Written by Steve Theunissen | ISSA: CPT & Fitness Nutrition
Fact checked by Robert Iafelice, MS, RD, LDN
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The demand for supplements to increase the body's natural testosterone production is higher than it's ever been. That's because, thanks to the internet and other sources of information, men are more aware than ever that testosterone is key to protein synthesis, muscle building, and strength development. They also know that the average testosterone level in men is now lower than it has ever been - and that every year after age 30, they're losing around 1% of their testosterone production capability.
To meet this demand, a huge natural testosterone supplement market has developed, with some people even looking for testosterone replacement therapy. The sheer amount of choice makes it difficult for consumers to find the right testosterone booster to meet their needs, especially when so many of the products have similar-sounding names and common ingredient profiles.
That's where we come in. In articles like this, we focus on one of the most popular "T" boosters on the market and pull it apart to discover whether it's really going to do what it claims to. Today, we're focused on a product called Testogen, from the Britsh-based company Muscle Club.
Testogen safely increases your natural testosterone levels to quickly improve your energy, vitality and overall wellness. Its unique formula contains a specifically selected blend...
**There may be affiliate links in this post where we might receive a small commission on purchases you make. We only recommend products we think you will find valuable.**
What is Testogen?
Testogen is a dietary supplement that is promoted as a natural testosterone enhancer. It is made up of a mixture of all-natural substances, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal extracts. It is manufactured by a British company called Muscle Club.
According to the official Testogen website, the ingredients of Testogen work together to support healthy testosterone production, encourage lean muscle growth and strength, boost energy levels, and enhance overall vitality and well-being. The key ingredients in this product are D-aspartic acid, vitamin D3, magnesium, zinc, and ginseng extract.
Testogen is provided in the form of a capsule supplement. It is only available from the official website.
Testogen: Pass or Fail?
Testogen contains 11 ingredients, most of which have several studies supporting their ability to either encourage the body's natural testosterone production, increase energy and virility levels or boost mental functioning. The final ingredient, Bioperine, is designed to increase the effectiveness of the other ingredients.
I've personally used Testogen for eight weeks as part of a trial. I coupled it with a 5 x 5 strong gains workout program. Into week five, I started to feel more energized, and my strength gains were pretty noticeable. Of course, it's difficult to pinpoint Testogen as the cause of these improvements, but I'm pretty sure it played a significant part.
Overall, Testogen rates as an effective natural testosterone booster. It's got a lot of positive feedback and costs considerably less than most competing products.
Overall Verdict: PASS
Pros
- 11 research-backed ingredients
- Well dosed
- Transparent labeling
- Well priced
Cons
- May have minor side effects
- Does not contain ashwagandha or green tea extract
Testogen safely increases your natural testosterone levels to quickly improve your energy, vitality and overall wellness. Its unique formula contains a specifically selected blend...
11 Testogen Ingredients
When you strip away the marketing, celebrity endorsements, and packaging, the effectiveness of a testosterone booster all comes down to the ingredients that it contains and their dosages. Here's what you get with Testogen:
1. D-Aspartic Acid - 2352mg
This is one of the most common ingredients in testosterone boosters for good reason. D-aspartic acid (D-AA) is an amino acid that is naturally produced by the body. It is involved in the synthesis and release of testosterone by the testes. Researchers are not sure exactly how D-AA works to boost testosterone production, but a couple of theories have been put forth.
One hypothesis is that DAA supports the pituitary gland's release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). These two hormones then stimulate the production of testosterone in the testes.
Another theory is that DAA directly assists in producing enzymes involved in the manufacture of testosterone.
In a 2009 study, it was found that supplementing with D-AA for just 12 days led to a 42% average increase in testosterone levels.¹
2. Fenugreek Extract - 40mg
Traditional medicine frequently employs the plant fenugreek to treat a number of ailments, for instance, inflammation and digestive issues. Due in part to the presence of furostanolic saponins, which are compounds with anabolic properties, it is also thought to offer potential advantages for testosterone synthesis.
The impact of fenugreek supplementation on testosterone levels and other indicators of male health has been examined in a number of studies.
