A great way to shed some unwanted pounds is not to “go on a diet”—which is often perceived as a temporary measure—but rather, to change up your daily dietary lifestyle. Researchers have established that being overweight or obese is one of the primary causes of low testosterone in men. Recreational drug abuse, though, is something you can and should avoid, especially since studies support (47) how much of a factor they can play into Low T and fertility issues. One aspect that has a sizable impact on men's ability to gain muscle is their hormonal status, specifically testosterone. The 6 micrograms of boron are right in line with common dosage recommendations for testosterone support. The first ingredient is the tried-and-true test-supporter zinc, at a fairly standard dosage of 15 milligrams, or 136% of the RDA recommended daily intake. But you're in luck, the ACTIVE Reviews Team has formulated a well-researched list of the best testosterone boosters, helping you choose an option that best suits your needs. However, if you have low testosterone or concerns about phytoestrogens, limiting soy intake may be beneficial. Moderate soy consumption is unlikely to cause significant hormone imbalances. Whether you’re looking to enhance your fitness performance, improve your energy, or simply feel your best, these dietary changes can set you on the right path. Connect with our health experts and get free assistance. Get customised diet, fitness, naturopathy & yoga plans and transform yourself with ToneOp. Below are common questions readers often have when thinking about boosting testosterone through dietary choices. Almonds, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds each bring a mix of zinc, magnesium, and healthy fats to the table. In contrast, egg whites alone lack these nutrients, so eating the whole egg is more beneficial if healthy hormone levels are your goal. Results from clinical trials showed that fenugreek extract has a significant effect on serum testosterone levels. Two to three eggs daily can fit into a healthy diet for most people. Your body needs cholesterol to make testosterone and other hormones. Egg yolks provide both vitamin D and healthy cholesterol. Raisins also possess the potent anti-inflammatory compound resveratrol which shows anti-estrogen and testosterone boosting effects. Not only are they loaded with anti-inflammatory compounds, but they also have potential testosterone-boosting agents such as quercetin. However, few people actually consider it for testosterone boosting. For instance, it can help to improve brain function, metabolism, thyroid hormone production, along testosterone synthesis. Vegetables like garlic and onions are not only rich in nutrients but also contain compounds that can potentially aid in the production of testosterone. Grass-fed beef offers not only protein but also essential nutrients like CLA (conjugated linoleic acid) and iron, which are important for muscle growth and hormone balance. Zinc, found in oysters (What wine goes well with oysters?), beef, and pumpkin seeds, is vital for testosterone production. Potassium, one of the main minerals in bananas, can help with testosterone production. Since your body cannot produce omega 3 naturally, you must incorporate fish into your diet. Eggs play a beneficial role in raising testosterone levels. Males with severe zinc deficiency can develop hypogonadism, a medical condition when the body doesn't produce enough testosterone. Males with lower testosterone levels may experience fatigue and decreased energy. Scientists now study fenugreek testosterone benefits through clinical trials, and this herb's remarkable trip from ancient remedy to modern supplement deserves a closer look. This piece dives deep into whether this traditional herb really helps support men's hormonal health in their later years. A newer study shows this ancient herb might be great for men's hormonal health. About 39% of men over 45 face testosterone deficiency , and many look for natural solutions like fenugreek testosterone supplements. Tuna is a vitamin D rich fish, which is essential for testosterone production. Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger supports hormone balance and can potentially enhance testosterone levels. These are rich in antioxidants, including ellagic acid, which increases your testosterone levels. Healthy fats also help reduce inflammation and improve overall health, indirectly supporting testosterone production. Incorporating sources such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil into your diet supports optimal hormone levels, particularly testosterone. Testosterone Supplements Side Effects Oats are an excellent source of vitamin B6 and zinc, which directly affect testosterone production.Oysters increase testosterone levels because they are a rich source of zinc and protein which can fit into your diet easily and healthy too.Antioxidants play a pivotal role in maintaining hormonal balance, including testosterone levels.Iron is an essential nutrient that’s not only needed for healthy red blood cell formation, but for the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine.One meta-analysis found that mean testosterone levels were lower in men who followed a low fat diet compared to men on a Mediterranean diet.Unfortunately for breakfast food lovers, too many eggs are bad for