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.
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.
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.