Why Would an Older Man Take Testosterone?
Written by Ben Bunting: BA, PGCert. (Sport & Exercise Nutrition) // British Army Physical Training Instructor // S&C Coach.
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As men age, their testosterone levels gradually decrease, often leading to symptoms that impact their quality of life and lead them to seek testosterone therapy as a means of recovering vitality and improving overall wellness.
This has resulted in many older men seeking out testosterone replacement therapy as a solution to rejuvenate themselves and maintain overall wellbeing.
In this article, we'll look into why older men turn to testosterone therapy and its advantages and drawbacks as a treatment option.
One reason behind its growing popularity may be to fight the effects of aging. Signs of low testosterone levels include fatigue, decreased muscle mass, sexual dysfunction and mood swings - which testosterone therapy aims to reverse in order to help men reclaim energy, strength and sexual function.
However, it's essential that we fully comprehend both the potential risks and benefits associated with testosterone therapy.
This article offers an impartial examination of this treatment option, detailing both positive outcomes and potential side effects in order to help make an informed decision about whether this could be right for us.
By the end of this piece you will have gained more insight into why older men turn to testosterone therapy treatments; and whether they may be the solution that's right for you.
- What is Testosterone?
- Common signs and symptoms of low testosterone in older men
- Factors that contribute to low testosterone levels in older men
- What are the side effects of low testosterone levels?
- What are the typical levels of testosterone at different ages?
- Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)
- Studies of TRT use in older males
- Can a high level of testosterone cause problems?
- How to increase testosterone levels naturally?
- How can you tell if your testosterone level is low?
- Conclusion
There are ways to combat the effects of low levels of testosterone and remain more energized.
It is normal for testosterone levels to drop with age, but in some cases, the drop can be too drastic, causing issues and changes that need to be addressed.
As we age, you can do a number of things to increase your testosterone levels.
We'll look at how age affects testosterone levels and what you can do to combat it.
What is testosterone?
Testosterone, also referred to as androgens, is produced by our gonads (sex organs).
Initially it aids in the formation of male genitals before birth before peaking during puberty with changes such as body hair growth, a beard, mustache or chest hair growth, testicle enlargement and increased sexual drive.
As we age our testosterone production decreases gradually yearly.
Your testicles secrete testosterone. A hormone is a molecule that travels in the bloodstream to regulate the activity of organs and cells.
The hormones are necessary for the body to maintain homeostasis, or balance. We would not be able to digest food or reproduce properly without them. The body makes the hormones that we need to function and stay healthy.
In response to stress, for example, insulin regulates blood sugar levels while adrenaline increases heart rate and blood pressure.
Testosterone develops stereotypical masculine characteristics such as facial hair and a deep voice. Your testosterone levels peak in your teenage and early adult years before slowly declining.
Common signs and symptoms of low testosterone in older men
A lack of testosterone in aging men is linked to a loss of libido and erectile function, as well as depression, reduced cognitive ability, lethargy and osteoporosis. It can also lead to a loss of strength and muscle mass.
The symptoms of ADAM (androgen-deficiency in the aging male) are a group of symptoms that is collectively known as andropause. This syndrome will likely become more prevalent as the population continues to age.
Low testosterone can cause a variety of problems including:
- Reduced energy levels
- Reduced muscle mass
- Erectile dysfunction
- Decreased bone health
- Cardiovascular conditions
It is important to maintain healthy levels of testosterone in the body for these reasons.
You can optimize your testosterone naturally in a variety ways. You can do this by exercising, eating a healthy, balanced diet, and avoiding harmful chemicals.
Factors that contribute to low testosterone levels in older men
The most important factor that affects your testosterone levels is age. Male testosterone levels begin to decline in their early 30s. While it is not as drastic as menopause, the effects can be significant.
Changes in physiologic function are often due to multiple causes, such as inadequate nutrition, illnesses and medications, inactivity and excessive alcohol intake. It is just as important to address these causes of physiologic changes as it is to treat testosterone deficiency.
Let's look at these in a bit more detail.
Poor Diet
Poor diet is one of the main causes of low levels of testosterone. A diet that is high in fats, but low in nutrients, can cause hormonal imbalances which can lower testosterone levels.
A diet high in sugar may also lower testosterone levels. Sugar can trigger inflammation and produce hormones that suppress testosterone production.
Lack Of Exercise
Lack of exercise is another common cause of low testosterone. Exercise improves blood circulation, which increases testosterone production.
