In this episode of The Dr. Rob Show, we take a break from talking about female hormone issues and discuss low testosterone in men.  This is very popular topic with commercials on TV and male clinics popping up across the country.

Typically, low testosterone is seen as an aging issue, associated with middle aged men.  Surprisingly, men of all ages can develop a low testosterone level.  In fact, even men in their 20's can have a low testosterone level.  Also, regardless of age the symptoms of low testostone are pretty much the same.

There are 3 main causes of low testosterone, which are sugar, stress and sex.  We live in an environment with an abundance of sugar.  Overtime, too much consumptions can lead to insulin resistance, which will lower testosterone levels.  Chronic stress is another major contributor to low testosterone levels in men of any age.  Finally, the cause that is not discussed very often is sex.  With easy access to pornography on the internet, excessive masturbation can also cause low testosterone levels.

Symptoms of Low Testosterone:

There are a wide variety of symptoms associated with low testosterone.  Below is a list of some of the more common symptoms associated with Low T.  You can take the Low Testosterone Questionnaire 

Fatigue
Weight gain
Insomnia
Depression
Low motivation
Low sex drive
Erection issues
Decrease in muscle mass
Decrease in strength
Decrease in athletic performance

Causes of Low Testosterone: 

Sugar (insulin resistance)
Toxins (food, water, home)
Stress (cortisol)
Aging
Pornography (excessive masturbation)

Lab Testing for Low Testosterone: 

The reference range for total testosterone, depending on the lab is 250 ng/dl to 1200 ng/dl.  This is a wide range, but men should have a level greater then 600 ng/dl.

Blood Tests:

Insulin, fasting
Testosterone, total
Testosterone, free
DHEA-S
TSH (should be less then 2.0)

If you are interested in getting lab testing done, we offer specific lab panels.  To see our panels, click here.

Treatment Options Low Testosterone: 

Below are lists to provide an idea of the many options that may help to minimize symptoms and improve overall quality of life.

Prescription Options for Low Testosterone:

Transdermal creams

Static dosing
Rhythmic dosing - we prefer to use rhythmic dosing

Injections - with injections and pellets, men do well at first, but beneftis tend to fade over time.
Pellets - convenient
Gels - not a fan at all of any of the commercial prescriptions
Oral - is not an option due to liver toxicity issues

Supplement Options for Low Testosterone: 

Vitex
Tribulus
Tongkat Ali
Chrysin
Zinc