Low testosterone is a problem that many men over 30 face. This disorder is relatively easy to diagnose and well-treated.
What is testosterone?
Testosterone is the main male sex hormone produced by the testes in the male body, with a small amount of testosterone also produced by the adrenal glands. This hormone is responsible for the development of the male organs: the male reproductive organs, the testicles, the prostate. Testosterone also determines secondary male characteristics: increased muscle and bone mass, body hair, sperm quality, sex drive (libido).
What causes low testosterone levels?
In men over 30, testosterone levels in the body gradually decrease. Testosterone also decreases in the presence of certain endocrine or autoimmune diseases, testicular damage, and the use of anabolic hormones during sports.
What are the symptoms of low testosterone levels?
Low testosterone is manifested by the following symptoms:
- Decreased sex drive (libido);
- Erectile dysfunction;
- Loss of morning wood (erections);
- Decreased size of the penis;
- Constant fatigue, lack of energy;
- Poor mood;
- Reduced muscle and bone mass;
- Obesity;
How is low testosterone diagnosed?
Low testosterone levels are diagnosed by a blood test from a vein. Testosterone levels in a man’s body vary depending on the time of day. The highest testosterone levels are detected just after waking up, so the test should be carried out as early in the morning as possible.
Treatment options
There are several treatment options available for low testosterone levels in men, depending on the underlying cause of the condition. Some possible treatment options include:
Medications
Certain medications can help increase testosterone levels in men. For example, clomiphene citrate (Enclomiphene tablets) can help increase testosterone production in men with hypogonadism.
Eat a proper and healthy diet
Healthy eating and male fertility are much more closely linked than you might think, researchers say. This is due to two factors: firstly, inadequate nutrition leads to weight problems, more difficult movement and therefore less satisfaction during sexual intercourse.
The second factor is that malnutrition leads to a general weakening of the body, including a disruption in the production of testosterone, which improves metabolism. In the case of testosterone deficiency, the body experiences rapid weight gain, impaired fat distribution, reduced muscle mass and reduced physical performance, which not only reduces the quality of life, but also reduces sexual desire. Testosterone is made from cholesterol, so if the wrong diet is followed, or if there is a complete lack of or insufficient intake of fat, testosterone levels also fall.
Don’t forget to get enough sleep
Testosterone is produced during sleep, so it’s only natural that if you’re sleep-deprived, you’re testosterone-deficient. The biggest problem is that testosterone improves the quality of sleep, so if you don’t get enough sleep for a few nights, you will find it harder and harder to fall asleep later. Sleep deprivation and fatigue reduce sex drive, so if you feel too tired to have sex, don’t look for a serious illness first, but try to get some rest and a good night’s sleep.
