Men's Health - Androgens Flashcards
(27 cards)
What is testosterone and how is it produced?
Testosterone is a steroid sex hormone primarily produced in men by the testes (95% from Leydig cells) and the remainder from the adrenals. It plays a key role in male sexual characteristics and muscle growth.
What functions does testosterone serve in the body?
Testosterone influences male sexual characteristics like facial hair, deepening of voice, penis and testes development, libido, and sperm production. It also promotes skeletal muscle growth and increases bone density.
What is the difference between free testosterone and bioavailable testosterone?
Free testosterone accounts for ~1-2% of circulating testosterone, while bioavailable testosterone includes both free testosterone and the testosterone bound to albumin (~60%) but not SHBG (~40%).
What causes low testosterone in men?
Low testosterone is most commonly caused by aging (declining ~1% per year after 40), chronic stress, insulin resistance, and increased cardiovascular disease risk. It may also be linked to elevated SHBG, thyroid dysfunction, zinc deficiency, or environmental toxins.
What symptoms are associated with low testosterone?
Symptoms include central weight gain, low energy, low libido, erectile dysfunction, infertility, osteoporosis, hair loss, fatigue, muscle weakness, and mood changes.
What role does stress play in low testosterone levels?
Chronic stress increases cortisol and epinephrine levels, which can inhibit testosterone release, contributing to low testosterone.
How can low testosterone affect cardiovascular health?
Low testosterone is associated with insulin resistance and increased cardiovascular disease risk, particularly when testosterone is out of balance with other hormones like oestrogen.
What is the ideal ratio of testosterone to SHBG?
The ideal ratio of testosterone to SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin) in men is 0.7–1. An imbalance, particularly high SHBG levels, can reduce the availability of testosterone.
How can environmental toxins affect testosterone levels?
Environmental toxins such as BPA (bisphenol A) can bind to androgen receptors, potentially interfering with testosterone function.
How does sleep deprivation affect testosterone?
Testosterone is primarily produced during sleep, so sleep deprivation can significantly lower testosterone production.
Which medications can contribute to low testosterone?
Medications like opioids and metformin may inhibit testosterone release by affecting GnRH production and SHBG levels.
What dietary changes can support healthy testosterone levels?
Follow the CNM Naturopathic Diet, focusing on low GI foods, healthy fats, and zinc-rich foods to support testosterone production and overall hormone balance.
What types of exercise can help boost testosterone?
Resistance training (e.g., weights) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) have been shown to significantly increase testosterone levels.
How does zinc support testosterone production?
Zinc (15–30 mg/day) supports testosterone production and promotes spermatogenesis, helping to maintain healthy testosterone levels.
What role does vitamin D play in testosterone production?
Vitamin D optimizes testosterone production by increasing Leydig cell activity, which supports a healthy testosterone-to-oestrogen ratio.
What role does magnesium play in testosterone production?
Magnesium (200–400 mg/day), especially when combined with zinc and B6, has been shown to improve testosterone levels, particularly in athletes.
How does D-chiro-inositol help with testosterone levels?
D-chiro-inositol (600 mcg x 2/day) helps modulate aromatase, reducing the conversion of testosterone to oestrogen, and also supports insulin sensitivity.
What is Ashwagandha’s effect on testosterone?
Ashwagandha (2–5 g powder/day) stimulates GnRH production, increasing testosterone and DHEA levels. It may also inhibit aromatase activity.
What is the role of Mucuna pruriens in testosterone production?
Mucuna pruriens (up to 100 mg/day) increases testosterone by stimulating dopamine production, which in turn boosts GnRH secretion and testosterone production.
How does Tribulus terrestris support testosterone levels?
Tribulus terrestris (500–650 mg/day) increases free testosterone by boosting LH release, which in turn promotes testosterone production. It also improves libido and sperm motility.
How does Shatavari support testosterone levels?
Shatavari (up to 3 g powder/day) contains steroidal glycosides that exert testosterone-like effects and is considered an aphrodisiac.
What are common causes of increased DHT levels?
Increased DHT levels are often associated with acne, male pattern baldness, mood changes (e.g., anger), and prostate disorders. Factors include inflammation, insulin resistance, obesity, and low zinc levels.
What is Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)?
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a potent androgen produced from testosterone by the enzyme 5α-reductase. It binds strongly to androgen receptors and does not aromatise into oestrogen.
How can 5α-reductase activity be lowered?
Lower 5α-reductase activity by addressing inflammation, stabilizing blood glucose levels, reducing adiposity, and choosing organic foods to avoid pesticides.
