By the time men are between the ages of 40 and 55, they can experience a phenomenon similar to the female menopause, called Andropause. Testosterone decline is at the core of male andropause because Testosterone impacts every single cell in the body. Unlike women, men do not have a clear-cut sign such as the cessation of menstruation to mark this transition. Both, however, are distinguished by a drop in hormone levels; Estrogen in the female, and Testosterone in the male. The bodily changes occur very gradually in men and may be accompanied by changes in attitude, mood, energy levels, sex drive, sexual function and physical agility.

What’s more, studies show that this decline in Testosterone can actually put one at risk for other health problems because Testosterone just isn’t a sex hormone. Testosterone is essential for sexual function but it has many other uses as well. With receptor sites throughout the entire body, this hormone plays an essential role for both men and women in maintaining lean body mass, skin elasticity, libido, and a healthy immune system. It ensures proper heart function, regulates mood and cognitive function, controls blood sugar, regulates healthy cholesterol levels, controls blood pressure, and may prevent heart attacks. Testosterone also aids in increased bone and muscle mass. Since all this happens at a time of life when many men begin to question their values, accomplishments and direction in life, it’s often difficult to realize that the changes occurring are related to more than just external conditions. Too often, loss of energy, ambition, sexual drive, and a host of symptoms or written off as “burnout” or depression.