It’s long been known that Men and testosterone go sort of hand in hand. But why?
The male hormone testosterone is hugely important to the development and maintenance of male physical characteristics, like muscle size and strength, and growth of facial and body hair. A new study of older men carried out by The University of Western Australia has found there is a link between men who have higher levels of the sex hormone estradiol, produced from testosterone, and slower aging.
Testosterone, often known as the sex hormone, is necessary for the male (and female) body to maintain healthy drive (libido). It is also crucial for bone mass, fat distribution, muscle mass and strength, and the production of red blood cells and sperm. A small amount of circulating testosterone is converted to estradiol, a form of estrogen.
For most men, testosterone levels show signs of decline at about age 40.
Unlike women, the sudden drop in hormones that women experience at menopause, the decline in men is gradual, averaging just over 1% a year. Testosterone is also the hormone that distinctly dictates male attributes. Low testosterone levels (low-T) are linked to wrinkles, muscle loss, weight gain, and thinning hair.
Specific Signs/Symptoms of Testosterone Deficiency (TD)
Reduced sex drive
Reduced erectile function
Loss of body hair
Less beard growth
Loss of lean muscle mass
Feeling tired all the time (fatigue)
Obesity (being overweight)
Symptoms of depression.
On the flip side, high testosterone levels may be recognized by excessive body hair, acne, and increased muscle mass. Men usually notice a change in libido and aggressive/irritable mood.
If you would like to know more about how we can help you balance your hormones and testosterone, please give us a call at (215) 595-2440.