Foods Containing Flavonoids for Testosterone Therapy

As men age, the levels of testosterone in their bodies gradually decrease. This causes a variety of physical changes that most men find downright undesirable. To combat the decline, many look at testosterone therapy as a way to regain at least some of their youthful vigor. Natural alternatives are becoming increasingly popular and the most promise seems to lie with compounds called flavonoids, which are found in several types of food.

Facts

• Testosterone is the dominant male hormone and is produced in the testes. It is a natural anabolic steroid that is responsible for the development of male characteristics such as body and facial hair and muscle strength and growth. It plays a key role in the production of sperm and affects sexual desire and performance. Sufficient levels help preserve bone density, and contribute to a general feeling of well-being.

Significance

• Age-related decreases in testosterone levels are inevitable, although genetic makeup or health problems can also be factors. As levels of testosterone decrease men can begin to experience negative effects such as fatigue, increased irritability, depression, inability to concentrate, loss of bone density, loss of sexual desire, and erectile dysfunction (ED).

Treatment

• Treatments for low levels of testosterone include FDA approved methods of testosterone therapy in the form of injections, gels, or patches. Natural alternatives using foods and supplements containing compounds called flavonoids have also been shown to be effective. According to the "Journal of Medicinal Food," May, 2002, studies demonstrated that there was a significant improvement in overall sexual function in rats given flavonoids, along with an increased sperm count and greater fertilization potential.

Foods

• Plenty of choices for flavonoids exist in the produce section of the grocery store.

  Balz Frei, professor and director of the Linus Pauling Institute, notes that flavonoids are found mainly in fruits and vegetables. In fact, they are what often give fruits and vegetables their color-they make lemons yellow and certain apples red. Coffee, white and green tea, parsley, red and white wine, beer, honey, legumes, and dark chocolate also have significant amounts of flavonoids Foods with the highest concentration of flavonoids include green vegetables, onions, apples, berries, and all citrus fruits (oranges, tangerines, grapefruit, etc.).

Additional Benefits

• Not only can eating foods with flavonoids help increase levels of testosterone naturally, but they also are believed to have other health benefits as well. Balz Frei of the Linus Pauling Institute states that flavonoids could also induce mechanisms that help kill cancer cells and inhibit tumor invasion. Frei also states that flavonoids help keep blood vessels healthy and relaxed which prevents inflammation, and therefore can help to lower blood pressure-all key goals in prevention of heart disease.