Are you moody or depressed?
Are you lacking energy?
You may have Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome.
Testosterone deficiency syndrome (TDS), also called andropause, hypogonadism or late-onset hypogonadism, occurs when there is a deficiency of serum testosterone.
While one might assume this is a condition of “old” men, it is quite common in younger men as well: approximately 25% of Canadian men between the ages of 40-62 years are affected. It is a grossly under-recognized condition and less than 10% of affected individuals receive the proper treatment.
Age and medications can lead to decreased levels of testosterone. However health conditions including diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome and hypothyroidism may cause TDS.
Body Chemistry Balancing and TDS
At NutriChem, we take a whole body approach to men’s health. Our Body Chemistry Balancing (BCB) test consists of an extensive blood and urine analysis, a comprehensive health questionnaire, and a one-on-one private, confidential consultation.
The BCB Test includes:
Measurement of Testosterone Levels - Testosterone gives men their drive, their muscles, and of course, their libido. If you have symptoms of TDS, blood testing of serum testosterone is recommended.
Evaluation of Energy Production – Is your performance suffering at work, while playing sports or during intimate moments? Nutrients like iron, coenzyme Q10, vitamin B12, and magnesium are critical for energy production in the body.
Assessment of Thyroid Function – Lack of thyroid hormones can cause fatigue, mood changes, and mental confusion. The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists in the U.S. has adopted new guidelines for assessing thyroid function. Unfortunately, Canada is lagging behind these recommendations. If your TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) is borderline normal, you may need further assessment.
Vitamin D Testing – In a study of nearly 2300 men, the men with the highest levels of vitamin D had more testosterone in their bodies. The testosterone levels weren’t just higher, there was more of the “free” or biologically active type of testosterone in the blood, meaning it could be used more efficiently by the body. Further research suggests that vitamin D supplementation can positively impact testosterone levels.
Consideration of Food Sensitivities and Chronic Bowel Issues – Undiagnosed food sensitivities or frequent bowel problems (constipation, diarrhea or irritable bowel) can drain nutrients from your body and lead to low energy.
Dietary Assessment – Are you providing your body with the proper nutrients? High fat diets can lead to clogged arteries, and affect blood flow in your body. Having insufficient protein in the morning will leave you feeling sluggish by mid-afternoon. Fueling your body with smarter food choices will support long-term health.
Lifestyle Review – Chances are if you are experiencing TDS, you also have other unaddressed health issues. Through an extensive lifestyle questionnaire, we’ll examine the connection between your symptoms and your diet, weight, sleeping habits, medications and stress.
We know men are often reluctant to recognize and discuss their health issues. However, there is no need for you to suffer in silence.
Since TDS is commonly associated with sexual side effects, we want to assure you that we will treat your health concerns confidentially and with the utmost professionalism. Our ultimate goal is to help you feel better and have an improved quality of life.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms that were described, and you want to recapture your masculinity, we encourage you to give us a call at 613-721-3669 to find out how body chemistry balancing can help you.
References:
Heufelder, AE et al. (2009) Fifty-two-week treatment with diet and exercise plus transdermal testosterone reverses the metabolic syndrome and improves glycemic control in men with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes and subnormal plasma testosterone. J Androl 30(6):726-33.
Mah, PM and Wittert, GA (2010) Obesity and testicular function. Mol Cell Endocrinol 316(2):180-6.
Meldrum, DR et al. (2010) A multifaceted approach to maximize erectile function and vascular health. Fertil Steril 94(7):2514-20.
Morales, A et al. (2010) A practical guide to diagnosis, management and treatment of testosterone deficiency for Canadian physicians. Canadian Urological Association Journal 4(4):269-75.
Pilz S et al. (2011) Effect of vitamin D supplementation on testosterone levels in men. Horm Metab Res 43(3):223-5.
Shabsigh, R. et al (2008) The triad of erectile dysfunction, hypogonadism and the metabolic syndrome. Int J Clin Pract 62: 672-4.
Trinick, TR et al. (2011) International web survey shows high prevalence of symptomatic testosterone deficiency in men. Aging Male 14(1): 10-15.
Wehr, E et al (2010) Association of vitamin D status with serum androgen levels in men. Clin Endocrinol 73(2):243-8.
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