Better Understanding Testosterone: Learning About Its Functions, Effects, And Vital Role In Men's Health
An in-depth look at testosterone: the male hormone
The main functions of testosterone in men's health
Testosterone oversees a variety of important processes in the body, which are essential to men’s health and energy levels.
Development of masculine characteristics: During puberty, testosterone helps in the development of primary and secondary sex characteristics, including the growth of facial and body hair, a deepened voice, and increased muscle mass.
Regulating sexual function: Testosterone plays an important role in maintaining sexual desire, stimulating sperm production, and supporting erectile function. It is also the basis of healthy sexual function and the ability to reproduce.
Maintain bone density: Testosterone supports bone health by promoting bone mineralization and density. The individual needs sufficient levels of testosterone to maintain skeletal integrity and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Promoting muscle growth: Testosterone acts as an anabolic hormone; It stimulates protein synthesis in muscle tissue and enhances muscle growth and strength. It also supports physical performance and contributes to enhancing muscle vitality in general.
Effect on mood and cognitive function: Testosterone affects mood, cognitive function, and emotional well-being. Low testosterone levels have been associated with symptoms of depression, cognitive decline, and mood disorders.
What is a normal level of testosterone?
Normal testosterone levels in men range from 300 to 1,000 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). However, the symptoms of low this hormone vary from person to person. Symptoms of low testosterone may appear in some individuals when their levels reach 250 ng/dL, while symptoms do not appear in others until their testosterone level reaches 150 or even 100 ng/dL.
When do testosterone levels drop?
Testosterone levels peak in men around the age of 17, and gradually decline with age. This usually occurs between the ages of 30 and 40. The pace of this decline is slow, at an average rate of approximately 1% per year, but accelerates with age. By age 70, a man’s testosterone level may decrease by 30% compared to his peak, but remains within the normal range. This explains the ability of many men to have children when they are seventy or older.
Here it is necessary to emphasize not to confuse low testosterone with erectile dysfunction. Although erectile dysfunction and low sexual desire are among the symptoms resulting from low testosterone in the body; However, it is not a rule for everyone; Some men with low testosterone can still achieve an erection, and others suffer from erectile dysfunction even though they have normal levels of testosterone.
Effects of low testosterone
- Decreased sexual desire and weak sexual ability
- Difficulty achieving an erection
- Fatigue and low energy levels
- Loss of muscle mass and strength
- Increase body fat and reduce bone density
- Mood disorders and cognitive decline
Daily testosterone cycle
Your testosterone levels don’t stay the same, they fluctuate throughout the day, peaking around 8 a.m., and reaching their lowest levels at 9 p.m. For older men, it is recommended to test testosterone levels in the morning. It is recommended to adhere to this timing because any decrease in testosterone levels is more noticeable when blood is drawn at that time of day.
Strategies that promote maintaining healthy levels of testosterone
Maintaining optimal levels of testosterone is essential for men’s health and wellness. Below are some strategies that help maintain healthy testosterone levels:
Lifestyle modification: Adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress management to promote hormonal balance and overall vitality.
Medical Evaluation: If you are experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, we recommend that you consult a healthcare provider for a comprehensive evaluation and diagnostic testing to determine the underlying causes and develop appropriate treatment plans.
Treatment options: Treatment for low testosterone includes testosterone replacement therapy, lifestyle modifications, or medications to address specific symptoms and improve quality of life.
What tests are used to monitor low testosterone levels?
If your doctor suspects your testosterone levels are lower than normal, he or she will likely do a blood test, usually in the morning when testosterone levels are highest. You may need to have multiple tests at different times of the day, as testosterone levels fluctuate. Once the results are in, your doctor may order additional tests to rule out other possible causes of low testosterone levels. A specialist at the Ho Men’s Health Clinic draws blood from a vein in the arm, collects it in a small test tube, and then sends the sample for analysis.
There are three types of blood tests to measure testosterone:
Total testosterone test: A test that measures both protein-bound testosterone in the blood and non-protein-bound testosterone (known as free testosterone). Most testosterone is bound to proteins that regulate the amount of active hormone in the body and delay its immediate use by tissues.
Free testosterone test: Specifically measures the amount of unbound testosterone in the blood. This test is often used to diagnose certain medical conditions.
Bioavailable Testosterone Test: This test measures free testosterone with testosterone bound to a protein in the blood called albumin. Although it is not common, it helps in evaluating specific medical conditions.
What is testosterone replacement therapy?
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a medical approach aimed at raising testosterone levels in individuals with low or deficient testosterone. This treatment involves administering testosterone in various ways such as injections, gels, patches, or subcutaneous pellet implantation. Testosterone replacement therapy is often prescribed to help relieve symptoms associated with low levels, such as fatigue, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, mood changes, and decreased muscle mass and strength.
It should be noted that testosterone replacement therapy should be performed under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional who takes into account individual health factors and closely monitors progress.
Facts about testosterone
- Testosterone levels peak during early adulthood and gradually decline with age, with a 1-2% decline per year after age 30.
- Testosterone plays an important role in regulating metabolism, as low levels are associated with increased body fat and decreased insulin sensitivity.
- Studies indicate that testosterone may influence risk-taking behavior and competitiveness in men, contributing to behavioral differences between the sexes.
Briefly...
Testosterone is a key component of men’s health, and has profound effects on physical, reproductive, and psychological health. By understanding the various functions, effects, and facts about testosterone, men can improve their health and maintain strength and vitality throughout life.
We must be armed with sufficient knowledge and understanding of the importance of hormones in general and testosterone in particular so that we can navigate the complexities of hormonal health with confidence and flexibility.