Researchers from Durham University made a discovery that can answer many questions regarding the differences in testosterone levels between men. It turns out that this particular biological factor is majorly affected by the person’s childhood environment. The study states that men who grow up in unfavorable, challenging, and dangerous places have lower testosterone levels as adults.

This discovery puts the previous assumptions that the testosterone levels are determined by race or genes under scrutiny. Most importantly, this indicates that people have the power to affect the hormone, which will have a tremendous importance for the health of their children.

Low testosterone in men is associated with a variety of diseases. Medical News Today reports that this particular issue largely increases the risk of developing chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes and arthritis. It also has a significant effect on sex life, as declining testosterone is often associated with a reduction in libido.

How to Deal with Low Testosterone: Treatment and Coping

Despite the relevance of the discovery by the Durham University team, their research does not offer a method of effective testosterone control. One can try to use it as a guide for improving their future children’s health through control of their environment. However, those already suffering from low testosterone have to use specialized methods of dealing with this problem. These do not consist of a hormone therapy only. In fact, testosterone replacement therapy is prescribed only in severe cases and must be monitored by doctors. Those whose testosterone levels aren’t abnormally low can improve their situation through a variety of natural methods.

  • Natural herbal supplements.While many supplements claim to be ‘testosterone boosters’ they do not affect hormonal levels directly. However, they are capable of producing effects associated with a higher level of testosterone. For example, one can boost their libido and virility using maca powder and other herbs included in the pills for male enhancement. This product will affect blood circulation, thus helping overcome erectile dysfunction, which often comes as one of the ‘symptoms’ of low testosterone.
  • Special diet.There are a variety of foods that help the body regulate testosterone levels naturally. The ‘boosters’ will have a low-to-moderate effect, but they also have a variety of positive effects on the body, so should improve one’s wellbeing if consumed regularly. The most effective of these foods are garlic, tuna, egg yolks, oysters, and shellfish.Note that vitamin D is a very important nutrient for boosting and maintaining a healthy level of testosterone. As this element is mostly present in red meat, which is high in fats and can increase the risk of heart disease, healthier foods fortified with the element are a wise choice. These can be cereals, low-fat milk, and juices. Vitamin D supplements or multivitamins that contain it are also a good option.
  • Resistance training.Exercising regularly helps maintain testosterone levels by default. This also has a variety of health benefits, as is proven by multiple studies. It’s also a fact that having a higher testosterone often results in more muscle bulk. This connection works in both ways, meaning that strengthening and weightlifting exercises can help one boost their levels of the hormone. The key to success is regularity as only consistent workouts will have a significant effect.

Should One Get a Low Testosterone Treatment?

One shouldn’t forget that low testosterone becomes a problem only when the levels drop dangerously low. If they are within the age norm, boosting the level of this hormone can do more harm than good. Men with a higher level of testosterone also have a higher risk of developing heart disease and some other serious health problems. They are also more aggressive and a recent study shows that they tend to splurge more money on luxury purchases, regardless of whether they can reasonably afford them. Therefore it’s essential to consult a doctor before doing anything to affect one’s hormone levels.

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