Category Archives: Hormone Therapy Review

Testosterone and other Androgen hormones have a strong and potent impact on mental function and wellness. There are a wide variety of studies which have investigated how Testosterone affects the minds of both men and women. For example, changing female hormone levels are associated with both premenstrual mood changes and post-partum depression. Of course, not all effects of Testosterone on women are adverse, however. Natural Testosterone Levels benefit sexual desire and emotional health positively for women, in a similar manner as they do in men. There is strong clinical evidence which shows that Testosterone Deficiency is associated with an increased risk of depression and mood disorders among men, and research has also shown that Bio-Identical Testosterone Therapy has the power to improve the psychological outlook of male patients taking Low-T Patches, Injections, and Creams for Low-T, but the exact mechanism by which Testosterone alters mood is less well understood. Recent data produced by University of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy has shown that Testosterone improves Serotonin signaling in the brain by boosting the volume of proteins which are designed to transport Serotonin. The study was conducted by scientific researchers at the Medical University of Vienna. Many anti-depressant medications available today work by … Read more »

As men grow older, they become more likely to suffer from a condition colloquially known as Grumpy Old Man Syndrome. Everyone knows that as men grow older, usually as they approach 70, but sometimes before, they become more likely to experience irritability, grumpiness, impatience, and other related symptoms. Apparently, this has a tremendous impact on the quality of life. Grumpy Old Man Syndrome is the result of a combination of factors, some psychological, some physiological. From the psychological perspective, this is an era where men often feel the need to wall themselves off to protect themselves from sadness and despair. They are forced to contend with ideas of their mortality while they also have to deal with the passing of their loved ones and friends. Human beings are also very goal-oriented, and as the amount of time that one has left begins to dwindle, this can be detrimental to mood and health. This is also a period where health problems become more frequent and more severe. But we also know that human beings are resoundingly resilient creatures. What prevents aging men from maintaining their stalwart and robust nature as they get older? The growing body of research vigorously contends that … Read more »

Testosterone injections are one of the most popular forms of testosterone therapy available today. In fact, low-t injections were the first treatment available for testosterone deficiency. Initially, testosterone was injected daily, but as recombinant biomedical techniques have advanced, most patients only require one injection every 10-14 days. As of today, Testosterone Cypionate is the most popular form of testosterone HRT injection in the United States. Most typical testosterone shots are comprised of an ester compound melded with bio-identical testosterone to provide a slow and steady supply of testosterone over an extended period. The following injection protocol applies to all testosterone ester injections. Remember, only use recombinant testosterone with a prescription from a licensed physician, and always follow the instructions of your doctor to the letter! Testosterone therapy can produce surprising results for patients with clinically diagnosed low-t, but it should always be treated with respect. Ensure that You're Administering the Correct Testosterone Dosage The first step to injecting testosterone is to check and make sure that you are using the right dosage, as prescribed by your doctor. In the United States, Testosterone Cypionate is most popular, but Testosterone Enanthate is also widely prescribed. The ideal testosterone dosage is generally in … Read more »

Testosterone deficiency is a multifaceted medical condition which has a widespread impact on human function. Most people are acutely aware of the sexual issues related to andropause and low-t, but other symptoms are less widely known and understood by the average person. One of the many symptoms which deflate quality of life for men with testosterone deficiency is fatigue. For men, testosterone plays a distinct role in metabolism and energy availability. When testosterone levels fall to those associated with low-t, this can lead to extreme fatigue and diminished aerobic capacity. It makes you feel like the world is dragging you down. You not only struggle to find the energy to meet your obligations; you even have trouble motivating yourself to do the things that you want to do. Things that generally excite you. As you can imagine, energy and mood are intrinsically linked. If you don't have the energy to engage in the activities that you love, you're more likely to suffer from depression. If you can't meet the obligations of your life, your work, and your family, this causes stress, which leads to anxiety. Testosterone deficiency is not just a drain on your sexual health; it prevents you from … Read more »

