What is testosterone?
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone and anabolic steroid. It plays key roles in muscle mass, bone density, red blood cell production, sex drive (libido), mood regulation, and sperm production.
Key functions of testosterone include:
- Muscle growth - Testosterone stimulates muscle growth and strength gains. It activates muscle protein synthesis and supports athletic performance.
- Bone health - Testosterone helps maintain bone mineral density and reduces risk of osteoporosis. It's vital for bone strength.
- Red blood cell production - Testosterone increases red blood cell production, improving oxygen delivery throughout the body.
- Libido and fertility - Testosterone regulates libido and sexual function in men. It's also needed for sperm production and fertility.
- Fat distribution - Testosterone helps determine where body fat is stored. Lean mass and abdominal fat distribution are regulated by testosterone.
- Mood and cognition - Optimal testosterone levels are linked to good mood, confidence, motivation, and cognitive abilities.
Testosterone production peaks during adolescence and early adulthood when testes produce around 7 mg daily. Levels start declining after age 30, dropping about 1% yearly. Some men experience low testosterone with symptoms like:
- Low sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Depressed mood and irritability
- Reduced muscle mass
- Increased body fat
- Low energy and fatigue
If you're experiencing potential low T symptoms, please