Your Male Hormone Handbook.

Let’s Talk Testosterone

Each of the above aspects of our daily routine has a complicated relationship with testosterone. Low testosterone levels have been associated with symptoms of depression such as sleeplessness, increased irritability, low self-esteem, and melancholy³.

Less intuitively, the maintenance of testosterone levels is also crucial for cardiovascular and bone health. Testosterone is necessary for maintaining the correct levels of calcium ions which are involved in the regulation of heart rate⁴.  Studies have also shown that men with low bone mineral density display lower levels of testosterone when compared to a healthy control group, suggesting testosterone plays a part in maintaining bone strength and the development of osteoporosis⁵. “The normal levels of testosterone vary by age. The reference ranges for different age groups are illustrated in Figure 1.

Testosterone

Mood, behaviour, and quality of life have a complicated relationship with testosterone. Low testosterone levels have been associated with symptoms of depression such as sleeplessness, increased irritability, low self-esteem, and melancholy³.

Less intuitively, the maintenance of testosterone levels is also crucial for cardiovascular and bone health. Testosterone is necessary for maintaining the correct levels of calcium ions which are involved in the regulation of heart rate⁴.  Studies have also shown that men with low bone mineral density display lower levels of testosterone when compared to a healthy control group, suggesting testosterone plays a part in maintaining bone strength and the development of osteoporosis⁵.

Low testosterone can have a variety of causes including nutritional deficiencies, stress, sleep disturbances⁶, type 2 diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome, and hypogonadism⁷. Diets high in bread and dairy and low in homemade foods and dark green vegetables are associated with low testosterone⁸. Conversely, high levels of testosterone may indicate hyperthyroidism⁹ and is associated with steroid use.

Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) is a glycoprotein responsible for regulating levels of testosterone and its metabolite, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in men¹¹. This protein has effects on bone density, cholesterol levels and other significant body processes.

Increased concentrations of SHBG can result in increased body impedance, decreased heart rate, lower bone density which may deteriorate into osteoporosis, and increased risk of developing gallstones¹². On the other hand, low levels of SHBG have been associated with increased obesity, increased insulin resistance¹³ and metabolic syndrome¹⁴.

Oestradiol is a form of oestrogen found in males and females. For men, it is essential for libido, erectile function, and sperm production. As with testosterone in women, men require some level of oestrogen. However, excess oestrogen in men can result in ED or infertility¹¹. High levels of oestrogen may also result in gynaecomastia, a condition in which the glandular tissue in the breasts becomes enlarged in boys or men, sometimes causing discomfort or nipple tenderness¹⁵.

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is produced by the pituitary gland and plays a role in sexual development and reproduction. It is an important hormone in the production of sperm, working in tandem with testosterone. FSH levels in men are usually stable after puberty, however, low FSH levels may have serious consequences for sperm count and quality, affecting fertility¹⁶.

LH (Lutinising Hormone)

Luteinising hormone (LH) plays a crucial role in male reproductive health. LH stimulates the Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone. LH and FSH work together in a coordinated manner to regulate the production of sperm¹⁶. Low LH is associated with reduced libido, infertility, and sexual dysfunction¹⁶.

Prolactin

Prolactin is a peptide hormone with a variety of functions in the body. It is involved in the regulation of testosterone production and sperm maturation. High levels of prolactin may result in decreased testosterone production, sperm count and libido¹⁷.

Albumin

Albumin is a major protein found in your blood which transports smaller molecules, including hormones like testosterone around the body. Hence, alterations in albumin concentration can affect its availability for hormone binding. Low levels of albumin can indicate liver¹⁸ or kidney problems, low dietary protein intake or malabsorption disorders such as Crohn’s Disease or Coeliac Disease¹⁹

HOW CAN YOU ACCESS MALE HORMONE TESTING:

IN-CLINIC TESTING

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of low testosterone including reduced sex drive, erectile dysfunction, body hair loss, loss of lean muscle mass, fatigue, obesity, or depression, you may wish to consider having your testosterone levels evaluated.

At Randox Health we offer in-clinic testing with results available in 2 working days, offering a fast and comprehensive overview of your hormonal health. With a personalised report sent directly to your phone, you can discover the condition of your hormonal health with minimum fuss. We also provide the option of a GP consultation upon receiving your results, to help you determine the best course of action.

AT-HOME TESTING

We also offer Male Hormone Testing from the comfort of your own home. We’ll send the kit to your front door. Then, with the aid of our instructional video, you can take your own blood sample, and return it to us via prepaid post. This service provides the same comprehensive evaluation of the status of your hormone health and results in 2-3 working days without the need to visit one of our clinics.

Use code MHW20 to get 20% off ALL In-clinic & At-Home Male Health Checks until 16th June.

Understanding and maintaining your hormonal health is not just a matter of personal well-being, but a crucial aspect of your overall health. The Randox Health Male Hormone Test provides a comprehensive analysis of your testosterone levels, along with the other hormones discussed here, offering valuable insights into your hormonal health. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms of low testosterone or simply want to take a proactive approach to your health, this test can be a valuable tool.

Remember, low testosterone can impact various aspects of your life, from your mood and self-esteem to your sexual health and nutritional status. It can also increase your risk of serious health conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and osteoporosis.

Don’t wait until symptoms arise. Take control of your health today. Our team at Randox Health is here to support you every step of the way, from testing to consultation. Invest in your health. Invest in a Randox Health Male Hormone Test because when it comes to your health, knowledge is not just power, it’s the key to a healthier, happier life.