10 Best Ingredients to Look For in a Testosterone Booster

James Cunningham, BSc, CPT
Published by James Cunningham, BSc, CPT | Staff Writer & Senior Coach
Last updated: December 6, 2023
Our content is meticulously researched and reviewed by an expert team of fact checkers and medical professionals. They ensure accuracy, relevance, and timeliness using the latest reputable sources, which are cited within the text and listed at the end of the article. Before publication and upon significant updates, we confirm factual accuracy, committed to providing readers with well-informed content. Learn more.

If you’re new to the supplement market, my advice is not to believe everything you read.

Some claims are based on scientific evidence, while others are pure speculation with no proof whatsoever.

To save you time and ensure your money is well-spent, I've teamed up with medical experts and spent hours delving into the key ingredients you should look out for in some of the best testosterone boosters on the market.

Quick Summary

  • The 10 best ingredients to look for in a testosterone booster are Vitamin B, Vitamin D, Zinc, Fenugreek, Ginger, L-Arginine, DHEA, D-Aspartic Acid, Tribulus Terrestris, and Korean Red Ginseng.
  • These boosters offer benefits such as improved muscle growth, increased libido, better mood, and enhanced energy.
  • A study published in PubMed found that Vitamin D significantly increases testosterone, aiding in weight loss and improving sexual function.
  • Personally, I believe that combining these supplements with a healthy lifestyle and regular exercise can maximize their effectiveness in boosting testosterone levels.

10 Ingredients To Look For In A Testosterone Booster

bowl of fenugreek and a ginseng crop

When it comes to testosterone boosters, it's important to look for ingredients that promote testosterone production and increase testosterone levels. These testosterone booster supplements often include key ingredients like vitamin D, which has been shown to improve sexual function and address low testosterone.

The most common benefits of testosterone boosters include lean muscle growth, increasing an individual’s low libido, better mood, and enhanced energy.

Let’s take a look at a few key ingredients.

1. Vitamin B

As a coach, I've seen the crucial role of B vitamins, particularly B3, B6, and B12, in health and testosterone production. Athletes with enough B6 often show a boost in free testosterone levels. I remember a trainee who, after fixing his B6 deficiency, saw a big improvement in performance and mood.

A study on B6-deficient rats indicated that B6 is important for testosterone's effectiveness [1].

B3 is key for circulation and blood pressure, helping reduce bad cholesterol and improve blood flow, which can tackle issues like erectile dysfunction. It also aids in cardiovascular health, muscle firmness, and physical performance.

B12, found in supplements or fortified foods, is vital for testicular health and sperm quality, affecting testosterone levels. Low B12 can lead to decreased energy, stamina, and cognitive function, affecting mood and stress.

2. Vitamin D

three capsules of vitamin d

Vitamin D, especially D3, is crucial for boosting testosterone, as shown in PubMed studies  [2]. Both D3 and testosterone are cholesterol-derived steroids, meaning D3 mimics many testosterone effects in the body. This makes D3 a top choice for those seeking effective testosterone boosters.

If your testosterone supplements lack D vitamins, try to make up for it by at least going outside on sunny days.

3. Fenugreek

Fenugreek is a plant with many beneficial properties. One of these includes its impact on low testosterone and related health benefits.

One study published in PubMed Central discovered that men who took fenugreek supplements consistently improved their strength, testosterone and lowered body fat [3].

As it also increases muscular endurance and hormonal balance, fenugreek is definitely an ingredient you should look out for in a natural testosterone booster.

4. Zinc

Zinc is a mineral required for proper immune system functions since it assists enzymes that build proteins. As of current, researchers aren’t sure why this ingredient affects testosterone but have confirmed that it plays a very important role in the maintenance of testosterone hormone levels [4].

Zinc's role in testosterone maintenance is something I've observed in my coaching career. I've seen clients who were low in zinc experience a noticeable improvement in their testosterone levels after we adjusted their diets to include more zinc-rich foods.

5. Ginger

bowl of ginger powder and ginger plant

Ginger has been a breakthrough in holistic health and testosterone boosting for many clients. One saw notable improvements in circulation and testosterone after incorporating ginger, echoing research on its benefits for testicular function and testosterone production [5].

Ginger's antioxidant properties combat free radicals, often linked to low testosterone, positively affecting sex drive and fertility.

Experts believe ginger plays a crucial role in reproductive health, including sperm and testosterone production. Since the testicles are key to growth factors, low levels can affect muscle mass, bone density, and sex drive.

6. L-Arginine

L-arginine, a protein-building amino acid, is transformed into nitric oxide in the body. In my coaching career, I've recommended L-arginine to athletes for its remarkable ability to enhance blood flow and relaxation.

This enhancement is crucial for addressing issues like erectile dysfunction and high blood pressure, and it also helps reduce heart disease risk.

In testosterone supplements, L-arginine serves as a balancing agent against stimulants like caffeine, ensuring that their metabolic effects are moderated.

Post You May Like: Does L-Arginine Increase Testosterone?

7. DHEA

hormones 3d modelling

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), produced by the adrenal glands, is key in making hormones like testosterone, crucial for T-boosters.

