Low Testosterone levels in men & 5 Herbs to Increase it naturally

Low testosterone, a form of hypogonadism, occurs when the body fails to produce an adequate supply of this hormone. This condition is more prevalent as men age, occurring in about 20 percent of men age 60 and older and increasing to as much as 50 percent in men age 80 and older. While testosterone is thought of as the male hormone, it is necessary for female functioning as well, and women may also suffer from low testosterone.

Testosterone is a sex hormone naturally produced within the body. In men, this hormone helps to maintain sperm production, control sex drive, and regulate muscle mass and bone health. The pituitary gland and the brain control the production of testosterone which is secreted through the testicles.

Symptoms of Low Testosterone

Symptoms of low testosterone in men may include increased body fat, enlarged breasts, reduced muscle mass, diminished bone density and decreased energy. Sexual symptoms include the following:

• Low libido (sex drive)

• Inability to reach orgasm

• Erectile dysfunction

• Low sperm count

• Diminished volume of seminal fluid

• Smaller or softer testicles

Men with low testosterone may also experience sadness, irritability, or depression.

Causes of Low Testosterone

The causes of low testosterone in men can vary and may include the following:

• Injury or infection of the testicles

• Treatment for testicular cancer

• Hormonal disorders

• Infections or chronic diseases

• Nutritional deficiencies

• Andropause (male menopause) due to natural aging

Some medications and certain genetic conditions can also lower a man's testosterone reading. Men who are hypertensive, obese, or who have elevated cholesterol levels may also suffer from low testosterone levels.

Diagnosis of Low Testosterone

To diagnose low testosterone, the doctor will perform a physical examination and review all of the patient's symptoms. Testosterone levels are measured with a blood test, but other diagnostic tests may be administered as well, including:

• Urinalysis

• Sperm count

• PSA test for prostate cancer

• Hematocrit

The hematocrit, which measures the red blood cell count, is taken because testosterone treatment can result in an increase of red blood cells.

Complications of Low Testosterone

In addition to negatively affecting the quality of life and intimate relationships, low testosterone can be a factor in several disease conditions. Recent research suggests that men with low testosterone are at increased risk of developing diabetes, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease.

Treatment of Low Testosterone

Treatments for low testosterone involve replacing the hormone in the body. Often referred to as testosterone replacement therapy, these methods include administering the hormone through:

• Gel, cream, or patches applied to the skin

• Injections

• Subcutaneous pellets

• Oral inserts (sublingual or buccal)

This treatment is effective in restoring normal testosterone levels in the male body and reducing symptoms. Testosterone replacement therapy is considered a lifelong treatment option. It is important that men taking testosterone to be carefully monitored by their doctors.

Risks of Testosterone Treatment

Men treated with testosterone are at an increased risk of developing enlarged prostate or urinary tract symptoms. Patients with kidney, liver, or heart problems may increase their risk of edema (fluid retention) by taking testosterone. Testosterone can also exacerbate sleep apnea. Though used as a fertility treatment in the short term, the long-term use of testosterone may interfere with fertility. Testosterone treatments are not usually recommended for men who have been treated for prostate or breast cancer.

5 NATURAL WAYS TO INCREASE TESTOSTERONE

1. EXERCISE & BALANCED DIET

All forms of exercise may increase your testosterone levels. Weight lifting and high-intensity interval training are the most effective. Among foods opt for testosterone-building foods like ginger, pomegranates, oysters, fatty fish like salmon & tuna, bananas, spinach, honey, eggs, almonds, lemon, onion & garlic.

2. MINIMIZE STRESS & CORTISOL LEVELS

High levels of stress are bad for your long-term health and can reduce your testosterone levels.

3. VITAMIN D3 & ZINC SUPPLEMENTS

Vitamin D3 supplements, iron, B6, Magnesium, and Zinc may boost testosterone levels, especially in the elderly and people who have low blood levels of vitamin D.

4. GOOD QUALITY SLEEP

Make sure you get plenty of high-quality sleep to maintain healthy testosterone levels and optimize your long-term health.

5. NATURAL HERBS

There are 5 Herbs that are proven to increase testosterone levels and improve libido in various studies like,

1. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera, fam. Solanaceae) are commonly known as “Indian Winter cherry” or “Indian Ginseng”., It leads 17% increase in testosterone levels and a 167% increase in sperm count.

2. Asparagus adscendens (Family: Asparagaceae, Ayurvedic name Satavari)

3. Tribulus Terrestris is a small leafy plant. It’s also known as puncture vine, Gokshura, caltrop, and goat’s head.

4. Mucuna pruriens.

5. Ginkgo biloba has the ability to improve blood levels of nitric oxide, which improves circulation via the dilation of blood vessels. As a result, ginkgo may also be useful for treating various symptoms of sexual dysfunction by improving blood flow to those areas of the body.