Testosterone plays many important roles in men’s health. Besides affecting your sex drive, it also helps maintain muscle mass, bone density, red blood cells and a general sense of vigor and well-being. 

Beginning around age 30, a man’s testosterone levels begin to decline and continue to do so as time goes on — unless you proactively address your lifestyle. Common symptoms of declining testosterone levels include:

• Decreased sex drive
• Erectile dysfunction and/or problems urinating
• Depression
• Difficulties with concentration and memory
• Weight gain and/or breast enlargement

Lifestyle changes such as limiting sugar/fructose in your diet while boosting your intake of healthy fats, engaging in high-intensity exercises and strength training, optimizing your vitamin D levels and reducing stress are all helpful strategies shown to boost your testosterone levels naturally. But what about testosterone treatment?

Beware of Testosterone Drug Ad Promises

Hormone replacement therapy is a tricky business due to the complexities of how different hormones work together, mode of administration, timing, dose and many other variables. It’s virtually impossible to make responsible recommendations that apply to most people.

When it comes to hormones, you really need to work with a competent doctor who is well-versed in the subject and keeps up on the latest advancements in testing and treatment.

Unfortunately, direct-to-consumer drug advertising, which is permissible in the U.S., drives many men to use testosterone even though they’re not good candidates for it. Lacking energy and sex drive does not automatically mean you have a testosterone deficiency warranting taking this hormone.