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It seems almost impossible to cover men’s health or the male body without mentioning testosterone, probably because testosterone is the principal male sex hormone that regulates pretty much everything related to your health.
However, even with all the buzz surrounding testosterone, most of us (including you) don’t know what the role is of this precious hormone anyways. So, here’s your GR8 guide to testosterone in a nutshell.
Testosterone 101
Testosterone regulates almost everything in the male body. From fertility, muscle mass, red blood cell production, and fat distribution, testosterone is the one running the show. To get all science-y, testosterone is a hormone produced by the testicles, and it helps regulate functions such as sperm production, sex drive, bone mass, and even muscle size.
Testosterone’s GR8 Role in the Male Body
If the previously discussed roles don’t point to the importance of testosterone in a GR8 man’s body, we’re going to expand on this.
Testosterones roles include:
- Helps develop the penis and testes
- Makes sure you get a deep voice during puberty
- Affects the appearance of facial and pubic hair during adolescence; it’s also responsible for balding later
Beyond these roles, testosterone is also critical in maintaining a normal mood. There may be other functions of this magic hormone, but they’ve yet to be discovered.
The Perils of Too Much vs. Too Little Testosterone
If testosterone is the lead role in so many body functions, most men would want to have more and more of it. Well, it might not always be as helpful. While having too much naturally occurring testosterone is rare, symptoms of high testosterone levels include:
- Low sperm count
- Impotence (seems odd, doesn’t it?)
- Liver disease
- Acne
- Weight gain
- Insomnia
- Stunted growth in adolescents
- Mood swings
- Prostate enlargement with difficulty urinating
What about Too Little Testosterone?
Now, this is a common problem in men. As men age, testosterone levels drop gradually 1 to 2 percent each year – yikes. More than 1/3 of men over age 45 have testosterone levels that fall under what’s considered normal. Symptoms of having too little T include:
- Loss of muscle mass
- Hot flashes (ironic, huh?)
- Loss of body hair
- Brittle bones
- Low libido
- Increased breast size
- Irritability
However, having low testosterone is not all bad news. Testosterone may stimulate the prostate gland and help prostate cancer to grow, which is why having low or normal levels of T can help prevent this condition.
Testosterone Boosting Foods
Currently, men with low testosterone can seek medical attention and receive treatment. They can also seek treatment to manage their low testosterone symptoms. In the meantime, GR8 men looking to maintain healthy levels of testosterone can indulge in these foods and remedies are proven to increase testosterone naturally:
- Ashwagandha
- Ginger extract
- Horny goat weed
- Oysters
- Spinach
- Egg yolk
- Tuna
- Mushrooms
- Beef
- Avocado
Our best-friend garlic can also help raise levels of testosterone.
A Note from GR8NESS
Testosterone is so much more than its reputation. While the optimal amount of testosterone is yet to be determined, there’s no doubt it plays a crucial role in men’s health. During your annual doctor’s appointment, don’t forget to get your T levels checked, whether you’re experiencing symptoms or not.
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