Is testosterone beneficial for height growth?
This is a question that you may find yourself pondering occasionally. Today, we have a comprehensive and detailed answer to share with everyone. If you’re intrigued by this topic, let’s dive in.
What is testosterone?
Testosterone is a hormone that appears in both men and women. Men’s testicles mainly make testosterone, while women’s ovaries do but in very small amounts. The male body begins to produce testosterone when it hits puberty, increases remarkably during this period, and starts to dip little by little annually, after age 35 or so.
Testosterone is most often related to sex drive and plays a critical role in sperm production. It also affects bone mass, muscle size and strength, fat distribution, and red blood cell production. Without sufficient amounts of testosterone, men may become sterile because this hormone supports mature sperm development.
The brain and pituitary gland help adjust testosterone levels. Once produced, the hormone will travel through the blood to perform its different important functions.
So, does testosterone make you taller?
Yes, in a technical sense. Testosterone is a critical intermediate hormone that promotes the production of growth hormones and thereby enhances height.
But it depends on the timeframe.
The levels of testosterone are at a peak when a boy reaches puberty. As a result, it can help add up a couple of inches to his height. That said, high levels of testosterone are necessary during the growing years since it supports body growth and proper stimulation of different functions in the body.
What exercises can increase testosterone?
Not all exercises increase testosterone levels in the same way.
If you want to enhance testosterone to boost muscle growth or change your body composition, exercise is possible to be effective. But if you want to enhance this hormone since you have low testosterone, working out alone is unlikely to be enough.
There are two types of exercises that have been shown to deliver a small yet positive effect on testosterone production.
Resistance training
One of the best types of resistance training that might increase testosterone in the short and long term is weightlifting. Performing three days per week for four weeks resulted in an increase in T levels right after a workout over time [1]. But for women, T levels only increased by 16.7%, while men gained 21.6% after a 30-minute weightlifting session [2].
High-intensity interval training (HIIT)
Another exercise that raises testosterone levels is HIIT, yet only effective for men [3]. When comparing T levels after running for 45 minutes, interval training including 90 seconds of treadmill running followed by 90 seconds of rest for the same amount of time helps produce more T levels [4].
Below, we will list specific exercises in each group so you can pick the suitable one.
| Weightlifting exercises | HIIT exercises |
| Front or back squats | Jumping lunges |
| Bench presses | Burpees |
| Rows | High knees |
| Deadlifts | Bicycle crunches |
| Pull-ups or Chin-ups | Sprints |
| Push-ups | Speed skaters |
| Lunges | Plank jacks |
| Overhead presses | Box jumps |
| Hip thrusts | Mountain climbers |
What foods can increase testosterone?
Aside from performing the exercises mentioned above to increase T levels, do not miss the following foods and add them to your daily diet today.
Oysters
Oysters are known as a rich source of zinc, a necessary mineral for sperm mobility and quality. Men with lower zinc levels are prone to producing less testosterone, making them develop hypogonadism. It is suggested to consume only six oysters to get enough zinc.
Onions
Eating onions regularly might give lots of advantages, from decreasing the belly to promoting heart health. This cooking staple is also high in antioxidants and other nutrients. Importantly, it has been found to boost T levels in men with low T.
Pomegranates
Aside from supporting heart health and reducing stress, pomegranates are popular for improving sexual function and fertility. And when it comes to enhancing the production of testosterone, this kind of fruit has been known as a winner.
Men who drink pomegranate juice for about two weeks gained a 24% increase in T levels [5].
Ginger
This ingredient is widely used in every kitchen and for many reasons. But do you know it is an excellent supplement for improving your sperm health and fertility? Yes, if a man takes supplements of ginger every day, his T levels will increase by 17% [6].
Extra-virgin olive oil
Using olive oil delivers many health benefits, including lowering your risk of developing heart disease and cancer. It is loaded with monounsaturated fat and vitamin E, which also contribute to different health advantages. Of course, it plays a vital role in increasing T levels since it helps trigger the luteinizing hormone, which promotes testicular cells to produce more testosterone.
Green leafy vegetables
Those who consume vegetables like kale, spinach, and Swiss chard have noticed an increase in T levels. That is because these veggies have high quantities of magnesium, a vital mineral to enhance the production of testosterone in the body. Besides, you take nuts, seeds, whole grains, beans, and lentils because they are rich in magnesium.
Oily fish
Believe us, if you often eat oily fish, you will see a rise in testosterone levels since omega 3’s from fish like tuna, salmon, herring, sardines, and mackerel are helpful for improving sperm quality and production [7]. Make sure to eat at least three portions of seafood per week to get improvements in sexual desire and orgasm.
Red meat
The truth is that if you consume certain cuts of lean beef in moderation, it can increase your testosterone. For instance, beef liver is loaded with vitamin D, which is known to promote T levels and sexual function [8]. Also, steak has leucine, an essential amino acid for supporting the development, maintenance, and repair of bone and muscle tissues [9].
Bananas
Bananas are another fruit you should eat to raise your T levels since they are rich in potassium. This nutrient is vital for enhancing testosterone production and firmer erections [10]. Bananas also have an excellent source of magnesium (we explained its benefits under green leafy vegetables). But make sure to consume a ripe banana because the ripening can actually raise its nutrient levels.
In conclusion
Testosterone is critical in maintaining effective bodily functions in men. And getting taller is one of them, especially during puberty.
If you are interested to know more about adding some inches to your height, you should follow a healthy lifestyle, including having a scientific diet, staying active, sleeping well, and more. Visit here for further information. Also, you might consider taking height growth supplements if needed.
FAQs
Does testosterone have any effect on height growth?
Testosterone does play a role in the growth and development of bones, but its impact on height is limited and primarily occurs during puberty.
Can testosterone therapy be used to increase height in individuals?
Testosterone therapy is not typically used for height increase in individuals who have already passed puberty. Its use is generally reserved for medical conditions related to testosterone deficiency.
At what age does testosterone primarily affect height growth?
Testosterone primarily influences height growth during puberty, which typically occurs between the ages of 9 and 14 in boys.
Can increasing testosterone levels in adulthood lead to height growth?
After the closure of growth plates at the end of puberty, increasing testosterone levels in adulthood does not have a significant effect on height growth.
What factors primarily determine height?
Genetic factors, nutrition, overall health, and environmental factors play a more substantial role in determining height than testosterone alone.
Are there any other hormones that have a stronger impact on height growth?
Growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) are the primary hormones that influence height growth, with testosterone playing a secondary role.
Are there any risks associated with using testosterone for height increase?
Using testosterone for height increase outside of medical indications can have several potential risks and side effects. It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before considering any hormone therapy.
Can testosterone deficiency affect height growth in individuals?
Severe testosterone deficiency during puberty can lead to delayed or impaired growth, which may affect height potential. However, this is a rare condition.
Is it possible to increase height naturally without hormone therapy?
While the growth plates are still open during puberty, adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep, can optimize height potential.
Should I consult a healthcare professional for advice on height growth?
If you have concerns about height growth or potential hormone deficiencies, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional who can provide personalized guidance and evaluate your specific situation.
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