your cholesterol.In general, a normal total testosterone level is 300 ng/dL or higher.Luckily, porridge oats are more than just a bland breakfast food. For example, studies show that men with lower levels of vitamin D tend to have lower testosterone than men with higher levels. Regardless, adding healthy sources of fat like fatty fish to your diet likely benefits overall health, including hormonal health. If you have low testosterone levels, follow a medical professional’s recommendations. Low testosterone, also called hypogonadism or low T, occurs when testosterone levels fall below 300 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). It's recommended to exercise, sleep well, and follow a healthy diet that includes appropriate ingredients like eggs. Research shows these foods can increase testosterone by 10-30% when consumed consistently over 8-12 weeks. Consuming carbs around your workouts helps replenish glycogen and supports recovery, creating a hormonal environment that favors testosterone production. But if you’re following some aggressive bodybuilding protocol or online diet that pushes protein sky-high while slashing carbs, you could be inadvertently crushing your testosterone. The research shows that bringing vitamin D from deficient to optimal levels can increase testosterone by 20-30%. 25 Gut Health Hacks is yours absolutely FREE when you sign up to receive health information from Harvard Medical School. Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox! Stress affects not only the body but also the mind. If you feel like your testosterone might be low, it's best to get your levels checked by your doctor so they can advise you on the best options.Research has shown that men with higher magnesium levels tend to have higher testosterone.Increasing your intake of magnesium is going to help raise testosterone levels.If your cholesterol levels are low, consuming a little dietary cholesterol may even help with low hormone levels.Signs include low sex drive, fatigue, mood swings, muscle loss, weight gain, difficulty concentrating, and thinning hair.A 4oz steak contains nearly 5.7mg of zinc, which is 70% of the daily recommended value.Having more of this type of fat is thought to result in a higher production of the enzyme called aromatase, which converts testosterone into estradiol — lowering a man's free testosterone levels.Found in soil, selenium is a powerful trace mineral—meaning your body only requires a little of it—that plays a variety of essential roles at both the cellular and organismal levels.Hormone replacement therapy is another method of increasing your serum estrogen levels.Visit our Internal Medicine Department at Continental Hospitals, Hyderabad, and consult top experts to naturally restore your testosterone today. The two primary minerals found in these nuts also help with boosting testosterone levels, which is why they’re often referred to as “male superfoods.” Zinc, magnesium and boron are some of the most important nutrients that can help the body maintain healthy testosterone levels. One B vitamin that has a very direct impact on testosterone production is vitamin B6, which inhibits the formation of estrogen and helps testosterone levels increase. The minerals, nutrients, proteins, lipids, vitamins, and other ingredients in milk have been shown to boost testosterone production and overall health. One of the key components of grapes is resveratrol, which is essential for increasing testosterone levels in men and supporting the production of strong, healthy sperm. Cranking up your T-levels with testosterone boosters without taking care of your basic health and well-being is running before you can walk. Testosterone boosters is a catch-all term given to a range of supplements that increase levels of testosterone. Although testosterone is vital, falling testosterone levels aren't necessarily something to worry about – they're as natural as finding a grey hair or two. And that’s very important because too much body fat is also very detrimental to your testosterone levels. One study published in the journal “Nutrients” found that zinc supplementation can improve testosterone levels in men with zinc deficiency.Full-fat dairy can increase testosterone due to its saturated fat content, but overconsumption of low-fat dairy products might contain hormones that suppress testosterone.It’s also less likely to have the desired effect as a testosterone booster with high doses.A drop in this male hormone can lead to various issues, including red blood cell production, muscle mass maintenance, bone health, mood, and concentration.While this a common fish, it actually has a great nutrition profile for helping to optimize testosterone production. If you still have lingering questions or concerns, consult your doctor before starting a testosterone booster. In addition, some ingredients found in testosterone boosters may cause certain negative side effects. There are many shady companies that produce testosterone boosters that may contain potentially harmful ingredients. In the end, you'll want to choose a testosterone booster that both fits your budget and provides the active ingredients you are looking for. For example, these studies show that saturated fat and monounsaturated fat can help increase testosterone levels. There are many things that men will try to increase/maintain