Optimising testosterone production can be beneficial to athletes because testosterone is one of the anabolic hormones used by the body to build skeletal muscle. Increasing testosterone levels can also have health benefits because it can improve energy levels and reduce body fat. Nutrition plays a part in optimising testosterone because a high quality diet improves overall health and this can in turn optimise all hormonal function. Further, nutrition is important at reducing the negative effects of stress because it increases resistance to stress. A number of nutrients are claimed to increase testosterone levels including the mineral boron and the mineral zinc. Herbs that have been touted as increasing testosterone include many of the adaptogenic herbs such as ginseng, ashwagandha and rhodiola. However, despite studies suggesting these nutrients are beneficial, the best way to optimise testosterone function remains a healthy high quality diet in combination with physical activity, particularly weight training.
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