Testosterone is a key hormone that has a major impact on human health and well-being. This strong androgen affects many parts of the body, from muscle mass and bone density to mood and sexual function. Knowing what testosterone is and how it affects the body matters for both men and women, as it influences overall health and quality of life.
This guide looks at the upsides of testosterone how it affects your body, and ways to keep testosterone levels in check. We’ll get into things like low testosterone, hormone replacement, and how it changes body makeup and heart health. We’ll also check out how testosterone links to sex drive shedding light on how this hormone shapes different parts of human body functions and actions.
Getting a Grip on Low Testosterone
Low testosterone, or male hypogonadism, happens when your body doesn’t make enough testosterone. This hormone is key for male growth and overall health. To manage and treat it right, you need to know what causes it how doctors spot it, and clear up common myths about low testosterone.
Reasons for low testosterone
Low testosterone has its roots in different causes, including primary and secondary hypogonadism. Primary hypogonadism happens when the testicles have an issue, while secondary hypogonadism involves problems with the hypothalamus or pituitary gland.
Some typical causes of primary hypogonadism include:
- Klinefelter syndrome: A genetic condition where males have an extra X chromosome.
- Undescended testicles: When one or both testicles don’t drop into the scrotum before birth.
- Harm or damage to the testicles
- Specific infections, like mumps orchitis
- Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy
Several factors can bring about secondary hypogonadism:
- Issues or growths in the pituitary gland
- Kallmann syndrome: An uncommon inherited condition that affects how hormones are made
- HIV/AIDS
- Excess body weight
- Some drugs, including opioids and specific hormones
Keep in mind that getting older also has an impact on testosterone levels. Men produce less testosterone as they age, a process called late-onset hypogonadism.
Diagnostic criteria and testing
Doctors use a mix of symptom checks and blood work to diagnose testosterone deficiency. The American Urological Association says low testosterone means having levels under 300 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL) 1. Keep in mind, one test isn’t enough to make a diagnosis.
To get it right, doctors suggest getting at least two serum total testosterone measurements in the morning. This matters because testosterone levels go up and down during the day hitting their highest point between 3-8 a.m. 2. If the first test shows low testosterone but the second comes back normal, you might need a third test.
Along with blood tests, doctors will check you out and look at your health history. They’ll watch for signs that might mean your testosterone is low such as:
- Less interest in sex
- Trouble getting or keeping an erection
- Less muscle and not as strong
- More body fat
- Feeling tired all the time
- Mood swings feeling cranky or down
Keep in mind that other health issues can cause these symptoms too. That’s why proper testing and a thorough check-up are key to figure out what’s going on.
Common misconceptions
People often get the wrong idea about low testosterone, which can lead to confusion and wrong treatments. Here are some myths you might have heard:
- Low testosterone happens as you age: Though testosterone drops as you get older very low levels aren’t normal and can lead to health issues 3.
- Low testosterone affects older guys: This problem can show up in men of all ages even younger ones 3.
- Testosterone replacement always boosts sperm count: , testosterone replacement therapy can lower sperm count 3.
- Testosterone replacement makes heart disease and cancer more : New studies suggest that testosterone supplements might reduce cardiovascular events 3.
- Ordering testosterone supplements online is unsafe: A doctor should prescribe and keep an eye on testosterone medications, as they are controlled substances 3.
Grasping these misconceptions plays a key role in managing testosterone deficiency . Remember to talk to a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and suitable treatment choices.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) serves as a common treatment for men who show symptoms of hypogonadism. This therapy has grown in popularity among hypogonadal males because it has a positive impact on many body systems. TRT raises serum testosterone to normal levels, boosts sex drive, makes erections better, improves overall sexual function, increases energy lifts mood, strengthens bones, reduces body fat, and builds lean muscle mass 4.
Types of TRT treatments
Testosterone treatment can be given in different ways, each with its pros and cons. Patients often choose the method based on what they prefer, what other meds they’re taking, and other things that matter. Here are some common types of TRT:
- Transdermal gels and patches: Doctors apply these to the skin. They help maintain steady testosterone levels within a normal range 5.
- Intramuscular injections: These include testosterone enanthate and testosterone cypionate. Doctors inject them straight into a muscle 6.