Exercise can also help reduce body fat which can lead to increased testosterone levels. Try to exercise regularly. To boost testosterone, you should do strength training like weightlifting for at least an hour a day.
Obesity
Low testosterone can also be caused by obesity. The fat cells produce aromatase which is an enzyme that converts testosterone to estrogen. Men who are overweight often have lower testosterone levels and higher estrogen levels.
This estrogen increase can lead to the formation of male breasts in extreme cases.
Stress
Stress is another cause of low testosterone. Stress can cause your body to produce cortisol which will reduce testosterone production.
Stress can cause other health issues that lower testosterone levels. Meditation and yoga can help regulate stress when you're in a stressful environment.
Sleep Deprivation
Low testosterone is also caused by sleep deprivation. The highest testosterone levels occur in the morning, so getting a good sleep is important to maintain healthy levels.
Sleep deprivation may also lead to other health issues that further reduce testosterone levels.
Alcohol Use
Low testosterone can be caused by alcohol consumption. Alcohol can affect the production of testosterone and other hormones.
Alcohol abuse can also damage the liver which is the organ responsible for the processing of hormones within the body.
Smoking
Smoking can also lead to low testosterone. Smoking contains toxins which can harm the testicles (the area where testosterone is made) and interfere with hormones production. Smoking is also linked to an increase in cancer risk, which can lead to a reduction of hormone levels.
You'll be in a better position to maintain testosterone levels with age if you avoid these causes.
Age
As mentioned above, aging is one of the main factors behind low testosterone levels. We can't prevent that, but we can keep your testosterone levels high so you don't suffer as many side effects.
What are the side effects of low testosterone levels?
Testosterone plays a vital role in the regulation of sex desire, muscle and bone mass, as well as fat distribution.
Although testosterone is often referred to as a hormone for men, it can be found in both genders. Men and women can both experience side effects from a low testosterone level as they age, but this is more prominent in men.
Low testosterone symptoms include:
1. Libido decreases
Low testosterone can cause a decrease in libido and sex desire.
A drop in testosterone levels can cause sexual desire in men. Low testosterone can cause erectile disorder, which further decreases libido.
2. Fatigue and Low Energy
Fatigue and low energy are also common side effects of low testosterone. A decrease in testosterone may lead to fatigue because it plays a part in energy production and metabolism.
Low testosterone can also cause sleep problems, which can contribute to fatigue.
3. Mood Changes
Testosterone influences the production of neurotransmitters - chemicals that regulate mood.
Low testosterone levels can lead to mood changes such as depression and anxiety. These mood swings are probably due to the impact of testosterone on the brain.
4. Muscle Loss
Low testosterone can cause muscle loss. A decrease in testosterone, which is necessary to maintain and create muscle mass, can cause muscle atrophy and weakness. Low testosterone can also cause osteoporosis (also known as bone loss).
5. Reduced Fertility
Low testosterone can also reduce fertility. A decrease in testosterone is linked to a reduction in sperm motility and count.
As previously stated, low testosterone may also lead to erectile disorder, which can further reduce fertility.
Consult your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms. Low testosterone can be caused by a variety of factors including injury, age and certain medical conditions.
There are treatments that have been proven to help improve symptoms. You can choose the right treatment for yourself with the help of your doctor.
What are the typical levels of testosterone at different ages?
The amount of testosterone produced in the body changes throughout life, with its peak occurring during puberty. After puberty testosterone production starts to gradually decline.
Some men produce testosterone at high levels well into their old age.
Normal testosterone levels range between 300-1,000 nanograms per decilitre.
In some cases, however, levels that are above or below the range can still be considered normal. Men with low testosterone levels, for example, may still be able father children.
When there is concern about low testosterone symptoms, such as decreased sexual drive or problems with erections, the testosterone level will be checked.
Speak to your GP if you are concerned about a possible drop in testosterone levels with age. You can determine whether your testosterone levels are within normal ranges for your age or if treatment is needed.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)
One of the primary uses for testosterone therapy is to enhance sexual function in men and women who have difficulty getting or keeping an erection.
Others take testosterone to increase energy and help with weight loss. Athletes use this substance too; some even use it to treat chronic diseases and conditions with treatment using testosterone.
However, long-term effects remain unknown - consult your physician prior to beginning therapy using testosterone.
Low testosterone levels can result in decreased muscle mass, bone density loss and fatigue. Luckily, doctors can treat Low T with testosterone drugs such as nandrolone and stanozolol.
Testosterone comes in various forms like gels (AndroGel), pills (Clinexa and Striant), or mouth patches like Striant for treatment.
