Menopause
Andropause: What Every Man Should Know!
Jun 15, 2017Andropause, or male menopause, is a part of the ageing process that involves a gradual drop in testosterone levels. There is no definite age at which the drop in testosterone level begins, but it happens most commonly between 40-60 years of age. Andropause brings several physical and mental changes in men.
Loss of Muscle Mass and Strength
Andropause can cause loss of muscle mass in older men. This occurs because muscle mass is often directly proportional to testosterone levels in men. Testosterone has the job of binding to our muscles and telling them when to contract, grow, etc. When andropause causes a drop in the testosterone levels, muscle cells no longer grow.
Increase in Body Fat Caused by Hormonal Changes
Like women, men also produce estrogen. Estrogen and testosterone keep each other in check. Low testosterone production causes an imbalance between estrogen and testosterone levels in the body. Estrogen dominance can cause weight gain, especially around the waist. In some men, this can also result in increase of fats in the wrong places, leading to a condition called gynecomastia (enlargement of breasts in men.)
Loss of Sexual Drive or Libido
Sexual drive or libido is also affected in men during andropause. A deficiency in testosterone is the main cause of low libido. Stress from physical changes in the body occurring due to andropause can also cause a loss of libido, as can the lack of confidence from a worse body image.
Increased Risk of Depression, Irritability and Mood Swings
Mood swings, irritability, unusual anxiety and depressive states are often associated with hormonal changes in women. However, men also go through similar psychological changes during andropause. In fact, depression is the most common symptom of male menopause and it usually occurs because of the physical and chemical changes associated with andropause.
Dietary supplements can help men manage symptoms of andropause better. By taking action as soon as you start feeling symptoms – through increased weight training, making dietary changes and by using the supplements that are right for you, you can sail right through Andropause. Wish you vibrant health!
Mahesh is a hormone health counsellor & holistic health expert. He has a Mastery Certification in Functional Blood Chemistry Analysis from the US, is certified in Functional Nutrition from Washington State University and uses a wide array of healing modalities to guide his clients to vibrant health and well-being.
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References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16670164
