50 Shades of Gray: Depression Common in Borderline Testosterone

Serum total testosterone concentrations fall with increasing age, and free testosterone concentrations fall even more. This fall might have adverse consequences on energy, sexual function, muscle mass and function, erythropoiesis, and bone. Some of the decline in testosterone is related to the development of obesity and other comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus; evaluation and management of these comorbidities is therefore essential.

Testosterone is a male sex hormone that affects more than just sex drive. This hormone is also responsible for bone and muscle health, sperm production, and hair growth. You can lose testosterone as you age, as well as from chronic illnesses.

Hypogonadism (also called low testosterone or low T) is often medically treated to prevent future health problems. Along with your doctor’s recommendations, you may consider potential testosterone-boosting foods as a natural complement to low T treatments.

Vitamin D is a nutrient that helps the body absorb calcium. It’s important for the health of bones, the immune system, and many other body functions. Vitamin D is linked to longer life and testosterone production.

Tuna is rich in vitamin D. It’s also a heart-healthy, protein-rich food that’s low in calories. Whether you choose canned or fresh, eating this fish can be a natural way of boosting testosterone. A serving of tuna fulfills your daily vitamin D needs.

If you aren’t a tuna fan, you may consider other fishy sources of vitamin D, like salmon or sardines. Remember that moderation is key. Consuming too many omega-3 fatty acids from fish and other food sources may increase your risk for prostate cancer.

Milk is a great source of protein and calcium. Children and women are encouraged to drink milk for better bone health, but milk can keep men’s bones strong too. The vitamin D content also may keep testosterone levels in check.

Make sure you choose a carton that is fortified specifically with vitamin D. Choose low-fat or skim versions to keep your weight in check. They have the same nutrients as whole milk without all the saturated fat.

Egg yolks are another rich source of vitamin D. While cholesterol has gained a bad rap, egg yolk contains more nutrients than egg whites. Furthermore, the cholesterol of egg yolks may even help low T. As long as you don’t have any preexisting cholesterol issues, you can safely eat one egg per day.

When it comes to male hormone health, beans may offer more benefits than you think. White, kidney, and black beans, all are considered sources of vitamin D and zinc. Baked beans also offer these nutrients, but you’ll need additional sources in your daily diet. As a bonus, these foods are full of plant-based proteins that can protect heart health.

STUDY: The results were presented on March 6 here at the annual meeting of the Endocrine Society, ENDO 2015, by Michael S Irwig, MD, associate professor of medicine and director of the Center for Andrology in the Division of Endocrinology, George Washington University, Washington, DC.