Testosterone, the master male hormone, is secreted in the testes of men, produced by the Leydig cells. These cells begin secreting high doses of testosterone during puberty to trigger increased lean muscle mass, sex organ development, bone formation and higher energy levels. Testosterone levels peak during a man's early to mid twenties. In women, testosterone is secreted from the ovaries.
In both males and females, it plays key roles in health and well-being, including enhanced libido, energy, immune function, and protection against osteoporosis.
Testosterone in Elderly Men
As men age, the level of testosterone in their body decreases. Starting around age 40, a man's body produces about 1 percent less testosterone each year and by the age of sixty, the average man will have lost nearly 50% of his testosterone supply. In addition, other factors such as stress, lack of sleep, physical inactivity, the use of prescription medication and drinking can cause testosterone levels to go below the normal range.
Testosterone Deficiency & Symptoms
Testosterone deficiency symptoms include depression, fatigue, low sex drive, irritability, loss of facial/body hair, thinning and/or wrinkling of skin, weight gain, and the weakening of both bone and muscle tissue. Eventually, imbalances of testosterone can set the stage for the development of more serious disease.
Low testosterone levels can also disrupt the body's blood sugar metabolism, leading to obesity and diabetes. Chronic deficiencies may also promote the early onset of osteoporosis and heart disease.
Benefits of Testosterone Support Supplementation
• testosterone supplements can increase your sex drive
• testosterone supplements increase muscle while decreasing fat
• testosterone supplements improve energy levels
Testosterone Supplements Information & Support Resources:
UK Medical News Today - Testosterone Trials
Andropause Info "Male Menopause"
Science Daily; Testosterone Supplements For Eldery Men
Testosterone Supplements & Alzheimer's Prevention
University of Manchester Testosterone Trials
KSA UK - Testosterone and Osteoporosis