What Does Testosterone Do ?

Key Points

• Testosterone is a natural produce in your system and is the main sex hormone. Its primary function is to develop male sexual characteristics and associated reproductive functions
• Teenage boys may fail to develop normal manly characteristics due to low levels of testosterone
• Most men who want to develop their bone mass and body muscles use it. Moreover, testosterone helps in production of red blood cell and related functions in both men and women

Sperm production, libido, and testosterone have a close connection. However, in females, testosterone helps build bones and muscles to some extent.

What does testosterone do? – A gist

• Helps you develop muscular strength and size
• Prevents bones from losing strength and helps retain your bone density
• Enhances sperm production – a vital aspect for male fertility
• Improves your libido levels – focuses on sex drive regulation
• Balances fat distribution
• Helps in red blood cells generation
• Develops sexual and reproductive function
• Contributes to development of penis and testes
• Improves body hair growth in men
• Enhances your mood and influences your overall sense of well-being, especially in women

Testosterone levels in your system have a natural tendency to fluctuate, and they eventually start to decline as you age. It is at its peak in your 20-s and starts declining in your 30-s. During this age, your testosterone production starts dropping naturally. Therefore, testosterone does not stay permanently in your system.

Apart from your age, various other factors contribute to a decline in your testosterone levels. It could be due to any underlying health conditions, other medical ailments, or also your lifestyle choices.

However, you have a wide range of treatment options to boost your testosterone levels. You can opt for

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) to bring back testosterone levels.

Is too much testosterone a concern?

Most men who are athletes or those involved in sports activities use up testosterone or anabolic steroids to increase their performances. Some of these artificially-induced testosterone may cause health problems in males; also, testosterone levels are never a constant and they keep varying during the day.

Excessive testosterone levels result in low sperm count, leading to impotency and shrinkage of testicles. Moreover, high level may damage heart muscles and increase risks of heart attack. High testosterone may lead to in prostate-enlargement, which makes urination a difficult thing. Beware of skin conditions, liver disorders, odds of blood clots, fluid retention – leading to swelling of feet, weight-gain, migraines, high blood cholesterol, sleeplessness, etc.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is an outcome of high testosterone in women. About 6 – 10% of premenopausal women are affected by this. High testosterone in women can reduce their breast size, deepen their voice along with issues that are common in men.

However, when you age, your testosterone levels tend to reduce; this is quite a common thing. Men who have testosterone-deficiency are advised to take drugs for testosterone replacement.

An important point to consider is that the testosterone levels are not equal for everyone. It can vary individually. Some men may experience low testosterone levels, and some a more significant drop in the levels than the others. All these primarily depend on their individual health and condition.

You can check with your caregiving team if you are unclear of optimal testosterone levels. Your caregiving team will order a panel of tests prior to starting treatment. Upon checking, if your testosterone levels are normal and have gradually declined due to your age, there is little room to worry.

But if T-levels show variations i.e. either high or low – your caregiver may advise you to opt for testosterone replacement therapy. However, as a first option, you may be advised to make a few dietary changes, change some of your daily habits, use hormonal supplements suiting your medical condition. With such a comprehensive approach, it is possible to maintain a healthy level of testosterone in your system.

Foods to improve testosterone levels

You can consume foods that are rich in magnesium, vitamin D, zinc, and other healthy fats such as nuts, seeds, avocados, eggs, oysters, and leafy green vegetables, cruciferous veggies, etc. An additional serving of berries to your diet plan is a good move and you can consume cups of green tea on a regular basis.

Onions are a good choice as well, as they help in boosting your testosterone levels – as per a few authentic sources. A balanced diet, with healthy share of proteins and carbohydrates play a crucial role in hormone wellbeing and overall health. These are known to support testosterone production.

Above all, you may follow a work-out regimen, keep stress at low levels, and get a good night’s rest; by attending to these basics, it is indeed possible to maintain testosterone at a healthy level.

URL Reffered

• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24101-testosterone
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/sexual-health/in-depth/testosterone-therapy/art-20045728
• https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003707.htm
• https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/testosterone-levels-test/

Dany