Opinion: Optimizing testosterone levels affects more than just a man’s sex drive

Testosterone levels often are associated with a man’s sex drive, and only his sex drive. Many men suffer from low testosterone, particularly as they age, but few recognize that it impacts more than just libido and erectile function. Other side effects, according to the American Urological Association, include fatigue, memory loss, depression and mood swings, changes in body composition, difficulty sleeping and reduction in bone density. It even can lead to higher rates of mortality and diabetes. Researchers have confirmed that testosterone levels are dropping across the board by up to 1 percent annually, clear evidence that there’s a problem. With June being Men’s Health Month, it’s an ideal time for men of all ages in Southwest Florida to think about the one hormone that affects us in so many ways. Eduardo Maristany, M.D. (Photo: Submitted) A simple blood test can confirm testosterone levels, and for those with low numbers, urologists often provide treatment through prescription drugs or injections. When prescribing medication, many urologists aren’t looking at the patient as a whole — their course of treatment is isolated to one specific condition or concern, oftentimes erectile dysfunction, and that’s what they treat. For patients with low testosterone, I start with a thorough physical examination and complete a detailed health history analysis. Oftentimes, I suggest additional testing to measure biotoxin markers, glucose metabolism, nutritional deficiencies and more. My goal is to develop a scientifically and genetically complete profile of a patient, which often points to factors that interrupt or inhibit the development of testosterone. Most patients I treat can experience immediate results in their testosterone numbers by making changes to their diet and lifestyle. Here are some natural solutions I often suggest: Diet: Cut out sugar and junk food like french fries, cheeseburgers, potato chips, soda, candy bars and […]

Click here to view full article