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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Lifestyle
Kate Lloyd

Is it true that … more testosterone means more muscle?

Cartoon illustration showing exaggerated muscular physique and flexing pose representing testosterone effects

It’s an increasingly popular idea: “boosting” testosterone with diet tweaks – increasing foods rich in zinc and magnesium – hoping to build muscle faster. But the reality is more nuanced.

Testosterone is an androgen hormone that plays a key role in development, particularly in boys during puberty. Its effect on muscle isn’t simply about how much of it you have, but how your body responds to it.

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