Is this a bizarre recent fad or a forgotten food treasure? Eating animal testicles was actually an integral part of our ancestors' diet. They ate the animal nose-to-tail, including offal and organs, and first, once they'd been hunted...because they knew all too well the benefits of bull testicles. You'll discover them here!
History and culture of bull testicles
Even the ancient Greeks and Romans were aware of the aphrodisiac properties of animal testicles , which were eaten boiled, fried, sautéed, or even raw. The most popular were those of adult sheep and cattle, which had had an intense sex life, but also of deer and wild boar. In some African tribes, however, tiger and kangaroo testicles were considered a wedding gift for brides, who seemed to look younger by eating them. In Serbia, it is such a popular dish that a " World Testicle Cooking Championship " is held for the chef who prepares the best goulash made from donkey and cattle testicles .
The Italian dish is more elegantly called " granelli ," typically floured and/or dipped in egg and fried, with the possible addition of garlic or various spices, sometimes Marsala. In the USA, they are also used breaded and fried, usually as an appetizer, and are called Rocky Mountain Oysters . In Colorado, there is even a beer made from roasted bull testicles , hops, barley, and various types of malt.
From Piedmont to the French region of Limousin, to Spain, where they are grilled in the Murcia region, testicles are found in almost every culinary tradition worldwide, and there's a reason for this: the wisdom of our ancestors has handed down to us the importance of consuming the animal entirely, without discarding anything, and even consuming the male testicles . Below, we'll discover together why you should start consuming bull testicles . If you have trouble finding them fresh, or are a little reluctant to eat them, you can find them dried in tasteless and odorless capsules ( you can order them here ).
Nutritional properties - benefits of testicles
The vitamin properties mainly concern the important fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin D , vitamin A , vitamin K2 , and vitamin E , all of which are important for the proper functioning of the immune system and endogenous endocrine production. And these essential elements alone make the nutritional benefits of bull testicles stand out.
Some scientific studies have in fact shown that a deficiency of vitamins D , E , and zinc resulted in testosterone levels 10-50% lower than in people with adequate levels. In addition to zinc, it is also an important source of selenium , a key element in spermatogenesis along with vitamin D. Selenium is also a powerful antioxidant, which maintains healthy hair and nails.
To maintain their nutritional properties and not affect the availability of natural testosterone, bull (or other animal) testicles should be consumed raw . For those who don't like the taste or are reluctant to the idea, Carnivore Company has finally been born, the first Italian natural supplement company that supplies cold-dried bull testicles , using a technique called "freeze-dried" (cryodessication), to keep their properties intact : this is how you consume them raw without the aftertaste of the food ( here you can find the testicles in capsules ).
Bull testicles are also perfect for women
Some women might wonder: isn't this increase in testosterone more harmful than beneficial for me? Does taking testicles accelerate hair growth? The answer is no. Don't worry, we'll list the benefits for you.
Supplementing with grass-fed bull testicles may be beneficial for women for several reasons:
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Nutrients: Bull testicles are rich in essential nutrients, including:
- Zinc: An important mineral for the immune system, skin health, and fertility.
- Vitamin B12: A vitamin essential for red blood cell production and nerve function.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Healthy fats that may reduce inflammation and improve heart health.
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Proteins: Provide the amino acids needed to build and repair tissues.
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Hormones: Bull testicles naturally contain testosterone, and although taking it only stimulates a limited (and therefore safe) increase in testosterone, this hormone can be beneficial for women in several ways, including:
- Increased libido: Testosterone can increase sexual desire in women.
- Mood enhancement: Testosterone can help improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
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Increased Muscle Mass: Testosterone can help women build muscle mass and improve strength.
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Other benefits: Bull testicles may also help improve bone health, reduce the risk of anemia, and improve fertility.
Dosage: The recommended dosage of grass-fed bull testicles for women is 1-2 capsules per day for the first week, increasing to 6 capsules/day by adding 1 capsule/day to the dose.
Integration
To reap the full benefits of bull testicles and achieve lasting effects on the human endocrine-hormonal system, take them in small amounts, daily, and over a period of time, even months: for example, a 20-gram piece of raw bull testicles, equivalent to six Carnivore Company capsules per day. The best time to take them is in the morning, not only to maintain a routine but also to support sexual hormone production, which peaks during this time of day, thus mimicking the natural circadian rhythm.
In addition to vitamins and minerals , testicles are also an excellent source of protein, containing approximately 26 g/100 g. They are also a natural source of cholesterol, a precursor to sex hormones, containing 375 mg/100 g. Those suffering from hypercholesterolemia are always advised to consult a nutritionist or specialist to find out if and how to incorporate bull testicles into their diet.
Discover our Bull's Testicles with Oysters and Liver by clicking on the image below 👇🏻
By nutritionist Dr. Samuele Valentini
