Highway Health: Male Hormone Balance

As men, we don’t give a lot of thought to hormone imbalance unless we have a wife who is experiencing hormone imbalances. Her changing moods can be a bit baffling, confusing and sometimes feel “down right dangerous!”  One minute, she is the lovely woman you married and the next minute you are running for your life!

Women start experiencing “the change” (menopause) on average, in their 50’s. The fluctuations and low production of estrogen, progesterone, testosterone and other hormones can cause irritability, “sweats,’ and other physical discomforts. Sometimes we men are in the middle of these “waves” – and it can be a very uncomfortable place to be.

Hormones affect every human biological function and nothing works right if there is an imbalance.

The most dominant hormone in men is testosterone. Testosterone peaks in most men when they are in their 20’s and starts to decline in the mid to late 30’s. As testosterone levels decline, Andropause – the less extreme male counterpart to women’s menopause –starts to enter the picture.

Low levels of testosterone can contribute to loss of muscle and bone mass. It can also help cause irritability, depression, diabetes, anemia and atherosclerosis. Low testosterone can help lower your metabolism and increase fat storage. Excess fat around the waistline can increase the female hormone estrogen. Of course, Andropause will cause a decrease in sex drive and possible prostate issues.

If you are a male in your late 40’s, are inactive or overweight and have low sex drive or performance you may be experiencing Andropause.

What can you do about it?

There are tests your doctor can perform such as a blood draw and a saliva sample. The blood test may show a normal “total” testosterone levels but you need the saliva test to show the level of “free” testosterone. Both tests would be considered in any program to get your levels correct.

Nutrition

Nutrition is the main staple in any healthy lifestyle. Consume a lot of green, red and yellow vegetables, fish, beans, nuts and plenty of water. Supplement with a good multiple vitamin and mineral.

If you are 50 or older, you should consider taking a prostate specific supplement and testosterone enhancer, Keto 7 DHEA. Fitness Road carries the saliva test and any supplements you might need.

Exercise

Lack of exercise increases loss of bone and muscle mass and estrogen levels. Exercise increases testosterone levels.

Medical

Some medications can play havoc with hormone levels, so be sure the doctor you choose to help you with finding your correct levels is aware of any and all medications.

Your physician may recommend a bio-identical hormone compound blended by a pharmacist for your particular needs.

He may recommend injections, patches and other forms of hormone replacement, but we have seen the best success with compounding pharmaceuticals (if they are necessary).

Our pharmacist, Lori Allen, is a compounding pharmacist and can provide the blends for your doctor.

Our pharmacy also has saliva tests available, over the counter, if you want to test “free” testosterone levels on your own.

Stress

As we get older, a lot of our complaints about fatigue, loss of strength and joint issues can be as a result of our bodies not manufacturing hormones in a balanced manor.

Age does play an important factor, but stress levels wreak havoc on hormone levels at any age.

You don’t have to feel old and tired if hormone imbalance is the culprit. In this day and age, there things you can do to help.

I would like to thank all of you who call and e-mailed. I certainly do appreciate it.

I will try to answer all of you personally.

Don’t hesitate to call 888-348-7623 or email info@fitnessroad.com if have questions or health needs.

God bless you and yours,

Mick