Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome (TDS), or male hypogonadism, occurs when the body does not produce enough testosterone, the main male hormone. Testosterone is essential for developing and maintaining male characteristics. Testosterone also plays a key role in malelibido, muscle mass, and mental and physical energy.
Testosterone is the most important sex hormone in men. Its production starts during puberty and is controlled by both the brain and the testicles (testes). Unlike menopause, TDS is not an inevitable result of aging.However, research indicates an annual decline of 1.25 per cent in the natural production of Testosterone, resulting in aapproximately 8 per cent of men aged 50-79 experiencing symptoms.
This decline can be accelerated by certain lifestyle factors, resulting in younger men presenting with TDS symptoms. Accelerated decline factors include:
- Obesity – adipose tissue (fat) stimulates Oestrogen production
- Smoking
- Asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
- Diabetes mellitus
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease (CCF)
- HIV
- Osteoporosis
- Chronic stress
The symptom severity generally correlates with the extent of Testosterone deficiency. Lifestyle habits that may help keep testosterone levels normal include:
- Eating a healthy diet
- Weight management (BMI <30)
- Exercise, especially resistance training
- Avoiding excessive use of alcohol and drugs.
TIP: Daily Omega 3 1000mg marine based supplement along with resistance training promotes a shift from cholesterol towards Testosterone production.
Early diagnosis and treatment in adult men provides better protection against osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Treatment can also improve tiredness, general well-being, erectile dysfunction and libido.There’s no one-time fix for low testosterone. However, consistent hormone replacement therapy helps improve symptoms. boosts muscle mass and promotebone density.Testosterone replacement therapy comes in several different formulations which include skin gels, patches, oral tablets, pellet implants and intramuscular testosterone injections.
The reality is that many people shrug off the symptoms associated with low testosterone as an unpleasant part of getting older. But TDS treatment does not only reduce health risks, but also mortality risks and improves quality of life. See your doctor for TDS screening, workup and possible treatment earliest.
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