What is Testosterone?
Testosterone is a hormone that is created in males & females in humans and some animals. Testosterone is vital to sex drive & sperm production but it also affects bone density, muscle mass, how our bodies store fat as well as facial & body hair. Testosterone affects red blood cell production and even mood stability. Testosterone is created in the testicles in males and, in much smaller amounts, in the ovaries of females after the pituitary gland sends a signaling hormone to induce testosterone production.
The production of testosterone increases dramatically at puberty & early adulthood. As men age, testosterone naturally tapers off. There are several other reasons that might cause a drop in testosterone production like: pituitary gland issues, injury to the testicles, cancer treatments, stress and several chronic health conditions. On the flip-side high testosterone production can be caused by an adrenal gland disorder, cancer of the testes and some less serious conditions.
Do You Have Low T?
When men are experiencing low testosterone levels, or Low T, they may show the following symptoms:
- decreased sex drive
- erectile dysfunction
- infertility
- weight gain
- reduced muscle mass & strength
- thinner bones
- less body hair
- swollen or tender breasts
- anemia
- less energy
- feelings of depression
- mood swings
- low self-esteem
- changes in sleep patterns
- trouble with concentration & memory
Because it is natural for testosterone levels to decline with age, your doctor may need to determine whether it is nature, hypogonadism or side effects from common medications that is stopping your body from creating enough testosterone. Your doctor can order a simple blood test to discover your testosterone levels if you are showing signs of any of these symptoms. Once your doctor knows what your levels are, they can discuss with you necessary supplements you might need to add to your diet or if you require Testosterone Replacement Therapy. Many times Low T doesn’t require treatment but if you do need TRT your doctor can speak with you about possible side effects of treatments if the issue is affecting your health or quality of life. Your doctor may prescribe testosterone as injections, pellets, patches or gels.
Should Healthy Men Take Hormone Replacements?
Some men believe they will feel younger by taking testosterone replacements as they age, but there are very few studies to prove this is beneficial in healthy men & in fact small studies have shown mixed results. Keep in mind that if you are a healthy man, you should discuss with your doctor before you begin taking any testosterone replacements. Your doctor will be able to share with you many possible side effects of these treatments so you can decide whether it is worth the risk (sleep apnea, stroke & reduced sperm count are a few possible side effects). Testosterone replacement therapies may cause the prostate to grow. It is important that men should undergo prostate screening before they begin using testosterone therapies and supplements.
What to Expect When You Stop TRT
“Many men are unaware that TRT shuts down a man’s natural production of the hormone, often causing the testosterone-producing cells to stop working and his testicles to soften and shrink. If a guy suddenly stops taking testosterone after using it for more than a month or so, he’s very likely to feel terrible—he could have low energy, low sex drive, be irritable, and even feel depressed. These withdrawal symptoms powerfully motivate guys to keep refilling their ‘T’ prescriptions!” Francois Eid, MD, former director of the Sexual Function Center at New York Presbyterian Hospital.
Suddenly coming off of Testosterone Replacement Therapies has been found to cause a general feeling of yuckiness including reduced testosterone levels, weight changes, bladder wall thickening and decrease in urine volume during voiding. It takes time for your body to recover once you have been taking TRT so be patient with yourself if you are in that boat. Some men will need to take testosterone for the rest of their life, but long term use of TRT can cause potential health issues that your doctor can talk with you about. Your doctor should refer you for blood screening, as necessary, to make sure your body is healthy.
How to Increase Your Testosterone Naturally
Losing weight and resistance training to increase muscle mass are natural ways of boosting testosterone. Before beginning testosterone replacements try addressing reasons why you might be feeling tired or experiencing low sex drive or other symptoms of Low T.
- Are you eating a balanced, nutritious diet?
- Are you getting regular exercise?
- Are you getting enough sleep?
- Are there any psychological issues that might be causing your symptoms that a therapist may be able to help you through?
- Have you spoken about possible cardiovascular issues that might be affecting your blood flow with your doctor?
Low T may not be the reason for symptoms of Low T. Please see your doctor before you begin taking any medications or supplements that affect your natural hormone levels.
If you have been using TRT and you stop, you can plan on feeling less than great while your body recovers but by making and keeping a commitment to a wellness lifestyle you will be doing what you can for your body to be healthy. Even people who travel a lot can carry with them resistance bands in their suitcase, look for hotels with in-house gyms and be mindful in restaurants. If you need help creating an wellness plan, seeing a Certified Personal Trainer to help you realize and reach your goals is a great way to help you feel your best. Contact Us today for a free initial consultation. You will be glad you did.
Resources and Start Learning More:
- Effects of testosterone replacement therapy withdrawal and re-treatment in hypogonadal elderly men upon obesity, voiding function and prostate safety parameters. By US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health
- A Harvard expert shares his thoughts on testosterone-replacement therapy by Harvard Prostate Knowledge; an interview with Abraham Morgentaler, M.D.
- Is testosterone therapy safe? Take a breath before you take the plunge by Harvard Men’s Health Watch
- Low Testosterone (Male Hypogonadism): Management and Treatment by Cleveland Clinic Staff
- An Overview of Testosterone Replacement Therapy by Sherry Christiansen at VeryWell Health
- Testosterone dependence: How real is the risk? by Richard A. Watson, M.D.
- Testosterone Replacement Therapy: Myths and Facts by WebMD
- Testosterone therapy: Potential benefits and risks as you age by Mayo Clinic Staff
- What is Testosterone? By James Roland
Related Articles:
- Learning About Testicular Health
- Men’s Health
- The Importance of Good Gut Health
- Fat Cells 200: How Our Bodies Use Fat
- Fat Cells 300: Washing Fat Cells
I hope this article helps Fuel Your Wellness. Please leave your comments below.
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Summer D Clemenson co-owns Clemenson Enterprises and Wellness Works NW with her wife, Karen G Clemenson. Their personal motto is Creativity, Honesty & Positivity are a must! This mantra helps them stay community and wellness minded in all they do. Summer also writes poetry and inspirational blogs @ ClemensonEnterprises.com. Her crochet art can be viewed and purchased @ KnottyWares.com & she loves special orders!
