I know this may not be the most exciting topic in the world,and perhaps is one that most men simply avoid, however it is a very important to address. There is no reason why men should accept muscle loss and lack of energy as they age. With proper hormone support men can maintain and even regain youthful energy, vitality and drive.

The good news?
Men’s hormones are not complicated or difficult to address. As you may know, during puberty testosterone is responsible for transitioning a boy into a man including all the physical changes that come with this (body hair, lower voice, muscle, sex organs, and height). Testosterone is produced through a network of feedback mechanisms. The hypothalamus sends a signal to the pituitary gland to release gonadotrophic follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which stimulates testosterone production.

Unfortunately, as a man ages, testosterone production decreases.

‍

Men generally lose 1% of their testosterone each year starting in their 30s.¹

‍

Men actually have their own form of menopause, called andropause. Symptoms of andropause include low libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, depression, muscle atrophy, weakness, reduced endurance, hair loss, weight gain, anxiety, apathy, gynecomastia and increased abdominal fat. Men may even develop osteoporosis due to low levels to testosterone.

Weight gain can magnify hormone imbalances in men. Fat cells secrete an enzyme called aromatase. The higher a person’s insulin level, the more aromatase is produced. This enzyme converts testosterone to estradiol which can lead to an over-estrogenated environment. This can lead to low libido, mood changes, andgynecomastia.² In fact, younger, overweight men may experience symptoms associated with andropause which can be corrected through lowering insulin levels and reducing weight.

Toxins in our environment can be detrimental to our hormones.
Many chemicals can block hormones or mimic their actions and interfere with their function. Xenoestrogens (or chemicals that mimic estrogen activity in the body) are one of the main contributors to hormone imbalances and lead to an over-estrogenated environment with constant exposure. Xenoestrogens can be found in laundry detergent and dryer sheets. Other examples of hormone disruptors include BPA (from plastics), dioxins, phthalates, lead, fire retardants, pesticides, herbicides, personal care products, and even makeup. Reducing the chemicals and toxins you come in contact with can go a long way towards correcting hormone imbalances.

Lifestyle choices can also have an impact on hormones. Emotional, mental, and physical turmoil are frequently the root of hormone issues. Depression, worry, fear, obsessiveness, overworking and conflict tax the adrenal glands, producing cortisol which can lead to imbalance. Lack of exercise, alcohol, and smoking will also impact hormones along with a poor diet full of sugar and lacking proper nutrients. Supplementing your hormones without addressing these problems may resolve things temporarily, but the issues will return.

Back to the good news! There is a solution for hormone imbalances and low testosterone in men. Supplementing naturally with bioidentical hormones can greatly increase your hormone health. These hormones have a molecular structure that are identical to those hormones made by the body, unlike synthetic variations which are not bioidentical and can lead to further health problems.

It is always best to test your hormone levels to be assure proper supplementation. The DUTCH test is a great option for a true reading of hormone levels. Herbal supplementation or pellet therapy are great options to create balance and improve overall health and vitality. If you would like more information on hormone supplementation feel free to contact us!

^{1)   https://health.clevelandclinic.org/declining-testosterone-levels/}

^{2)   https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/aromatase-excess-syndrome/}

*Nothing stated above is meant to diagnose, treat, or cure any illness or condition. Consultyour healthcare practitioner for further information.

‍