Testosterone for Muscle Gain: What's the Connection? Plus, the Top Supplements for Men in 2025

Potential signs of low testosterone include…

Muscle loss*

What May Cause Low Testosterone?

There are several reasons why men begin to experience low testosterone levels, or T-levels. While the most common reason is that it’s a result of aging, lifestyle and other factors may also contribute to decreasing testosterone.*

Some potential causes of low testosterone include:

Popular Supplements For Men

Our Choice

• Includes vitamin D and zinc
• With vitamins, minerals, and herbal extracts
• Third-party laboratory tested
• Easy-to-swallow capsules
• USA made with globally sourced ingredients

Based on 3739 Reviews of Primal Harvest 

Do you need testosterone for muscle growth?

Testosterone is the main male sex hormone. Testosterone doesn’t just contribute to maintaining muscle mass, but is also needed for bone density, fat metabolism, sexual function, heart health, memory, mood, and healthy brain function.

However, testosterone naturally declines with age. According to a Urologist at UW Men’s Health,

“Testosterone is very important for cellular functioning, so it’s not just sexual symptoms — it can affect your cognitive ability, energy level, strength, vitality, bone health. All of these things may be reduced if someone has low testosterone.” [1] 

Try To Avoid

Normal aging*

The signs of low testosterone can sometimes be subtle but it’s worth paying attention to them if they begin to have an impact on your lifestyle.

Emotional stress*

How may other men's health supplements on the market not meet your needs?

Male supplements can get pretty complex. There are endless products to choose from, multiple different areas of men’s health, and the challenge of matching ingredients that safely complement one another.

Note: Please seek professional medical advice if you think you are suffering from a hormone deficiency. These statements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or condition, nor are they intended to be substitutes for professional medical health advice. Always consult your physician or other qualified healthcare provider for accurate advice, diagnosis, and treatment plan.

CITATIONS

DISCLAIMER: This scientific research is for informational purposes only. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Primal Harvest provides this information as a service but does not endorse it. This information should not be read to recommend or endorse any specific products.

1. “What You Need to Know about…Testosterone.” What You Need to Know About…Testosterone | News | UW Health, www.uwhealth.org/news/what-you-need-to-know-about-low-t. Accessed 11 May 2023. 

2. Fallah, Ali, et al. “Zinc Is an Essential Element for Male Fertility: A Review of Zn Roles in Men's Health, Germination, Sperm Quality, and Fertilization.” Journal of Reproduction & Infertility, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2018, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6010824/.

3. Protich M;Tsvetkov D;Nalbanski B;Stanislavov R;Katsarova M; “[Clinical Trial of a Tribestan Preparation…].” Akusherstvo i Ginekologiia, U.S. National Library of Medicine, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6367515/.

4. Ștefănescu R;Tero-Vescan A;Negroiu A;Aurică E;Vari CE; “A Comprehensive Review of the Phytochemical, Pharmacological, and Toxicological Properties of Tribulus Terrestris L.” Biomolecules, U.S. National Library of Medicine, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32408715/.

5. RR;, Tambi MI;Imran MK;Henkel. “Standardised Water-Soluble Extract of Eurycoma Longifolia, [REDACTED]…?” Andrologia, U.S. National Library of Medicine, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21671978/.

6. Tambi, Mohd Ismail Bin Mohd, and M Kamarul Imran. “Eurycoma Longifolia Jack…” Asian Journal of Andrology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, May 2010, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3739276/.

7. Talbott, Shawn M, et al. “Effect of [REDACTED] on Stress Hormones and Psychological Mood State in Moderately Stressed Subjects.” Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 26 May 2013, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3669033/.

8. Chen, Chee Keong, et al. “Effects of Eurycoma Longifolia Jack Supplementation Combined with Resistance Training on Isokinetic Muscular Strength and Power, Anaerobic Power, and Urinary Testosterone: Epitestosterone Ratio in Young Males.” International Journal of Preventive Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 5 July 2019, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6639844/.

9. “Home - Books - NCBI.” National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books.

10. Gonzales-Arimborgo C;Yupanqui I;Montero E;Alarcón-Yaquetto DE;Zevallos-Concha A;Caballero L;Gasco M;Zhao J;Khan IA;Gonzales GF; “Acceptability, Safety, and Efficacy of Oral Administration of Extracts of Black or Red Maca (Lepidium Meyenii) in Adult Human Subjects: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study.” Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland), U.S. National Library of Medicine, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27548190/.

11. Tomita-Yokotani K;Hashimoto H;Fujii Y;Nakamura T;Yamashita M; “Distribution... in the Root of Velvet Bean Plant and Gravity.” Uchu Seibutsu Kagaku, U.S. National Library of Medicine, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15858373/.

