Low testosterone is a medical condition that primarily affects men but may also include some women.
It can be experienced due to aging, endocrine system disorders, and taking certain medications.
If left untreated, it can lead to problems with sexual function, low energy levels, weakening bone density, and even weight gain.
Fortunately, low testosterone can be easily treated through testosterone replacement therapy.
Let’s take a moment to discuss some of these effects and discover how our specialists at Urology of Greater Atlanta can help you overcome your testosterone-related weight gain.
Contact one of our offices in Georgia today to learn even more ways to address your low T levels.
What Is Testosterone?
Testosterone is a key hormone produced in the testicles of men and also in women’s ovaries.
Testosterone plays a role in the development of male reproductive tissues such as the testes and prostate, as well as increased muscle mass, bone density, and body hair growth.
Testosterone levels typically peak in a man’s early twenties and then gradually decline with age.
What Causes Low Testosterone?
There are many potential causes of low T, but the most common cause is aging.
As men age, their bodies slow down in the production of testosterone.
Other possible causes may include certain medical conditions such as obesity, diabetes, hypogonadism, and pituitary gland disorders.
Certain medications, such as steroids, can also lead to low testosterone deficiency.
What Are the Symptoms of Low Testosterone?
The symptoms of low testosterone can vary.
Some men may not experience any symptoms at all, while others may experience a variety of symptoms, such as:
- Fatigue
- Low sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Loss of bone density
- Inability to maintain muscle mass
- A sudden increase in fat tissue
Our doctors will perform a blood test to determine whether or not you have normal testosterone levels.
If they are found to be low, testosterone therapy may be used to restore normal levels.
Why Can Low Testosterone Lead To Weight Gain?
As your testosterone production reaches lower-than-normal levels, it can create a vicious cycle in which you no longer feel motivated or energized to exercise.
Testosterone has been positively linked to creating active metabolic reactions. So, men are more prone to inactivity and weight gain without the balance it provides.
This may be paired with a metabolic shift that slows your body’s ability to control glucose levels, regulate insulin production, and fight lipid build-up in the cardiovascular system.
Essentially, without testosterone, your body may struggle to produce the energy you need to stay active.
If you become less active, you could put yourself at risk of becoming more prone to heart disease and worsening testosterone deficiencies.
In time, this could cause your body to lose lean muscle tissue and produce an abundance of fat cells, particularly central adiposity (belly fat).
How Is Low Testosterone Treated?
Luckily, low T is a treatable condition. Testosterone treatment could include injections, gels, patches, or implants.
There are also creams that can be used to block an enzyme called aromatase, which converts testosterone into estrogen.
As your body begins to produce more testosterone, you may start to experience:
- Significant weight loss
- Fat loss and a return of lean body mass
- Increases in bone mass
- An increase in libido
How to Prevent Low Testosterone
It’s essential that men understand that testosterone deficiency is a preventable condition.
There are a few things you can do to prevent low testosterone before it strikes, such as:
- Exercising regularly
- Eating a healthy diet
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol use
By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, it’s possible to age gracefully without undergoing hormone replacement therapy.
Although low testosterone is common, more than 60% of men will age without the effects of low testosterone levels.
Low testosterone is a common medical condition that can lead to weight gain, low energy levels, and other health problems.
However, it’s easily treatable with testosterone replacement therapy.
If you are experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, our experts at Urology Of Greater Atlanta can help.
Call one of our offices in Georgia today or book your appointment online to ensure your body has the right amount of testosterone to function as it should.