According to a 2010 study that appeared in the International Journal of Exercise Science, men who were resistance-trained benefited from taking fenugreek extract supplements for six weeks since it boosted their free testosterone levels and improved their body composition.²
Another study from 2011 indicated that healthy middle-aged and older men who took fenugreek extract supplements for eight weeks experienced improved sexual performance and higher testosterone levels.³
A third study indicated that supplementing with fenugreek extract and creatine enhanced strength and body composition in males who had undergone resistance training. This study was published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition in 2010.⁴
There have been some minor adverse effects of fenugreek extract, including gastrointestinal upset and a smell similar to maple syrup in sweat and urine in certain people.
3. Vitamin D3 - 50mcg
The body needs the fat-soluble vitamin D3, or cholecalciferol, for a number of biological processes, including hormone regulation, immune system health, and bone health.
Some research has been undertaken to examine how vitamin D supplementation affects testosterone levels and other indicators of male health. According to a 2011 study in Hormone and Metabolic Research, middle-aged men's testosterone levels rose, and their erectile performance improved after taking vitamin D supplements for a year.⁵
Vitamin D supplementation increased testosterone levels and other male health markers in obese men with low testosterone levels, according to another study that was published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism in 2010.⁶
4. Zinc - 10mg
Zinc is an essential mineral the body needs for a number of biological activities, including immunological function, DNA synthesis, and hormone regulation. It can help boost testosterone levels in males, promote muscle growth and strength, and enhance general health and well-being.
According to a 2016 study, zinc supplementation for six weeks increased testosterone levels and sperm quality in infertile males.⁷ This and similar studies suggest that zinc may have some potential advantages for testosterone production.
5. Korean Red Ginseng Extract 4:1 - 40mg
Korean Red Ginseng, sometimes called Panax Ginseng, is a variety of ginseng that has been used in traditional herbal medicine for centuries to boost energy and promote general health. Korean Red Ginseng's effects on testosterone levels and other indicators of male health have been the subject of numerous studies.
According to a 2008 study, men with erectile dysfunction who took Korean Red Ginseng supplements for eight weeks experienced improvements in their erections and testosterone levels.⁸
The same study indicated that Korean Red Ginseng increased testosterone levels and enhanced sexual performance in males with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction.⁹
According to this research, Korean Red Ginseng may have some advantages for male health in general, testosterone production, sexual function, and cognitive function.
6. Boron - 8mg
Boron is a trace mineral boron that has been included to help boost testosterone levels in males, promote muscle growth and strength, and enhance bone health. There is some research to support this claim.
According to a 2011 study that appeared in the Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology, healthy males who took boron supplements for six weeks had higher free testosterone levels and better cognitive function.¹⁰
A 2015 metastudy entitled 'Nothing Boring About Boron' concluded that among its other benefits, boron may 'beneficially impacts the body's use of estrogen, testosterone, and vitamin D.'¹¹
7. Nettle Leaf Extract 4:1 - 40mg
Nettle leaf extract is made from the stinging nettle plant's leaves. According to Muscle Club, it has been included in Testogen because it can improve prostate health, lower inflammation, and help men have higher testosterone levels.
According to one study, nettle root extract increased the body's levels of free testosterone by preventing the sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) from binding to testosterone.¹²
Nettle leaf extract was also found to have anti-inflammatory properties and to alleviate urinary symptoms in males with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), according to a 2007 study that appeared in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology.¹³
8. Magnesium - 200mg
Magnesium is a mineral that is necessary for the body's many processes, including muscle contraction, neuron function, and bone health. So it shouldn't come s a surprise that magnesium supplements are among the most popular out there. According to a 2011 study that appeared in the journal Biological Trace Element Research, sedentary males who took a four-week magnesium supplement had higher levels of free and total testosterone.¹⁴
Another 2013 study indicated that athletes who used magnesium supplements had greater muscle strength and power.¹⁵ A third study indicated that males with erectile dysfunction who took supplements of magnesium experienced improvements in both their erectile function and overall sexual performance.¹⁶
9. Vitamin B6 - 20mg
Vitamin B6, also known as Pyridoxine, is a water-soluble vitamin necessary for many biological processes in the body, including the metabolism of hormones and proteins.
In a landmark study from 1984, it was shown that Vitamin B6 is required for the efficient production of testosterone in the testes.¹⁷
10. Vitamin K1 - 20mcg
Vitamin K1, also known as phylloquinone, is a fat-soluble vitamin necessary for healthy bone development and blood coagulation. According to Muscle Club, it has been included in Testo-Max to help improve bone health and stop testosterone levels from declining with aging.
