Do You Have Low T?

by Cheryl Winter, MS, RD, RN
Nationwide, an estimated 13 million men age 45 and older suffer from Low T. Just what is Low T? Low T is Low Testosterone. There is new research suggesting that overweight men are more than twice as likely as other men to have low testosterone. In addition, men with diabetes are also more than twice as likely to have low testosterone compared to other men. It is estimated that fewer than 10 percent of men with the condition are currently receiving treatment. Unlike “women’s menopause,” this condition is not a natural course of a man’s life cycle.
Low testosterone can also be affected by other medical conditions, not just from being overweight or having diabetes. High blood pressure, asthma, and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) can also affect testosterone levels and increase one’s risk for low testosterone. Symptoms of low testosterone can include a low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, depression and fatigue. In addition, however, low levels of this male hormone can also contribute to higher body fat, reduced muscle mass, and decreased bone mineral density, therefore this condition is not just isolated to libido, but instead impacts many aspects of one’s health. A low testosterone level can be easily diagnosed with a simple blood test, and treatment involves testosterone supplementation. However, the risk of enlarged prostate exists with testosterone supplementation, and therefore treatment must be carefully monitored to prevent negative effects to the prostate. Men with prostate cancer cannot be given testosterone supplementation.

This new information and astonishing prevalence rate of low testosterone among men who are overweight and/or who have diabetes, is just one more reason why the management of these two conditions is so crucial. Forget the little blue pill, it may be that all you need is a healthy meal plan to promote health and weight management. For men with diabetes, managing blood glucose levels is very important. This may at first seem like a daunting task but its benefits will be reaped in so many different aspects of one’s health. Nutrition Therapy and weight management are the cornerstones for controlling diabetes, as well as many other medical conditions. If you have diabetes, it is crucial that you learn how to manage it with proper nutrition and a meal plan, as well as with activity, and daily blood glucose monitoring. If you are overweight and have never been tested for diabetes, be sure to see your physician to be screened for this disease. In addition, see a registered dietitian to help you promote a healthy and appropriate weight. Even a weight loss of only ten percent of your body weight, may be all that you need to reduce your risk of low testosterone.

Cheryl Winter has a Master of Science Degree in Nutrition and a Bachelor of Science Degree in both Nutrition and Nursing. She is also a registered dietitian, registered nurse, and diabetes specialist. Find out how she can power you to Health, Wealth & Success. Sign up now for the free monthly e-zine, The STEP-POWER Weigh, at http://www.HealthStepsRx.com


Article Source: Wellness Article Library

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