their testosterone levels and libido, especially as they age. In combination with an overall healthy diet, it’ll help improve energy, performance, strength, fat loss, muscle tone, and libido. These are the 10 science-based best foods men should eat to boost their testosterone. Getting an adequate amount of sleep every night is important for maintaining overall good health, which likely promotes sufficient testosterone levels in general. A simple blood test can reveal where your testosterone levels actually stand. Consistent physical activity, especially high-intensity workouts and strength training, can act as a natural booster for your hormonal health. Burning calories isn’t just good for your waistline; it’s crucial for testosterone production. Legumes like beans and lentils also support hormone health, so throw those in your meals when you can. Grass-fed beef, eggs (specifically the yolks), and fish are solid picks for boosting testosterone. Additional Tips to Boost Testosterone Naturally With your support, Houston Methodist provides exceptional research, education and care that is truly leading medicine. It's often linked to — and potentially even caused by — one or more underlying health condition that a man may not even know he has. Something many may don't realize is that low testosterone is rarely a phenomenon on its own. And if you're stress is stemming from your low testosterone level itself, seeing your doctor might help. Just something to get you to slow down, be present and relax your mind and body. Many people revert to taking prescription medication for any problems they have, but living an active and healthy lifestyle does wonders for your health. Exercising, eating healthy, and meditating are all great ways to decrease your cortisol and feel more calm and relaxed. Naturally, this leads to strength and muscle gain, and thus more testosterone. Of course, on the other end of the spectrum, you have men with body fat that’s 30% ore more, which isn’t doing any good for your testosterone either. This is common in bodybuilders when they’re prepping for a show who achieve drastically low levels of body fat (hovering around 5%). ✅ Better energy throughout the day✅ Improved recovery from workouts✅ Enhanced libido✅ Easier time building muscle✅ Better mood and motivationThis includes making dietary changes and adding more testosterone-boosting foods.Lean cuts of beef offer an excellent dietary source of protein, fatty acids and zinc which are necessary for testosterone and hormone production and maintenance.The cereus group represents sporulating soil bacteria containing pathogenic strains which may cause diarrheic or emetic food poisoning outbreaks.Regular pomegranate or pomegranate juice consumption can have significant benefits on your vascular health; meaning better blood pressure control and even stronger erections.Here are examples of good sources of protein. Studies have shown that the consumption of pomegranate juice can have a positive effect on testosterone. Research highlights that ginger supplementation can positively impact testicular cholesterol levels. From seasoning meats to infusing oils, the options are varied, offering both flavor and health benefits. Many men with low testosterone never have symptoms.Some studies have shown that selenium can improve testosterone production by activating particular pathways and the expression of specific genes (14).Overall, testosterone is an essential hormone for male development and, to a minor degree, female development.Low levels of testosterone can make a man feel tired all the time.This opportunistic pathogen is often isolated fromfood and gastrointestinal disorders, as well as from nongastrointestinalinfections.Here’s what to consider when selecting the best testosterone booster for you.This enzyme converts testosterone into estrogen. Another study found that phytoestrogens in red wine may stop cancer cell growth, particularly among postmenopausal women. But more research is needed to study this effect. Soy contains high levels of isoflavones, phytoestrogens that may mimic estrogen’s effects and reduce the risk of both breast and prostate cancer. This means that in addition to the nutrients’ potential health benefits, they fight cell damage in our bodies linked to a wide range of chronic diseases. Maintaining good cholesterol levels keeps your arteries free from fatty build-up, reducing the risk of heart problems and stroke. Cardio has its benefits, but it doesn't boost your testosterone like strength training can. Heavy drinkers can have shrunken testes, thin chest and beard hair, and higher levels of the female hormone estrogen. Alcohol may throw off many parts of your body's hormone system. Meat, particularly beef and poultry, provides essential nutrients that support the production of this vital hormone. It’s a bit of an all-rounder so you’ll want to keep your testosterone at a healthy level! Learn what it takes to boost energy, maintain strength, and stay healthy longer—delivered to your inbox every Monday. While IF has benefits, raising testosterone levels isn’t one of them. While treatment methods should be coordinated with healthcare professionals, there are also natural ways to increase testosterone. Find out the best foods for testosterone and other ways to improve the male-dominant sex hormone. In fact, there are certain foods