Decline in Testosterone
Wow, this study is being presented tomorrow(6/25/12) at the Endocrine Society’s Annual Meeting. This is huge news, because until now many health professionals felt that the decline in testosterone is a “normal” part of aging and doesn’t need to be treated. But, this study out of Australia suggests that health behavior, and/or poor health status is more likely the culprit causing lower testosterone levels.
Studies in the past have shown that men nowadays have testosterone levels 20% lower than their fathers did. Â This is most likely environmentally related and thought to be related to xeno-estrogens that suppress endocrine function leading to lower testosterone production. Â These chemicals are found in pesticides. Â Also, phthalates found in cosmetics, soaps, and plastics suppress testosterone function.
Factors Related to a Decline in Testosterone
Obesity, depression, and smoking cessation were associated with a decline in testosterone in this Austrailian study. Â This news should lead physicians to evaluate men more fully who present with symptoms of low T. Â The good news for patients is that they now know they can influence their testosterone levels by taking other steps towards improving their general health. This would include an eye towards better nutrition, regular exercise, and management of stress.
REMEMBER these words, “Declining testosterone levels are not an inevitable part of the aging process, as many people think,”  – Gary Wittert, MD, professor of medicine at the University of Adelaide in Adelaide, Austrailia and co-author of the study.
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