What is testosterone?
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone. It plays a vital role in male development and health, including:
- Sexual development & function - Testosterone is essential for the development of male reproductive tissues and maintaining sexual function. It regulates libido, erectile function, and sperm production.
- Muscle & bone growth - Testosterone stimulates protein synthesis leading to increased muscle mass and strength. It also promotes bone mineral density.
- Fat distribution - Testosterone helps determine where the body stores fat. Men tend to accumulate fat in the abdominal area while women store it hips/thighs.
- Red blood cell production - Testosterone helps spur the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. It explains higher hemoglobin levels in men.
- Other functions - Influences production of insulin, cholesterol levels, mood, cognition, motivation, confidence, and quality of life.
The average adult male produces about 7 mg of testosterone daily. Levels peak during the 20s-30s and then gradually decline with age. Obesity, chronic diseases, medications, drugs/alcohol abuse, and genetics can impact testosterone production.
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Symptoms of low testosterone (“low T”) include:
- Low sex drive/erectile dysfunction
- Decreased muscle mass
- Increased body fat
- Fatigue/low energy
- Mood changes (irritability, depression)
- Poor concentration/”brain fog”
- Loss of facial/body hair
- Reduction in testicle size
Low T diagnosis requires a simple blood test. Treatment options for clinically low testosterone may include:
- Testosterone replacement therapy (injections, gels, patches, pills)
- Lifestyle changes - exercise, diet, sleep, stress reduction
- Treatment of underlying health conditions
In summary, testosterone is an anabolic steroid hormone essential for physical and mental health in men. A small and gradual decline in testosterone occurs naturally with age, but more severe drops can occur due to health conditions. Diagnosing and properly managing low testosterone is crucial for optimizing men's vitality and quality of life.