According to a 2007 study that appeared in Osteoporosis International. Vitamin K1 administration increased bone mineral density and decreased the incidence of fractures in postmenopausal women.¹⁸
11. BioPerine® - 5mg
Bioperine is the trademark name of a standardized extract of black pepper (piper nigrum), which is frequently used as a component in nutritional supplements. It is thought to improve the bioavailability and absorption of other nutrients and substances.
Claimed Benefits of Testogen
On the official Testogen website, Muscle Club claims that the supplement will provide the following benefits:
1. Boosts Energy Levels
Muscle Club points to such ingredients as Vitamin B6, vitamin D, and Korean Red Ginseng to boost energy production and offset training fatigue. As a result, you'll be able to wake up refreshed, power through your day, and have enough energy for your evening workout.
2. Naturally boosts testosterone levels
The 11 ingredients in TestoMax are designed to work synergistically to boost the body's natural production of testosterone.
3. Increases Stamina
Ingredients like Korean Red Ginseng, Vitamin D, and magnesium are the basis of the claim that TestoMax can increase stamina levels and physical performance so that you can perform at your peak.
4. Increases muscle growth
D-Aspartic acid, fenugreek, and magnesium are able to help increase strength and muscle mass through their ability to stimulate testosterone production.
5. Improves strength
The process through which new muscle tissue is created, muscle protein synthesis, is accelerated by higher testosterone levels. Muscle mass and strength are consequently increased.
Testosterone also improves bone density, which is essential for general strength and power. Bones get stronger and less prone to shatter as bone density rises, enabling people to lift heavier weights.
6. Burns body fat
Higher testosterone levels can lead to greater muscle mass. The more muscle mass you have on your body, the higher your metabolism will be and the more calories you will burn at rest. Certain ingredients in testoMax, such as fenugreek and Korean Red Ginseng, have been shown in studies to support fat loss.
7. Improves sex drive
Increased levels of testosterone will, according to Muscle Club, reinvigorate men's sex drive and bedroom virility. Korean Red Ginseng has also been shown in some studies to help improve erectile dysfunction, libido, and sexual performance.
8. Builds confidence
Improved testosterone levels leading to greater muscle mass, strength, energy, and reduced body fat levels will, according to the manufacturer, result in an increase in self-confidence among users of Testogen.
Side Effects of Testogen
When used as recommended, Testogen is safe for the vast majority of users. However, as with all supplements, some people may experience minor side effects. These include:
- Acne
- Mood changes
- Sleep disturbances
- Headaches
- Digestive issues
Real Customer Testogen Reviews
Testogen has a 3.9-star rating on Amazon (with 50% giving it five stars). On the official website, the reviews are, naturally, overwhelmingly positive. Here are a couple of typical reviews taken from each of these sites:
Who should take Testogen?
Testogen should be taken by men who want to increase their body's natural production of testosterone. This could be because they are at an age where their natural production diminishes (generally, this occurs in men 30+). Men who are working to increase their muscle size and strength may also benefit from taking Testogen. It may also be beneficial for men with low sex drive or erectile dysfunction.
Muscle Club states that Testogen should not be taken by men under the age of 18.
When should you take Testogen?
The manufacturer recommends taking Testogen about twenty minutes before breakfast on a daily basis.
How should you take Testogen?
You should take four Testogen capsules with water.
Where to buy Testogen?
Testogen is available from the official website and on Amazon.
3 Testogen Alternatives
Testogen is one of the most popular testosterone boosters on the market. Often people's choice comes down to Testogen and three products that are equally popular. To help you make your final buying decision, let's take a look at each of those competing supplements.
1. TestoPrime
TestoPrime is a supplement designed to help boost testosterone levels, lessen stress, and enhance general well-being. It is manufactured by the UK company Wolfson Brands. The mixture of 12 natural components in the product includes:
- D-aspartic acid
- Ashwagandha extract
- Panax Ginseng
- Fenugreek
- Green Tea Extract
- Vitamin D
- Zinc
- Vitamin B6
- Pomegranate extract
- Vitamin B5
- Garlic Extract
- Black Pepper Extract
While many of these ingredients are also found in Testogen, there are some unique compounds here, including pomegranate extract, garlic extract, vitamin B5, green tea extract, and ashwagandha extract. These provide added firepower in terms of the ability to naturally boost testosterone production.
