Steroids And Testosterone

If you were looking to boost your testosterone levels, chances are you’d start with something called TRT, a product that can be implanted in the body, or administered via a patch, gel, cream or course of injections. This last method draws parallels to the use of steroids, which are often (but not always) abused by those wishing to get ripped, and have, on a few occasions, been linked to the death of the subject.

Anabolic steroids are essentially synthetic versions of testosterone, designed to mimic its growth-boosting effects in the body. They work by speeding up the production of muscles and the breakdown of proteins into amino acids – the building blocks of the body. In fact, one study found that athletes taking steroids increased their strength between 5-20 per cent.

But, put simply, there’s no need for the average man to use them, outside of a prescription from a GP for a specific condition. The NHS warns they can lead to addiction, and be tied up in issues of body dysmorphia and anxiety disorders, as well as leading to potential problems such as high blood pressure, erectile dysfunction, baldness, reduced sperm count, and acne. Which probably isn’t the look you’re going for.

Testosterone Supplements

So, if injections are out, and the use of lotions and potions questionable, what’s left? Well, there are a number of natural testosterone boosters out there, which neither require a drastic lifestyle change nor overcoming your fear of needles.

Zinc, Magnesium, Vitamin D

Many men suffer from low zinc levels, and it’s also a vital ingredient in testosterone production. The same can be said for vitamin D, and to a lesser extent, magnesium. “All three of these nutrients are crucial for T production and may have a place in your supplement regime, especially if they are shown to be low,” says Grant. All three can be taken in pill form and should offer gradual improvements.