noted to be testosterone boosters. Pumpkin seeds provide an excellent source of zinc, magnesium, and vitamin K, all of which support T. Banana also delivers a little known mineral called bromelain shown (16) to support testosterone production. Mouth-Watering Testosterone Boosting Recipes Beef is also a good source of zinc, protein, and iron, all of which are important for energy and strength. Cruciferous vegetables contain high amounts of indole-3 carbinol, which helps in reducing estrogen levels in your body (3). For example, almonds and walnuts both contain a combination of omega-3 fats and zinc, a mineral directly linked to testosterone (2). Avocados contain monounsaturated fats that make your body produce hormones better. Low testosterone can cause many symptoms, including low energy, reduced libido, loss of muscle mass, and changes in mood. If any of these conditions sound familiar, have you considered that your troubles aren’t just a natural consequence of ageing, but are instead caused by dwindling testosterone? Plus, the natural ways to stoke your T-levels, according to experts Consult your physician before starting any diet, exercise program or taking any supplements to avoid any health issues. The testosterone increase is dose-dependent, and it can reach up to a 52% increase after an 800-mg dose. So, preventing that conversion would result in higher levels of testosterone. Aside from this, it is a versatile food with multiple other benefits, one of which is muscle development and maintenance. Vitamin D is also known as a powerful mineral that boosts the synthesis of testosterone and maintains its level. Oyster is a powerhouse of zinc and because of this, it is known to have high levels of aphrodisiac properties. Onion is one of the vegetables with numerous incredible health benefits, one of which is testosterone enhancement. Testosterone Boosting Foods That Naturally Increase T-Levels As a registered massage therapist with 17+ years of experience, I only recommend products I personally use or genuinely believe will benefit your health and wellness.Extra virgin olive oil is one of the most nutritious foods you can consume.Intake of g daily can increase blood flow, digestion, and testosterone.Testosterone plays a vital role in various bodily functions, impacting everything from mood to muscle growth.Periodic DEXA scans provide precise data on muscle mass, body-fat distribution, and bone density—key metrics influenced by testosterone—so you can see tangible results as you fine-tune your lifestyle.This combination works great for older males who want to stay strong while managing their metabolic health.Oats also support gut health, which plays a role in nutrient absorption and energy regulation.In a University of Graz study, when healthy overweight men were given vitamin D supplements daily for one year, their testosterone levels increased. The vagus nerve (the nerve that controls the function of many internal organs) seems to influence how long food stays in the GI tract. If you’ve noticed health aisles stocked with probiotics targeted at women, it’s not just for show. Women taking probiotics can reap the benefits of both improved digestion and reproductive health. Who Else May Need Natural Testosterone Boosters? Second, exercise helps to increase muscle mass and decrease body fat. There are several supplements on the market claiming to be natural testosterone boosters. If you’re eating garbage, not exercising, and not getting enough sleep, no amount of supplements is going to help your testosterone levels reach optimal levels. Sadly, many guys think they can just pop a few “natural enhancers” and their T levels will magically increase. I didn’t follow a strictly low-carb or Paleo diet because recent research has suggested that a diet high in protein and low in carbs actually causes T levels to decrease. From the age of 30 onwards, your T-levels start to decline at a rate of 1% each year. Testosterone levels are measured through blood tests, and in the UK, measured in nanomoles per litre (nmol/l). If you are unsure, a blood test can identify if your testosterone is low. In which case, testosterone supplements or testosterone replacement therapy may not resolve them. Left unchecked, low T-levels can weaken your bones, potentially causing osteoporosis. There are many vitamins and nutrients found in beef that will aid in testosterone production levels.They are also rich in dietary phytoestrogens called isoflavones that show both estrogenic and anti-estrogenic properties.Pomegranates aren’t just a tangy treat for your taste buds, they may help balance your testosterone levels too.Yes, they are and this is according to one 2020 study done by The Journal of Urology.Your doctor can prescribe testosterone therapy as part of gender-affirming treatment.It contains trace amounts of boron which may play a role in hormone metabolism and estrogen reduction.Moderate exercise can elevate testosterone and semen levels (49), as well as improve brain function, self-esteem, and mood (50). Pomegranates, berries, and cherries may protect against obesity-induced inflammation, which can lower testosterone levels. However, we need more research in humans before we can conclude whether pomegranates or their juice can affect your testosterone levels. Additionally, some studies in humans and animals have found that