12. Maheshwari, Anuj, et al. “Efficacy of FurosapTm, a Novel Trigonella Foenum-Graecum Seed Extract, in Enhancing Testosterone Level and Improving Sperm Profile in Male Volunteers.” International Journal of Medical Sciences, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 10 Jan. 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5278660/.

To see a list of our other references, please click here. 

Note: These statements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or condition, nor are they intended to be substitutes for professional medical advice. Always consult your physician or other qualified healthcare provider for accurate advice, diagnosis, and treatment plan.

Note: Supplements affect everyone differently and individual results may vary. 

Low energy*

Weight gain*

Reduced drive*

Brittle bones*

Increased body fat*

Moodiness / irritability*

Hair loss*

High body weight*

Physical stress *

Some potential causes of low testosterone include:

You may be wondering, does testosterone cause muscle growth without exercise? If only it were that simple. Unfortunately, you can’t take a testosterone booster for muscle gain and expect to bulk up without a proper exercise routine. 

Here are some ways you can work on your muscle growth and support healthy testosterone: 

• Stick to an exercise program: Incorporate strength training to build muscles through resistance, for example by lifting weights or using weight-training machines. Aerobic exercise is also important for heart and overall health. 
• Maintain a healthy weight: Keeping your weight within a healthy range can help support low testosterone and prevent muscle loss. 
• Sleep: Sleep is one of the most important things you can do for your overall wellness. Not getting enough sleep can cause your muscle mass and other things to suffer. 
• Reduce stress: Prolonged stress can negatively impact your testosterone levels, findings ways to reduce or manage stress can have huge health benefits. 
• Diet: Follow a healthy, well-balanced diet that includes lean proteins, whole foods, veggies and fruits. Certain nutrients and ingredients are thought help support healthy testosterone levels that you may want to incorporate. 

All supplements for men are NOT created equal.

Unfortunately, some generic supplements for men or “testosterone boosters” may not meet your needs or expectations.

Choosing the best possible formula all comes down to knowing what to look for and what to try to avoid so that you never waste your time or hard-earned money.

Here are the top things to try to avoid when shopping for a men’s wellness support supplement:

• UNCLEAR LABELS: A quality men’s health supplement should clearly list exactly what’s included in the formula. Avoid products lacking transparency that don’t list all of the specific ingredients included in the formula.
• MISSING SAFETY TESTING & CERTIFICATIONS:  Choose a stress support supplement that has been independently third-party lab tested and manufactured in the USA. These precautions will guarantee that the product is top quality and free from unwanted extras, such as contaminants, traces of heavy metals, or pesticides.
• FALSE OR MISLEADING CLAIMS: Beware of any supplements that claim their product treats or cures any specific disease or ailment, or promises miraculous, unrealistic, or misleading results. Always speak to your doctor before starting a new supplement routine.
• SUSPICIOUSLY CHEAP PRODUCTS: When it comes to your physical health, this is definitely not an area to test out suspiciously cheap products. There are plentiful options to choose from that are high value and still affordable. In this case, you do get what you pay for!

These are the some of popular ingredients found in a number of in men’s health supplements:

• VITAMIN D: Also called the “sunshine vitamin”, vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is important for many aspects of health. It aids calcium absorption and is essential for maintaining healthy bones, immune function, and regulating mood. Research also suggests that there is a link low levels of vitamin D and low testosterone.
• ZINC: Known for the role it plays in maintaining a healthy immune system, studies have also suggested that the mineral zinc is a promising ingredient for supporting testosterone production as well as muscle growth. [2]
• TRIBULUS TERRESTRIS: Tribulus terrestris, also known as gokshura, is a small leafy plant used traditionally in Ayurveda and TCM to enhance drive and maintain a healthy urinary tract. In recent years, modern science has also begun to conduct more research into this unique plant which has shown promising results. Studies have suggested that men with lower drive found tribulus terrestris beneficial for their sexual health. Additionally, this extract also contains antioxidants called polyphenols which may have multiple wellness benefits due to their ability to neutralize free radicals and support against oxidative stress. [3, 4] 
• KOREAN GINSENG ROOT: Health and wellness enthusiasts may already be familiar with American ginseng root, which is often used to support a healthy immune system. Korean red ginseng is slightly different and although has also been used in TCM to maintain immune and heart health and boost energy (like American ginseng), it is also used to support stress and male vitality. This multi-tasking root has shown promising results in recent studies, which suggest that there is a link between ginseng supplementation and drive. [9]
• MACA ROOT: This root has been used for centuries in Peru as it contains bioactive compounds that are believed to have a number of wellness benefits. Not only do some studies suggest that it may be helpful for low desire, but it also shows promise in having a positive effect on mood and energy levels. [10] 
• VELVET BEAN: This shrub native to Asia is rich in the minerals potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron, as well as phytonutrients and antioxidants. It has been studied for its potential in supporting cognitive function and mood because it contains an amino acid that plays an important role in supporting concentration, alertness, happiness, and memory. Studies also suggest that it may help men looking to support desire and healthy testosterone production. [11, 12]
• FENUGREEK: You may have heard of this herb, commonly used as a spice in Indian cuisine. It has been used in CTM for its potential wellness benefits. Studies suggest it may help support normal testosterone levels in men which may help support a healthy drive and muscles. [13]

