You probably already know that testosterone declines as you age. As testosterone is linked with muscle growth, libido and general manliness, the idea of simply replacing it sounds like a miracle!
In fact this steroid hormone binds to proteins in your body to help with a huge array of functions. A reduction in levels of testosterone can be the cause of ill health.
Once you reach the level that a doctor considers low testosterone you’ll be eligible for testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). It can be injected, administered via a suction cup, deodorant or even as a suction cup attached to your gums.
Starting TRT will bring a variety of changes:
Libido
Your sex drive has probably dipped without you even really noticing. Boosting your T activates the androgen receptors in your brain and you will very quickly feel the desire to have sex.
In many cases it can give you improved quality erections; although it is not a cure for erectile dysfunction.
Build Muscle
This male hormone plays a critical part in protein synthesis. This is the process that repairs and grows your muscles.
Increasing your T levels will allow your muscles to grow; providing you’re willing to put in a little effort.
The increased exercise and bigger muscles will enable you to burn more calories and can help with fat loss!
Energy Levels
A common side effect of low T is fatigue. Surprisingly it is not known exactly how T affects your energy levels but anyone using TRT will notice an improved level of energy.
It has been suggested that testosterone turns on the mitochondria to create energy in your cell; but further research is needed.
Your Mood
This is another example of how complex the human body is and how little we still understand.
Boosting your T will improve your mood; you’ll feel more motivated and positive no matter what is happening in life.
One study even showed that within 12 months the percentage of men suffering from depression reduced from 17% to just 2%! Just by boosting T-levels.
Shrinking Testicles
Not all the effects are positive! TRT has been linked with testicular shrinkage.
The reason is that adding synthetic testosterone to your body tells the pituitary gland that you have enough. It then tells the testicles to stop producing the male hormone.
The effect is reduced testicle size and reduced reproductive function; specifically less sperm.
There is also no guarantee that this effect will be reversed if you stop the replacement therapy.
Swelling Ankles & Feet
Testosterone actually encourages your body to retain fluid; ensuring your cells can stay healthy.
Unfortunately in some men this can result in excess fluid being collected round your ankles or feet.
It shouldn’t cause any discomfort or real issue though.
Skin Type
It is normal for testosterone to increase the production of oil by your body. This will adjust the feel of your skin.
This can be a good thing if your skin is dry. But, if it is already moist then the excess oil can bring on spots; just as it did in puberty.
Man Boobs
Fortunately this is a rare side effect; but it is possible.
Some of the testosterone in your body is converted to estrogen which stimulates fat production and the growth of breast tissue.
This is a natural process but in rare cases the TRT can cause man boobs to grow.
Long Term Effects
The truth is that TRT is still a relatively recent procedure.
While it has always been associated with an increased risk of stroke, prostate cancer and even heart attacks; more recent research questions these findings.
Unfortunately the initial research can be described as fuzzy; this means we don’t really know if there are any negative long term effects or not.
A much safer option is to use a natural testosterone booster first that works with your body’s natural processes.
If you do start TRT and notice any of these negative side effects then speak to your doctor straight away.
You probably already know that testosterone declines as you age. As testosterone is linked with muscle growth, libido and general manliness, the idea of simply replacing it sounds like a miracle!
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