testosterone levels are higher in those with optimal selenium levels in their blood. Studies suggest that certain flavonoids, including cocoa flavonoids like quercetin and apigenin, may help increase the production of testosterone from cells in the testicles called Leydig cells. Effect of omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid enriched diet on plasma IFG-1 and testosterone concentration, puberty and semen quality in male buffalo. Effect of different levels and sources of zinc supplementation on quantitative and qualitative semen attributes and serum testosterone level in crossbred cattle (Bos indicus x Bos taurus) bulls. Dietary supplementation with linseed oil improves semen quality, reproduc-tive hormone, gene and protein expression related to testosterone synthesis in aging layer breeder roosters. However, licorice can have a negative impact on your testosterone levels.Eighteen strains obtained from different food samples were examined for the attendance of a number of virulence genes (nheA, cytK, entFM, bceT and hblC genes) using uniplex PCR method.But my dietitian has always told me to make small adjustments to my meals with a few herbs to help with testosterone production naturally.Creatine is known for its small but reliable testosterone increases.Heavy drinkers can have shrunken testes, thin chest and beard hair, and higher levels of the female hormone estrogen.Tuna is rich in vitamin D3, in fact a single serving of tuna provides your recommended daily amount of D3. We’re in survival mode and use up hormones just to make it through the present moment. As mentioned, women make testosterone in the ovaries and adrenal glands. When we’re worn down, we may not be able to keep up with normal testosterone needs. However, adrenal function can also influence testosterone. For instance, our levels can decrease a fair amount as we approach menopause. Avocados are also rich in vitamin B6 and folate, which support energy metabolism and muscle development. Pomegranates are rich in antioxidants, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation—two factors that can suppress testosterone production. Research published in “The Journal of Nutrition” indicates that diets with moderate saturated fat intake correlate with higher testosterone levels (Volek et al., 1997). In summary, nutrition is an indispensable element in the pursuit of muscle growth.You appear to have higher than normal testosterone levels, please contact us for further investigation.Alongside diet, lifestyle factors like sleep, stress management, and regular exercise also play crucial roles in optimizing testosterone levels.Research suggests that garlic may directly influence the productivity of Leydig cells and adrenal glands, leading to improvements in sexual health.Brazil nuts are very high in Selenium, which after Zinc is one of the most important minerals for testosterone production.Testosterone is a sex hormone that affects both men and women, but primarily more in men.After 90 days, I had my testosterone tested again.You may want to consider your age, fitness level, and goals when selecting the best testosterone booster for you.In the pursuit of naturally enhancing testosterone levels, it's essential to focus on certain foods that are known for their beneficial properties. Furthermore, research in both animals and humans have shown that testosterone levels are greater in those who have ideal levels of selenium (15). Some studies have shown that selenium can improve testosterone production by activating particular pathways and the expression of specific genes (14). This mineral is critical to maintaining optimal testosterone levels, particularly in older men. Animal research has also shown that the fatty acids in fish oil can improve testosterone levels and semen quality (9). Alcohol is another major testosterone killer, as it can adversely affect your hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and testes (42). How they’re packaged or canned also matters—to protect the food, they’re lined with bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical that’s used to create plastics and resins. Resveratrol may also prevent the aromatization of testosterone to estrogen. Grape skins are rich in resveratrol, a compound that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. And when your testosterone is low, your fat levels go up, which can lead to your body not using insulin well. It lowers levels of stress hormones, such as cortisol, which helps raise levels of sex hormones including testosterone. A new study finds men with low T who used a gel to increase the hormone did not have a higher rate of heart attacks than men on a placebo. Pile your plate up with mushrooms if you want to see your testosterone levels surge. There have been animal studies confirming that garlic raises t-levels when combined with a high protein diet. These healthy fats help reduce inflammation and maintain cellular health, which can contribute to optimal testosterone levels. Researchers also noted an increase in LH (luteinizing hormone), which triggers cells in the testes to start testosterone production. One small-scale research study showed that olive oil might be able to increase serum testosterone levels in men (19). Researchers in one study found that rats given fresh onion juice daily over 4 consecutive weeks showed