Low testosterone in men

Low testosterone is also known as hypogonadism. Men with low levels of the male hormone testosterone have problems with erections, are weaker and more easily fatigued than men with normal levels of testosterone. In men, testosterone is thought to regulate some of the following functions:

•                Sex drive

•                Bone mass

•                Fat distribution

•                Muscle and strength

•                Red blood cell production

•                Sperm production

As men age, testosterone levels naturally decrease. This decrease is at about 1 percent every year beginning at the age of 35. By the age of 50, many men will experience the following:

•       Low libido

•       Weight gain

•       Feeling tired

•       Memory loss

A normal testosterone level is anywhere between 300-1000 ng/dl, and can vary in terms the “right” level from man to man, and from lab to lab. Prior to starting any testosterone therapy you should make an appointment with your doctor to:

1.     Test your PSA (Prostate-specific antigen) to ensure you are within normal levels

2.     Check your prostate size

3.     Check your testosterone levels

Treatment. Treatment for low testosterone may include testosterone replacement therapy which comes in the form of gels, patches, or injections. There are also natural ways to boost your testosterone such as:

•                Get a good night’s sleep

•                Lose any excess weight you may have

•                Get enough zinc

•                Limit the amount of sugar you consume

•                Get enough exercise