Even though testosterone (T) can be found in women and children, it’s the primary male sex hormone. Hormones work like keys, which bind to receptors all over the body and send important messages. They regulate growth and development, metabolize food into energy, enhance sexual function, control mood, and bodily functions.
The biggest difference between the two types of testosterone is associated with whether they are bound to proteins or floating about the bloodstream. Bound testosterone is attached to molecules, which means it can’t be used by the body; since free testosterone isn’t attached to anything, the body can use it to regulate numerous significant processes.
Low testosterone (low T), or hypogonadism is a medical condition in which the level of free testosterone dips below 300 ng/dL. It affects as many as two to four million adult men in the US. Testosterone therapy (TT) is the only FDA approved approach to curing the symptoms of low T so men can get back to feeling like themselves again.
What is Testosterone Therapy?
There are several reasons why T levels can decline in men. According to the Mayo Clinic, T levels peak in adolescence and early adulthood but slowly decrease with age. T levels can drop by 1% every year after men turn 30, resulting in several uncomfortable sexual, physical, and emotional changes.
Testosterone therapy (TT), also called androgen replacement therapy, is a medical treatment specially designed for men with low T. Men can use gels, patches, and injections to increase T levels and restore balance gradually. Every client is different. Typically, men notice results between 2 to 5 weeks of starting treatment.
What are the benefits of Testosterone Therapy?
Improved Body Composition
Testosterone doesn’t only regulate sexual function; it’s one of the primary components for metabolizing fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. In men, a decrease in T levels as a result of aging contributes to changes that directly affect muscle cells. Low T decreases fat-free mass and increases the redistributed fat mass, causing smaller muscles and larger fat deposits.
TT has been proven to increase muscle strength and performance by reversing the negative age-dependent changes associated with low T. In one study, men undergoing TT increased performance of upper and lower extremity strength tests, and “get up and go” tests.
Well-Being
Mood swings, irritability, and depression are all common signs of low T, especially for men over 50. Scientists have found a significant inverse correlation between bioavailable T levels in older men and depression, suggesting that the lower T levels drop, the higher the risk for developing depression.
For hypogonadal men, TT can improve mood and well-being while reducing fatigue and irritability. In one study, researchers followed 51 hypogonadal men for 60 days of therapy. They reported having an increase in mood parameters like energy, pleasant feelings, and friendliness. This effect is coupled with a decrease in negative parameters like anger, nervousness, and irritability.
Sexual Performance
While, in most, cases low T is not the only factor contributing to erectile dysfunction, it is one of several risk factors that adversely impact sexual function. Studies show TT enhances libido and increases the ability to get and maintain erections.
Hair and Bone Health
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and testosterone work together to promote healthy hair growth. Some men are genetically susceptible to hair loss, so when DHT binds to receptors in their hair follicles, they shrink, weaken, and die. Hormonal imbalances like low T can cause premature balding or thinning in adult men. TT can rebalance hormone levels to reverse hair loss.
TT has also been shown to protect bones from becoming brittle by slowing calcium reabsorption.
What is Testosterone Withdrawal?
While there are several benefits associated with TT, there are some side effects to consider, like testosterone withdrawal. If men become chemically dependent on testosterone supplements and then abruptly stop using them, it can cause the body to slow down or halt T production causing testosterone withdrawal.
Every patient is different; however, certain factors like diet, age, exercise, and dosage levels can increase the risk of developing withdrawal symptoms. At Renew Vitality, we encourage all of our clients to slowly taper off TT instead of stopping cold turkey because it decreases the chances of withdrawal.
Testosterone Therapy in Westchester County Is Within Your Reach
Westchester County has over 900,000 residents and 39 clinics offering testosterone therapy within the Hudson Valley. Renew Vitality is the first choice for several NY residents because of our personalized and holistic approach to TT.
Our team of wellness professionals works with each client one-on-one to identify the root cause of their symptoms. While some clinics will start TT without checking current hormone levels, we require a blood panel 48 hours before the first consultation to make sure we accurately and effectively treat each client.
Meet Renew Vitality
Our NY team is here to serve any clients seeking to restore or optimize their T levels. Even if you do not technically have low T, we can improve your physical health through TT or design a treatment plan that works for you. Give us a call to schedule a consultation today.