3 Serious Dangers of Testosterone Replacement

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Posted: 13 Aug 2014 08:00 AM PDT

Testosterone therapy has received a lot of attention in recent years, with most of its focus being placed on safety. Those advocating for testosterone replacement therapy, or TRT, say the approach provides numerous benefits, including libido support, improved energy, increased muscle mass and strength, and stronger bones. Some research has even placed TRT as a helpful therapy for cardiovascular health. Opponents, however, cite research that points out HRT’s lows, including its possible role for increasing prostate cancer.

So, what are the facts? Well, the answer may lie somewhere in-between. That being said, there are other safe, more natural options that exist for boosting testosterone, approaches that have very little to no side effects (or even cost) to men.

Dangers of Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Using testosterone isn’t like taking a vitamin. Testosterone is a hormone, one that is naturally produced by the testicles and ovaries in humans. This hormone is responsible for a number of physical characteristics, including the onset of puberty. It is crucial for normal sperm growth and development, aiding in strengthening fertility in males.

TRT has shown to produce many short-term benefits; however, this treatment is fairly new and the impacts are relatively unknown. Here are the most commonly-reported side effects associated with testosterone replacement therapy:

1. Blood Clotting

The clotting of blood is a necessary process that occurs in response to a wound, but the unnecessary thickening of blood in the body can lead to strokes or deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

2. Vital Organ Issues

Liver disease, swelling of the arms and legs, and heart problems have all been reported following TRT. One study indicated that men over 65 using testosterone therapy had a higher risk for cardiovascular disease. ^[1]

3. Prostate Cancer

Some researchers claim that increasing testosterone levels unnaturally may increase the risk of developing prostate cancer. Despite these claims, research to date has not provided conclusive results. ^[2]

Natural Alternatives

Although benefits have been consistently reported, the real long-term impacts remain unknown. Here are just a few natural nutritional approaches that may benefit testosterone, libido, and mood:

1. Monounsaturated Fats

Fats from olive oil, avocados, and almonds are very high in monounsaturated fatty acids, types of fats that have been shown to increase testosterone levels in men. ^[3] Olive oil shows the most benefit, so start using more of this nutritious oil in your cooking, on salads, and drizzled over cooked vegetables.

2. Vitamin D

The hype surrounding vitamin D is scientifically justified, especially since research shows that this powerful nutrient increases testosterone levels. While fish is somewhat high in vitamin D, the best sources are the sun and supplements. Vitamin D supplementation is especially important in older men, particularly those that do not receive adequate sunlight exposure on an ongoing basis. ^[4]

3. Zinc

Zinc is an essential nutrient needed for testosterone production, so including more foods rich in this mineral may be helpful for boosting hormone levels in the body. ^[5] Foods high in zinc include watermelon seeds, sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, and cashews. Basically, all nuts and seeds will provide a great vegan source of zinc.

One Final Thought

Nutrition, exercise, and overall lifestyle may be helpful for supporting healthy testosterone levels. Medical therapies may be necessary in rare circumstances, so individuals shouldn’t write off these approaches completely. Despite the occasional necessity, incorporating more natural approaches may be your best bet. If seeking to improve your testosterone status, speak to your doctor about implementing these scientifically-studied strategies.

Have you ever taken natural approaches to increase testosterone levels? What were your results? Please feel free to share with us your thoughts in the comments!

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM