"Testosterone is secreted by the testes and to a lesser degree by the adrenal glands. It is the primary male sex hormone. Testosterone levels show a diurnal variation with the highest levels detected in the early morning and the lowest in the evening. In healthy men, testosterone levels decrease at a rate of about one percent per year as men age. Experts estimate that approximately 20% of men have low testosterone levels by the time they are 50 years old.
Low testosterone can cause many symptoms
Libido, Erectile Dysfunction, Impotence – Libido, or sexual desire, is a complex process and can be affected by many factors including medications, depression, stress, anxiety, illness and body image to name a few. Testosterone is the primary hormone affecting the libido and low levels are associated with decreased libido, erectile dysfunction and impotence.
Mental Functioning - Testosterone levels influence mental functioning. In the brain, testosterone is thought to affect attention, memory, and spatial ability. Some researchers believe there is a relationship between low testosterone levels and poor cognitive functioning and some further believe the relationship between low testosterone and decline in cognitive function may be a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease.
Mood – Decreased testosterone has been associated with depression, anxiety, and irritability.
Increased Abdominal Fat - Some men who have an increased BMI due to an increased amount of adipose tissue, particularly abdominal fat, have decreased level of testosterone.
Physical Energy Level, Physical Endurance – Low testosterone levels are associated with a decrease in energy and a decrease in physical endurance.
Bone Health - Testosterone also plays a role in maintaining strong bones. Low testosterone levels are associated with low bone mineral density and an increased risk for osteoporosis.
Strong Muscles - Muscle mass and strength decline with decreasing testosterone levels. " - Dr. Alan Hopkins
