Welcome back! In the previous parts of this series, we discussed the effects of estrogen and cortisol imbalances and how to address them. Now, let’s dive into a topic that many men worry about or are currently facing – low testosterone.
As we age, some common symptoms of low testosterone include:
You’ve probably seen countless ads for testosterone-boosting pills, creams, and gels on TV, promising to make you muscular and energetic. These ads can be annoying, but they highlight a significant issue many men face. We consulted an expert from Part I to discuss low testosterone and how he managed it. Here are the key points from our conversation:
Testosterone levels in men typically start to decline after the age of 35-40. While it might seem logical to use testosterone supplements to restore levels, it’s not always necessary. The pharmaceutical approach often involves prescribing testosterone gel for men with low levels, but not all patients need this treatment.
In my experience, the natural testosterone range for adult males is about 250 – 1000 ng/dl. In my younger years, my levels averaged 800 ng/dl. However, in my late 40s, I noticed it was harder to maintain muscle and easier to gain fat. I also experienced occasional anxiety, which was unusual for me. At 48, I had a full blood workup and found my testosterone level had dropped to 418 ng/dl, still within the normal range but significantly lower than before.
My doctor suggested testosterone cream, but I was hesitant. I knew that starting external hormone treatment could shut down my body’s natural production. So, I sought a second opinion from an endocrinologist who recommended some lifestyle changes and supplements before resorting to hormone therapy. These included:
I was skeptical, but I decided to try these changes and monitor my testosterone levels over 12 weeks. To my surprise, my levels increased to 674, 775, and 703 ng/dl. The bio-available free testosterone also improved. This natural approach worked because there are two main endocrine disorders that can cause low testosterone.
In one case, the testes can’t produce enough testosterone despite high levels of LH and FSH signals, indicating testicular failure. This condition often requires supplemental testosterone and is more common in men over 55. In the second case, the testes can produce testosterone but aren’t receiving the signals to do so, which is usually treatable.
Understanding why testosterone levels decline with age helped me see the benefits of the endocrinologist’s suggestions. For example, body fat increases estrogen levels, which can disrupt the balance between estrogen and testosterone. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower help reduce estrogen. Since I don’t enjoy eating broccoli all the time, I used dried vegetable capsules to get the necessary servings.
Grapefruit can inhibit estrogen breakdown in the liver. Supplements like ZMA, Tribulus, and d-aspartic acid have mixed results but can increase testosterone by 10-30%. Saw Palmetto is known to inhibit the conversion of testosterone to DHT, which can help with prostate health. Additionally, wearing looser underwear and lifting heavier weights can boost testosterone levels.
Combining these changes made a significant difference for me. Over a year later, my testosterone level remains close to 700 ng/dl. If you’re experiencing a decline in testosterone with age, consider exploring natural alternatives before opting for hormone replacement therapy.
For women dealing with estrogen or cortisol issues, check out Part I of this series for more information.