No More Mr Tough Guy? How to Deal with Low Testosterone Levels

Testosterone is a male sex hormone, often associated with male masculinity and is primarily produced by the testicles. It's crucial for men's physical and mental well-being, impacting bodily processes like the production of sperm and red blood cells, managing libido, the distribution of fat as well as the density of bone and muscle mass. The normal testosterone level in males falls in the range of 300-1000 ng/dL, and ageing naturally declines testosterone levels in the body. Even women have a small amount of testosterone in their bodies, typically ranging from 15-70 ng/dL, and it is produced by the ovaries.

A drop in testosterone levels below the normal threshold results in low testosterone. It is also called low-T or male hypogonadism. It occurs when the testicles don’t produce enough testosterone and can lead to various health problems in men.

When a man has low testosterone levels, he may experience various signs and symptoms. Some of these symptoms are a reduced sex drive, erectile dysfunction, hair loss, low mood or depression, lack of energy, altered sleep habits, increased body fat, and loss of muscle mass. If you experience these signs, consult an endocrinologist or urologist for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

While ageing naturally leads to low testosterone levels, other factors can also play a role. These may include:

• Injury or infection: Trauma or infections of the testes lead to low testosterone levels.
• Medical treatments: Radiation therapy or chemotherapy may cause low-T.
• Lifestyle factors: Poor diet, stress, heavy alcohol use, smoking, lack of exercise, and obesity.
• Medical conditions: Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, renal disease, liver disease, autoimmune disorders, and HIV/AIDS.
• Medications: Long-term use of medications such as opioids or antidepressants.

If you experience one or more of the abovementioned symptoms, consult a doctor to get your diagnosis. 

A healthcare provider will likely perform the following to check your testosterone levels:

1. Physical exam: This involves a general check-up to assess any physical signs of low testosterone.

2. Medical history: They will ask questions about your past and present health conditions, medications, lifestyle habits (smoking, alcohol intake, etc.), and any symptoms you're experiencing. 

3. Blood tests: These are the most common ways to diagnose low testosterone. Healthcare providers may check your different hormone levels before giving you a diagnosis.

Your doctor may prescribe hormone replacement therapy, available in various formats, that can increase the testosterone levels in your body. 

Dr Sanjay Chincholikar, a consultant urologist and sexual health specialist working at Parklane Hospital in Hyderabad, says, “Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is widely used for men with symptomatic hypogonadism. Potential risks must be informed to the patient before starting treatment.”

There are several natural ways to boost your testosterone levels. Here are some lifestyle changes you can make to boost testosterone naturally:

• Prioritise sleep: Make an effort to get 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep every night. Sleep deprivation can significantly lower testosterone levels.
• Fuel your body right: Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods. Choose healthy fats and moderate protein while limiting trans fats and processed foods.
• Maintain your weight: Managing a healthy weight can positively affect your testosterone levels.
• Move your body: Regular exercise is a testosterone booster, but don't overdo it. Excessive training can have the opposite effect.
• Beat stress: Chronic stress disrupts testosterone production. Practise methods such as deep breathing or meditation to control stress levels.

Remember, testosterone levels decline naturally with age. If you have concerns, consult your doctor to discuss personalised strategies.

Understanding testosterone's role and recognising the signs of low testosterone are crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. Making changes to your lifestyle can help boost testosterone production naturally. If you're still experiencing signs of low testosterone, go to your healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and a tailored treatment strategy.

With the right approach, you can manage low testosterone effectively and maintain a healthy, balanced life.

Low testosterone is a medical condition and shouldn't be treated without a doctor. However, prioritising sleep, diet, and exercise can naturally support healthy testosterone levels.

Men with low testosterone may experience a decline in their sex drive and ability to achieve or maintain an erection (erectile dysfunction). They might also feel more irritable or depressed and have trouble sleeping. Other signs include reduced muscle mass, smaller testicles, and lower semen volume. If you experience any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor. They can assess your testosterone levels and recommend treatment options if needed.

You can boost your testosterone naturally. Prioritise sleep (7-8 hours), eat a balanced diet with healthy fats and moderate proteins, and maintain a healthy weight. Regular exercise helps, but avoid overtraining. Chronic stress is bad for testosterone, so manage it with relaxation techniques. Consuming nutrients such as Vitamin D and zinc might be beneficial, but discuss them with your doctor first. If you're concerned about your testosterone levels, see a healthcare professional for a personalised plan.

To check your testosterone levels, a doctor will likely carry out a physical exam, inquire about your medical history, and order blood tests. Other blood tests may check hormone levels that can affect testosterone production.

Yes, there are a number of natural methods for enhancing testosterone levels:

• Aim for a healthy weight, regular exercise (but avoid overtraining), and enough sleep (7-8 hours). Manage stress and limit alcohol and drugs.
• Consume a nutritious diet comprising whole foods, beneficial fats, and a moderate amount of protein. Limit trans fats and prioritise nutrient-dense options.
• Your doctor may recommend medications and supplements to help you.

While weight loss can help, it's not always enough. The age-related decline in testosterone is natural. Make sure to talk to your doctor for a correct diagnosis and consider discussing options that are natural or therapeutic.

Low testosterone can be a sign of infertility, but it doesn't directly cause it. In some cases, low testosterone is caused by an underlying condition that also reduces fertility.