Potential side-effects of TRT
Some individuals who use testosterone can experience skin rashes, excessive sweating, enlarged pores and elevated blood fats known as polycythemia.
A blood thinner medication like Spironolactone may help alleviate such side effects.
Androgen replacement therapy can promote the growth and spread of existing cancers.
Patients must be carefully screened for malignancy before treatment, and monitored closely during treatment.
However, androgen replacement therapy is considered safe for men who are experiencing hormonal deficiency.
Studies of TRT use in older males
The majority of the clinical trials that showed positive effects of testosterone replacement therapy for older men did not include data on cardiovascular risk markers such as blood pressure and coagulation factors.
The effect of testosterone in these studies cannot be described clearly.
In testosterone clinical trials, the prevalence of comorbidities like obesity and diabetes was relatively high.
In light of previous studies that suggested a link between metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and low testosterone, it is important to consider the effects of obesity and diabetes on androgen-deficiency symptoms in older men.
The results of one of the TTrials conducted in frail older men as well as those who have limited mobility and cardiovascular disease pre-existing, showed that the risk of developing cardiovascular events led to the premature termination of the trial.
The overall effect of testosterone treatment shows mixed results. It has modest effects on a population with low serum testosterone levels, but can have adverse effects on older men who already suffer from cardiovascular disease.
Can a high level of testosterone cause problems?
High testosterone levels can be problematic, even though testosterone is necessary for many bodily functions including muscle growth and density.
High testosterone levels, for example, can cause acne, aggression and Hirsutism, a condition marked by excessive body hair. High testosterone levels can also cause fertility issues in some cases.
It is important to keep in mind that high levels of testosterone are not always harmful. Many athletes and bodybuilders, for example, have naturally high levels of testosterone and do not experience any adverse effects.
If you're concerned about the testosterone levels in your body, you should consult a physician who can determine if your levels are normal.
How to increase testosterone levels naturally?
For many men, high testosterone levels are essential to feeling their best.
Men want to keep testosterone levels high for a variety of reasons, including increased sex desire, muscle mass and energy.
There are many things men can do to boost their testosterone levels.
Get Enough Sleep
Sleep is one of the most important things you can do to boost your testosterone levels.
Sleep-deprived men are less likely to have high testosterone levels. Aim for 7-8 hours per night.
Exercise Regularly.
Exercise is a great way to increase your testosterone levels. Strength training has been shown to boost testosterone levels. Build muscle mass by lifting weights.
Related content: 7 exercises to pump up your testosterone levels at home
Eat A Healthy Diet
A diet high in carbohydrates, healthy fats and proteins will increase testosterone levels.
As part of your weekly meal plan, include plenty of fruits and vegetables as well as whole grains.
Reduce Stress Levels
Stress can cause testosterone levels to drop, so it is important to find ways to reduce your stress.
Stress management is possible through meditation, yoga and deep breathing.
Supplements
Vitamin D, magnesium, and zinc are all supplements that can increase testosterone.
These simple tips will help men to maintain a high testosterone level and reap the benefits of it.
How can you tell if your testosterone level is low?
You can tell if your testosterone levels are low by observing your symptoms. Low testosterone can cause fatigue, a reduced sexual drive, depression and memory problems.
Physical signs of low testosterone include decreased muscle mass, reduced bone density and an increase in body fat.
You should consult your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms. A blood test will determine whether or not you have low levels of testosterone.
Conclusion
Low testosterone levels can be caused by a variety of factors including age, obesity and chronic health conditions.
These symptoms and causes do not necessarily mean you have low levels of testosterone. They are just indicators that you need to get a test.
You can do a blood test at home or visit your physician to determine the levels.
You will only know for sure if you are low on testosterone after you have completed all blood tests and medical checks.
Clinical trials have shown that testosterone replacement therapy can improve bone density and bone health in older men.
It also helps to improve body composition by increasing lean mass and decreasing fat mass.
Are you ready to increase your testosterone levels?
The hormone testosterone plays an important role in the male organism. It maintains muscle mass, bone strength, and sexual drive. Your testosterone levels decrease as you age.
This can lead to several symptoms such as weight gain, decreased strength and muscle mass, or a low libido.
If your testosterone is lower than average, there are several ways to increase it. You can improve your testosterone by making lifestyle changes, such as exercising and eating well.
If you do not want to go down the route of taking exogenous testosterone in the form of a prescription, you can use Military Muscle Testosterone Booster which is free of synthetic hormones.
