Millions of men suffer from low testosterone levels, but very few of them seek out treatment. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a safe and effective way to boost testosterone levels and improve your overall health. In this blog post, we’ll discuss TRT’s many benefits and dispel some myths surrounding this life-changing treatment.
What is Testosterone Replacement Therapy?
TRT is a medical treatment used to help men who suffer from low testosterone levels. Although it’s often thought of as a “male hormone,” everyone has testosterone – it’s just that men have much higher levels than women. Testosterone plays a vital role in male health, and low levels can cause many problems, including fatigue, muscle loss, weight gain, depression, and more.
Thankfully, TRT can help to restore optimal testosterone levels and alleviate these symptoms. TRT is available in several forms including gels, injections, patches, and pellets. You will need to speak to your doctor for a tailored treatment schedule that fits your individual needs.
The Many Benefits of TRT
There are myriad benefits associated with TRT, including improved energy levels, increased muscle mass, enhanced sexual function, and more. Here are just a few of the ways TRT can improve your quality of life:
TRT and bone health
The risk of developing osteoporosis is two times higher in men who have low levels of testosterone compared to those whose testosterone levels are normal.
In testosterone-depleted men over 60 TRT was observed to possibly prevent bone loss. Another study in elderly men concluded that TRT was responsible for building muscle, bone, and reducing fat levels. (6)
TRT and cartilage health
A very revealing study published in the 2005 by Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases revealed testosterone role in preserving cartilage.
Regardless of age, body mass index, baseline tibial cartilage volume, tibial plateau area, or total bone mineral content, tibial cartilage loss was found to be linked with lower serum free testosterone levels. (7)
Improved Cardiovascular Health
Low testosterone levels have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. One study found that men with low testosterone were 32% more likely to die from cardiovascular disease than those with normal testosterone levels (1). However, another study found that TRT can help to reduce the risk factors for heart disease such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure (3).
Increased Muscle Mass
If you’re struggling to build muscle or have noticed a decrease in muscle mass as you’ve gotten older, TRT may be able to help. Studies have shown that TRT can increase muscle mass and strength (2).
Improved Sexual Function
Low testosterone levels often lead to reduced sex drive and erectile dysfunction. If you’re struggling in the bedroom, TRT may be able to help. One study found that 75% of men who underwent 12 months of TRT reported improved sexual function (4).
Conclusion
Testosterone replacement therapy is a safe and effective way to improve your joints and overall health. If you’re suffering from any of the symptoms associated with low testosterone levels – such as fatigue, muscle loss, weight gain, or depression – don’t hesitate to contact your doctor.
(1) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22013106/
(2) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9024227/
(3) https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.2164/jandrol.108.007245
(4) https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1365-2265.2005.02350.x
(5) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1400877/
(6) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10999822/
(7) https://ard.bmj.com/content/64/7/1038