As humans age, their bodies undergo numerous changes, including a decline in hormone levels. One of the hormones most significantly impacted by ageing is testosterone, which is essential for the growth and maintenance of male features.
Testosterone therapy has become increasingly popular in recent years to combat ageing effects and restore testosterone levels to a more youthful state. But what exactly is testosterone therapy, and how does it work? Continue reading to discover the fundamentals of testosterone therapy, including what it is, how it is delivered, and its possible advantages and disadvantages.
Testosterone And Aging
Although it is also produced in lower quantities in the adrenal glands, testosterone is principally produced in the testicles and ovaries of both men and women. It is a crucial hormone in the development of male secondary sexual attributes, such as muscle mass, body hair, and a deep voice. It also plays a role in maintaining bone density and regulating sex drive.
As men get older, their testosterone levels lower naturally. This process, known as andropause or male menopause, typically begins around age 30 and continues gradually throughout a man’s life. By age 70, a man’s testosterone levels may be only 20-30% of what they were at age 20. Therefore, it is important for men to monitor their testosterone levels and seek the advice of a testosterone specialist from white hall clinic, if they experience symptoms such as decreased muscle mass. They may also experience increased body fat, reduced bone density, and decreased sex drive.
A testosterone specialist can conduct tests to determine a man’s testosterone levels and recommend treatment options. These treatment options may include; testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) to address these symptoms and improve overall health and well-being.
Additionally, a testosterone specialist can guide lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, that may help boost testosterone levels and improve overall health. For example, a diet rich in protein, healthy fats, and micronutrients such as zinc and vitamin D may support testosterone production. Strength and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) has also increased men’s testosterone levels.
Testosterone Therapy
Testosterone therapy is a medical treatment used to increase testosterone levels in men with low levels of this hormone. It can be administered in several forms, including injections, skin patches, gels, and pellets implanted under the skin. The treatment is typically used to treat men with hypogonadism. Hypogonadism is when the body does not produce enough testosterone, resulting in a range of symptoms, including fatigue, low sex drive, and erectile dysfunction.
Testosterone therapy has been shown to have several potential benefits, such as improved bone density, increased energy, and reduced fatigue. These benefits can significantly improve the quality of life for men with low testosterone levels.
However, like any medical treatment, testosterone therapy also carries potential risks that you must consider. One of the most substantial risks associated with testosterone therapy is an increased risk of blood clots. Testosterone therapy can also worsen sleep apnea, leading to serious health complications. Another potential risk is an increased risk of prostate cancer, although this risk is still being studied and debated among healthcare professionals.
Consequently, testosterone therapy may increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, particularly in men with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions. Acne and other skin reactions are also common side effects of testosterone therapy.
Effects Of Testosterone Therapy on Aging
Below are some effects of testosterone therapy on aging;
Change In Muscle Mass and Strength
After a few weeks of testosterone therapy, the recipient will likely experience a change in mass and strength. This is because low testosterone levels lead to decreased muscle mass and strength. Therefore, taking testosterone therapy can improve physical performance and overall quality of life for older men.
Bone Density
Testosterone therapy has been shown to improve bone density in older men, which can reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a common condition among older adults, particularly men, that can lead to bone fractures and other complications.
Taking testosterone therapy can also help to increase bone mineral density and reduce the risk of fractures by promoting bone growth and reducing bone resorption. However, it’s important to note that testosterone therapy may not be suitable for all men with osteoporosis, and other treatment options may be necessary depending on the condition’s underlying cause.
Improved Mood
Improved mood in older men with low testosterone levels. Low testosterone levels have been associated with depression and other mood disorders, and testosterone therapy can help to alleviate these symptoms and improve overall well-being.
Memory and Concentration
Testosterone therapy may also improve memory and concentration in older men by enhancing cognitive function. Testosterone therapy has been shown to improve cognitive function in older men with low testosterone levels, leading to improved mental clarity, focus, and overall cognitive performance.
However, it’s important to note that the effects of testosterone therapy on cognitive function are still being studied, and more research is needed to determine the long-term effects of treatment on cognitive function. It’s recommended to work closely with a healthcare professional to determine if testosterone therapy is right for you and to monitor your testosterone levels and any potential side effects of treatment.
Increased Energy
Older men with low testosterone levels have been shown to have increased energy after testosterone therapy. Low testosterone levels can lead to decreased energy levels, decreased motivation, and an overall feeling of lethargy. Testosterone therapy can help alleviate these symptoms and improve overall energy levels, leading to an improved quality of life.
Decrease In Body Fat
When you have low testosterone, then it’s likely that your body fat will increase; therefore, men with low testosterone levels are more likely to have high body fat. Ultimately, it’s highly likely that your body fat will decrease after taking testosterone therapy.
This is because testosterone therapy helps increase your muscle mass, thus decreasing your body fat. This can lead to improved overall health and a reduced risk of obesity-related complications such as diabetes and heart disease.
However, it’s important to note that testosterone therapy is not a substitute for a healthy diet and exercise. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is still important to maximize the benefits of testosterone therapy and reduce the risk of other health complications.
Wrapping Up
When men get older, their testosterone levels dip due to a deterioration in the pituitary gland. Thus, older men will experience decreased bone density, low sex drive, and erectile dysfunction. However, they may opt to do testosterone therapy to increase testosterone levels in the body.
The most common ways to deliver testosterone therapy are through gels, patches, and injections. Whilst testosterone therapy is intended to last up to 6 months, you can already notice changes a few weeks after beginning treatment.
