One aspect of men’s health that many men are very concerned about these days is the aging male syndrome. This condition is associated with low testosterone levels and the symptoms of aging that are often called male menopause (andropause). As men age, testosterone levels typically lower. Correct testosterone levels are very important in men because they help maintain both mental health and physical health. Online blood testing can make measuring testosterone levels easy, affordable and convenient.
What problems are caused by low testosterone levels?
If you are suffering a lack of testosterone, you may experience the following symptoms:
Decrease in bone density
Unexplained weight gain
Frequency of urination
Alopecia (loss of hair)
Trouble concentrating
Lack of self confidence
Erectile dysfunction
Lessened libido
Mood swings
Lack of drive
Loss of muscle
Memory loss
Irritability
Depression
Insomnia
Anger
Anxiety
Fatigue
Testosterone levels and high density lipoprotein levels tend to lower simultaneously while triglycerides increase. Additionally, as testosterone, progesterone and growth hormone levels decrease, insulin and cortisol levels tend to rise. This situation causes a buildup of fat which can cause high cholesterol levels, diabetes and/or obesity if it is not stopped by treatment with natural hormones.
Lower levels of testosterone are also associated with higher levels of inflammation and C reactive protein. The presence of this protein in the blood serves as a warning against stroke, heart attack and other cardiovascular problems. A blood test known as the High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein ( hs-CRP) test measures the amount of inflammation present throughout the body. Having this test on an annual basis is a very important step in ensuring men’s health.
How can I avoid lowered testosterone levels?
Men should be very careful to guard against casual exposure to estrogen which is found in many everyday products including foods, chemical sprays, hygiene products and more. Too much casual exposure to estrogen can cause aromatase, a liver enzyme, to convert the androgens in man’s body to estrogen. If this happens too often, testosterone levels will dwindle and estrogen will gain dominance. In the long-term, this situation can cause prostate enlargement and prostate cancer.
One method of testosterone replacement has shown scattered success; however, it also has some very negative side effects such as:
Levels of hemoglobin elevated above normal.
Hirsuteness (excessive overall hair growth)
Possible increase of prostate cancer risks
Swelling and tenderness of the breast
Negative changes to the liver
Problems with sleep apnea
Atrophy of the testicles
Retention of fluid
Difficulty urinating
Bladder problem
What are some natural solutions for optimum men’s health?
Some natural ways to combat a aging male syndrome include simple lifestyle changes such as:
Keep active!
Manage stress!
Eat a healthful diet!
Common-semse healthy lifestyle changes will help you be your best you at any age, and a healthful diet will hinder the aromatase enzyme.
Enjoy alternative treatments such as:
Chiropractic adjustments
Acupuncture treatment
A few moments of sunshine daily
Relaxing and healthful green tea
Be sure to get plenty of boron. This mineral assists in brain function, helps you maintain healthy bones, and plays a crucial role in the integrity of cell membranes. It is an excellent anti aging supplement that can help in all of the following areas:
Defense against thinning of the bones
Lowering of blood lipid levels
Defense against fungal infections
Reduction of allergy symptoms
Improved hand eye coordination
Raised levels of testosterone
Improved concentration
Improved memory
You can take boron as a supplement; however, the natural sources are delicious and healthful and include:
Potatoes
Onions
Olives
Lentils
Plums
Pears
Oranges
Apples
Apricots
Red beans
Soybeans
Tomatoes
Red Grapes
Dried fruits
Peanut butter
Garbanzo beans
Nuts of all kinds
And even wine and beer!
Other supplements that are helpful in fighting against the aging male syndrome include:
Omega three fatty acid
A daily multi vitamin
Vitamin D
Arginine
Selenium
Calcium
Zinc
What blood work tests are best for guarding men’s health?
Testing for prostate specific antigen (PSA) along with a complete blood analysis and hs-CRP are recommended at least yearly, especially for men who are experiencing symptoms of aging male syndrome. These tests should be done in the early morning hours because there is more testosterone present in the blood at this time. Follow-up tests should be run to be certain of accurate results.
To keep on top of men’s health issues, men can take advantage of online blood testing through web sites such as labtestportal.com. Simply visit the website, create an account, choose the desired blood tests and make your payment. You will receive an appointment at a convenient lab near you. You can view your results within 24 hours in you online personal health record. Consult with Lab Test Portal’s friendly and knowledgeable staff if you have questions and greet your doctor, armed with knowledge at your next appointment!