Andropause, also known as androgen deficiency of the ageing male (ADAM) or male menopause, is a term that relates to a reduction of the production of the hormones testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in middle-aged men. The consequences of lowered hormone levels are associated with symptoms such as:
- loss of libido
- impotence
- nervousness
- depression
- irritability
- decreased muscle mass and strength
- impaired memory
- the inability to concentrate
- fatigue
- insomnia
- hot flushes, and sweating
Andropause is generally the result of gradual testosterone reduction and an increase in sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). These changes start around 35 years of age and progress with approximately a 10% decline every decade after the age of 30. About 30% of men in their 50’s experience andropause. In Australia, about 1 in every 200 men under the age of 60 and about 1 in every 10 men over 60 have low testosterone.
Factors that can speed up the decline in testosterone and worsen the symptoms experienced include:
- Age
- Adrenal insufficiency
- Stress
- Toxicity (pesticides, smoking, alcohol, heavy metals)
- Diet / Insulin Resistance
- Sluggish thyroid
Consider testing your hormone levels, importantly also testing your adrenal function which can greatly affect testosterone levels.
Tests available through Glow include:
| Adrenal stress test and male hormones | Cortisol (6-8am, noon, 4pm, 8pm); DHEAs (6-8am), Testosterone and two types of oestrogen E1 & E2. Best test to determine “andropause”. Approx $220 for the test plus additional consultation cost to review results. Please email reception@glowhealth.com.au to organise the test. | |
| Adrenal Fatigue | Test your adrenal function with a salivary hormone test which is non-invasive and looks at adrenal function over a 12 hour period showing cortisol levels and another hormone called DHEA. If you resonate with any of these symptoms you should consider this test. *Feel like your batteries are flat *Feel mentally and physically exhausted *Weight gain around the middle *Brain fog *Trouble coping with stress *Blood sugar drops *Cravings especially for salty foods *Muscle and joint pain Test also includes 30 minute naturopath consultation to review your results and provide recommendations. FIND OUT MORE AND ORDER THE TEST HERE | |
| My Comprehensive DNA Wellness Profile | Profile of 45 genes known for Fat Burning & Weight, Power VS Endurance, Appetite & Cravings and Stamina for improvement of overall health and wellness through positive lifestyle changes. Personalised diet and exercise plan provided. Approx $250 for test, plus additional cost for consultation to review findings. Sign up for the test HERE. | |
| Fasting Homocysteine | If elevated, homocysteine levels are a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and dementia. Have your levels checked HERE |
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