significant increases in serum total testosterone levels (18). It’s believed that saffron extract will boost the body’s production of luteinizing hormone (LH). Dark chocolate is already known for its ability to increase dopamine levels, but just what can it do for testosterone levels? However, if you are looking to boost your testosterone levels, then you may want to consider trying some cow liver. Research shows that grass-fed beef has higher levels of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA)which has been linked to an increase in testosterone levels. If you’re eating too much processed food and not providing your body with the right nutrients, you’re going to lower your T. For example, squats will work your gluteus maximus, aka butt, the largest muscle in your body, along with a variety of other large muscles in your lower body. This is because they tend to work multiple muscle groups at once, demanding a higher anabolic output from your body. Protein balls They are an excellent source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle growth and overall metabolic health—a factor closely linked to testosterone regulation. Boron, a trace mineral found in honey, has garnered attention for its potential role in supporting testosterone levels. Whole grain cereals provide essential vitamins such as B and D vitamins, which are involved in various metabolic processes, including testosterone production. This is important because high insulin levels can disrupt the delicate balance of hormones in the body, including testosterone. Remember to keep expectations realistic - while fenugreek shows promise, it's just one of many tools that support hormone health as you age. The herb's positive impact on heart health markers - including cholesterol levels and blood pressure - makes it a detailed health supporter. Clinical trials show most important hormonal improvements, with some people's testosterone levels rising by up to 46% after taking standardised extracts. Testosterone is anabolic, which means it helps build muscle. — Combine everything in a large bowl and now you have a salad.Here’s why this salad is you high-testosterone fuel; In fact you can whip up a hormonally nourishing health-bomb of a salad in few minutes with this recipe that includes; Researchers found that D-aspartic acid for testosterone enhanced the hormone levels in animal studies but showed inconsistent results in human trials. Studies suggest that heavy alcohol consumption may reduce testosterone levels. We know that diabetes can cause low testosterone levels, which is why it’s much better to stick to complex “good” carbohydrates. It has been reported that the average American takes in 12 teaspoons of sugar a day (about two tons of sugar in a lifetime), and sugar has been linked to depleting testosterone levels in several ways. Already used in traditional medicine, this root has been studied for its role in promoting the release of this hormone. It prevents testosterone from converting into estrogen, thereby maintaining hormonal balance in men. Although testosterone is produced in much smaller quantities in women, tuna can also be beneficial for them. Avocados are packed with vitamin E, vitamin C, and beta carotene, which are beneficial for protecting cells from oxidative damage. Excess free radicals can damage cells, including Leydig cells which produce testosterone. It is an unrefined oil that contains high amounts of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), moderate levels of saturated fat (SFA), and lower polyunsaturated fat content. Not to mention the fact that oxidation can hurt the testosterone-producing Leydig cells. The avocado also contains vitamin E, which helps to prevent cell damage from free radicals. They’re low in calories so they can be eaten often without worrying about weight gain or loss- just what you need to fix lagging t levels. It also helps your body produce the catecholamines epinephrine and norepinephrine, which play an important role in fat metabolism. From food, you get about 10 milligrams of zinc each day, but the body only absorbs 2-3 milligrams of it—putting you at risk for a deficiency. Going ham in the gym is a sure-fire way of boosting T, but there are other options that will up the levels. Ho H, Shirakawa H, Giriwono PE, Ito A, Komai M. A novel function of geranylgeraniol in regulating testosterone production. This amino acid is related to aspartic acid, which is an effective testosterone boosting agent and is usually included in many supplements designed to do the same. Not surprisingly, Eating cow liver is a traditional cure for low testosterone levels. This translates to decreased body fat, increased muscle mass, and improved sexual functioning. More common issues with the GI tract and the presence of vaginal microbes highlight the importance of nurturing a healthy microbiome throughout the body. With the prevalence of obesity in the United States, finding a healthy way to manage body weight is a common question in the health and wellness space. Mehmet Oz looked at his medical records, he said that he has the highest testosterone levels he has ever seen for an individual over 70." WASHINGTON (TNND) — Health and Human Services Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr. said President Donald Trump’s diet is so unhealthy that he doesn’t “know how he is alive.”