In recent years, more women have become aware of the benefits of hormone replacement therapy in their second half of life. In contrast, men often don’t realize that their hormones also decline with age (albeit more gradually—not as dramatic of a change as women experience). These hormonal shifts in men can cause low energy and sex drive, abnormal weight gain, and other noticeable symptoms. 

If you suspect that your hormones are declining, ask your doctor to test your free testosterone levels. Free testosterone is the working hormone. It is not attached to a carrier protein called sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), and performs all the functions that testosterone is known for. This includes muscle growth, increased body hair, protective instincts, sexual performance, indiscriminate libido, brain function, and sleep. 

It is not clear whether testosterone levels influence the risk of prostate cancer, but the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone in older men causes cellular growth in the prostate. Increased estrogen levels can also impact weight gain later in life, so estrogen blockers (combined with testosterone replacement) can also be beneficial for older men. 

Even young men can have low testosterone, due to environmental chemicals. So, schedule a test—it could optimize your well-being and improve your life. Contact Best Medicine to make an appointment and further discuss the available options.  

Location: 2106 Bispham Rd., Sarasota. For more information, call 941-404-8030 or visit https://bestmedicine.us/  

Source:  

“Testosterone, testosterone therapy and prostate cancer,” A Yassin, et al. Aging Male, Dec. 2019.