Does Pomegranate Juice Increase Testosterone? (Explained)

James Cunningham, BSc, CPT
Published by James Cunningham, BSc, CPT | Staff Writer & Senior Coach
Last updated: March 11, 2024
Our content is meticulously researched and reviewed by an expert team of fact checkers and medical professionals. They ensure accuracy, relevance, and timeliness using the latest reputable sources, which are cited within the text and listed at the end of the article. Before publication and upon significant updates, we confirm factual accuracy, committed to providing readers with well-informed content. Learn more.

As a fitness coach, I've seen many people in my gym using T boosters to increase their testosterone levels. Recently, a few of my clients inquired if taking pomegranate juice may offer the same benefits.

I went through a vast amount of research and consulted with a doctor's friend on the benefits of pomegranate juice.

In this article, I will share details on how pomegranate juice consumption impacts testosterone and its effects on erectile and cardiovascular function.

Let's get into it.

Quick Summary

  • Pomegranate juice stimulates testosterone production by enhancing antioxidant activity.
  • Drinking pomegranate juice regularly can lower the chances of cardiovascular problems and erectile dysfunction.
  • Pomegranate juice reduces prostate cancer spread, lowers blood pressure by 30%, increases PON 1 (paraoxonase 1) activity by 83%, and decreases LDL (low-density lipoprotein) oxidative state by 90–95%, improving cardiovascular health.
  • In my opinion, the natural benefits of pomegranate juice, especially for increasing testosterone and improving heart health, make it a superior choice compared to synthetic alternatives.

Does Pomegranate Juice Affect Testosterone?

A slice of Pomegranate fruit and a juice in a glass

Yes, pomegranate juice affects testosterone levels, and I've experienced this firsthand.

After adding pomegranate juice to my daily routine, I noticed a significant improvement in my energy and muscle mass, which I attribute to the natural testosterone boost.

Its potent antioxidant, punicalagin, surpasses those in green tea and red wine, effectively enhancing testosterone synthesis and countering the hormone production decline that often comes with age.

The magnificent fruit contains trace amounts of weak phytoestrogens and a wealth of anti-estrogenic compounds [1].

Research from ScienceDirect on rats found that these fruit extracts dramatically reduce testicular oxidative stress, improve sperm quality, and increase salivary testosterone levels by up to 22% [2].

A study from the National Library of Medicine showed that pomegranate juice consumption resulted in a 30% decrease in carotid intima-media thickness after 1 year, an 83% increase in serum paraoxonase 1 (PON 1) activity, and significant decreases in both serum LDL basal oxidative state and LDL susceptibility to copper ion by 90% and 95%, respectively [3].

That said, low testosterone levels can become a severe health problem, leading to lowered energy, depression, diminished libido, weight gain, loss of muscle mass, brain fog, and more [4].

"Pomegranate juice is rich in antioxidants, notes Schleiger, and some studies suggest diets rich in antioxidants may benefit testosterone levels, sperm quality and erectile function."

- Alyssa Northrop, Registered Dietitian, Nutrition Writer, Speaker and Licensed Massage Therapist

Related Article: Does Coconut Oil Increase Testosterone?

Effects of Pomegranate on Cardiovascular and Erectile Function

A line of glass jar with pomegranate and a man holding his private part having a check up from a doctor

Drinking pomegranate juice daily also impacts your cardiovascular health and erectile function in the following ways.

Erectile Function

Pomegranate juice is one of the foods that boost testosterone and help with erectile dysfunction. A study from the National Library found that over half of the men with mild erectile dysfunction improved after drinking pomegranate juice [5].

Another study suggests that it could be advantageous in safeguarding nitric oxide from peroxidation.

And because nitric oxide is engaged in erectile function, a study like this relates to the concept that pomegranate would be a natural solution to erectile dysfunction prescriptions [6].

Cardiovascular Function

Pomegranate prevents artery hardening by lowering blood vessel injury. This antioxidant-rich juice also overturns the development of cardiovascular diseases such as high blood pressure, according to studies [7].

“Antioxidants are known to have various heart-protective properties, including lowering LDL (or "bad") cholesterol.”

- Brent Bauer, Doctor of Medicine

Furthermore, studies on mice revealed that pomegranate slowed the densification of the arteries caused by high cholesterol, causing it to reduce systolic blood pressure [8].

3 Pomegranate Benefits

Pomegranate juice in a glass to increase testosterone

Aside from being good for our testosterone, pomegranate has other benefits, like its ability to reduce estrogen and arterial plaque and even slow down cancer

1. Estrogen Reduction

Estrogens are hormones that decrease the proportion of testosterone in the body.

As per scientific evidence, pomegranate contains a high concentration of ellagitannins.

These chemicals decrease the possibility of androgens converting to estrogens [9]. This indicates that the more pomegranate you ingest, the less estrogen your system can produce.

Both healthy men and women require testosterone and estrogen. However, producing excessive estrogen is harmful to either gender.

