5 tips to boost testosterone naturally
In a world of quick fixes and synthetic solutions, it’s easy to forget that the human body is a masterpiece of natural engineering. Testosterone, the engine of male health and vitality, doesn’t need artificial boosters, it needs alignment with nature.
By embracing ancestral wisdom and modern science, you can reclaim your strength, energy, and balance without compromising your health.
1. Balance your circadian rhythm
Every great day begins with a connection to the sun. Testosterone production is intricately tied to your body’s circadian rhythm, the internal clock that governs everything from sleep cycles to hormone regulation. Morning sunlight is a key trigger, signalling your body to optimise testosterone production at peak times.
Why it works
- Vitamin D activation: Sunlight catalyses your skin to produce Vitamin D, a hormone precursor critical for testosterone synthesis. Men with optimal Vitamin D levels consistently show higher testosterone levels compared to those deficient in this vital nutrient.
- Circadian rhythm alignment: Exposure to natural light in the morning helps synchronise your internal clock, ensuring hormones like testosterone and cortisol are released in the right amounts at the right times. Misaligned rhythms, often caused by indoor living and artificial lighting, disrupt these natural cycles, leading to suboptimal hormone production.
How to incorporate it: To maximise testosterone friendly benefits, spend 15–30 minutes outdoors first thing ever morning. Expose as much skin as possible to sunlight and ditch sunglasses to allow light to interact with your brain's hormonal control centres via your retina. For deeper circadian alignment, reduce exposure to artificial light at night to preserve melatonin production, a hormone indirectly supporting testosterone by promoting restorative sleep.
2. Incorporate organ meats
When it comes to nutrient density, few foods compare to organ meats. Once revered in ancestral diets, organ meats like liver, heart, and kidneys have fallen out of favour in modern culinary culture, but their nutritional benefits remain unparalleled. These treasure troves provide a wealth of bioavailable vitamins and minerals that directly fuel testosterone production.
Why it works
- Zinc: Known as the 'testosterone mineral', zinc plays a crucial role in hormone synthesis and regulation. Found abundantly in organ meats like kidney and liver, it also helps balance estrogen levels in the male body.
- Vitamin A (retinol): Liver is nature’s richest source of bioavailable Vitamin A, which supports testicular function, sperm production, and overall hormonal balance. Unlike synthetic Vitamin A found in supplements, retinol from organ meats is easily absorbed and utilised by the body.
- Heme iron: Organ meats provide heme iron, the most bioavailable form of iron. This boosts oxygenation, energy levels, and metabolic health, all of which are foundational for hormonal function.
How to incorporate them: Enjoy grass fed liver multiple times a week. Not a fan of the flavor? Blend liver into ground beef for burgers, sauté it with garlic and herbs for a more palatable option, try it as a pâté. Experiment with heart or kidney in stews, where their flavours meld beautifully with rich broths and vegetables. Alternatively, enjoy them in your morning coffee or smoothie with Organised organ blend.
3. Royal jelly
Royal jelly, the nutrient dense secretion that feeds queen bees, is a powerful ally in hormonal health. Packed with vitamins, fatty acids, amino acids, and enzymes, this ancient superfood has long been celebrated for its revitalising properties. Research suggests it has direct benefits for testosterone production and overall endocrine function.
Why it works:
- Hormonal support: Royal jelly has been shown to stimulate the release of luteinising hormone (LH), a key regulator of testosterone production in the testes.
- Nutrient density: This natural elixir is rich in B vitamins, zinc, and unique bioactive compounds that nourish the body’s hormone pathways.
- Anti-Inflammatory Benefits: Chronic inflammation disrupts testosterone production. Royal jelly’s antioxidant properties reduce oxidative stress, creating a better internal environment for hormonal balance.
How to incorporate it: Start with 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of fresh, raw royal jelly daily. Take it straight on an empty stomach for maximum absorption or mix it into your morning smoothie. Look for high quality, pesticide- ree royal jelly to ensure you’re reaping its full benefits.
4. Sprint Training
The body thrives on intensity, and few activities deliver as much as sprinting. High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), particularly in the form of sprints, is one of the most effective ways to naturally elevate testosterone levels. Unlike steady state cardio, which can elevate cortisol (a testosterone antagonist), sprints stimulate anabolic hormones and improve metabolic health.
Why it works
- Testosterone surge: Research shows that sprinting leads to a significant, immediate increase in testosterone levels following exercise.
- Cortisol control: Short, intense bursts of activity keep cortisol levels in check, preventing the chronic stress that can suppress testosterone production.
- Muscle activationL Sprinting engages fast twitch muscle fibers, essential for strength, power, and hormone regulation.
How to incorporate it: Warm up with dynamic stretches and light jogging. Perform 6–8 rounds of 20–30 second sprints at maximum effort, followed by 90 seconds of active recovery. Incorporate sprint sessions 2–3 times per week, alternating with strength training for a balanced regimen.
5. Cold exposure
Cold exposure isn’t just about mental grit; it’s a potent tool for metabolic and hormonal optimisation. Practices like cold showers, ice baths, or cold plunges stimulate physiological adaptations that enhance overall resilience and hormonal health.
Why it works
- Improved circulation: Cold exposure increases blood flow to the testes, optimizing their function and testosterone output.
- Hormonal reset: Exposure to cold triggers the release of norepinephrine, a stress hormone that reduces cortisol while boosting focus and resilience.
- Metabolic efficiency: Cold therapy enhances mitochondrial function and energy production, indirectly supporting testosterone synthesis.
How to incorporate it: Start with a 30-second blast of cold water at the end of your regular shower, gradually extending the duration as your tolerance improves. For deeper benefits, consider ice baths or cold plunges, maintaining water temperatures between 50–59°F for 2–3 minutes, once or twice weekly.
Your body is capable of extraordinary things when you give it the tools it needs. By reintroducing time honoured practices like eating organ meats, embracing the cold, and syncing with the sun, you create an environment where testosterone, and your overall health, can be revitalised.