Like most men, you're probably concerned about preserving healthy testosterone levels. Most guys are aware of low-t, but most are still unaware of the science behind testosterone deficiency and how it puts all men at risk, even the healthiest of men. That's because there is a robust age-related component to low-t. In fact, if every man lived long enough, they would eventually experience testosterone deficiency. What is Andropause? Most men begin to experience symptoms related to testosterone deficiency between the ages of 40 and 60. So many guys are affected that medical specialists have even coined a term for age-related testosterone deficiency — andropause. As you can imagine, andropause is directly related to its female relative, menopause. Though the two conditions share a similarity in that they are both age-related hormone changes during middle age, the two issues have some distinct differences. Menopause is the time in a woman's life when she stops menstruating, and her hormone balance is altered permanently as a result. In men, there are no such distinct changes that take place — guys remain able to produce testosterone and sperm, for example. Where menopause is an abrupt change, andropause is a more subtle change in hormone … Read more »

Testosterone deficiency is one of the most commonly under-diagnosed conditions in America today. There are some reasons for this. For one, men tend to struggle to talk to their doctor about problems related to Low-T. They don't consider their fundamental sexual and fatigue-related issues to be the result of testosterone deficiency, or they just don't like to go to the doctor. It's essential for your long-term health and vitality that you own up to the threat of Low-T, and be vocal with your doctor when you recognize the symptoms. By being honest with your physician, you can take steps to correct your sexual inadequacy, your declining metabolism, and your fading energy levels. It's easy to misinterpret low testosterone symptoms as merely age-related decline, or the result of your own actions, but the truth is that a significant component of testosterone deficiency is innate in human physiology. When Will Men Experience Low-T? Of course, not every man will experience these symptoms at the same time, and some men may never reach a point of deficiency in their lifetime, but we all experience a similar decline for the same physiological reasons. There are also some factors that people don't understand about Low-T. … Read more »

Simple Dietary Changes to Battle Low-T Modern-Day Society is Stealing Your Testosterone Fact: Higher testosterone levels mean more muscle mass, lower body fat, and stronger bones. Additionally, optimum T levels indicate healthy libidos, improved cognitive abilities, and (naturally) higher levels of sports performance. Fact: your natural testosterone production is under attack. Here's a brief list of things that can negatively affect T levels, ranging from dietary/lifestyle choices to environmental factors: Extreme low-calorie diets. Very low-calorie diets used to melt fat or followed by athletes desperate to make weight. Tobacco smoke, both direct and second-hand. Cigarette smoke contains a toxic substance called cadmium, an environmental pollutant with no distinct taste or smell that's been shown to lower testosterone levels. Alcohol. The body breaks alcohol into acetaldehyde, which may adversely affect the Leydig cells of the testicles to reduce testosterone production. Environmental pollutants, such as those that are common in industrial areas where metal welding, lead, or copper smoke are present. Four Foods to the Rescue Luckily, you can improve your testosterone profile through the consumption of some natural nutrients and chemical compounds. Studies have shown that minor nutritional interventions can boost testosterone levels in as little as four weeks. Like the … Read more »

Sexual health is at the forefront of practically every guy's mind. No matter how well your life is going, if your sex life isn't satisfying, you're still probably frustrated. An active sex life is one of the keys to maintaining elevated self-perception and maintaining a sense of manhood and masculinity. There are millions of men all over the country that struggle and suffer from a low sex drive and Sexual Dysfunction. While it's true that issues such as Low-T and circulatory problems play a significant role in Erectile Dysfunction and diminished sex drive, there are also a variety of steps that you can take to improve your sexual drive and potency vastly. There are many lifestyle and diet factors that contribute to sexual malfunction. While looking over this list, think about what you could do to improve your reproductive health. Also recognize that by controlling these factors, you can enhance your life in a variety of other ways. Chronic Stress Causes Sex Drive to Plummet There's nothing more distracting than stress. Chronic stress impairs your ability to focus on the things that give you pleasure and leave you stuck in a rut of anxiety. Chronic Stress also contributes to Testosterone … Read more »

