Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) risk is influenced by low testosterone levels in men. Low testosterone levels are seen in both men and women with rheumatoid arthritis, revealing that sex hormones may play a role in the disease. Unfortunately, it is unclear if low testosterone levels are to blame for the onset of rheumatoid arthritis or if it is rheumatoid arthritis that drops the levels of testosterone.
The researchers studied participants in the Swedish Malmo Preventive Medicine Program (MPMP), which included over 33,000 people born between 1921 and 1949. The participants underwent several tests, filled out questionnaires, and provided blood samples.
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The researchers focused on the subjects diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Blood samples were available for 104 men with RA and 174 matched male controls without RA.
After considering other rheumatoid arthritis risk factors, the researchers found that men with low testosterone were more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis.
The findings suggest that changes in hormones could be an early warning sign of an impending rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis.
Low Testosterone Levels Symptoms and Effects
Unless you proceed with blood work, you may not know for sure if your testosterone levels are low. But you can get a fair idea about your declining testosterone levels if you notice the following symptoms:
- Low sex drive
- Weak erection or erectile difficulties
- Low semen volume
- Hair loss
- Low or lack of energy
- Increase in body fat – especially around the abdomen
- Bone loss
- Mood changes
- Loss of muscle mass and strength
These symptoms are linked to many aspects of what makes up a man. Not only will men feel weak, but they may not even feel “manly.” Essentially, when testosterone levels are low, men feel stripped of their manhood.
In addition to the symptoms listed above, low testosterone can also affect men in other ways.
For starters, low testosterone may lead to erectile dysfunction and a decrease in sperm volume. And the more a man goes without sex, the more his desire for sex will diminish. The effects of low testosterone may get so severe that a person may lose their desire for sex entirely.
Testosterone also plays a large role in mood and behavior. High levels of testosterone may lead to angry outbursts and aggression, whereas low testosterone may result in low energy, low motivation, sadness, and sleep issues, which can lead to further health problems.
Testosterone levels, low or high, greatly impact a man’s life, so maintaining healthy, normal levels is essential for good health.
Foods to Boost Testosterone Levels
Fatty Fish
Did you know that incorporating fatty fish into your diet may positively impact your testosterone levels? Fatty fish, such as salmon, trout, and tuna, are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to increased testosterone production.
Additionally, omega-3s are known to reduce inflammation in the body, which can also contribute to increased testosterone levels.
Not only does adding fatty fish to your meals provide numerous health benefits, but it could also increase this vital hormone. So, next time you’re at the grocery store, consider picking up some fresh fish for dinner.
Dark, Leafy Greens
Dark leafy greens are not just packed with nutrients; they can also help boost testosterone levels. Studies show that certain dark leafy greens, such as spinach and Swiss chard, contain high levels of magnesium, a mineral that has been found to promote healthy testosterone production.
So, adding these greens to your diet may improve your overall health and give your testosterone levels a much-needed boost.
Avocados
Avocados have gained quite the reputation as a superfood in recent years and for good reason. In addition to being packed with fiber, healthy fats, and various vitamins and minerals, avocados have been found to have a surprising benefit for men – they can help boost testosterone levels.
The healthy fats found in avocados promote the production of testosterone while also aiding in the absorption of other important vitamins and minerals.
Eggs
Eggs are a highly nutritious food that are commonly consumed for their high protein content. However, they also have the potential to impact testosterone levels in the body.
Studies have shown that men who consume eggs regularly have increased levels of this important hormone. This is because eggs are rich in various nutrients essential for testosterone production, such as vitamin D, zinc, and cholesterol.
Honey
Honey is not only a delicious natural sweetener, but it also packs a punch when it comes to boosting testosterone levels. Several studies have shown that consuming honey regularly can help increase testosterone production in men.
So, whether you’re an athlete looking to build muscle mass or simply want to feel more energized and virile, incorporating honey into your diet could be a simple and effective way to boost your testosterone levels naturally.
Almonds
Almonds have long been touted as a nutritious snack, but did you know they can also positively impact testosterone levels? These tasty nuts are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and minerals, all of which can help support the hormone’s production in the body.
So the next time you’re looking for a quick and healthy snack, reach for a handful of almonds and take one step towards a healthier and more vibrant you.
Garlic
Garlic, a member of the allium family, has been known for its medicinal properties for centuries. Recent studies have found that garlic can help boost testosterone levels in men.
Garlic contains a compound called allicin, which has been shown to increase testosterone production in the body. Additionally, garlic can improve heart health, reduce inflammation, and even lower cholesterol levels. Incorporating garlic into your diet can be an easy and tasty way to reap its numerous health benefits.
Spinach
Spinach is a green, leafy vegetable that has long been known for its numerous health benefits. Recent studies have shown that spinach is high in nitrates, which can help improve blood flow and muscle function.
By incorporating spinach into your diet, you can also potentially increase your testosterone levels and reap the benefits of improved muscle mass and strength. So, next time you’re looking for a tasty and nutritious addition to your meal, don’t forget to add some spinach to your plate.
Bananas
Bananas, the sweet and delicious fruit, can actually help boost testosterone levels in men. This comes as no surprise since bananas are jam-packed with essential nutrients such as potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. Vitamin B6, in particular, helps in the production of testosterone, while potassium aids in regulating the hormone’s functions in the body.
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With regular consumption of bananas, men can potentially experience an increase in energy, endurance, and even sexual drive. So, next time you’re at the grocery store, consider adding a bunch of bananas to your cart and reap the benefits.
Ginger
Ginger, a common spice used in countless dishes, has been found to have numerous health benefits that extend far beyond its delicious taste. Among these benefits is the ability to naturally increase testosterone levels, which can significantly positively affect both men and women.
Studies have shown that ginger may increase levels of luteinizing hormone, which is responsible for stimulating testosterone production. This makes ginger an attractive option for those looking to boost their overall health and well-being naturally and affordably.
