Testosterone Monitoring: What's Next?

imaware’s Testosterone Monitoring test is a quick and easy way to measure your total testosterone levels and monitor your levels over time. 

As the primary male sex hormone, testosterone is essential for developing reproductive organs, building bone and muscle strength, sexual function, hair growth and more.¹ Though both males and females produce testosterone, it has a more significant role in the development and process of men and individuals born male.

Effects of low testosterone

Testosterone levels gradually start to decline sometime after age 30² — this is a normal and natural part of aging. However, significant drops in testosterone levels can cause a variety of symptoms, some of which may be connected to serious health conditions.³⁴ Low sex drive, fatigue, erectile dysfunction, depression, hair loss and irritability are all common signs of low testosterone.⁵

In addition to these symptoms, there are long-term health risks associated with low testosterone (or low T). For example, low T can contribute to muscle weakness, cardiac complications and a loss of bone density, which increases your rate of fractures.⁶⁷

Treatments

In addition to establishing your current testosterone levels, imaware’s at-home test is also a great way to monitor your levels after treatment.  

Depending on your health information, your treatment may include testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), other medications or lifestyle changes. TRT is a common way to medically increase testosterone using injections, patches or oral medication.⁸ Since TRT can have serious side effects, it should only be considered if advised by your healthcare provider.⁹

Lifestyle changes are also important if you have low T. Here are four ways you can try to boost your testosterone levels naturally:

1. Exercise more 

Certain forms of physical activity like weightlifting and other resistance training can help boost your testosterone by building muscle.¹⁰

2. Sleep better 

Everyone feels better after a good sleep, but studies also suggest that several nights of poor sleep may correlate with reduced testosterone levels.¹¹¹²

3. Reduce stress 

When stressed, your body produces elevated levels of cortisol (the stress hormone). Since high cortisol levels reduce testosterone levels, chronic stress can significantly influence your testosterone levels.¹³¹⁴ Therefore, avoid stress and consider incorporating relaxation techniques into your day.

4. Consume less alcohol 

Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol is associated with lower testosterone as it impacts cells in the testicles and increases the production of cortisol.¹⁵ Sticking to moderate consumption (one to two drinks per day) or less may help improve your testosterone production.   

Summary

A gradual testosterone decline as you age is normal, but significant drops can have serious health implications. If you are concerned about your testosterone levels, speak to your healthcare provider as they may advise medical treatments. Aside from medical treatments, lifestyle changes such as weight lifting, increased sleep and decreased stress may help boost your testosterone.