It may seem a bit counterintuitive, especially after decades of being told about the dangers of fat, but dietary fat is absolutely necessary for good health, and it's even essential if you're looking to lose weight. In the 1970s and 1980s, it was taken for the gospel that dietary fat was Enemy Number One when it came to your health and your waistline. In reality, the most prominent issues are processed grains, added sugar, and trans-fats. For optimal testosterone production in your body, 25% of your diet should include healthy fats. Low-Fat diets were the rage, substituting high volumes of salt and carbohydrates for healthy fat. Trans-Fats were sold to the consumer as a healthy alternative to regular fats when, in reality, they play a significant role in heart disease and other dangerous conditions like obesity and cancer. Today, we're learning the truth. It's not fat that is dangerous, but the types of fat we consume and the ratio by which we consume them. Fat is necessary. It helps maintain hormone balance, and fats are the building blocks of the hormones that allow us to function optimally in our day-to-day lives. A smart combination of protein and healthy fat is … Read more »

As men get older, Testosterone becomes a precious resource. After around age 30, Testosterone Levels start to fall, albeit very slowly. This decline eventually culminates in symptoms associated with Low-T, including loss of strength, fatigue, weight gain, depression, sexual dysfunction, and more. One of the ways to preserve Testosterone Levels naturally is by controlling the influence of Estrogen on male physiology. For example, many foods contain enzymes known as phytoestrogens. These plant hormones mimic the effects of Estrogen and can have an inhibitive effect on Testosterone Production. There are also foods that help sustain Testosterone Levels. Elevated Estrogen Levels have long been associated with adverse health outcomes for men, not only contributing to symptoms of Testosterone Deficiency, but also negatively impacting bone health, prostate function, and cardiovascular health. The goal of this article is to help you identify foods that support Healthy Testosterone Levels by controlling the effects of Estrogen. As with any significant changes in your diet and lifestyle routine, you should talk to your doctor about your decisions and follow their advice. Foods that Help Control Estrogen Cruciferous Vegetables Limit Estrogen Production Cruciferous Vegetables are highly effective at helping your body control Estrogen Production. This is because they … Read more »

As Bio-Identical Testosterone Treatments become more widely offered by Hormone Specialists across the United States, a great debate has been waging over the long-term safety of Testosterone Replacement Therapy. It is undeniable that Testosterone Creams, Patches, and Injections provide some real benefits that significantly improve the quality of life of patients. For example, Low-T Therapy enhances energy levels, body composition, libido, and psychological wellness in patients suffering from Hypogonadism. Risks of Testosterone Therapy On the other hand, there has always been the fear that Testosterone Therapy can have long-term consequences, especially in the areas of heart health and prostate health. This concern and the widespread use of Recombinant Testosterone Therapy has led to a veritable explosion of Testosterone Research since the turn of the century. Testosterone and Cardiovascular Health Prior research showed that Testosterone Treatments could negatively impact heart health, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and atherosclerosis. Fortunately, as the body of research has developed and HRT Therapy Techniques have advanced, it appears that this risk is vastly overstated when Testosterone is prescribed and used as directed. The bulk of risk comes from abuse of Testosterone Therapy and poor diagnostic practices. More studies must be conducted, but at … Read more »

