Low Libido and Andropause: Relieving Symptoms Naturally

In this brief article, andropause will be discussed in detail, including the link between libido and andropause. Additionally, we will examine the various natural remedies that can be used to curtail or eliminate associated some of the uncomfortable symptoms of andropause.

What is Andropause?

Andropause, sometimes medically nicknamed "male menopause," typically occurs in aging men and is usually precipitated by a rapid decline in systemic concentrations of testosterone. Testosterone is the primary sexual and reproductive hormone produced by a man's body. A man's blood concentrations of this substance which is vital to the stimulation of integral internal functions such as bone, hair and muscle growth, red blood cell generation, the genesis and expansion of sexual organs and function, and fostering libido (sex drive) usually begins to drop after he turns 30. That said, andropause, or "Low-T," as the condition is also sometimes categorized, does not always produce symptoms. When the manifestations of andropause appear, they usually do so only after a man reaches his forties or fifties.

It is important to note that andropause can be elicited simply by the natural decline in hormone production or a host of medical issues that adversely impact hormonal levels. Such ailments include various disorders of hormone-producing glands and organs, specific dietary deficiencies, alcoholism, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, certain prescription drugs, specific systemic illnesses and smoking.

What are the Symptoms of Andropause?

Manifestations of andropause often vary from case to case and could depend upon different factors such as: the man's age, the exact precipitating factors, his overall health, lifestyle habits and the severity of whatever underlying causes exist. That said, there are a number of symptoms common to low T that impacted men might experience. These include: weight gain, increased body fat, loss of muscle mass, weakening of the bones, fatigue, mental and emotional manifestations like anxiety and mood alterations.

The Connection Between Low Libido and Andropause

Though these symptoms can be quite bothersome and could potentially lead to serious health problems like osteoporosis and depression, many men encounter the greatest difficulty coping with the sexual manifestations associated with diminished testosterone production including sexual performance challenges like erectile dysfunction (ED) and the ever-troubling decreasing or complete lack of libido.

How is Andropause Treated?

Specific treatment protocols are often geared towards correcting the underlying cause. However, when the condition cannot be tied to any medical ailment and is attributed to age and natural hormonal decline, one common remedy is testosterone replacement therapy. Hormone replacement therapy can be administered through several different modes such as gels, topical creams, oral preparations and injections.

While some men have found a certain level of success using this form of treatment to balance hormonal deficiencies, there are some members of the medical community who opine that men stricken with low t might find greater success by employing any one or a combination of natural methods.
Moreover, testosterone replacement therapy may pose certain health risks including: increased urination, fluid retention, skin maladies like acne, elevated blood concentrations of cholesterol, high blood pressure, sleep apnea and the development of blood clots.

Natural Methods of Boosting Testosterone

There are a number of effective, natural ways to support healthy levels of testosterone. Following are some of the most common solutions.

Reduce Exposure to Stress

Continual exposure to stress causes the body to produce "stress hormones" like adrenaline and cortisol. Stress hormones cause other chemicals such as testosterone to drop. Therefore, highly stressed men are advised to find a relaxing hobby and commit themselves to engaging in said activity whenever their tension levels are exceedingly high.

Obtain Adequate Periods of Rest

Receiving the appropriate amounts of sleep enable the body to re-calibrate its hormone levels on a daily basis. Disturbed or lack of sleep could precipitate an increase in bodily production of stress hormones thus interrupting the body's attempt at balancing itself.

Monitor Medications

Many people might not realize that several therapeutic drugs can diminish a man's bodily concentrations of testosterone. Any man using prescription medications and struggling with andropause should disclose all their medications with their doctors to determine if the drugs they are taking might be a precipitating factor.

Avoid Bad Habits

As previously stated, vices like drinking, smoking and recreational drug use have all been known to reduce testosterone levels. Men stricken with andropause who engage in any of these habits are strongly advised to stop.

Exercise

Several scientific studies conducted have illustrated that physically active men are more likely to elevate their testosterone levels when compared with those who lead sedentary lifestyles.

Consume a Healthier Diet

Scientific research has shown that a nutrient-rich diet can precipitate an increase in testosterone production. More specifically, doctors and nutritionists suggest eating foods containing increased amounts of healthy fats, carbohydrates and proteins.

Use Dietary Supplements

Health experts recommend men afflicted by andropause support their diets using nutritional supplements, especially those containing vitamin D, magnesium, zinc and creatine.

Include Natural Plants and Herbs

Naturally-growing plants and herbs that are found throughout the world often possess testosterone-boosting and libido-increasing properties. A few such herbs include Maca, Saw Palmetto, Muira Puama, Ginseng and Ginkgo Biloba.