By now you probably know how important testosterone is for building muscle, strength and for general good health.
You probably already know that certain foods can boost testosterone, but there are also certain foods that you should avoid as they can actually cause your testosterone levels to plummet.
The major reason why these foods lower testosterone is that they cause a massive increase in oestrogen within your body.
Without going into too much detail but oestrogen is a female hormone, which is not something men want too much of. Especially if they want to build strength and muscle.
Oestrogen is not only found in certain foods (thanks to the pesticides and various other chemicals we put in our foods), but also can be found in other things too. Such as plastic water bottle and the plastic containers we use to microwave our food.
Often when plastic is heated, it will release oestrogen filled BPA which is subsequently consumed.
In the following article, we will look at the symptoms of high oestrogen levels, what foods are causing this and the foods we should be eating to boost testosterone. [toc]
Symptoms of High Oestrogen Levels in Men
If you currently have high oestrogen levels then it is likely that you are going to suffer from one or more of these symptoms:
- Gynecomastia or “Man Boobs”
- Infertility
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Prostate Problems
- Weight Gain
- Low Libido
- Higher Risk of Stroke
- Cardiac Disease
- More Feminine Characteristics
Testosterone Killing Foods
The following are the worst offenders that we definitely should keep away from our diets?
Testosterone Killing Food #1: Soy
As most soy used nowadays is genetically modified you will find that it will be high in oestrogen.
Testosterone Killing Food #2: Sugar
One other reason why you should consider cutting sugar from your diet is that it can cause a massive increase in oestrogen levels within your body.
Testosterone Killing Food #3: Simple Carbs
When I state “simple carbs” I mean junk food.
The reason why junk food is best avoided is that it is mostly sugar, which we have already discussed why it should be avoided.
Testosterone Killing Food #4: Non-Organic Milk
This is full of chemicals that can cause an increase in oestrogen.
Testosterone Killing Food #5: Non-Organic Meat
Non-organic meat is often pumped full of steroids and other chemicals to genetically enhance whichever animal is being farmed. This will obviously mean you are consuming these oestrogen causing chemicals too.
As meat is good for boosting testosterone then you should opt for the grass-fed varieties instead.
Oestrogen Blocking Foods
The following are foods that can block oestrogen, which will result in higher testosterone levels:
Oestrogen Blocking Food #1: Cruciferous Vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, turnips, kale, brussel sprouts, cabbage, bok choy, collard greens contain phytochemicals that can block the production of oestrogen.
Oestrogen Blocking Food #2: Mushrooms
Mushrooms have been shown to prevent the production of an enzyme called aromatase.
This can help prevent the production of oestrogen as aromatase helps to convert androgen into oestrogen.
Oestrogen Blocking Food #3: Red Grapes
The skin of the grape contains resveratrol, while the seeds contain proanthocyanidin. Both have been shown to be an effective way to prevent oestrogen from being produced.
Oestrogen Blocking Food #4: Seeds
Seeds such as chia, sesame and flax are full of polyphenols that can prevent oestrogen production.
Oestrogen Blocking Food #5: Green Tea
Green Tea contains phytochemicals that can prevent the production of oestrogen.
Other benefits you can gain from drinking green tea include a reduction in cholesterol and hypertension.
Oestrogen Blocking Food #6: Pomegranates
Pomegranates are another good source of phytochemicals.
Other Testosterone Boosting Tips
For more tips on how to boost your own testosterone levels, I would recommend reading the following article.
So in other words, try to avoid processed junk food!!