Testerone is a male sex hormone present in the body. While men have higher levels of testosterone, women produce smaller amounts of this vital hormone too. Testosterone is critical for the development of masculine characteristics. As boys grow into young adults, testosterone levels continue to increase. However, after age 30, levels may begin to decline by as much as 1% per year.
While it’s natural for lower testosterone levels as you age, a significant imbalance can cause erectile dysfunction, decreased muscle mass and increased body fat. When this happens, you may benefit from increasing your testosterone naturally or through testosterone hormone replacement therapy.
What are the benefits of increasing your testosterone?
Leaner body mass
Testosterone plays a crucial role in building muscle. When men have low testosterone levels, muscles can become weak. Studies show that increasing testosterone helps build a leaner body mass and helps fight age-related muscle deterioration. There is also some correlation with a more muscular body mass and increased strength.
Stronger sex drive
Testosterone is a sex hormone, and low levels may decrease libido. Erectile dysfunction is a condition that can affect men at any age, but men in their 70s have higher instances. Regardless of age, erectile dysfunction is more common with low levels of testosterone. Studies show that men with higher levels of testosterone have more sexual activity.
Reduced metabolic syndrome
Metabolic syndrome occurs when you have conditions interrelated together that increase your risk of type 2 diabetes, stroke and heart diseases. The symptoms include high blood sugar, extra body fat around the waist, and high cholesterol. Low testosterone may be a marker for cardiovascular disease, obesity and erectile dysfunction. By increasing testosterone levels, you may reduce metabolic syndrome.
Better Mood
Many factors affect one’s mood, but science shows that low testosterone decreases energy and depression. One benefit of testosterone supplementation is an increased feeling of wellbeing and rejuvenation.
Cognitive Function
Research shows that men with higher levels of testosterone have lower incidences of Alzheimer's Disease. While some evidence indicates that testosterone therapy improves spatial memory, it may not increase the speed of cognition for some men.
What are some natural ways to increase your testosterone?
If you’re concerned about your testosterone levels, there are some foods and vitamins that boost levels naturally.
- Vitamins and supplements: Vitamin D, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), zinc, and l-arginine
- Foods: tuna, egg yolks, garlic, and oysters
- Herbs: ginseng, pine bark extract, and saw palmetto
While these natural and alternative treatments may be useful, testosterone hormone therapy may work for you as well.
What is testosterone hormone replacement therapy?
Testosterone therapy replaces the missing hormones with natural ones. Testosterone treatment comes in the form of creams, gels, patches, and injections. While replacement therapy may have some adverse effects, it can help men find relief from different health conditions. It's essential to speak to your doctor before beginning treatment.
The benefits of increasing your testosterone not only improves memory and increases libido, but it also improves the quality of one’s life.
