The normal range for testosterone (T) in adult men is between 300 ng/dL and 1,100 ng/dL. Generally, if men have levels lower than 300 ng/dL, they can be diagnosed with (low T) and benefit from hormone replacement therapy (HRT). But that isn’t always the case.
Many men with low T levels experience unwanted changes like hair loss, fatigue, weight gain, and low libido and could greatly benefit from starting HRT.
If you have or think you have low T, you’re not alone. It’s an incredibly common condition that affects 2% of adult males each year.
The physicians at Renew Vitality not only specialize in bioidentical hormone replacement, but they also guide men across the nation on how to make healthy changes to their diet to promote natural hormone production.
Testosterone Levels and Diet
Zinc
Are you getting enough Zinc in your diet? According to recent research, a diet low in Zinc can cause T levels to drop by 75% in just 20 weeks. Increasing Zinc intake can dramatically improve T production. Zinc has also been prescribed for men struggling with erectile dysfunction, a common issue linked to hormone imbalances.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D can increase virility and sperm production in men. Researchers followed 65 men over a year to track the effects of vitamin D on T production. They found it increased testosterone levels by 20%.
Foods to avoid
Soy-based products can lower T production in men over time. Soy contains phytoestrogen, a compound that closely mirrors estrogen. Phytoestrogens are fine in small doses. In men, they can treat high blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels.
However, hormones require a balance of different hormone levels for the body to function properly. An excess of phytoestrogens can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels in men and can even shrink the prostate.
Soy products can also lower sperm count and decrease fertility. If you feel like you’re noticing the effects of low T, soy could be to blame. Soy is commonly used as an ingredient in foods and drinks that you wouldn’t expect; make sure to read nutrition labels for harmful ingredients before consuming processed products. Avoid foods like tofu, edamame, and soy milk, and see if you notice a difference in energy levels or libido.
While nutrition and regular exercise lay the foundation for supporting healthy T levels, they are just the start. Whether you have T levels within the normal range, or they are abnormally low, HRT can remarkably improve the quality of your life.
There are several benefits to HRT including improved mood and mental clarity, better sexual health and performance, leaner larger muscles, and more energy to take on whatever life throws at you. The first step is finding a physician you can trust.
Getting the Best Hormone Replacement Therapy in Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C. is home to all three branches of the U.S Government, several international organizations, and 174 foreign embassies. The economy is mainly powered by the service sector and government jobs. Almost 27% of all jobs are in government making it ideal for public servants and retired military personnel.
Our nation’s capital is filled with historic national monuments and famous museums like the Smithsonian and the National Museum of Natural History. Visitors can ride the Metro or rent a bike to explore the city’s sites. Residents agree that the best ways to tour D.C. include paddling down the Potomac and Anacostia rivers and finishing off the day with a hop-on-hop-off double-decker tour bus.
D.C. is home to over 700,000 residents, but during the workweek, the population increases to over a million because of all the commuters. Currently, there are only 24 hormone replacement therapy clinics in D.C. You’ll want to narrow your selection to a reputable physician you can meet in person to discuss lab results, share your symptoms, and design a plan that meets your short and long term goals.
Fortunately, Renew Vitality Alexandria is just eight miles away from the nation’s capital via George Washington Parkway. It’s been the leading choice for the city’s locals because we take a unique approach to hormone replacement therapy.
Renew Vitality Has You Covered
We are one of the only hormone replacement therapy clinics that specializes in several issues that affect male health and wellness. We offer testosterone therapy, sermorelin, and personalized wellness programs to treat hormone imbalances and manage symptoms.
While some clinics only offer medications, we take the time to get to know our clients and create personalized treatment plans, specialized for their needs. Our physicians are skilled in identifying the root causes of common issues that affect men. Sometimes men can experience unwanted symptoms like weight gain, hair loss, or fatigue but have mid-range hormone levels. Even if you don’t have low T, our programs are uniquely designed to fit each client’s specific needs.
We incorporate medical intervention, exercise, and nutrition to sustain and optimize hormone levels so men can look and feel their best at any age. Give us a call to schedule a consultation today.