Is sex important in relationships?
The answer is, yes absolutely. A good physical equation between couples helps to make a relationship stronger.
Testosterone is a very important hormone responsible for healthy sexual functioning of a male’s body.
Although it is produced both in men and women, its role in men is significantly higher.
In addition to its role in maintaining sexual functions, it also plays a critical role in fat loss, muscular growth, and many other aspects of life.
The article is a part of our comprehensive series on “What is testosterone?”
What are low testosterone signs in men?
Here are some important signs to look out for:
1. Low sex drive
One of the important functions of testosterone is to retain the sex drive. So when the testosterone levels go low, naturally, the sex drive decreases.
As a person grows older, it is natural for testosterone to decrease slowly. However, if you are experiencing a steep drop in your sex drive which seems abnormal, there is a likelihood of low testosterone level in your body.
2. Low semen volume
Testosterone has a very important role in sperm and semen production, which is the milky white fluid that you notice during the time of ejaculation.
If you have low testosterone in your body, you will notice a reduction in the volume of semen during ejaculation. It can also appear less viscous and diluted.
3. Difficulty with erection
Testosterone plays a very important role in achieving and retaining an erection.
While the role is not direct, it plays an indirect role by stimulating brain cells for nitric oxide production.
Nitric Oxide helps to stimulate a wide range of chemical processes necessary for an erection to occur. Thus if testosterone levels are low, the amount of nitric oxide produced will also be reduced thus affecting level of erection. This may further lead to issues like erectile dysfunction and, in consequence, premature ejaculation.
In addition, many other health problems such as diabetes, thyroid problems, smoking, high BP, high cholesterol, depression, etc., also cause erectile difficulties. Low testosterone is just one of them.
4. Fatigue
Men with low testosterone levels feel decreased energy levels. You might feel tired despite getting enough sleep and feel no motivation to exercise.
5. Low muscle mass
Testosterone plays a vital role in building muscle mass. Low levels may cause a reduction in muscle mass.
6. Hair loss
Testosterone plays an important role in the hair production of the male body. Low levels may lead to loss of your facial and bodily hair in men.
7. Increase in body fat
This is one of the notable symptoms of low testosterone. In some instances, men with low testosterone are also known to develop enlargement of breast tissue as well, though this is not the only reason.
8. Mood changes
For men who frequently experience lability or sudden fluctuations in their mood , there are chances of having low testosterone levels. People with low levels of this hormone commonly experience mood imbalance, irritability, depression, difficulty focusing, etc.
However, as numerous psychological causes will result in mood instability, it is better to consult a doctor to determine the exact cause.
9. Memory problems
Low testosterone levels in the body can affect a person’s memory. There are several scientific studies to prove the link between memory function and testosterone.
People supplemented with this hormone have noticed an improvement in their memory and cognitive functions.
10. Bone mass reduction
As testosterone plays a pivotal role in strengthening the bones, low levels in the body may cause the bones to weaken and lose their strength.
11. Small testicle size
Since the body requires testosterone to develop testicles and the penis, low levels of this hormone in the body could result in the development of a disproportionate penis and testicle size.
12. Low blood count
Studies have revealed a direct relationship between blood count and low testosterone volumes in the blood.
Scientific research has indicated that by supplementing testosterone, it is possible to improve the blood count in the body.
Impact on male psychology due to low testosterone
Men who have low testosterone often experience conditions such as anxiety and depression. Sometimes these conditions could also disrupt their daily life.
Many patients suffer a gradual shift in their mood as their hormone levels decline. However, many people dismiss it as a symptom of ageing. The best thing to do in such a case is to check your hormone level to determine the exact cause of your mood swings.
Since testosterone is a neuroactive steroid, it can affect the functioning of your central nervous system. Various research papers have stated that this could be the main reason why low testosterone can affect your mood.
In some animal studies, scientists established a link between testosterone and serotonin and found convincing evidence that proves the direct role of testosterone in serotonin production.
Certain indirect symptoms of low testosterone could also affect a person’s mood. For example, sexual dysfunction could affect his romantic relationships, or weight gain/loss of body hair could affect self-confidence and might lead to social anxiety.
It is interesting to note that several symptoms of low testosterone are almost similar to that of mental health disorders.
These may include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Memory problems
- Insomnia
- Mental confusion
- Irritability
- Low sex drive
Using correct testosterone supplements or replacement therapy makes it possible to reverse these symptoms to a significant extent.
What type of supplements are available in the market to increase testosterone levels?
There are various testosterone supplements available under several brand names. However, the efficacy of each varies depending on the physiology of each individual.
Some of the most popular supplements include:
1. D-Aspartic Acid
This is a natural amino acid present in the body. Studies have shown that D-Aspartic acid increases the luteinizing hormone, stimulating the body to release more testosterone to some extent.
2. Zinc
This is a very important mineral required for body’s healthy function. Testosterone levels are normally low in people who are deficient in zinc. Research has shown that zinc supplementation helps to improve its levels in the body.
A study conducted on a group of chronic renal failure patients indicated that zinc supplementation will increase testosterone levels in the body. This is further proven in a systematic review of relevant literature on properties of zinc on testosterone level.
3. Magnesium
This is another important mineral that determines testosterone levels in the body. Numerous studies have been done, including usage in athletes with magnesium supplementation. Testosterone level markedly improved.
4. Protein
Certain research has shown that diets rich in protein maintains healthy testosterone levels in the body.
In addition, regular consumption of protein helps to improve the growth and development of muscles in the body.
5. Vitamin D
Men with low levels of Vitamin D have lower testosterone in the body than others.
A recent research article published in the Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology has shown a clear association between testosterone levels and vitamin D.
By supplementing vitamin D, it is possible to improve the levels of this male hormone in your body.
6. Natural testosterone supplements/boosters
Here are some natural testosterone boosters and lifestyle changes that you may adopt:
- Exercise & weight lifts
- Consuming a healthy diet
- Getting enough sunlight
- Having sufficient sleep
- Cutting down sugar
Also read our informative piece on “How to increase testosterone?”
How to get testosterone delivered discreetly to your residence in Malaysia?
Testosterone supplements can be easily prescribed by your doctor after running through a few checks and tests to confirm the deficiency.
However, many men feel anxious about visiting a medical practitioner’s office to discuss the issue.
At Andsons Malaysia, you have an option to discuss your symptoms on call, get a treatment plan from a panel of experienced medical practitioners.
Additionally, get your package delivered discreetly at your doorstep absolutely free of cost.
Final Words
Decreasing testosterone levels has often caused relationship issues between couples. However, there are plenty of supplements that you could try out to increase the testosterone in your body.
Talk to your doctor to find the best supplement that suits your lifestyle and body type.
Click here for more on buying testosterone supplements in Malaysia.
