Are Testosterone Boosters Safe [Unique Dangers & Natural Alternatives]

05 Sep Are Testosterone Boosters Safe [Unique Dangers & Natural Alternatives]

The holy grail of hormones for males “testosterone” is accountable for “manliness.”   

Hence, most men want more of it. And since it starts to dwindle after the age of 30, its supplementation feels obvious.

But as much as the effects of declining testosterone, such as low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, muscle loss, and low stamina are horrifying for men, side effects of testosterone boosters are no less than a nightmare in comparison.

Whether you choose to take anabolic pills, gels, or injections, there are certain side effects of taking testosterone boosters.

Some are even life-threatening. 

While certain anabolic T-Boosters are still extensively used by bodybuilders and athletes to enhance performance, many are banned and illegal to use due to the testosterone booster side effects on males.

Hence, to make you aware, we have discussed all the possible negative effects of testosterone boosters that are even scientifically backed.

Without any more delay, let’s get started…

Side Effects of Anabolic Testosterone Boosters

Synthetic testosterone boosters often profess to be the ultimate solution to declining T-levels in men.

While some of the anabolic testosterone supplements can boost testosterone in the short term when used moderately, they cannot maintain your T-levels permanently.

However, the question here is “are testosterone boosters safe?”

Unquestionably, synthetic testosterone supplement side effects can do critical permanent damage to your body.

Over the years, numerous men have reported negative effects of testosterone boosters after using certain t-boosting pills.

Some of the side effects of taking testosterone boosters are:

1. High blood pressure/hypertension
2. Increased red blood count
3. Enlarged prostate
4. Fluid retention
5. Liver damage
6. Hair loss
7. Infertility
8. Man boobs/male breast enlargement
9. Shrunken testicles
10. Changes in behavior

Some of these side effects can be mild in the beginning but can severely affect your daily life and positivity.

#1. High Blood Pressure

Hypertension or high blood pressure can cause heart-related diseases and forms the dominant reason behind stroke and chronic kidney diseases as well.

#2. Increases Red Blood Count

Synthetic testosterone boosters can lead to more red blood cells leading to a higher risk of stomach ulcers, kidney stones, and clot formation leading to strokes, heart attacks, and even death.

#3. Enlarged Prostate

Taking testosterone-boosting pills can cause prostate enlargement which could make urination back-breaking and painful for you. 

Adding to this, if you are already dealing with prostate cancer, testosterone boosters can only add to its growth.

#4. Fluid Retention

Also referred to as edema, fluid retention causes swelling in the hands, legs, feet, and ankles. 

As a matter of fact, it also indicates aggravated heart failure.

#5. Liver Damage

A damaged liver can affect multiple organs. Chronic liver failure can cause bleeding, liver cancer, cirrhosis of the liver, and eventually death.

#6. Hair Loss

Anabolic testosterone supplements can cause hair loss in men. An increase in DHT because of testosterones leads to sensitive hair follicles that eventually lead to hair loss. 

Adding to this, it’s also the cause of male-pattern baldness.

#7. Infertility

One of the severe side effects of testosterone and anabolic steroids is infertility.

It decreases normal sperm production and disrupts the hormonal balance leading to male infertility. 

#8. Male Breast Enlargement

“Man boobs” are also one of the possible side effects of testosterone boosters. 

Breast enlargement in men taking testosterone pills happens because of the conversion of male hormones to female hormones.

#9. Shrunken Testicles

Testosterone boosters might interrupt the brain and testicle connection. 

As a result, the testes stop producing testosterone, and with time, it starts to shrink.

#10. Behavioral Changes

Behavioral changes are also one of the most common testosterone pills side effects in males. 

Increased aggression, loss of interest, extreme paranoia, and irritability are some of the behavioral changes witnessed in men after taking testosterone boosters. 

Testosterone influences the brain processes and increases the degree of impulsivity.

Other common side effects of testosterone supplements and steroids include:

1. Acne
2. Sleep disorder   
3. Loss of libido
4. Bloating
5. Vision-related issues
6. Lack of appetite
7. Inability to speak and slurred speech
8. Gums and nose bleeding
9. Trouble concentrating and feeling sadness
10. Painful breasts

Moreover, if you’re encountering any of the above-mentioned side effects of testosterone boosters, it’s time you visit your doctor.

Moving on, these side effects are genuine and have been experienced by a number of men.

There are even research studies that back these negative effects of testosterone boosters.

Testosterone Pills Side Effects | Dangers of Anabolic Steroids [Based on Study]

Following are some of the studies that hint at the dangerous side effects of testosterone pills.

#1. Effect of testosterone booster on body functions [Case report]

A sportsman suffering from abdominal pain came to King Saud Hospital, Unaizah, Qassim, Saudi Arabia. 

He admitted to consuming 2 courses of testosterone booster over a period of 42 days as per the instruction by the manufacturer.

In a laboratory test, published in the International Journal of Health Sciences, the patient used several courses, twice before the pain and twice after it subsided.

