Low or deficient testosterone in males is problematic in America. According to the Cleveland Clinic, low testosterone affects almost 40% of men aged 45 and older! Testosterone deficiency negatively affects a man’s quality of life and is a known risk factor for early death. Testosterone levels are at their highest levels by early adulthood and then decrease by 1% to 2% a year beginning in the 40’s.
The time when testosterone levels drop in middle-aged men is often referred to as “male menopause.” Another term that is used is “andropause,” which can be defined as “a syndrome associated with a decrease in sexual satisfaction or a decline in a feeling of general well-being with low levels of testosterone in an older man.”
Deficient levels of testosterone have wide-ranging effects since it acts on almost every tissue in the body. Testosterone has effects on the brain, skin, bones, heart, erectile function, fat metabolism, muscle growth, bone density, energy production, lipid levels, insulin balance, and much more.
There are two general categories for the causes of testosterone deficiency. The first would be the inability of the testicles to produce testosterone, often referred to as primary hypogonadism. In some cases, this could be genetic. The second cause would be dysfunctional external factors that influence the testicles. Examples include testosterone over-dosage (steroid abuse), pituitary tumor, and others.
Many men can boost their testosterone levels significantly without hormone replacement. Studies show significant improvements within 8 to 12 weeks following these simple recommendations.
Use supplements such as Ashwagandha extract (600 to 675 mg daily), Eurycoma Longifolia, also known as Tongkat Ali (200 to 400 mg daily), Zinc (25 to 60 mg daily), magnesium (250 to 500 mg daily), and vitamin D3 (2000 to 5000 IU daily).
Dr. Mark Stengler NMD, MS, is a bestselling author in private practice in Encinitas, California, at the Stengler Center for Integrative Medicine. His newsletter, Dr. Stengler’s Health Breakthroughs, is available at www.markstengler.com and his product line at www.drstengler.com
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