While there is more awareness of perimenopause and women’s hormone health, fluctuations in hormone levels impact men equally. Testosterone, the primary sex hormone in men (though also present in women), is vital in regulating sex drive, muscle mass, energy levels, mood, and even bone health.
When testosterone is low and dips below healthy levels, a cascade of not-so-pleasant effects can take hold. And, just like with women, you can begin to experience symptoms at any age; this is not only a ‘getting older’ phenomenon.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch Out For:
- Low libido and erectile dysfunction: This is a classic symptom, but not the only one.
- Fatigue and decreased energy: Feeling constantly wiped out can be a sign your testosterone is lagging.
- Muscle loss and increased body fat: It can become harder to maintain muscle mass and easier to gain fat.
- Mood changes: Irritability, brain fog, and even depression can be linked to low testosterone.
- Sleep problems: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep can disrupt your overall health.
- Decreased bone density: This raises the risk of osteoporosis later in life.
Long-Term Risks of Untreated Low Testosterone:
Think you can just power through? You may want to think again.
Ignoring low testosterone can have serious consequences for your health. Particularly in the longer term, think of it as a compounding issue. Over time, you may experience:
- Increased risk of heart disease: Low testosterone can worsen cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
- Increased risk of type 2 diabetes: Testosterone helps regulate blood sugar.
- Weakened immune system: This makes you more susceptible to infections.
- Cognitive decline: Memory and focus may be affected.
Functional Medicine: A Path to Relief
Functional medicine, like what we do here at Nava Health, offers a personalized approach to addressing low testosterone. We go beyond just treating symptoms and delve into the root causes. This might involve:
- Identifying underlying conditions: Certain medical conditions can contribute to low testosterone and require more advanced diagnostic testing to diagnose accurately than what we see in conventional medicine.
- Dietary and lifestyle modifications: Diet, exercise, and sleep all play a role in testosterone levels.
- Nutrient supplementation: Addressing deficiencies in key vitamins and minerals can support healthy hormone production.
- Bioidentical hormone therapy: When appropriate, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can help restore balance.
Taking Charge of Your Health
If you’re experiencing symptoms that suggest low testosterone, don’t hesitate to reach out to a functional medicine practitioner.
Early intervention can make a significant difference in your overall health and well-being. Remember, feeling vibrant and energized is within your reach!
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about Lyme disease or your specific health condition.
A Medical Director, and one of the first physicians to join the Nava Health & Vitality Center, Dr. Douglas Lord has made significant contributions to our Center and its founding principles. Dr. Lord has helped develop and implement the Nava Method™—Nava’s proprietary approach to total body wellness. He has also been instrumental in liaising with other expert practitioners to successfully implement Nava’s range of therapies, treatments, and products.