Testosterone
Testosterone is a vital male sex hormone that plays a key role in reproduction and sexual development. This important hormone also helps build muscle and bone mass, while supporting other crucial bodily functions.
Simply put, testosterone is an androgen - a steroid hormone that stimulates the development and maintenance of characteristics in males. It is primarily secreted by the testes in males, although smaller amounts are also secreted by the ovaries and adrenal glands.
Some key functions of testosterone include:
- Sexual development - Testosterone is essential for puberty, fertility, and sex drive. It helps spur the growth of the penis and testes, while also promoting secondary sexual characteristics like facial hair growth and deepening of the voice.
- Muscle growth - Testosterone facilitates increased muscle protein synthesis, which enables muscle growth and strength gains from physical activity. It's a key reason why men tend to have more muscle mass than women.
- Bone density - By aiding bone mineralization, testosterone helps strengthen and build bone density during puberty and early adulthood. It may help prevent osteoporosis later in life.
- Fat distribution - Testosterone influences where body fat is stored. Men with healthier testosterone levels tend to store less fat around the abdomen.
- Red blood cell production - Testosterone stimulates red blood cell production in the bone marrow, thereby increasing the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood.
Testosterone levels naturally decline as men age - usually around 1% per year after age 30. But sometimes low testosterone, or "low T," occurs due to underlying health conditions. Symptoms can include:
- Low sex drive
- Difficulty getting/sustaining erections
- Reduced sperm count
- Loss of muscle mass
- Increased body fat
- Reduced energy and endurance
- Depressive moods
If low T is suspected, a simple blood test can check current testosterone levels. Treatment options for clinically low testosterone may include lifestyle changes, hormones, or medications.
Maintaining healthy testosterone levels is imperative for men's health and vitality. Be sure to talk to your doctor if you're experiencing any unusual symptoms related to this critical hormone. Through proper testing and treatment if warranted, the negative effects of low testosterone can likely be reduced or reversed.
I hope this overview gives you a good understanding of what testosterone is, its major functions, and how low levels can be addressed. Consider consulting with professionals at Rejuvenate Clinic for further guidance.