Later, the blood tests and other reports suggested that the consumption of commercial testosterone boosters might have negatively affected several hepatic functions and resulted in a slight increase in testosterone levels.

To conclude, the consumption of testosterone boosters even from trusted sources may still cause some health risks.

#2. Acute kidney injury from androgenic steroids and nutritional supplements in bodybuilders

Four bodybuilders who injected anabolic steroids and consumed commercial protein along with creatine developed acute renal insufficiency.

The patient’s biopsies showed acute tubular necrosis that could possibly be nephrotoxic or ischemic.

Notably, this type of kidney injury is not common in healthy men, and, thus, points towards a causal relationship between chronic kidney damage and steroid use.

This study speaks volumes about testosterone injections for muscle-building side effects.

#3. Testosterone works like a contraceptive and must not be used by those men who desire fertility

Oral testosterone preparation was investigated to show possible male contraceptive properties. 

It was found in a study, published in The World Journal of Men’s Health, that regular use of testosterone for 10-12 weeks causes suppression of sperm production and even azoospermia.

Unfortunately, the contraceptive effects of testosterone are irreversible and have been proven by two WHO studies.

#4. Health impact of anabolic-androgenic steroids

[Cross-sectional study among bodybuilders in a city of Eastern India]

Out of 84 approached bodybuilders, 74 participants used AAS. Short-term and long-term health effects were observed as a result of anabolic-androgenic steroid abuse.

There were some beneficial effects, such as low body fat, increased strength, and muscle size.

However, the side effects included increased acne, deepening of the voice, increased body and facial hair, irritability, depressive thoughts, swelling feet, impaired judgment, and panic disorder.

Some participants in the study also reported issues with sex drive and erectile dysfunction.

Now, before we talk more about testosterone side effects, it’s better to understand the difference between herbal/natural testosterone boosters and steroids, if there are any.

Are Testosterone Boosters Steroids?

When researching ways to build muscles and enhance physical performance, you must have come across steroids and natural testosterone boosters (these are quite popular as an alternative to steroids).

And even though these two options have a lot in common, both are distinct in numerous ways.

1. Steroids are illegal whereas natural t-boosters are legal as it doesn’t have banned steroids in it.
2. Steroids fill the bloodstream with synthetic derivatives of testosterone. Whereas, legal T-boosters claim to increase the body’s own natural production of testosterone with herbs and botanical extracts.
3. Steroids are artificially enhanced male hormones that “look and act like” male sex hormones. Whereas, testosterone-boosting supplements “help to raise” and maintain the body’s natural testosterone. 
4. Steroids have life-threatening side effects as compared to legal testosterone boosters, which can also have side effects but they are rarely major. 
5. Steroids are lab-made. Whereas, testosterone-boosting supplements contain natural ingredients and tend to be safe and well-tolerated.
6. Steroids usually have synthetic testosterone in much higher amounts on top of being stacked with other substances to enhance its anabolic effects. Whereas, legal T-Boosters are tested and each ingredient is in measured quantity with clear disclosure on the label.

Henceforth, testosterone boosters and steroids are same-same but different. At times, the line between testosterone boosters and steroids blurs.

Natural testosterone boosters encourage your body to raise its own natural testosterone production to an optimal level.

Regular blood check-ups are enough to monitor your T-levels and see if the supplement is really working.

Natural T-Boosters usually have ingredients like zinc, D-aspartic acid, and ginseng extract. These all are scientifically tested to assist male hormone secretion and libido.

There are quite a few natural T-boosters that are available with these same ingredients and are known to offer safe results. Popular ones are TestoFuel (which also contains oyster extract), Prime Male, and Testogen. Read the Testogen review and results for bodybuilding and testosterone boosts before you make any buying decision.

It is to be noted that when your body is producing enough testosterone, these supplements may be ineffective.

At this point, you might ask how safe are these “natural testosterone boosters and do they really work?”

Well, let’s find out.

Do Natural Testosterone Boosters Work?

This question is absolutely genuine and considerable while trying to pick health supplements.

While testosterone-boosting steroids are artificial supplements loaded with chemicals, natural testosterone boosters generally use herbal and verified ingredients, especially if manufactured by a trusted party.

These natural testosterone-boosting pills consist of ingredients, which are naturally considered t-boosters. Some include fenugreek, Panax ginseng, and D Aspartic acid.

To be honest, the effects of testosterone supplements are quite impressive, and that’s because of the zinc present in them. 

However, relying only on these supplements would not do you any good.

Hence, it won’t be wrong to say that the natural testosterones do work but to an extent and to avail their full benefits, one needs to accompany it with other things like diet and exercise.

Needless to say, the positive or negative effects of testosterone boosters depend upon the type of supplement you are opting for.

While most males who take these supplements are well past their 30s, some younger males also desire to take them, usually for bodybuilding.

Hence, the question here arises is it bad to take testosterone boosters at 20 and, if yes, then what’s the right age?

Is It Bad to Take Testosterone Boosters at 20? 

It has a prominent role to play in sperm production, muscle mass, male sex libido, and even facial hair. 

