Vitamin D and testosterone
To understand the effects of vitamin D on testosterone, this blog will cover:
- How does vitamin D affect testosterone?
- The importance of testosterone
- Boosting your vitamin D intake
Read on to find out more!
How does vitamin D affect testosterone levels?
The research surrounding vitamin D and testosterone is plentiful and, so far, there are some positive results to shout about! It has been found that not only does vitamin D affect testosterone levels, but also these effects are positive in that increasing your vitamin D intake can contribute to a rise in testosterone.
A 2010 study investigated these very effects with 153 male participants. These men were split into two groups, with one half receiving a vitamin D supplement for 12 months, whilst the other took a placebo. The group supplementing their diet with vitamin D saw an increase in their overall testosterone levels, which prior to the study had been relatively low. In contrast, the placebo group saw no improvement in their testosterone levels.1
In other research, testosterone levels were seen to increase over the summer months when men spent more time out in the sunshine – the sun being the body's main source of vitamin D.2
The importance of testosterone
Testosterone is most important for sexual function in men. It's responsible for producing sperm from the testes but also supports libido and fertility. In addition, testosterone plays a part in muscle growth.
With age comes a natural decline in testosterone levels, sometimes resulting in symptoms like low libido and muscle loss. If you are interested, you can read a bit more about this issue and the symptoms it causes here.
Boosting your vitamin D intake
When you can, getting outdoors is without a doubt the best way to boost your vitamin D levels, as the body is able to make vitamin D when exposed to the sun. However, if you think your vitamin D levels could be suffering due to poor weather or even a job that confines you to the indoors, then it is time to consider a supplement.
In the UK, vitamin D supplements of 400 IU (10 μg) daily are recommended. When browsing for a supplement, however, you may notice that many options contain much more than this, so make sure you don't end up getting too much!
If you'd like a more moderate dose of vitamin D, Balance Mineral Drink may be an option. One dose contains 200 IU (5 μg) of vitamin D, and has the added benefit of containing nutrients like zinc and calcium to give your body an extra nutritional boost!
As good vitamin D levels are associated with better mood and immune function alongside improved testosterone levels, winter is the ideal time to consider taking it.
A.Vogel Balance Electrolyte Mineral Drink with Vitamin D3, Magnesium, Zinc, Potassium and Calcium.
£22.49 (21 x 5.5g sachets) In Stock
