Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Over 8 million Americans are taking testosterone and that number is climbing every year. Testosterone is usually produced in the testicles of men and in smaller amounts in the ovaries and adrenal glands of women. Maintaining your testosterone will make a difference in your overall health. Keeping up with your testosterone levels can help with your energy levels, and metabolism, and reduce diseases like osteoporosis/cardiovascular issues.

Benefits of Optimized Testosterone Levels

What are Normal Testosterone Levels?

Typically, normal testosterone levels in males range from about 300 to 750 ng/dL but begin to decline naturally around age 30 at about 1% per year. This is measured by a blood test, and the results will be reviewed by a doctor.

* These ranges can vary slightly depending on age, medications, and overall health.

Natural Ways to Optimize Testosterone Levels

• Diet: Foods that boost testosterone (e.g., lean proteins, healthy fats, zinc-rich foods).
• Exercise: Types of exercises that help increase testosterone (e.g., strength training, high-intensity interval training).
• Sleep: Importance of quality sleep and its impact on testosterone levels.
• Stress Management: How stress affects testosterone and ways to reduce stress (e.g., meditation, relaxation techniques).
• Lifestyle Changes: Avoid substances that can lower testosterone (e.g., alcohol, certain medications) and other lifestyle adjustments.

Symptoms of Low Testosterone

Common symptoms of low testosterone (Hypogonadism) that are significant to your daily life are fatigue, decreased libido, and weight gain (especially around the abdomen). Mood changes like irritability and depression can disrupt routine activities, lower productivity, and strain personal relationships, contributing to a poorer quality of life.

These changes not only impact mental health but can also increase the risk of physical health issues like cardiovascular diseases and osteoporosis. Addressing these symptoms and the underlying causes of low testosterone is crucial for improving life quality and preventing further health complications.

Warning Signs

When to See a Functional Medicine Doctor

When symptoms such as persistent fatigue, mood changes, decreased libido, difficulty in maintaining muscle mass, and unexplained weight gain persist and impact your quality of life. These symptoms, requiring professional evaluation, might indicate underlying health issues.

If low testosterone is diagnosed, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a common treatment, available in forms like injections, patches, gels, or tablets, aimed at restoring normal testosterone levels and alleviating related symptoms. TRT must be tailored and monitored for effectiveness and potential side effects, including cardiovascular risks and hormonal imbalances.

A Functional Medicine Doctor like Dr. Sturm D.O. DABA, FIPP, will examine your blood test and decide the best option for your needs. Schedule a consultation with Find A Better You Modern Med Spa or call us at (636) 205-4070 to optimize your testosterone today!