Testosterone-Optimizing Strategies in Athletes.

CONTEXT: Testosterone is a steroid hormone produced primarily in the testes in men and ovaries in women, playing crucial roles in androgenic, anabolic, and psychological functions, including muscle growth, bone formation, erythropoiesis, risk-taking, and aggression, making it important for athletes. Sports performance is linked closely to testosterone level, prompting athletes to explore legal and illegal ways to boost testosterone. This review examines testosterone physiology and legal strategies for optimizing testosterone levels in athletes, as well as their practical applications.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: Database search.

RESULTS: Maintaining healthy testosterone levels requires energy balance and optimal nutrition with adequate macronutrients and micronutrients, especially for athletes prone to dieting and food restriction. Testosterone boosters are marketed widely but lack strong evidence for efficacy and may pose risks. While some substances show promise, further research is needed. Sleep is critical as testosterone secretion is linked to the rapid eye movement phase, highlighting the need for proper sleep hygiene and addressing sleep disorders. Moderate-to-high intensity free-weight resistance exercises are most effective for increasing testosterone, while the effects of sexual activity remain unclear. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals can lower testosterone levels and should be avoided. While cold-water immersion may decrease testosterone, sauna bathing appears to be neutral. Radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation from modern electronic devices may harm the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, warranting limited use. Over-the-counter analgesics, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and acetaminophen, may decrease testosterone levels, suggesting cautious use. Seasonal changes in testosterone levels require further study. Testosterone-optimizing strategies excluding banned substances may aid in treating functional low testosterone or reducing harm in anabolic-androgenic steroid users.

CONCLUSION: Educating athletes on safe and effective strategies to increase testosterone is crucial, with ongoing research needed to explore additional methods.Strength-of-Recommendation Taxonomy:B.

STUDY DESIGN: Narrative review.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 5.