Typically “around 20s,” testosterone is at its peak, and it gradually starts to decline as soon as you get past 30. 

The factors that cause low testosterone are obesity, weight gain, high stress levels, poor diet, and lifestyle choices.

Now, testosterone starts to decline @1% every year from 30 onwards. Still, most men successfully maintain their t-levels throughout their lives if they have a completely healthy body.

But for some men, their t-level may decline to a minimum and they start experiencing symptoms like irritability, erectile dysfunction, muscle loss, and low stamina. 

This could very well be due to certain underlying medical issues, such as chemotherapy and physical injury. 

Thus, whether you need a T-booster or not totally depends on your biological conditions. 

While a normal 30-year-old can absolutely choose to pop a natural supplement if he is dealing with low T, the one with any existing health issues must ask their doctor before taking a testosterone booster.

However, there are many other complementary ways as well through which men can boost their testosterone.

Ways to Increase Testosterone Naturally [5 Alternatives]

Now, there’s no doubt left that using androgenic testosterone pills regularly can have counteractive impacts on your health.

Only using some natural T-Boosters is safe by far, that too based on their composition.

Adding to this, your body starts to rely on these supplements and stops producing testosterone naturally. 

That’s why most T-Boosters’ manufacturers recommend cycling the supplement so that your body gets a break.

There are also natural lifestyle measures. 

While they may work slowly, they are also effective in conjunction.

#1. Schedule a Good Night’s Sleep Each Day

Healthy testosterone feeds on adequate and consistent sleep.

Your body follows a circadian rhythm because of which you feel more attentive during the morning hours and slightly low in the evening.

According to a US study, a 15% reduction in testosterone levels was witnessed in those who slept for just 5 hours every night. 

The optimal recommended hours of sleep as per the studies are 7-10 hours.

Hence, if you want to boost your testosterone levels, you need to get rid of your persisting poor-quality sleep.

#2. Exercise Regularly

Those who often wonder “can exercise increase testosterone.”

Well, here’s your answer.

Time and time again, exercising has not only proven to be curing mental and other health issues but also in boosting testosterone levels.

Yes, you heard that right.

Although it might be a little time taking, as per the European Journal Of Applied Physiology, exercises like resistance or strength training are the best way to improve your male sex hormones naturally.

Strength training exercises like weight lifting and doing push-ups produce more testosterone.

Also, you can even try aerobic exercises like walking and biking.

#3. Managing Stress

Stress hormones and testosterone are inversely proportional.

That is to say, when stress hormones rise, your testosterone declines.

To elaborate, induced stress leads to elevated cortisol (stress hormone). 

And as per numerous studies, an unusual rise in cortisol can result in a rapid reduction of testosterone.

Physical, mental, and emotional stress has a mammoth amount of negative effects on testosterone production. 

Hence, you need to identify and manage your stress triggers if you want healthy T-production naturally.

#4. Improve Your Diet

A well-balanced diet is vital for optimal testosterone growth. 

To recover from low testosterone, you can try testosterone booster foods like fruits, leafy vegetables, shellfish, oysters, egg yolks, green tea, nuts, and soy foods.

#5. Take Care Of Nutrient Deficiencies

A deficiency of vital nutrients like zinc, magnesium, and vitamin D can also become a cause behind your falling testosterone. 

Hence, you need to keep a check on your nutrient deficiencies to avoid the pitfalls of declining testosterone.

Additionally, you can lessen these nutrient deficiencies with food and a proper diet, and natural testosterone boosting supplements are also a good option if taken as prescribed.

Now, even though we’ve critically examined the link between synthetic testosterone boosting pills and their adverse effect on health, here’s a bit more about the side effects of testosterone supplements.

FAQs

These are some of the most-searched questions you might need an answer to.

#1. What happens if I exceed the safe testosterone dosage for muscle growth?

High levels of testosterone can cause hyperthyroidism and adrenal or testicular tumors.

#2. What is the best time to take a testosterone booster pill?

The best time to take a testosterone booster pill is at an advanced age accompanied by a healthy lifestyle.

#3. How to increase testosterone for bodybuilding?

Strength training workouts, testosterone-boosting foods, and natural testosterone supplements are the ways to boost testosterone for bodybuilding.

#4. Does masturbation decrease testosterone?

Masturbation does not have long-term effects on testosterone levels. However, it may have some short-term effects on the male sex hormone.

In A Nutshell

Everything considered the side effects of testosterone boosters or anabolic steroids range from mild to life-threatening.

If you feel like boosting the level of your testosterone, first try natural ways, such as losing fat, sleeping adequately, cutting down on alcoholic beverages, and eating testosterone-boosting foods. 

And if you still feel the need, then go for potent, herbal, natural, and effective testosterone-boosting supplements after thoroughly checking the ingredients. 

You must know what you are putting in your body. And if nothing works, don’t shy away to fix an appointment with your doctor. 

Low T, in some cases, might be a sign of underlying health issues.

Find where you are lacking, set your goals, and then choose the supplement accordingly.