It might affect both the libido and sexual health in males, whereas, in women, it may raise the risk of breast cancer [10].

2. Arterial Plaque Reduction

A doctor collecting blood from a person

Pomegranates reduce arterial plaque and boost nitric oxide levels in the blood.

Arterial plaque is an accumulation of debris within your arteries that inhibits oxygen from reaching your heart.

Arterial plaque, composed of cholesterol, fat, and calcium, can lead to high blood pressure if the arteries are blocked [11].

That said, pomegranates increase nitric oxide levels, particularly in those with high levels of arterial plaque, reducing arterial plaque in your arteries.

In addition, pomegranate promotes good blood flow, which is required for strong sexual desire and erectile function.

3. Stopping Cancer Spreading

Research suggests pomegranate chemicals may inhibit prostate cancer cell migration and reduce their response to cancer-spreading signals [12].

Therefore, regular pomegranate juice intake may decrease the chances of cancer cell proliferation.

Comparison with Other Natural Testosterone Boosters

Pomegranate juice is a natural option for boosting testosterone, but how does it compare to other natural boosters?

Here's what we found.

Pomegranate vs. Fenugreek

While fenugreek is traditionally used for increasing testosterone and enhancing libido, pomegranate boosts testosterone and offers potent antioxidant properties.

These antioxidants can combat oxidative stress, which negatively impacts testosterone levels.

Pomegranate vs. Ginger

Ginger has been shown to increase testosterone levels, particularly in males with fertility issues.

On the other hand, pomegranate, while boosting testosterone, also reduces oxidative stress and improves blood flow, both of which are crucial for overall hormonal balance and sexual health.

Pomegranate vs. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha, an adaptogen, is known for its ability to reduce stress and increase testosterone levels, especially in stressed individuals.

Pomegranate, in contrast, not only aids in boosting testosterone but also contributes to cardiovascular health.

FAQs

Why Is Pomegranate Good for Testosterone?

Pomegranate is good for testosterone as it aids its production by increasing antioxidant activity.

Is Pomegranate Good for Males?

Yes, pomegranate is good for males because it can improve sperm quality and increase sex drive, testosterone levels, and mood.

Is Pomegranate Like Viagra?

Yes, pomegranate effects are like that of viagra, and it may be used as a natural alternative.

Does Pomegranate Cure Erectile Dysfunction?

Pomegranate maintains a healthy circulation of blood necessary for erectile function.


References:

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4041339/
  2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0261561407002075
  3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4007340/
  4. https://www.healthline.com/health/low-testosterone/does-low-testosterone-cause-brain-fog
  5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17568759/
  6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16626982/
  7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3678830/ 
  8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3514854/
  9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92772/
  10. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6486327/
  11. https://www.healthline.com/health/atherosclerosis
  12. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4052369/
Was this article helpful?
YesNo

About The Author

James Cunningham, BSc, CPT
Staff Writer & Senior Coach
James Cunningham, BSc, CPT holds a BSc degree in Sport & Exercise Science from University of Hertfordshire. He's a Health & Performance Coach from London that brings a unique blend of academic knowledge of health supplements and practical exercise experience to the table for his readers.
Learn more about our editorial policy
Dr. Harshi Dhingra, MBBS, MD is a published peer-reviewed author and renowned physician from India with over a decade of experience. With her MBBS from Bharati Vidyapeeth and an MD from Rajiv Gandhi University, she actively ensures the accuracy of online dietary supplement and medical information by reviewing and fact-checking health publications.
Learn more about our editorial policy
Dr. Kristy June Dayanan, BS, MD is an author with a BS degree from University of the Philippines and an MD from University of Perpetual Help System. Her ability to simplify medical science complexities and dietary supplement jargon for the average reader makes her a valued medical fact checker and reviewer.
Learn more about our editorial policy

You May Also Like

Top view of men drinking alcohol beverages
By James Cunningham, BSc, CPT 22 days ago
Does Alcohol Lower Testosterone? (Explained by a Doctor)
A jogger running outside to boost his testosterone levels
By James Cunningham, BSc, CPT 4 months ago
Does Running Increase Testosterone? (Backed By Research)
A guy holding an almond milk
By Dr. Harshi Dhingra, MBBS, MD 22 days ago
Does Almond Milk Increase Testosterone? (From a Dietician)
A person smiling in purple background
By James Cunningham, BSc, CPT 5 months ago
How Much Testosterone Do Men Produce Daily? (Explained)
Top view of sliced pineapple for testosterone increase
By James Cunningham, BSc, CPT 3 months ago
Does Pineapple Increase Testosterone?
Pouring green tea in teacup for testosterone
By James Cunningham, BSc, CPT 22 days ago
Does Green Tea Increase Testosterone? (Expert's Opinion)

Write a Reply or Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Our scoring system is the result of objective testing data and subjective expert analysis by a team of fitness coaches and medical experts. Our scoring factors are weighted based on importance. For more information, see our product review guidelines.