In my experience, DHEA significantly boosts vitality and hormone balance. Since it's adrenal-derived, it's thought to offer adrenaline-like effects, enhancing energy, athletic performance, sex drive, and focus.

According to the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, DHEA supplements resulted in bigger muscles, increased fat loss, and better sexual function but did not directly affect low testosterone [6].

8. D-Aspartic Acid

D-Aspartic Acid is a natural amino acid. And we all know that amino acids are the building blocks for muscle development and repair.

As this ingredient increases the follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone, it is assumed to stimulate the body to release more testosterone and growth hormone.

In animal studies, this ingredient has been shown to greatly enhance T-levels in male animals, with inconsistent results in men [7]. Further research is needed to fully understand its effects.

9. Tribulus Terrestris

Close up image of Tribulus Terrestris

Commonly used as an aphrodisiac, the plant known as Tribulus Terrestris is sought out for its ability to increase libido.

Individuals with a low sex drive often have lower testosterone levels; thus, this ingredient can assist those looking to get their sex life back to normal.

However, note that there is little scientific evidence that proves this ingredient actually boosts testosterone [8]. As a result, it doesn’t actually affect a person’s testosterone levels directly.

10. Korean Red Ginseng

This natural ingredient mimics the effects of higher testosterone levels. It's known for increasing alertness, boosting immunity, and treating erectile dysfunction, as noted by Springer Link [9]. While its direct impact on testosterone is debated, it offers similar benefits, aiding in fat reduction and muscle building with few side effects.

Korean Red Ginseng is a go-to recommendation for clients seeking natural vitality enhancers. One client notably improved their energy and immune response with regular use.

Related Articles:

FAQs

What Testosterone Boosters Are the Best?

The best test boosters are known to increase energy levels, boost your sex drive, assist with muscle building, and contain natural ingredients that are scientifically proven to work.

How Do You Know if You Need a Testosterone Booster?

You will need a booster if you notice sudden changes in your body that weren’t there before. These include symptoms such as erectile dysfunction, low energy and mood, loss of muscle mass, increased weight gain, or testicular shrinkage. To maintain hormone balance and experience the many health benefits associated with it, it is crucial to focus on improving blood flow. This becomes particularly important when dealing with low testosterone levels and aiming to enhance reproductive health and sexual health.

What Foods Kill Testosterone?

Foods such as soy, mint, alcohol, processed foods, and sugar are known to kill testosterone. These foods reduce the function of androgen receptors, which leads to increased production of estrogen.

To maintain healthy levels of testosterone, ensure you’re sticking to a balanced diet that’s rich in vitamins and minerals.


References:

  1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6727359/
  2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21154195/
  3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2978122/
  4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8875519/
  5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6316093/
  6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9876338/
  7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5340133/
  8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4120469/
  9. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40265-018-0897-3
Was this article helpful?
YesNo

About The Author

James Cunningham, BSc, CPT
Staff Writer & Senior Coach
James Cunningham, BSc, CPT holds a BSc degree in Sport & Exercise Science from University of Hertfordshire. He's a Health & Performance Coach from London that brings a unique blend of academic knowledge of health supplements and practical exercise experience to the table for his readers.
Learn more about our editorial policy
Dr. Kristy June Dayanan, BS, MD is an author with a BS degree from University of the Philippines and an MD from University of Perpetual Help System. Her ability to simplify medical science complexities and dietary supplement jargon for the average reader makes her a valued medical fact checker and reviewer.
Learn more about our editorial policy
Dr. Harshi Dhingra, MBBS, MD is a published peer-reviewed author and renowned physician from India with over a decade of experience. With her MBBS from Bharati Vidyapeeth and an MD from Rajiv Gandhi University, she actively ensures the accuracy of online dietary supplement and medical information by reviewing and fact-checking health publications.
Learn more about our editorial policy

You May Also Like

A woman at the gym working out her abs with Red Tonik on the side
By Lisa Lorraine Taylor, BSc, CPT 4 months ago
Red Tonik Review 2024: Benefits, Ingredients, Cost & Verdict
Brian Shaw showing his Home Gym
By James Cunningham, BSc, CPT 4 months ago
Brian Shaw Home Gym (An In-Depth Look at His Equipment)
Bulk Powders T-Booster Review Featured Image
By James Cunningham, BSc, CPT 4 months ago
Bulk Powders T-Booster Review (2024) How Effective Is It?
A bearded guy pointing upwards, NooCube overlay
By James Cunningham, BSc, CPT 4 months ago
NooCube Review (2024) Is It a Legit Brain Booster?
a person taking down notes with supplements and pre-workout on the side
By Benedict Ang, CPT, PN1-NC 3 months ago
7 Pre-workout Ingredients to Avoid And Why
Top view of Pre Workout powder with tumbler
By Benedict Ang, CPT, PN1-NC 3 months ago
What to Mix Pre-workout With? (4 Unexpected Options)

Write a Reply or Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Our scoring system is the result of objective testing data and subjective expert analysis by a team of fitness coaches and medical experts. Our scoring factors are weighted based on importance. For more information, see our product review guidelines.