How to Influence Low Testosterone Levels?
Antoaneta Sawyer PhD
According to a late U.S. study, published May 26, 2008 in the journal Archives of Internal Medicine many men with low testosterone levels do not receive any treatment at all, due to their low socioeconomic status and missing health care coverage:
a/ low socioeconomic status
b/ missing health care coverage.
Function: The main function of the prostate is to store and secrete a clear, slightly alkaline (pH 7.29) fluid that constitutes 10-30% of the volume of the seminal fluid that, along with spermatozoa, constitutes semen. The rest of the seminal fluid is produced by the two seminal vesicles. The alkalinity of seminal fluid helps neutralize the acidity of the vaginal tract, prolonging the lifespan of sperm. The prostate also contains some smooth muscles that help expel semen during ejaculation. Prostatic secretions vary among species. They are generally composed of simple sugars, and are often slightly alkaline. In human prostatic secretions, the protein content is less than 1% and includes zinc, proteolytic enzymes, acid phosphatase, and prostate-specific antigen.
Regulation: To work properly, the prostate needs male hormones (androgens), which are responsible for male sex primary and secondary characteristics (male sexual behavior). The main male hormone is testosterone, produced mainly by the testicles. Some testosterone is very small amounts by the adrenals. However, it is the metabolite of testosterone (dehydrotestosterone) that regulates the prostate. But if you do not produce enough testosterone, you have not enough dehydrotestosterone either. It is the metabolite that can be blamed for the alopecia in male.
Androgen deficiency (or low testosterone) in elderly is a frequent phenomenon, and is due to several factors:
1/ Prostate operation (radical or partial)
2/ Undiagnosed (missing blood test) deficiency.
3/ Unrecognized (subtle or latent) form of Androgen deficiency.
4/ Unwillingness for testosterone therapy prescription.
5/ Missing health care insurance.
Blood Test: Androgen deficiency in males 40 and older who do not have established pituitary or testicular disorders other than aging, must be confirmed by at least two morning samples taken on different mornings. Androgen deficiency is confirmed by testosterone less than 8 mmol per L, or 8-15 mmol per L with high LH (greater than 1.5 times the upper limit of the eugonadal reference range for young men).
Clinical symptoms: Androgen deficiency syndrome is characterized by several symptoms like: anxiety, low libido, erectile dysfunction, osteoporosis, sleep disturbance, morning tiredness, frequent anger or depression.
Erectile impotence (ED) is a common disorder and there is a strong association with cardiovascular risk factors and they should be considered in all cases of ED. It is recommended that serum testosterone be included in blood test investigations for ED along with CVD risk indices. However, androgen deficiency is an uncommon (<5%) cause of men presenting with ED. In the unusual event of severe androgen deficiency presenting as ED, the underlying cause needs to be identified and plans for life-long androgen replacement therapy needs to be established.
Conventional Treatment: Medical science offers several treatment options for men suffering from testosterone deficiency and its related symptoms. These treatments are designed to restore testosterone levels back to the normal range. There are many different ways to administer testosterone in different forms: gel, capsules, patches, injections, implants, etc. Some are more effective than others and some will suit you and your lifestyle better than others. What’s more, not all treatments are available in all countries, so you should check with your doctor to find out which are available to you and which is the most suitable. That way, you will discover a treatment that fits in with your lifestyle causes little or no discomfort - and works consistently and reliably to maintain the correct testosterone levels between applications.
Herbal Ideas for a Healing:
Tribulus terrestris is a tropical herb common in sandy soil throughout the Balkan part of Europe (Bulgaria, Romania), India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. This product contains over 40% furostanol saponins, some of the active components. Tribulus terrestris extract supplement can be used by both men and women. It has also immuno simulative properties. Suggested Use: As a dietary supplement, take one tribulus capsule in the morning and one at night, or as recommended by your health care provider. Other Ingredients: gelatin (capsule), rice flour, silica and magnesium stearate. Vegetarians have the option to open the capsule by pulling on each end and using the contents only.
Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) is commonly known as Arctic root or golden root, and is an adaptogenic herb that has been used for centuries in the traditional medicine of Russia, many Scandinavian countries and others. Numerous studies have shown that it helps prevent fatigue and ward off the effects of stress; it has an antioxidant effect, enhances immune system function and can increase sexual stamina and general energy. In the modern World, Rhodiola Rosea, is used as a tonic and remedy for low energy, poor attention span, and decreased memory (ADD). It is also working in synergism with Phosphatidyl Serine, and believed to improve productivity. The best version is a product, is one- standardized to 3 percent rosavins and 1 percent salidroside.
Horny Goat: This plant with a sexy name is used by the Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years. It is also known as Epimedium (or Yin Yang Huo). The plant works as an aphrodisiac that restores libido in both- men and women and it is also used to improve erectile function in men. Horny goat helps with premenopausal and menopausal symptoms also. The active mechanism of this herb is hidden in the leaves of the plant which contain flavonoids, polysaccharides, sterols and an alkaloid-magnaflorine.
