The results of a recent randomized, controlled trial revealed a significant increase in levels of the hormone testosterone among healthy men aged 21 to 35 years who consumed a blend of extracts of pomegranate fruit rind and cocoa seeds.¹

The trial included 119 men who received 200 or 400 mg of the pomegranate-cocoa combination or a placebo daily for eight weeks. The men were also advised to engage in 40 minutes of aerobic exercise four days a week throughout the study, however, they were not involved in a resistance training program.

Men who received the higher dose had significant increases in both free (unbound) and total testosterone at 4 and 8 weeks compared to the placebo and their levels at the beginning of the study. At the high dose, men who received pomegranate-cocoa also experienced significant improvements in hand grip strength and mid-upper arm circumference at eight weeks. The extract combination was found to be safe and well tolerated.

So why would pomegranate and cocoa have an impact on testosterone levels? The authors of the report observed that punicalagin, an active compound in pomegranate, is a potent antioxidant, which can lower oxidative stress (a factor that interferes with testosterone production). Furthermore, research suggests that theobromine, which occurs in cocoa, may promote testosterone production in the testes.

“Testosterone plays a critical role in regulating metabolic processes in the body that helps maintain a balance between body fat content and muscle mass in males,” the authors wrote. “Besides the male sexual developments at puberty, testosterone has anabolic effects on bones and muscles, enhances libido, penile erection, mood, and cognition in adults. In men, testosterone maintains general health and improves the overall quality of life measures, including reducing stress and anxiety, the elevation of mood, and self-control.”

They concluded that pomegranate-cocoa extracts have potential promise for young men to improve physical performance and quality of life.