Menopause. We know it well.
It’s been talked about extensively over the last few years and, for those of us living through it, it can be a challenging experience.
Although none of us would disagree that it needed to be discussed more openly, somewhere amongst the articles, books, podcasts, documentaries and social media conversations, we’ve become almost obsessed with the hormonal changes experienced by women.
What many people don’t realise is that hormonal changes are not unique to women.
Men can experience their own version of the menopause, commonly referred to as andropause or testosterone deficiency, and whilst awareness is improving, it is still not being talked about nearly enough.
Today, we’re going to take a closer look at what andropause is, the symptoms associated with it, and some of the steps that may help support healthy testosterone levels.
What Is Andropause?
Unlike the menopause, which tends to occur within a relatively defined age range, andropause can develop gradually and affect men at different stages of life.
Testosterone levels naturally decline as men get older, but for some individuals, levels may fall more significantly than expected. In some cases, symptoms can appear earlier due to a combination of lifestyle, health, environmental, and genetic factors.
Whilst low testosterone is more commonly associated with older men, increasing numbers of younger men are also seeking advice regarding symptoms that may be linked to hormonal changes.
Common Symptoms of Low Testosterone
Symptoms can vary from person to person, but may include:
• Fatigue and low energy levels
• Reduced libido
• Erectile dysfunction
• Difficulty building or maintaining muscle mass
• Increased body fat
• Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
• Low mood, irritability, or reduced motivation
• Sleep disturbances
• Reduced confidence and overall wellbeing
If several of these symptoms sound familiar, it may be worth discussing them with a healthcare professional.
Ross’s Story
Normally we’d start with the science, but one of Normedica’s owners, Ross, has personal experience of this condition.
His own diagnosis led him on a journey to better understand low testosterone and the impact it can have on everyday life.
Check out Ross’s video from Alphagenix where he talks about how his diagnosis came about, the symptoms he experienced, and the steps he took moving forward.
What Can You Do To Support Healthy Testosterone Levels?
Whilst ageing cannot be avoided, there are several lifestyle changes that may help support healthy hormone levels and overall wellbeing.
Eat Fresh – Not Fast
I feel like we mention this in every article we write, but that only highlights how important it really is.
Your body is a bit like a car. If you want it to perform well, it needs the right fuel, regular maintenance, and a bit of care and attention.
A balanced diet rich in lean protein, healthy fats, fruit, vegetables, and whole foods can help support overall health and may contribute to healthy hormone function.
Reducing excessive alcohol consumption and limiting highly processed foods can also have a positive impact on both physical and mental wellbeing.
Sleep Like a Boss
Sleep is one of the most overlooked aspects of health.
Testosterone production largely occurs while we sleep, which means poor sleep quality or insufficient rest can affect the body’s natural hormone production.
Alongside supporting healthy testosterone levels, good quality sleep helps with memory, concentration, mood, immune function, and overall health.
In short: if you’re cutting corners anywhere, don’t let it be your sleep.
Don’t Sit. Get Fit.
Regular exercise is one of the most effective ways to support overall health.
Research suggests that resistance training and higher-intensity exercise may have a positive impact on testosterone levels, whilst also helping to maintain a healthy weight and improve cardiovascular fitness.
Perhaps more importantly, exercise is also one of the most powerful tools we have for supporting mental wellbeing.
Whether it’s the gym, running, cycling, swimming, or simply getting out for a walk, moving more is rarely a bad idea.
Check Up On Side Effects
Certain medications have been associated with changes in hormone levels.
If you are concerned about symptoms of low testosterone and take regular medication, it may be worth discussing this with your healthcare provider.
Never stop taking prescribed medication without medical advice, but understanding potential side effects can help you make informed decisions about your health.
EDCs and Environmental Factors
You may have heard people talking about EDCs, or endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
These are substances that can interfere with the body’s hormone systems and are currently the subject of significant ongoing research.
They can be found in a variety of everyday products, including some plastics, cosmetics, cleaning products, and food packaging.
Whilst completely avoiding exposure is virtually impossible, there are small steps you can take to reduce it:
• Choose BPA-free products where possible
• Look for paraben-free and phthalate-free personal care products
• Choose natural fibres when buying clothing
• Reduce unnecessary plastic use where practical
• Wash fruit and vegetables thoroughly before eating
What If You Think You Have Low Testosterone?
Lifestyle changes can make a significant difference, but sometimes additional support may be needed.
Fortunately, there is now a much more open conversation around Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) and the options available for men who have been diagnosed with testosterone deficiency.
As awareness grows, so too does the number of providers offering testing and treatment. This makes it especially important to choose a reputable organisation that can provide appropriate testing, guidance, and ongoing support.
Which brings us back to Ross.
Following his own experience, Ross and his business partner Ben established Alphagenix to help encourage more open conversations around testosterone deficiency and provide specialist support for men navigating the condition.
If you would like to learn more, speak with a specialist, or explore whether low testosterone could be contributing to your symptoms, visit Alphagenix and arrange a discovery call with one of their Patient Management Team.
The Conversation Needs To Continue
The conversation around testosterone is growing, but there is still a long way to go before it is discussed as openly as it should be.
Whether through lifestyle changes, testing, or professional support, there are options available if something doesn’t feel quite right.
The ball is in your court… literally.
Looking after your health isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s one of the smartest investments you can make in your future.