- Oral testosterone: Scientists have developed a new oral soft gel form of testosterone undecanoate. It’s proven safe and effective to treat men with low testosterone 5.
- Subcutaneous pellets: Doctors implant these under the skin every 3 to 6 months 7.
- Nasal gel: This choice lowers the chance of drugs passing through skin contact 7.
Benefits and potential risks
TRT has an influence on many areas such as boosting sex drive, making erections better, building more muscle and strength, and protecting the heart 8. But it’s key to know about the risks that come with TRT.
Some side effects that might happen:
- Too many red blood cells
- Swelling in arms and legs
- Heart and liver problems
- Making sleep apnea worse
- Possible prostate issues
Keep in mind that these side effects often happen because the dose is too high. They might go away if the dose is lowered 7.
Candidates for TRT
Men with symptomatic hypogonadism often make good candidates for TRT. These men have low testosterone levels and show related symptoms. Yet, doctors shouldn’t give TRT to men with untreated prostate and breast cancer 8.
Before doctors prescribe TRT, they should do a full check-up, including:
- Looking at symptoms
- Measuring testosterone levels in the blood
- Going over health history especially heart health, sleep apnea, and prostate health
Keep in mind that TRT might not work well for men who want to have kids soon. It can lower sperm counts and slow down sperm production 6.
To wrap up, TRT has a positive impact on many men with low testosterone levels, but it’s key to weigh the pros and cons for each patient. Regular check-ups are vital to make sure the treatment is safe and working well.
Testosterone and Body Composition
Testosterone has a big influence on body composition. It shapes muscle mass fat distribution, and overall weight control. This hormone is crucial in forming the physical makeup of men and affects metabolic processes.
Effects on muscle mass and strength
Testosterone has an influence on muscle growth. It speeds up muscle protein synthesis. This process builds new proteins and leads to more muscle mass. Also, testosterone helps mesenchymal stem cells turn into the myogenic lineage. These cells later form muscle fibers. What’s more, testosterone boosts growth hormone levels. Growth hormone plays a key role in muscle development 9.
Testosterone plays a crucial part to control muscle mass. It helps protein synthesis in muscles. This results in muscle growth and bigger muscle fibers. Testosterone also teams up with growth hormone and IGF-1. Together, they further boost muscle protein synthesis and growth 10.
Research has shown that testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has an impact on muscle mass and strength. Clinical trials have proven it works to boost lean muscle growth. Research on men with low testosterone who got TRT saw a steady rise in lean body mass 11.
Impact on fat distribution and metabolism
Testosterone has a big effect on how fat is spread and used in the body. Men who don’t have much testosterone often end up with more body fat around their belly. This hormone stops new fat cells from forming and pushes the body to burn fats for energy. Also, it changes where men’s bodies keep fat; , men have less fat on their thighs and bottom compared to women, and testosterone plays a part in this 9.
Testosterone has an influence on fat distribution through several ways. It boosts muscle growth, and more muscle can speed up metabolism. This can result in burning extra calories and cutting down fat buildup. Also, testosterone can block fat storage enzymes, which stops fat from settling in the body 10.
Testosterone affects the body’s metabolism. It helps to boost the basic metabolic rate, which is how our body uses calories when we’re not moving. A faster metabolism from normal testosterone levels can lead to better calorie burning and might help with weight control 10.
Role in weight management
Testosterone therapy seems to work well to help obese men with low testosterone lose weight and keep it off, no matter how obese they are. Studies show that when men with low testosterone use testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) for up to 5 years, they lose weight and keep it off 12.
A study looked at how long-term TRT affects overweight men with low testosterone for up to 8 years. It showed significant changes across all three classes of obesity. Men lost weight, their waists got smaller, and their body mass index dropped. Take men with class I obesity as an example. Their average weight went down from 102.6±6.4 to 84.1±4.9 kg. This means a change of −17.4±0.5 kg or −16.8±0.4% from where they started 12.
The boost in drive, pep, and liveliness, along with less tiredness linked to long-term testosterone treatment played a part in the weight drop seen in overweight men. Experts now view testosterone treatment as a fresh way to tackle obesity, as it cuts down fat and builds up lean muscle 12.