5. Test Boost Max

by Sculpt Nation 

PROS

• Contains Ashwagandha (KSM-66) and Tribulus extract
• Includes American Ginseng Root

CONS

• Lacks Vitamin D3
• Lacks Vitamin B3

BOTTOM LINE

Test Boost Max by Sculpt Nation offers a blend of herbal extracts including Ashwagandha (KSM-66), Tribulus, and American Ginseng Root, aimed at supporting male vitality. However, the formula lacks some key vitamins found in competing products, notably Vitamin D3 and Vitamin B3, which are often included in testosterone support supplements for their potential benefits. These vitamins are known to play important roles in testosterone production, energy metabolism, and overall male health.

C

GRADE

3. Nugenix Total

by Nugenix

PROS

• Contains zinc and B vitamins
• Gluten-free

CONS

• No vitamin D 
• Capsules are not plant-based 
• High price point

BOTTOM LINE

Nugenix Total is a male support supplement formulated with zinc and B vitamins. Each bottle contains a month's supply of 90 capsules at 3 capsules per serving. However, you may want to note that it doesn’t contain some key nutrients like vitamin D. Additionally, the price is a bit steeper than some of the other products featured on this list. 

B

GRADE

4. Prime Test 

by Prime Labs

PROS

• Money back guarantee
• Science-backed formula 
• Features B vitamins, ashwagandha, and vitamin D

CONS

• No subscription program 
• Not many customer reviews

BOTTOM LINE

Testo Prime’s formula is a comprehensive approach to men’s wellness. This supplement features a range of ingredients including ashwagandha, green tea extract, zinc, vitamin D, B vitamins, and black pepper. However, at the time of writing this review, there were hardly any customer reviews online that haven’t been directly published by Testo Prime, so it may be hard to know a customer’s true experience. Also, there is no subscribe and save option, so you have to order in bulk if you want to stay consistent, which costs more money upfront.  

C+

GRADE

2. Testo Prime

by Testo Prime

PROS

• Money-back guarantee
• Science-backed formula 
• Features B vitamins, ashwagandha, and vitamin D

CONS

• No subscription program 
• Not many customer reviews

BOTTOM LINE

Testo Prime’s formula is a comprehensive approach to men’s wellness. This supplement features a range of ingredients including ashwagandha, green tea extract, zinc, vitamin D, B vitamins, and black pepper. However, at the time of writing this review, there were hardly any customer reviews online that haven’t been directly published by Testo Prime, so it may be hard to know a customer’s true experience. Also, there is no subscribe and save option, so you have to order in bulk if you want to stay consistent, which costs more money upfront.  

B+

GRADE

Top 5 Testosterone Supplements Of 2025

What To Look For

Try To Avoid

Important Criteria

Vitamin D

Zinc

Vitamin B

Herbal Blend

Max. 3 Capsules

Plant-Based Capsule/Tablet

Testo Prime by Testo Prime

Nugenix Total

by Nugenix

Prime Test by Prime Labs

Test Boost Max by Sculpt Nation

Not made in the USA

90-Day Money-Back Guarantee

Third-Party Tested

Subscribe & Save Program

*We try to update product information as often as we can. Please visit product websites for more information.

• Contains vitamins D3, B3, and zinc
• Formulated with a unique blend of plant extracts including tribulus terrestris, Korean ginseng, maca and more
• With black pepper extract
• Hormone-free
• Easy-to-swallow, plant-based capsules
• Certified safety and purity testing
• 90-day money-back guarantee
• Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients

PROS

CONS

• Only available online
• Sometimes runs out of stock

Primal Total Male by Primal Harvest features a blend of quality ingredients to help men looking to support their T-levels, muscle health, energy, mood, and general wellbeing. Expertly formulated for maximum potency, it delivers 50 mcg of vitamin D3, 150 mg of vitamin B3, 11 mg of zinc, and 110 mg of the mineral boron. It also contains superstar ingredients used in Ayurveda and TCM, including Korean red ginseng, fenugreek, maca root, shilajit extract, horny goat weed extract, as well as antioxidant-supporting extracts, velvet bean, tribulus terrestris, and oat straw.*

This unique formula comes in easy-to-take capsules,  is independently third-party lab tested, and is manufactured in the USA with globally sourced ingredients. 

Another perk is that this men’s supplement offers great value for money and the company also has a convenient Subscribe & Save program which includes free shipping and a 20% discount. To top it off, every Primal Harvest product comes with a 90-day money-back guarantee. 

BOTTOM LINE

A+

GRADE