The health benefits of restoring testosterone levels in men extend beyond its role in sexual function, libido, muscle strength/tone, erythropoieses, and bone mineral density. A low testosterone level can also result in comorbid conditions such as Metabolic Syndrome, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Metabolic Syndrome is a constellation of risk factors including abdominal obesity, insulin resistance or glucose intolerance, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. It is widely recognized as a predisposing factor for heart disease. A 2006 article in the International Journal of Clinical Practice, linked low testosterone levels in men to Metabolic Syndrome. A December 2008 article in The Journal of Andrology states that in older men high estradiol is associated with Metabolic Syndrome.
Low Serum Testosterone Levels Is Risk Factor in Heart Disease
Testosterone also plays a role in cardiovascular disease and diabetes. A 2009 article in the International Journal of Impotence Research stated, “Recent studies have shown low serum testosterone levels to be an independent risk factor of cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality… It is time to welcome low serum testosterone levels as a cardiovascular risk factor.” Newly published (September 2009) research in The Aging Male found an association between low testosterone levels obesity and Type 2 Diabetes. The article also state, “It is therefore possible that low testosterone contributes to the overall inflammatory state of a patient with Type 2 Diabetes.” The European Society of Endocrinology (2009) concluded that there is an association between insulin resistance and low testosterone levels. Besides obesity and inflammation, hepatic stenosis contributes to Metabolic Syndrome. A 2009 article in the International Journal of Andrology claimed an association between hepatic stenosis and low testosterone and high DHEA-S levels in men. A September 2009 article the Journal of Men’s Health states, “In view of the emerging evidence suggesting that androgen deficiency is a risk factor for Metabolic Syndrome, Type 2 Diabetes, Insulin Resistance, Cardiovascular Disease, and Erectile Dysfunction, androgen replacement therapy may potentially reduce the risk for these pathologies.”
Testosterone Therapy Proven Benefits
There is also evidence supporting that supplementing with testosterone results in clinical improvements in men with low testosterone levels. A 2009 article in the Journal of Andrology reported a study conducted in men with Type 2 Diabetes and low testosterone levels who were either treated with diet and exercise along or diet, exercise and topical testosterone. The study concluded that there were greater improvements of glycemic control and reversal of Metabolic Syndrome in those men who also received testosterone therapy.
Low testosterone levels also correlate with depression. The authors of a July 2009 article in the Journal of Psychiatric Practice conclude that testosterone may have an antidepressant effect and that clinicians may consider evaluating the testosterone levels of depressed patients.
There are also possible links between Alzheimer’s Disease and low testosterone levels. A 2007 issue of the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease concluded that men with low testosterone levels often report problems with their memory and low testosterone levels have been detected in patients prior to the onset of Alzheimer’s Disease. The journal also states that testosterone treatment in men with low testosterone levels may be a useful preventative measure against Alzheimer’s Disease.
At MD Custom Rx you are able to test your testosterone level by picking up a saliva hormone test kit. Our bio-identical hormone specialists will work with you and your doctor on test interpretation and recommending an individualized treatment plan specifically designed for you. To learn more about these prescription compounded solutions, call MD Custom Rx in Brookfield at 262.373.1050 or stop in today, convenient location at 190th and Capitol Drive.