To wrap up, testosterone is key in shaping how our bodies look by building muscle controlling where fat goes, and helping manage weight. How it affects these parts of our body shows why keeping the right amount of testosterone matters for staying healthy overall.
Testosterone and Heart Health
The link between testosterone and heart health has sparked a lot of research and discussion . As guys get older, their testosterone drops , and their chances of heart problems go up. This connection has led scientists to look into how testosterone might affect heart health and what it means for testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).
Connection to heart disease risk
Studies that watch people over time hint at a tie between low testosterone and a higher risk of heart disease. Some research shows that men with less natural testosterone might face a greater chance of heart issues 13. But the way these two things connect is tricky and we don’t yet grasp it.
It’s worth noting that low testosterone levels have a link to cardiovascular risk, but testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has shown mixed outcomes. Research indicates TRT might protect the cardiovascular system, but other studies raise red flags about possible risks 14. This lack of agreement underscores the need to study more to understand how testosterone affects heart health.
How it changes blood pressure and cholesterol
Testosterone affects blood pressure and cholesterol levels in many ways. Some research suggests testosterone might widen blood vessels, which could lower blood pressure 15. But other studies show high testosterone levels might raise blood pressure.
When it comes to cholesterol, testosterone therapy has an impact on lipid profiles. Research indicates that TRT might decrease both “good” (HDL) and “bad” (LDL) cholesterol levels 16. A drop in LDL cholesterol helps health, but lower HDL cholesterol worries doctors, since higher HDL levels seem to guard heart health.
Remember that testosterone’s effects on blood pressure and cholesterol can change based on personal factors, like genetic makeup and overall health. For example, some studies hint that a person’s genes might determine how testosterone raises blood pressure 17.
Current research and controversies
Big studies have shed light on how testosterone therapy affects the heart. A 2022 review in The Lancet Healthy Longevity looked at 5,600 older men with low testosterone. It found that testosterone therapy didn’t make heart problems more likely 16. In the same way, a key study in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2023 showed something interesting. Men from 45 to 80 years old who took testosterone for low levels weren’t more at risk for heart attacks or strokes than those who took a dummy pill 16.
Even with these promising results, debates continue. A few older studies had sounded warnings about possible heart risks linked to testosterone treatment sparking ongoing arguments among doctors. These mixed findings show how complex the link between testosterone and heart health is and stress the need to study more.
To wrap up, while testosterone’s effect on heart health isn’t simple new studies hint that testosterone replacement when used right for men with proven low testosterone, doesn’t up heart risk. Still, it’s key for people thinking about TRT to talk to their doctors, who can check personal risk factors and keep an eye on cholesterol and other heart markers during treatment.
Testosterone and Sexual Function
Testosterone has a key part in many areas of men’s sexual function. This hormone has an influence on sex drive, the ability to get erections, and baby-making. Knowing how testosterone links to sexual health is key to tackling sexual problems and overall health.
Part in sex drive and desire
Testosterone affects men’s sex drive. Low testosterone often goes hand in hand with less desire for sex, which can harm relationships, mood, and sex habits. Research shows that treating low testosterone leads to better sexual desire 18. Yet, experts still debate how testosterone changes sex drive.
Research shows that when testosterone changes to estrogen in the brain, it plays a key role in sparking sexual desire in men 18. This sheds light on how hormones work together to control sexual function.
Impact on erectile function
Testosterone has a major impact on erectile function, though we don’t grasp how this works 19. Most pathways that control penile erection need androgens. These include making and breaking down nitric oxide signaling with adenosine, and making calcium more effective 18.
Research indicates that guys with low testosterone are more likely to have erectile dysfunction (ED) than those with normal testosterone levels 20. Keep in mind though, that getting older and having other health issues account for the differences in how well erections work 18.
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) shows potential to enhance erectile function in men with low testosterone. Studies analyzing randomized controlled trials reveal that TRT can boost erectile function especially in men with mild ED 20. Yet, the results often vary and have a small impact hinting that TRT might work best on its own for men with mild ED but not for those with more serious cases 20.
How testosterone affects fertility
Testosterone plays a key role in male sexual function, but its link to fertility isn’t straightforward. Taking testosterone from outside sources can hurt fertility 21. When doctors use testosterone to treat low testosterone levels, it can push down the release of FSH and LH (types of gonadotropins) to levels that are too low for making sperm 21.
