Incorporating testosterone into your diet after a workout can pay off huge.

Testosterone is a hormone that exists naturally in both men and women (though it is more prominent in males), and is secreted from the testis and ovaries respectively. Recent studies have shown that after a workout your testosterone levels drop, which indicates an increased uptake by your bodies natural systems. This absorption coincides with the processing of protein and carbohydrates, and is thought to act as a catalyst for muscle growth.

An article produced by Muscle & Fitness magazine stated, “the decrease in testosterone levels is due to the fact that more testosterone is being taken up by the muscle to bind to its receptor, called the androgen receptor, and stimulate muscle growth.”

This decrease is due to an absorption in your muscles, which suggests that, as the same article mentioned earlier puts it, “the lower the testosterone levels… the higher the [level of] androgen receptors.” And, the higher number of androgen receptors, the better for your muscles.

In reality testosterone acts as a steroid, building strong muscles and giving you energy. Luckily, though, it hasn’t got the side effects of pharmaceutical steroids, since it is a naturally occurring product within our bodies. Increasing the level of testosterone you have in reserve will offer more of the androgen receptor benefits after a workout

Here is a quick list of testosterone rich ideas:

1. Try a supplement. Testosterone supplements offer a fully balanced level of the hormone that can easily be absorbed by your body.

2. Get enough calories in your diet. A calorie rich diet offers substance to pull on when your body is processing the hormone.

3. Carbohydrates. Eat your carbs, they are like candy for your muscles and will help balance your diet.

4. Protein. Testosterone and protein are closely related, though it is important to know that a diet too rich in protein and lacking in carbs will lessen your testosterone levels. Sticking a balance between the two is vital.