Hormone Balance is the key to maintaining and facilitating optimal wellness. The way that our hormones work is highly complex. When we discuss Testosterone, Estrogen, or Human Growth Hormone Production, this is a short-hand for an entire branch of highly-interconnected processes which lead to the production of a vital hormone. Hormone Replacement Therapy tends to revolve around the replacement of the vital hormone which provides the broadest range of benefits. For example, HGH and Testosterone are both further processed into metabolites which offer the full range of benefits associated with the hormones. The goal of this article is to explain the role of Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) in the function and utilization of Testosterone. How Does the Body Make Testosterone? Sex Hormone Production begins in the hypothalamus — the control center of the brain. The Hypothalamus receives signals from the body to produce Testosterone or Estrogen, and sex hormone precursors are released. Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone is issued by the Hypothalamus, where it then travels to the Pituitary. The Pituitary Gland responds to this stimulation by releasing Luteinizing Hormone and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone, which then travel to the sex organs, promoting normal function in both men and women. For men, Testosterone Production is … Read more »

The human body is a complex web of interconnected systems. Hormones are responsible for influencing the way that these systems interact with one another. One category of hormones is known as stress hormones. These hormones are designed to put the body in a state of rapid preparedness and are strongly associated with the fight-or-flight response. One of the most potent and ubiquitous stress hormones is known as Cortisol. The Function of Cortisol Testosterone is the primary hormone of male potency, and it has a complicated relationship with Stress Hormones, notably Cortisol. Historically, humans had to deal with much more dangerous and intimidating situations than we currently have to deal with today. Cortisol is released when the body senses an immediate danger to the self. Cortisol is intended to be released in brief bursts, designed to get humans out of a sticky situation with life and limb. In such a case, Testosterone Levels spike at the same time as Cortisol Levels, helping men have the strength and the rapid response rate necessary to get out of trouble. After the threat has passed, Cortisol levels are supposed to fall. Stress in the Modern World Unfortunately, the modern world and the current human … Read more »

Testosterone Replacement Therapy provides a wide variety of benefits to aging men suffering from the effects of Andropause. Many of these benefits are well-known, especially those related to body composition, mood, and sexual appetite. There are many obscure benefits to Low-T Treatment, one of which is improved Bone Mineral Density. Dr. Robert Ashley has worked with patients suffering from Low-T and Osteoporosis for years. He explains that research has shown that Bio-Identical Testosterone Therapy for Andropause improves not only sexual desire and libido while increasing energy and helping patients lose weight, but also has positive effects on bone health. Should Men Worry About Osteoporosis? It's widely known that women are at an elevated risk of Osteoporosis compared to men. This is because Testosterone has anabolic effects on the skeletal structure. Testosterone promotes bone recycling, which helps preserve bone mineral density. Specifically, Testosterone encourages Osteoblast activity, which are cells designed to fortify bone with recycled minerals. Just because women are at elevated risk for Osteopenia and Osteoporosis doesn't mean that men are safe, however. Testosterone Deficiency causes an imbalance in the pattern of bone recycling, favoring Osteoclast activity. Osteoclasts are cells designed to break down bone tissue for recycling. Ideally, Osteoblasts … Read more »

Before you can start a testosterone replacement treatment program, you need to know what your current levels of testosterone are. This information is discovered with a simple blood test that is conducted at your first appointment with one of our specializing physicians. The unit of measure for testosterone is nanogram per deciliter (ng/dL) or nanomoles per liter (nmol/L) when measuring total testosterone and picogram per deciliter (pg/dL) or picomoles per liter (pmol/L). For those of you who are counting a gram = 1,000,000,000 nanograms and a nanogram =1000 picograms. A little goes a long way. Once they get your results back from the lab, they can determine whether your levels are low enough to require testosterone replacement therapy and what dosage will be necessary for you to maintain a healthy level of testosterone. In men, any level lower than 500 ng/Dl will usually lead to at least some of the negative symptoms related to testosterone deficiency and levels in the 250300ng/Dl range are often associated with severe symptoms and a general feeling of being discontent with oneself. Why are Testing Testosterone Levels Important? While there are many symptoms associated with testosterone deficiency and usually diagnosing it is relatively straightforward there are other … Read more »