A key ingredient in both products is D-AA. You get 2353 mg of it in each serving of Testogen compared to just 2000 mg in TestoPrime. However, the addition of ashwagandha, dosed at 55.68 mg, may balance out the testosterone-boosting potential. TestoPrime also includes four times more zinc than Testogen (40 mg vs. 10 mg).
Pros
- 12 research-backed ingredients
- Contains ashwagandha and green tea extract
- High zinc dosage
Cons
- Not many verified customer reviews
TestoPrime is an all-natural testosterone support that can help any man take control of his youthful vitality with a flood of new and natural testosterone...
2. Prime Male
Prime Male is a testosterone booster that shares many of the same ingredients as Testogen. In fact, nine of its 12 ingredients are the same, though the dosages differ. Prime Male, though, markets itself more as a general restorer of youthful vitality and anabolic health than a muscle and strength builder, as is the case with Testogen.
The three unique ingredients in Prime Male that you won't find in Testogen are luteolin, ashwagandha extract, and vitamin K2. Luteolin is an aromatase inhibitor that helps prevent the conversion of testosterone into estrogen. Ashwagandha has the ability to protect the testosterone-producing cells in the testes from oxidative stress, and vitamin K2 has been shown to promote greater production of testosterone, though the exact mechanism by which it does so is not yet fully understood.
Prime Male sells for $75 per bottle and is only available from the official website.
Pros
- Contains 12 research-backed ingredients
- Includes luteolin, an aromatase inhibitor
- Ashwagandha to protect against oxidative stress
Cons
- Only available from the official website
The natural testosterone booster that can help support and raise your testosterone levels, helping you to burn fat, build muscle, and increase your libido...
3. Hunter Test
Hunter Test is a testosterone booster manufactured by Roar Ambition. It contains nine ingredients, compared to the 11 ingredients in Testogen. However, Hunter Test has higher dosages on nearly every shared ingredient. For example, Hunter Test gives you 3000 mg of D-AA, compared with 2352 mg for Testogen. You also get 300 mg of ginseng in Hunter Test compared with just 40 mg in Testogen.
The ingredients in Hunter Test that are not in Testogen are ashwagandha, vitamin K2 and Indole-3 Carbinol, which is an aromatase inhibitor that stops testosterone from converting into estrogen.
Hunter Test is available from the official website for $90 for a 30-day supply. The daily dosage is six capsules, so you get 180 capsules per bottle.
Pros
- Nine research-backed ingredients
- High dosed ingredients
- Contains indole-3 carbinol, an aromatase inhibitor
Cons
- Expensive
- Requires taking six capsules per day
Hunter Test is for those who won’t sacrifice on quality. The best ingredients, the right concentrations, scientifically created to give you the maximum boost possible. Accept no substitutes...
Testogen FAQs
Is Testogen a steroid?
No Testogen is not a steroid. It is a natural supplement that uses a combination of vitamins, minerals, and botanical extracts to help men naturally increase their testosterone levels.
In contrast, steroids are man-made hormones that are intended to mimic the physiological effects of testosterone. Steroids carry a number of hazards and adverse effects, such as an increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and liver damage, even if they can also aid in enhancing muscle mass and strength.
What is Testogen good for?
Testogen is designed to help men increase their level of testosterone and improve their general health and well-being. Testogen may be beneficial for:
-
Increasing energy
-
Enhancing muscle bulk and strength
-
Boosting sex drive and performance
-
Enhancing mood and mental clarity
-
Reducing body fat
Is Testogen better than TestoPrime?
Though they are both quality dietary supplements, based on the ingredient profile of each supplement, we conclude that, no, Testogen is not better than TestoPrime. Though it has slightly more D-AA content, TestoPrime is much higher in zinc. It also contains ashwagandha, green tea extract, and pomegranate extract, none of which are in Testogen.
How long does it take to see results from Testogen?
Testogen can take different amounts of time for different people to get benefits because each person's age, health state, diet, and exercise routine might affect how well the supplement works. Most people, though, start to see results after a few weeks.
Within the first few weeks of use, Testogen may assist in boosting energy levels and elevating mood, according to the manufacturer's website. Within 4-6 weeks of consistent use, it might also aid in building muscular mass, strength, and endurance.
Summary
Testogen is a popular natural testosterone booster that provides you with 11 of the most well-attested ingredients on the market that are known to increase the body's natural production of testosterone. While it is missing some well-known natural 'T' boosters like ashwagandha and green tea extract, the ingredient profile and dosages are strong enough to produce significant results.
