Testing Your Testosterone Levels Matter
Macho man, big muscles, hard erections, lower body fat, strong everything, and stamina. Let’s keep it real, this is what typically comes to mind when you think of the term testosterone, right? But the truth is, there’s so much more to it. Testosterone levels in younger men are dropping - and age is not the cause! Recent studies show that at age 21 when testosterone levels are at peak, levels have declined from 19.68 in 2006–9 to 17.76 in 2016–19, that’s almost a 10% decrease. “Testosterone deficiency can be devastating in men’s personal and professional lives, whilst increasing their risk of premature death, yet thousands of men aren’t getting the support they need”, claims Professor Geoff Hackett. Let’s dig deeper into this major concern!
Why the drop?
The reasons behind the global decline in male testosterone levels vary. Now age is an obvious factor since hormone production normally decreases as we age. But other main causes that are taking over include lifestyle behaviors (like smoking, poor diet or lack of exercise), environmental toxins, chronic stress, certain medications, endocrine malfunction, and the increased use of steroids which suppresses the natural hormone production.
What are the effects of low testosterone levels?
Hormones are essential for our bodies to function properly – they regulate everything from growth development, metabolism, reproduction and disease prevention.
1- Physical symptoms can include decreased muscle mass and fatigue. It can also cause hair loss due its effects on DHT which is responsible for male pattern baldness in some individuals. Long-term low testosterone levels can lead to impaired bone health which increases risk for osteoporosis later in life if not addressed promptly. This can happen through hormone therapy or dietary changes/supplements that help increase testosterone production naturally.
2- Mental symptoms can include difficulty concentrating or diminished cognitive functioning due to its effects on neurotransmitters associated with cognition and memory recall.
3- Psychological issues can include mood swings, depression, low libido, lower energy levels, due its effect on dopamine which helps regulate emotional responses such as motivation and pleasure-seeking behaviors like sex drive. In addition, low testosterone can cause lower energy levels which further exacerbates psychological issues like depression if left untreated or undiagnosed.
Testing is key
We often don't get checked until something is seriously wrong. It is extremely rare for men to do routine tests that could reveal the causes of their issues, so they end up experiencing symptoms of low testosterone levels without knowing it. Did you know that ED is one of the early markers for cardiovascular disease? That’s pretty serious.
Catching problems early on could save yourself a lot of time, money, and stress down the road. That’s where Valeo comes in. Valeo provides a number of comprehensive blood tests for men, which includes testosterone levels, cholesterol and blood sugar profiles. In addition, Valeo’s health and wellness coaches can help you better understand and improve your results. This adds up to the benefits of early diagnosis and providing a better idea on treatment options, such as supplements. Luckily at Valeo we’ve mastered the formula for testosterone boosting supplements by producing Testoplus and Tribulus+ — nature’s most powerful performance duo.
So the next time the term testosterone is brought up think: healthy heart, primary bodily functions, proper digestive health, graceful aging, athletic performance and of-course satisfactory sex. Then go and get checked!