Feeling moody and tired for no reason? Do you keep gaining weight despite eating healthy? Or perhaps you're struggling with depression? These symptoms might indicate that your T levels are too low.
Testosterone, the male hormone, regulates your mood as well as your metabolism and sex drive. Even the slightest imbalance can wreak havoc on your body.
What Causes Low Testosterone?
As you age, your testosterone levels drop. Certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking, drinking, stress, and lack of exercise speeds up this process. Furthermore, men who are obese or suffer from diabetes are more likely to have low testosterone.
This health condition is known as hypogonadism. It usually occurs after age 30. Men with low T may experience the following symptoms:
Weight gain
Hair loss
Muscle loss
Low libido
Fatigue
Depression
Mood swings
Decreased semen volume
Reduced bone mass
If left untreated, hypogonadism can lead to osteoporosis, obesity, insulin resistance, and erectile dysfunction.
Luckily, there are ways to boost your T levels and get your life back on track. Simple changes such as starting an exercise program, loading up on protein, and limiting stress can make a world of difference.
Stress for instance, skyrockets your cortisol levels which in turn, affects testosterone production. That's one of the many reasons why health experts recommend avoiding stress and getting more rest.
Is Testosterone Replacement Therapy Right for You?
Sometimes, lifestyle changes are not enough to restore your T levels. That's where Testosterone Replacement Therapy comes in. This treatment method involves the use of skin or mouth patches, gels, and injections that help increase testosterone production.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy can reverse the symptoms of hypogonadism and improve your overall health. Since testosterone impacts every system in your body, you'll have more energy and stamina, feel stronger, and lose excess fat. Men who use testosterone therapy often report feeling younger and more vigorous as they age.
Are There Any Risks?
Like everything else, testosterone replacement therapy carries certain risks. You may experience acne, sleep apnea, blood clots, and cardiovascular problems. However, these side effects are rare. Most times, the benefits outweigh the risks.
To stay safe, ask for medical advice. Your doctor is the only one who can tell whether or not Testosterone Replacement Therapy is the right choice. When used in adequate doses, testosterone can change your life for the better. From a stronger immune system to improved mental focus, higher sex drive, and greater energy, its benefits are well-documented.
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