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From the Bedroom to Tour de France - Is Testosterone the Magic Cure?
A controversy in sports recently erupted after too much testosterone was discovered in the bloodstream of Tour de France winner Floyd Landis. The testosterone level was reportedly too great and allegedly due to doping, giving him an unfair advantage as a cyclist. He was subsequently stripped of his title as a result.
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Professional athletes aside, for many men and some women an increase in their testosterone level can be a good thing, giving them the advantage of an increased libido, thus paving the way for more frequent sex and better sexual performance. For adults of all ages a healthy sex drive can be one of the most important factors in maintaining your sanity and a happy relationship with your partner.
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The testes of men and the ovaries of women are the chief producers of testosterone. Testosterone plays an important role in the development of male characteristics, including body hair, the genital organs and muscle mass. It is an anabolic steroid, which is a class of natural and synthetic steroid hormones in our bodies that promote cell growth and division, the result of which is the growth of several types of tissues, especially bone and muscle.
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In both men and women, insufficient testosterone can have a number of negative effects. Most of us would place the loss of sex drive and erectile dysfunction at the top of the list. While the lack of libido may be an indicator that one may have a low testosterone level, there are several other indicators, as well, such as depression, fatigue, an unexplained loss or gain in weight, the loss of ability to grow muscle, or hypogonadism (a reduced or absent secretion of hormones from the testes of men or ovaries of women).
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Interestingly enough, what may be a normal testosterone level for one person is not necessarily considered normal for the next. In fact, there is not an industry wide standard and with different labs the values considered normal for men range from the low 200s to over 1200 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dl), while anywhere from 15-70 (ng/dl) is considered normal for women. The bottom line, though, is that those experiencing the symptoms associated with low testosterone—such as a lack of sex drive—would be wise to consult their medical professional.
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Dr. Ray Sahelian, a best selling author and proponent of natural medicines, reports that approximately 30% of men age 60-70 and 70% of men age 70-80 have a low testosterone level that leads to a condition called andropause, or male menopause. He says, “The symptoms and finding of testosterone deficiency are similar to those associated with aging” and include loss of energy, depression, a decreased libido and erectile dysfunction, along with decreased muscle mass, decreased strength, increased fat mass, frailty, osteopenia and osteoporosis. While testosterone replacement therapy has a profound effect on many of these symptoms it also has potential risks, such as the possibility of benign prostatic hyperplasia cancer or cardiovascular events. Physicians and patients must therefore balance the benefits and risks of testosterone therapy.
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There are natural treatment products for a low testosterone level, such as those advocated by Dr. Sahelian and his company, Physician Formulas. There are also treatments available through your medical professional. If you believe that you need a boost in your libido and vitality you should discuss this with your physician. After testing by your doctor, she may recommend testosterone injections, creams, patches or gels. Whatever your decision—natural supplements or prescribed medication—improving one's libido and reducing erectile dysfunction are significant factors in maintaining a healthy adult relationship.
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It is obvious why body builders and athletes such as Landis would find it advantageous for their testosterone levels to be as high as possible. As for the rest of us, determining what one's appropriate level of testosterone is an individual choice that should be made on an individual basis.
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For more information on sexual health, check out http://www.askuncleterry.com
About the Author: Terrance Lile (Uncle Terry) is not your typical writer and advisor on sexual relationships. He serves frank, down to earth, sometimes brutal advice on sex and life. He uses humor and knowledge gained through extensive reading and personal experience. He has the support of advisors from medical and mental professionals to educators and clergy and pornographers to prostitutes. Uncle Terry can be found at http://www.askuncleterry.com
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