Quick Fact:

At 40 a woman's testosterone levels are roughly 50% lower than they were when she was 20.

Testosterone is a sex hormone produced by the male body in the testes. It also is made in small amounts by a woman's adrenal glands and ovaries. In both sexes it is the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus that regulate the production of testosterone in the body. Testosterone influences sexual desire and behavior, along with strengthening the brain, muscles, bones, liver and blood vessels. It is for this reason why one should be aware of the dangers of testosterone deficiency and methods of raising testosterone.

What Role Does Testosterone Play in Women's Health?

What are the side effects of too much testosterone?

  • Acne or oily skin
  • Hair loss from the scalp
  • Hair growth on the face and body
  • Anger and hostility problems
  • Shrinking breast size
  • Hoarseness or a deeper voice
  • Irregular menstrual cycles
  • An increase in the size of clitoris

Testosterone is the hormone primarily responsible for the sexual health of women. If testosterone levels are balanced, it can have a positive effect on the bones, musculature, and overall bodily energy. In addition, testosterone is also responsible for arousal, orgasms, and a healthy sex drive. It thus serves to boost the libido and improve overall sexual health. Viceversa, testosterone deficiency can lead to a decreased functioning of these roles. It is also important to recognize that while testosterone is linked to sex drive, a person's interest in sex is far more complicated than testosterone levels.

Ways of Raising Testosterone

Given the range of side effects associated with too much testosterone (see left), there are some natural ways of raising testosterone levels that will avoid those symptoms.


testosterone grains

Eating the right kind of food has been shown to raise testosterone levels. For example, the proteins in eggs have the ability to stimulate the adrenal glands to keep testosterone levels steady in the body. Fruits and vegetables also have a positive influence on the body's testosterone. They also reduce fat and help develop a stronger immune system. Other foods such as meats and nuts (particularly peanuts) have also been proven beneficial in increasing testosterone levels.

Weight Training

Weight exercises are a healthy way to naturally raise testosterone levels in the body. Concentrating on training the large muscle groups with a heavy weight load is the most effective way of raising testosterone levels. When you are doing weight exercises, try a heavy weight load with minimal repetitions to maximize the benefits of raising testosterone levels.

Basic Health and Fitness

testosterone resting

Some of the most effective ways of raising testosterone levels are often common sense approaches to improving general health and well-being. Limiting the amount of alcohol you drink is one practical measure. This is because consuming alcohol makes the body slow down its production of testosterone in order to process and clear alcohol out of the system. Also, people getting a good night's sleep have also shown a higher level of testosterone than those who don't, so regularly sleep patterns can be vital.

Finally, in addition to the range of natural methods available for raising testosterone, testosterone depletion can also be addressed through the use of alternative medicines. These are often an effective supplement to support the production of testosterone.