Testosterone and Aging: Maintain Healthy Levels as You Grow Older
It’s not uncommon for men as they age to experience a decrease in testosterone levels. While some might see it as part of the natural aging process, low T can significantly impact quality of life if caused by an underlying health condition; in such instances it’s essential that any abnormally low T levels be assessed by a healthcare professional in order to identify what the source may be and how best to treat them.
Testosterone plays an essential role in regulating sex drive, fat distribution, muscle mass and bone density as well as production of sperm. Men should have normal range testosterone levels; any drops below this mark could indicate diabetes or heart disease symptoms or it could simply be due to diet high in unhealthy fats and carbs or lack of physical activity resulting in depression.
Hypogonadism occurs when testosterone levels fall too low in men, or low-T. Low-T can have serious repercussions for energy, sexual drive and emotional wellbeing; poor sleep and increased risk of osteoporosis may also occur as a result. A diagnosis for low-T is usually made by an endocrinologist.
Maintaining healthy testosterone levels as you age requires eating a nutritious and varied diet that contains plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats – aiming for two or three servings daily of each of these – while avoiding processed foods, sugary drinks, and salty snacks.
Another effective way to maintain healthy testosterone levels is exercising regularly and getting sufficient sleep each night – aim for at least seven to nine hours, making sure that electronic devices are turned off an hour prior to bedtime, etc. Adequate rest can reduce stress and boost immunity; both will ultimately boost testosterone levels in turn improving them.
Staying hydrated is also key as we age as thirst may diminish with age, keeping yourself properly hydrated is one of the best ways to protect against urinary tract infections, dehydration and constipation.
Sometimes health conditions such as IBS or infections can reduce a man’s testosterone levels, while medications can have adverse reactions on testosterone production.
Many men don’t realize they are experiencing low levels of testosterone hormone, leading to symptoms including reduced sexual drive, energy and hair loss or erectile dysfunction. If any changes in your body could indicate low testosterone, it is recommended to see an endocrinologist. They can assess symptoms as well as provide any needed treatments such as testosterone therapy which has proven successful at improving muscle strength, fat loss and measures associated with physical function associated with muscle mass such as stair climbing speed/power.