The process of sperm production relies on how FSH acts on Sertoli cells, along with high testosterone levels in the testes. When outside testosterone stops LH release, it holds back the Leydig cells from making testosterone 21. This can slow down how fast spermatogonia grow, cause problems with how Sertoli cells release mature sperm, and make sperm die off faster 21.
Keep in mind that testosterone as a contraceptive can suppress sperm production and result in no sperm in 65% of men with normal sperm counts within 4 months of use 21. This shows how important it is to discuss future family plans with patients before starting testosterone therapy.
To wrap up, testosterone has a key role in many parts of male sexual function, including sex drive, ability to get erections, and fertility. While testosterone replacement therapy can help improve sexual desire and erection function for men with low testosterone levels, it’s essential to think about how it might affect fertility. Doctors should look at each patient’s needs and goals when thinking about testosterone therapy for sexual problems.
Conclusion
Testosterone has a substantial impact on many areas of human health and wellness. This hormone has an influence on body composition, helps boost muscle growth, impacts heart health, and affects sexual function. It plays a key part in keeping people healthy overall.
To wrap up, the complex relationship between testosterone and various bodily functions highlights the need for a personalized approach to testosterone management. While testosterone replacement therapy can offer benefits for those with low levels, it’s essential to weigh the potential risks and benefits carefully. As research in this field continues to evolve, staying informed about the latest findings can help to optimize health outcomes and improve quality of life.
FAQs
What are the primary advantages of having testosterone?
Testosterone, a crucial male hormone, is essential for the development and maintenance of typical male characteristics such as muscle strength and mass, as well as the growth of facial and body hair.
Can you list three functions of testosterone?
Testosterone is a vital sex hormone that influences several bodily functions. In males, it primarily regulates libido, bone density, fat distribution, muscle strength and mass, and the production of red blood cells and sperm.
What performance enhancements does testosterone provide?
Testosterone significantly boosts physical capabilities, especially after puberty in males, by enhancing bone size and strength, increasing muscle mass and strength, and elevating hemoglobin levels. It may also contribute to certain psychological or behavioral advantages in competitive settings.
Does undergoing testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) help in developing abdominal muscles?
For men experiencing low testosterone levels, testosterone replacement therapy can facilitate fat loss and increase muscle size and strength. Combined with regular strength training, TRT can significantly reduce abdominal fat, making a well-defined six-pack more achievable.
References
[1] – https://www.auanet.org/about-us/media-center/press-center/top-3-myths-vs-facts-when-it-comes-to-low-testosterone
[2] – https://www.auanet.org/guidelines-and-quality/guidelines/testosterone-deficiency-guideline
[3] – https://www.froedtert.com/stories/low-testosterone-5-myths-keep-men-getting-care-they-need
[4] – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4212439/
[5] – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8451690/
[6] – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534853/
[7] – https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/male-hypogonadism/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354886
[8] – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3897047/
[9] – https://valehealthclinic.co.uk/the-link-between-testosterone-and-body-composition/
[10] – https://welzo.com/blogs/testosterone/how-testosterone-levels-influence-body-fat-distribution
[11] – https://www.research.va.gov/currents/1022-Increase-in-male-hormone-testosterone-helps-improve-body-composition-even-in-men-with-low-testosterone-levels.cfm
[12] – https://www.nature.com/articles/ijo2015139
[13] – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8636244/
[14] – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4527564/
[15] – https://www.novagenix.org/post/does-testosterone-increase-blood-pressure
[16] – https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/high-cholesterol/testosterone-and-cholesterol
[17] – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3647368/
[18] – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9789013/
[19] – https://www.webmd.com/erectile-dysfunction/erectile-dysfunction
[20] – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5649360/
[21] – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6305868/
Dr. Grant Fourie, a specialist in male hormones, is based in Cape Town, South Africa. He provides comprehensive treatments for conditions related to low testosterone, such as erectile dysfunction, fatigue, and mood changes. His methods include hormone replacement therapy and other modern treatment options.
Contact me via email or phone to book personal appointment in my clinic: The Village Square, Cape Town - South Africa