Testosterone is the quintessentially male hormone, intrinsically connected to the ideas of masculinity and manhood. Testosterone provides men with a variety of potent benefits. It's associated with lean muscle mass and reduced body fat. Testosterone and its precursors are the building blocks of sperm, the source of male fertility. Men require Testosterone to be in peak physical and psychological condition. What many (or even most) people don't recognize is that Testosterone is intrinsically vital to feminine health as well. Both men and women produce Testosterone and Estrogen naturally, though in vastly different quantities. Men produce ten times as much Testosterone as women and only 1/10th as much Estrogen. Dr. Felice Gersh is a gynecologist from Irvine, California, the creator of the Integrative Medical Group. Her opinions actively inform the content of this article. The Effect of Testosterone on Muscle Mass Testosterone is a potent anabolic hormone and is the reason why men put on muscle as quickly as they do, and the reason why men have a lower body fat percentage on average compared to women. Even if a boy and girl were treated identically from birth — fed the same foods, engaging in the same activities, etc. — the … Read more »

For men that suffer from Andropause and Low-T, Bio-Identical Testosterone can be an absolute game-changer. Testosterone Deficiency leads to a whole range of symptoms which impair male wellness and deplete vitality, such as sexual dysfunction, increased body fat, reduced exercise capacity, depression, and more. That doesn't mean that Testosterone Treatments are for everyone, however. When used when it is not necessary, Testosterone Patches, Creams, and Injections come with some significant risks. What is Andropause and How Does it Impact Male Health and Virility? Similar to women, men also experience hormonal changes as a result of aging. Unlike women, who experience Menopause suddenly and somewhat abruptly, Andropause (the term for male menopause, also nicknamed Manopause) occurs slowly and gradually. The testes and adrenal glands produce high levels of Testosterone throughout adolescence and early adulthood, and Testosterone Levels fall into a state of depletion around the age of thirty. The decline is prolonged, only around 1-2% annually, but over the course of years and decades, Testosterone Levels can drop to a level which is no longer conducive to health and masculinity. What are the Benefits of Testosterone Therapy for Men with Low-T? For men with impaired Testosterone Production, Prescription Testosterone Therapy for … Read more »

It's inevitably clear that hormones profoundly influence our feelings of love and affection for others, as well as our romantic and sexual desires. Though it's entirely apparent, there are still miles to go before we figure out exactly how those hormones impact our interactions with others. There is a massive push in the scientific literature to bring us closer to understanding these complex physiological interactions, especially concerning the influence of Testosterone. An article in Physiology & Behavior helps shed some light on how Testosterone influences male relationships. One of the most notable aspects of a relationship between a man and a woman is the notion of possession. When a man and a woman are dating traditionally, both partners tend to have a desire for loyalty and faithfulness. This recent study provides evidence that that desire for fidelity is influenced by Testosterone Levels, at least to a certain extent. Men with elevated Testosterone Levels compared to baseline tend to put more personal energy into making sure that their lover is adequately devoted and faithful, and are more likely to respond with feelings of jealousy and competitiveness toward potential suitors. What is Mate Retention Behavior? Mate Retention Behaviors are any actions that … Read more »

In recent years, there have been increasing concerns regarding the effect of Ibuprofen on Testosterone Levels. There have recently been some scaremongering articles that suggest that Ibuprofin use can have a disastrous impact on Testosterone Levels. It's important to recognize that news magazines have pressure to sensationalize stories to draw readers. On the other hand, there is often a grain of fact behind the shocking headlines. Let's delve deeper and work toward the truth. In a recent study, researchers gathered evidence from both laboratory analysis and human trials to investigate the effects of Ibuprofen on Testosterone Levels. While it's true that Significant Low-T dramatically impairs Fertility and can even lead to total infertility without HRT Intervention, this particular research did not specifically investigate the effects of Ibuprofen on Fertility. 30 Men Take Ibuprofen for 42 Days In the investigated clinical study, thirty male participants took 1200 milligrams of ibuprofen per day for 1½ months to determine the effects of Ibuprofen Overdose on Testosterone Levels. The average single dose of Ibuprofen is 400 milligrams. While it is possible that an individual would take three Ibuprofen pills per day for an extended period, this is indeed an edge case that doesn't apply … Read more »

