The human body releases and circulates almost 50 different types of hormones that control and coordinate different activities within the body. The two main types of hormones in the reproduction system are Testosterone and Estrogen. Testosterone is the reproduction hormone that stimulates sperm production in men while Estrogen allows the eggs to mature in the ovaries once a girl reaches puberty.
In men, Testosterone plays a crucial role in controlling various activities from puberty to fertility. The main purpose of Testosterone is to regulate sexual desire, muscle mass, distribution of fat, and the production of sperm and red blood cells. The levels of Testosterone in the body are constantly changing and it’s at the peak during the later stage of adolescence and early adulthood. However, the level of Testosterone keeps changing throughout the lifetime.
After 30 years, the levels can become quite low and men may want to look for ways to increase their Testosterone levels. It is said that with age, the level drops 1% every year when a man may reach 30 or 40 years depending on his health. For older age men, it is first necessary to determine if the low Testosterone level is due to aging or due to an illness called ‘hypogonadism’.
Testosterone is produced in testicles and hypogonadism impacts the normal amount of hormone production either due to problems with testicles or with the pituitary glands that control the testicles. Testosterone replacement therapy is a common treatment process that focuses on the use of injections, gels, and patches to increase Testosterone levels. Some of the signs and symptoms of low Testosterone levels are
- A noticeable change in sexual function and reduced or low sexual desire
- Physical changes that may include feeling less energetic, loss of body hair, increased body fat, and reduction in muscle mass and strength
- Emotional changes with feeling depressed and having difficulty in remembering things
Many of the symptoms may also be caused by some other medical issues such as diabetes, side effects of medicines, sleep apnea, and depression. A blood test is the first step to knowing about the current Testosterone level. Blood tests are very beneficial in finding the health of a person and if he/she is suffering from an acute or chronic disease.
Testosterone therapy is known to alter the effects of hypogonadism but it is still not clear if it’s beneficial for older men who seem to be healthy. Many men do talk about improved energy levels, sexual desire, and mood after taking Testosterone treatment. However, Testosterone replacement therapy has different side effects and long-term risks and one should always discuss it with his doctor who can evaluate the health of the person and tell if Testosterone therapy is good for him or not.
There are certain lifestyle changes that a person can adopt to increase Testosterone levels without the need for any injections or patches. Natural testosterone replacement therapy for men may be best for men who may be experiencing the following symptoms
- Body fatigue and low energy levels
- Low sexual desire
- Body hair loss
- Difficulty in concentrating
- Depression
- Erectile dysfunction
Testosterone replacement therapy is available in different forms but with the risk of side-effect depending on the health and physiological condition of the person. However, some of the natural ways to increase Testosterone levels are
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Eating a healthy and balanced diet
One should always try to maintain optimum body health by taking in natural food that includes protein, fats, and carbohydrates in a balanced amount. Protein is most essential for optimum energy levels and fat loss. Carbs and fats are also required in a balanced amount to increase Testosterone levels and also the overall health, and energy levels. But one must not overeat or maintain a constant diet as it may disrupt the Testosterone levels.
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Exercise and Lifting Weights
Apart from a balanced diet, exercise is another most important aspect to maintain your health and Testosterone levels. According to many research and studies, it was noted that men with high Testosterone levels exercise regularly and stay fit. Along with exercise, weight lifting and resistance training are also beneficial for increased Testosterone levels both in the short and long run.
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Minimizing your stress and anxiety
A person’s health many times may be affected not due to eating nutritional food or doing the physical activity but due to emotional issues such as stress, depression, and anxiety. Having constant periods of stress can increase the Cortisol levels which as a result can lower the Testosterone levels. There are many different ways to reduce stress such as maintaining a healthy diet, keeping yourself busy with hobbies or interests that you are passionate about, and taking proper rest.
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Take Vitamin and Mineral supplements
In many instances, people may think that they consume a balanced diet but never know that their body has deficient levels of vitamins and minerals which are necessary along with protein, fats, and carbs. There are many important vitamins that your body needs and Vitamin D3 is needed to boost Testosterone levels. One can also take caffeine and Creatine monohydrate supplements to further enhance Testosterone levels. In minerals, zinc is most beneficial to improve hormone production.
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Take adequate rest and sleep
Taking a good amount of rest and sleep is imperative for maintaining health along with a balanced diet and exercise. For an adult person, it is recommended to have 7 to 9 hours of sleep. It is been noted that only having 5 hours of sleep is not suitable for optimum health and leads to a 15% decrease in Testosterone levels.
From numerous studies, it is observed that Testosterone levels start to decrease from 25 to 30 years in men. It is important for men to optimize their Testosterone level to ensure a healthy life and free from any risk of disease. A doctor may inject intramuscular Testosterone injections every two to three weeks. A Testosterone gel may also be applied to the shoulder, abdomen, or arms. However, one must get a full health evaluation before opting for injections or gel therapy due to its side effects.
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