Loss of muscle mass and strength, increased belly fat, impaired brain function, disrupted sleep, loss of libido, impaired sexual function and general fatigue- it’s all enough to take a toll on any man’s ego.  However, there’s often a simple explanation.  Many men suffer from low testosterone levels.

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone, which peaks at puberty and during early adulthood.  Typically beginning in the mid-30’s testosterone levels begin to decline.  It is estimated that more than 4 million men over age 45 in the United States have low testosterone, and only a small percentage are receiving treatment. 

“Many physicians do not recognize the symptoms of low testosterone as a treatable condition,” said Dr. Desmond Ebanks, MD, Founder and Medical Director of Alternity Healthcare, LLC.  “Traditionally, physicians have been reluctant to prescribe testosterone therapy in large part out of a misguided fear of increasing prostate cancer risk.”

Dr. Ebanks says in fact low testosterone can increase cancer risk.  He notes, studies have shown an increased risk in prostate cancer among men with low levels.  Additionally, he says several studies reveal that restoring testosterone to more youthful levels in middle-aged men had a long list of positive results including, improved insulin-sensitivity, reduced serum cholesterol, fat mass, waist circumference and inflammatory bio-markers associated with heart disease, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.

Testosterone deficiency may also be to blame for men who suffer from erectile dysfunction.  Often times the condition is caused by a combination of low testosterone levels and cardiovascular disease, because these conditions commonly occur together.

The bottom line is that testosterone has a prominent role in maintaining good health.  Therefore, any man over 40 or 50 that feels off his game, run down or is experiencing any of the symptoms of low testosterone should have a thorough evaluation. 

“I recommend seeking out a physician experienced in preventive health and hormone therapy for men,” said Dr. Ebanks.  “Rather than narrowly focusing on just your hormone levels, a comprehensive program will expose your total health picture and help you move toward achieving optimal health.”

Alternity Healthcare is progressive practice focused on a variety of unique treatments aimed at preserving youth and good health.   With a focus on preventative wellness, Alternity concentrates on offering medical services and programs designed to help patients avoid degenerative diseases, restore lost vitality and achieve optimal health.  The practice offers the latest state-of-the-art equipment and tests in addition to advanced degree nutritionists and exercise physiologists to guide lifestyle modification recommendations.  You can learn more at: www.alternityhealthcare.com

Dr. Desmond Ebanks, MD, Founder and Medical Director of Alternity Healthcare, LLC is a board certified Internist, a Diplomat of the American Board of Internal Medicine.  He is a former Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine at New York Medical College and Adjunct Clinical Professor of Medicine at Cornell University School of Medicine.