplements designed to boost testosterone levels are often made using a combination of vitamins, minerals, and Omega-3 fatty acids. 

Testosterone boosters are designed to increase testosterone levels in the bloodstream. These products are formulated to work in conjunction with the body's natural production of testosterone, unlike many synthetic hormones. This sets testosterone boosters apart from medications used in testosterone replacement therapy, which are usually synthetic hormones designed to correct conditions where the male gonads don't work properly. This can lead to reduced or absent levels of male hormones. 

Testosterone boosters don't deliver testosterone. Instead, they work to stimulate your body's natural production of testosterone by combining natural substances such as minerals, enzymes, herbs, and vitamins. Some of the benefits of these boosters include:

• Stimulates the pituitary gland to produce "messenger" hormones that promote natural testosterone production in the male testicles
• Increase levels of free testosterone
• Most quality supplements contain herbal ingredients that suppress the production of estrogen, the female sex hormone

The More, the Merrier

After a man gets through early adulthood, his testosterone levels will naturally drop a bit each year. After age 30, your level could decline as much as one percent. If you're concerned that your level has dropped, see your doctor and get it checked out.

What are some possible benefits of increasing your testosterone level with boosters? Here are a few:

• Gains in lean muscle mass
• Increased bone density
• Reduced body fat
• Increased protein synthesis in muscles
• Increased sexual arousal response
• Reduction in fatigue
• Improved self-esteem

Your testosterone level influences your physical, emotional, and sexual well-being. A higher testosterone level generally has a positive influence on performance and attitude. Changes in testosterone levels can also affect hormone levels in other endocrine systems, so be sure you consult your doctor before taking boosters to raise your testosterone levels.

What About Side Effects?

Normal testosterone production is highest between the mid-teen years and around 25 years old. Some men notice the difference once their testosterone levels begin to taper as they're pushing age 30 or more. Testosterone boosters are a natural, safe way to maximize the amount of testosterone your body produces. But, like any other supplement, there are some potential side effects. 

Used correctly, testosterone boosters are generally safe and have been linked to only a few adverse effects:

• Oily skin and possible acne
• Slight fluid retention
• May aggravate existing prostate issues
• Enlargement of the breasts
• May make sleep apnea worse
• Reduction in the size of the testes
• Increase in aggressive behaviors

If you have questions about increasing your testosterone level with boosters, including whether or not the boosters will mix well with any prescription medications you take, talk it over with your doctor. 

Are Testosterone Boosters For You?

One of the main reasons men turn to testosterone boosters is they've experienced a drop in their sex drive. The problem could result from decreased testosterone levels, but it could also result from stress levels or difficulties in a relationship. If you suspect low testosterone is the culprit behind the problem, consult your healthcare provider about testing your testosterone levels.

Testosterone boosters work by providing indirect hormonal support. They are meant to give you the benefits that a healthy testosterone level provides, such as:

• A faster recovery time after exercise
• Bigger and stronger muscles
• Increased libido

Keep In Mind...

Make sure you maintain realistic expectations and set goals that are attainable. Testosterone boosters or any other supplement isn't going to miraculously "solve" whatever health and fitness issues you're experiencing. You have to take into consideration your eating habits and your exercise regimen. These actually have a bigger impact on your testosterone levels than you may think. A solid diet and a great training program working in conjunction with testosterone boosters can help you build muscle and raise your testosterone levels as a result. 

Finally, make certain you have a good mindset when starting on any testosterone booster. You know you can't achieve your dream physique overnight or instantly correct health or fitness issues by taking a single pill. Set your goals, do the work required, and make healthy choices that will put you on the road to long-term success.                                                                   

Ready to get started? Begin your journey with the highest-quality boosters from Tiger Fitness.