We already wrote here about the function, average, and high testosterone values. Today we will talk about low testosterone, its causes, and symptoms.
The norm of testosterone is 10-34 nmol/l or 330-950 ng/dl. Testosterone levels begin to decline at age 30-35; even in healthy men, it is a normal age-related change because the production of the hormone slows down by about 1% annually.
However, there are other reasons for its decline:
- Surgical removal of testicles for medical reasons.
- Bad habits: smoking, alcohol, psychotropic substances.
- Sedentary lifestyle, sedentary work.
- Acute and chronic stress (adrenaline blocks the action of testosterone).
- Work with hazardous and harmful factors and toxic substances.
- Taking medications (hypotensive, opioids, corticosteroids, ketoconazole, hormones).
- High levels of bilirubin, which destroys testosterone.
- Endocrine diseases and abnormalities that are associated with a shift in the hormonal background.
- Elevated blood lipoprotein levels.
- Genetic abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, Kalman syndrome, and Klinefelter syndrome.
At first, the decrease in testosterone may not show up at all outwardly, or it may cause a number of the following symptoms:
- Shortness of breath with minimal physical exertion.
- Libido disorder (decreased or absent sexual desire).
- Rapid weight gain. Fat accumulates in the area of the chest and abdomen.
- Reduced body hair, especially on the chest and shins.
- Mood swings, irritability, decreased emotional background.
- Reduced ability to work, procrastination.
- Sleep disorders include difficulty falling asleep and lack of rest after sleeping.
Depending on the spectrum of problems that have come to the fore, a lack of testosterone can be identified by a urologist, endocrinologist, or (psychiatrist) psychotherapist.
Foods that Boost Testosterone in Men
A list of foods that can naturally increase testosterone levels: