Why are Testosterone Levels Declining?
Why are testosterone levels declining?
Did you know that average testosterone levels in American men have been steadily declining for the past several decades?
The scary thing is this is independent of age. In other words, 40-year-old men in 1990 had higher testosterone than 40-year-old men do today (on average).
Although the reasoning behind this pressing issue is poorly understood, here are some hypotheses.
1. Increased Rates of Obesity
Testosterone levels tend to decline with increased levels of fat. This is problematic because men with lower testosterone have a harder time losing weight and building muscle then men with optimized testosterone. It turn into a vicious cycle of your hormones working against you.
The fatter you are, the lower your testosterone. The lower your testosterone, the fatter you get.
2. Increased Rates of Metabolic Disease (Type II Diabetes)
Having low testosterone is directly linked to type II Diabetes. In fact, studies have shown that treating men who have pre-diabetes and low testosterone with Testosterone Replacement Therapy can reverse their diagnosis. For those men who already have Type II Diabetes & concurrent low testosterone, TRT can improve fasting glucose and prevent disease progression.
All men with prediabetes should have their testosterone levels checked!
3. Prescription/Recreational Drugs
Antidepressants, opioid pain medication, corticosteroids, certain blood pressure medications, marijuana, and others can all lower testosterone.
4. Today’s Environment
Our environment is filled with harsh chemicals, endocrine disrupters, and phytoestrogens. While the exact impact of these toxins on testosterone remains unknown, it’s very likely that, when all combined, takes a tole on our health as men.
Having low testosterone can have serious consequences for men. Not only does it increase risk for chronic conditions such as diabetes, certain cancers, anemia, osteoporosis, depression, obesity, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease, but it also can significantly decrease their quality of life.
You need to start taking responsibility for your health. Ask your provider to include a total and free testosterone at your next physical or order one here.
