Can sunlight boost testosterone?

We're just human-shaped solar panels.

Lots of guys out there are struggling with low testosterone.

Low T affects your libido, your metabolism, erectile function, hair growth, bone health, and more. It’s not just about bigger muscles.

But it can often feel like the only way to fix it is with a shot or a cream…that you’ll have to take for the rest of your life.

We’ve talked a lot about natural ways to boost testosterone, and I hope you’ve tried some of them. If you’re still struggling with stubborn weight or low libido or just crap energy levels every day, you may still be dealing with low T.

One hack I’ve discovered in my reading and podcast listening is using sunlight to boost testosterone levels.

But does it work?

Sunlight creates Vitamin D

We’re basically human-shaped solar panels. Our skin turns UV rays from the sun into Vitamin D, a vitamin/hormone that is necessary for hundreds of processes in our bodies, including our immune system, bone health, and hormone production.

One important thing to know about Vitamin D as well as hormones like testosterone is that they require cholesterol to be made. Your body produces about 3 eggs worth of cholesterol a day, and reduces that amount when you eat cholesterol-containing foods. (Makes you wonder about statins, doesn’t it?)

Studies are showing that Vitamin D is an important factor in the production of testosterone. The mechanism isn’t known yet, but it seems like the presence of Vitamin D signals the production of testosterone and other sex hormones.

Maybe more importantly, scientists are seeing that exposure to UV rays may stimulate the production of testosterone.

While supplementing Vitamin D certainly seems to have a positive impact on testosterone levels, it looks like just being out in the sunshine can help raise testosterone levels.

Regardless, there seems to be a pretty tight connection between Vitamin D and testosterone, and getting your Vitamin D levels up will almost certainly help improve your testosterone.

How much sun is too much sun?

Studies referenced 20-30 minutes of sun exposure 2-3 times per week, but it will also depend on your latitude, the time of year, and your personal tolerance for sun exposure.

If you’re not used to getting sun on your skin on the regular, you might want to take it slow. 10-15 minutes once or twice a week. But if you are a seasoned vet, you might be fine with longer. (Please, still be careful of sunburn!)

The jury is still out on if sunscreen blocks the formation of Vitamin D. Try spending some time in the sun without sunscreen, but not too much time. If you’re going to be out in the direct sun for longer than 20-30 minutes, please put on some sun protection.

So guys, take a few minutes a couple of times a week and get into the sun. The more skin the better. Human-shaped solar panel, remember? I’m willing to bet you notice a difference.

Y’all, this is what my 1-on-1 coaching program is all about. Finding simple, accessible solutions to help you feel your best. I know it’s not easy to ask for help with stuff like this, but trust me, I’ve been there.

The best way to get started is to set up a quick, free 15 minute call to see how we’ll work together. Looking forward to hearing from you.