When individuals seek solutions online for symptoms like tiredness, mood swings, and decreased libido, they often come across podcasts, Reddit forums, and social media posts that attribute these issues to low testosterone levels and recommend supplements as a remedy.
Medical professionals, including OB/GYN and hormone specialist Dr. George Arnold, emphasize that various underlying factors can contribute to these symptoms, cautioning against relying solely on internet information that may not align with medical standards.
Estimates suggest that approximately two percent of men may have low testosterone, with prevalence rates varying by age. A study published in the Canadian Urological Association Journal in 2021 indicates that testosterone deficiency affects four to 12 percent of men aged 50 to 59, nine to 23 percent of those aged 60 to 69, and 28 to 49 percent of men over 70.
In contrast, the prevalence of testosterone deficiency in women is lower. A study from 2019 revealed that only four in 10,000 women were prescribed testosterone in 2017, indicating fewer cases of testosterone deficiency compared to men.
Experts advise against relying on supplements that promise quick fixes for health issues, emphasizing that prescribed medication is the only effective way to elevate hormone levels.
Testosterone, a natural hormone found in both genders, plays a crucial role in developing secondary sexual characteristics in males. It also contributes to muscle health, sexual function, and mood in both men and women.
Testosterone levels peak around age 30 in both sexes before gradually declining. Symptoms of low testosterone can include fatigue, weight gain, and in diabetic patients, challenges in managing blood sugar levels.
While testosterone levels can drop in women during menopause, leading to symptoms like hot flashes and poor sleep, caution is advised regarding testosterone replacement therapy due to potential risks, including fertility issues and increased cardiovascular risks.
Rather than resorting to supplements, the preferred treatments for low testosterone in men include injections, oral medications like clomid to stimulate natural testosterone production, and human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) to boost testosterone levels.
For women in Canada, there are no approved testosterone therapies, but they can receive prescriptions for creams or oral doses from compounding pharmacies. Lifestyle improvements such as diet, exercise, and sleep can also naturally enhance testosterone levels.
Experts recommend avoiding supplements that claim to increase testosterone levels, as these products may contain unregulated ingredients or lack the promised testosterone content.
In conclusion, individuals are advised to consult healthcare professionals for proper assessment and treatment of hormone-related issues rather than relying on unverified sources or supplements.
