The Link Between Fresh Pineapple & Testosterone

Men who suffer from excessively low levels of testosterone may experience such symptoms as depression, swelled breasts, a low sex drive and infertility. Doctors may sometimes recommend that a man with particularly low testosterone levels undergo synthetic testosterone replacement therapy. However, eating a diet that provides certain nutrients may help boost testosterone levels naturally. Pineapple is particularly rich in these nutrients. Of course, you should always follow your doctor's advice regarding proper treatment of low testosterone levels.

Pineapples for sale at a market. (Image: trangiap/iStock/Getty Images)

Testosterone

Testosterone is a hormone found in both men and women. However, it is present in much higher levels in men. It facilitates many of the changes that occur in men during puberty, including the deepening of the voice, the growth of hair on the face and body and the development of the genitals. It also contributes to the libido and to the strength of both the muscular and the skeletal systems.

Magnesium

One nutrient that can help your body produce testosterone naturally is magnesium, according to a study published in the "Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis" in 2009. A single one-cup serving of raw pineapple chunks contains 20 milligrams of magnesium. Most adult men should consume about 400 milligrams of magnesium per day, while most adult women should consume about 310 milligrams per day.

Zinc

Zinc is another nutrient that may help boost testosterone levels, according to a 2006 study performed at Selcuk University. There are 0.2 milligrams of zinc in each cup of pineapple; the Office of Dietary Supplements from the National Institute of Health recommends that most adults, both male and female, consume about 40 milligrams of zinc per day.

Serving Suggestions

Although pineapple is very nutritious overall, and is fairly rich in specifically testosterone-boosting nutrients, you may not feel like eating pineapple by the bowlful on a regular basis. Instead, try blending raw pineapple into smoothies and shakes for a boost of flavor and nutrition. This is a particularly convenient option if you already take protein shakes or meal replacement smoothies. Additionally, you can grill pineapple by itself, include it in salads and sandwiches or use it to flavor pork, chicken or fish.