If you're looking for a safe, natural way to support healthy testosterone levels, Testogen is a relatively cost-effective and effective way to do it.
References
- Topo, Enza, et al. "The Role and Molecular Mechanism of D-Aspartic Acid in the Release and Synthesis of LH and Testosterone in Humans and Rats." Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology, vol. 7, no. 1, 2009, p. 120
- Wilborn, Colin, et al. "Effects of a Purported Aromatase and 5 α-Reductase Inhibitor on Hormone Profiles in College-Age Men." International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, vol. 20, no. 6, Dec. 2010, pp. 457–465
- Steels, Elizabeth, et al. "Physiological Aspects of Male Libido Enhanced by Standardized Trigonella Foenum-Graecum Extract and Mineral Formulation." Phytotherapy Research, Feb. 2011
- Poole, Chris, et al. "The Effects of a Commercially Available Botanical Supplement on Strength, Body Composition, Power Output, and Hormonal Profiles in Resistance-Trained Males." Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, vol. 7, no. 1, 2010, p. 34
- Pilz, S, et al. “Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation on Testosterone Levels in Men.” Hormone and Metabolic Research = Hormon- Und Stoffwechselforschung = Hormones et Metabolisme, vol. 43, no. 3, 2011, pp. 223–5
- Wehr, E., et al. "Association of Vitamin D Status with Serum Androgen Levels in Men." Clinical Endocrinology, Dec. 2009
- Zhao, Jiang, et al. "Zinc Levels in Seminal Plasma and Their Correlation with Male Infertility: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis." Scientific Reports, vol. 6, no. 1, Mar. 2016
- Jang, Dai-Ja, et al. “Red Ginseng for Treating Erectile Dysfunction: A Systematic Review.” British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, vol. 66, no. 4, 1 Oct. 2008, pp. 444–450
- Jang, Dai-Ja, et al. “Red Ginseng for Treating Erectile Dysfunction: A Systematic Review.” British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, vol. 66, no. 4, 1 Oct. 2008, pp. 444–450
- Naghii, Mohammad Reza, et al. “Comparative Effects of Daily and Weekly Boron Supplementation on Plasma Steroid Hormones and Proinflammatory Cytokines.” Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology: Organ of the Society for Minerals and Trace Elements (GMS), vol. 25, no. 1, 1 Jan. 2011, pp. 54–58
- Pizzorno, Lara. “Nothing Boring about Boron.” Integrative Medicine (Encinitas, Calif.), vol. 14, no. 4, 1 Aug. 2015, pp. 35–48
- Hryb, D. J., et al. "The Effect of Extracts of the Roots of the Stinging Nettle (Urtica Dioica) on the Interaction of SHBG with Its Receptor on Human Prostatic Membranes." Planta Medica, vol. 61, no. 1, 1 Feb. 1995, pp. 31–32
- Lopatkin, Nikolai, et al. "Efficacy and Safety of a Combination of Sabal and Urtica Extract in Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms--Long-Term Follow-up of a Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind, Multicenter Trial." International Urology and Nephrology, vol. 39, no. 4, 2007, pp. 1137–1146
- Cinar, Vedat, et al. "Effects of Magnesium Supplementation on Testosterone Levels of Athletes and Sedentary Subjects at Rest and after Exhaustion." Biological Trace Element Research, vol. 140, no. 1, 30 Mar. 2010, pp. 18–23
- Setaro, Luciana, et al. "Magnesium Status and the Physical Performance of Volleyball Players: Effects of Magnesium Supplementation." Journal of Sports Sciences, vol. 32, no. 5, 9 Sept. 2013, pp. 438–445
- Maggio, Marcello, et al. "The Interplay between Magnesium and Testosterone in Modulating Physical Function in Men." International Journal of Endocrinology, vol. 2014, 2014, pp. 1–9
- Symes, E. K., et al. "Increased Target Tissue Uptake Of, and Sensitivity To, Testosterone in the Vitamin B6 Deficient Rat." Journal of Steroid Biochemistry, vol. 20, no. 5, 1 May 1984, pp. 1089–1093
- Cheung, Angela M, et al. “Vitamin K Supplementation in Postmenopausal Women with Osteopenia (ECKO Trial): A Randomized Controlled Trial.” PLoS Medicine, vol. 5, no. 10, 14 Oct. 2008, p. e196
Steve Theunissen
Author