How to FEEL Your Testosterone

On Optimizing Androgen Receptor Sensitivity and Lowering SHBG

Having optimal testosterone levels is only part of the equation. The real game-changer is how well your body can actually use that testosterone. This comes down to two critical factors: androgen receptor sensitivity and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) levels.

When your androgen receptors are more sensitive, your cells respond better to the testosterone that's available. When SHBG is lower, more of your testosterone remains "free" and bioavailable to actually do its job. The result? You don't just have testosterone in your bloodstream—you actually feel it.

Here's how to optimize both pathways naturally:

The Essential Supplements

10mg Boron

Boron is a trace mineral that's shown remarkable effects on hormone optimization. Studies suggest it can reduce SHBG levels, freeing up more testosterone for your body to use. It also appears to increase free testosterone while potentially reducing estrogen. Just 10mg daily is the sweet spot for most people.

500mg Shilajit

This ancient resin from the Himalayas has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine, and modern research is catching up to why. Shilajit resin and shilajit tablets contains fulvic acid and over 85 minerals in ionic form. It's been shown to support healthy testosterone levels and may improve androgen receptor function, helping your body make better use of the testosterone you have.

Vitamin D (from sun)

Vitamin D is technically a hormone, and it plays a crucial role in testosterone production and androgen receptor expression. While supplementation works, getting vitamin D from sun exposure offers additional benefits—UV exposure itself may support hormonal health. Sunshine is a great way ti energize preworkout along with some black ginger.

25mg Zinc (from oysters)

Zinc is essential for testosterone production and androgen receptor function. While you can supplement, getting zinc from whole food sources like oysters provides the most bioavailable form along with other synergistic nutrients. Oysters are nature's richest source of zinc—just a few servings per week can cover your needs. Combine with pine pollen for next-level anabolism.

400mg Elemental Magnesium

Magnesium is involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, including those that regulate testosterone and SHBG. Research shows magnesium supplementation can increase free testosterone levels by reducing SHBG binding. Aim for 400mg of elemental magnesium daily, ideally from our Dead Sea Magnesium for better absorption.

The Lifestyle Factors

Lower Cortisol

Chronic stress and elevated cortisol are testosterone's worst enemies. Cortisol competes with testosterone at the receptor level and can increase SHBG production. Focus on stress management through:

- Quality sleep (7-9 hours)
- Meditation or breathwork
- Time in nature
- Reducing unnecessary stressors
- Proper work-life balance

Eat More Carbs

Contrary to popular belief in some fitness circles, adequate carbohydrate intake is crucial for optimal testosterone levels. Low-carb diets can increase stress hormones and reduce testosterone production. Carbs help maintain healthy thyroid function, lower cortisol, and provide the energy needed for intense training. Don't fear the carbs—they're your hormonal allies.

High Intensity Training

Strategic high-intensity training is one of the most powerful natural testosterone boosters. Heavy compound lifts, sprint intervals, and intense metabolic conditioning can spike testosterone and improve androgen receptor density. The key is intensity and adequate recovery—not chronic overtraining, which has the opposite effect.

The Bottom Line

Optimizing how you feel your testosterone isn't about chasing numbers on a blood test. It's about making the testosterone you have work more effectively through improved receptor sensitivity and lower SHBG. By combining targeted supplementation (like butea superba) with smart lifestyle choices, you can maximize your body's ability to utilize its hormones efficiently.

Remember, these strategies work best as a complete system. You can't out-supplement a high-stress lifestyle with poor sleep and inadequate training. Implement these elements together, give your body time to adapt, and pay attention to how you actually feel—that's the real measure of success.