In spite of the efforts of Prohibition, drinking beer is one of America's most notable pastimes. In the 21st century, things are changing. A market once controlled by massive national breweries is now divided into a burgeoning craft beer sector. Unfortunately, excess alcohol consumption has some significant effects on male physiology that can't be ignored. Most people are aware of the dreaded “beer belly,” but there are other issues associated with beer and alcohol consumption as well. Drinking Beer Can Cause Man Boobs One of the more embarrassing issues that can arise when you chronically drink too much beer is gynecomastia. Gynecomastia is a fancy term for men growing breast tissue where it doesn't belong. There is currently a scientific debate going on regarding the effects of hops upon testosterone/estrogen balance, but there are factors at play related to alcohol consumption that can lead to man-boobs. That's because the hops that are used to brew beer have properties which can be compared to estrogen. In high enough quantities, those hops could disrupt hormone balance and cause men to produce both more estrogen and less testosterone than they are supposed to. Specifically, these compounds are referred to as phytoestrogens. One of … Read more »

Medical professionals across the country have seen a boom in men that are looking for Testosterone Therapy Treatments in order to mitigate the effects of Low-T and Andropause. This is partially because of the increased social-awareness regarding the effects of Testosterone Deficiency, which include weight gain, loss of muscle mass, erectile dysfunction, and depression, but there is also some concern that the increased incidence of Low-T among aging men may also be the result of other factors, including Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals, Obesity, and other Lifestyle Issues which contribute to declining Testosterone Levels among the male population. One of the most well-known experts in Low-T Treatment is Dr. Mark Rosenbloom, who is the director of the LIFEFORCE Medical Institute, a Hormone Clinic in Chicago, Illinois, which specializes in the use of HRT Treatments such as Testosterone Therapy in order to improve health and wellness with aging. As medical science grows regarding the effects of Hormone Imbalance and Deficiency on the human body, medical clinics such as LIFEFORCE will become both more prominent and more important in our quest to maintain good health throughout our lives. New Research Shows that More Men Have Low-T than Ever Playboy Magazine is known for more than … Read more »

One of the common misconceptions about losing weight is that dieting is the best means by which to do it. Most people also think that dieting is incredibly tricky. While it is true that many struggle with dieting, most people do lose weight when they go on a diet. The problem is that, over time, willpower falls and people go back to their old, poor habits, regaining the weight that they lost successfully. So the biggest problem isn't losing weight for most individuals, it's maintaining and continuing weight loss. This is known as weight cycling. Weight Cycling is defined as a series of periods of purposeful weight loss and accidental weight gain, generally caused by failed diet attempts. One of the most frustrating aspects of weight cycling is that it can actually lead to weight gain! This is because the body stores fat more readily per calorie consumed when food becomes scarce. So while you lose weight during your diet, your body stores more fat per calorie. When you give up on your diet or lose your resolve, most people start eating much like they did before they started the diet. This causes them to gain weight because their bodies … Read more »

Bio-Identical Testosterone There is no doubt that Bio-Identical Testosterone has become increasingly popular over the course of the last generation. There are millions upon millions of aging males that have turned to Low-T Therapy from reputable Hormone Clinics in order to treat Andropause, also known as Age-Related Testosterone Deficiency. Testosterone Creams, Patches, and Injections have shown to be highly capable of boosting Testosterone Levels back to normal (And restoring sex drive and energy) for men suffering from Hypogonadism, but there has always been the question of drawbacks. What is the potential downside of Testosterone? Historically, the lack of longitudinal studies has impaired our knowledge regarding what the risks of Testosterone Therapy truly are, but a growing number of studies released over the course of the last few years have quickly changed what we know about Testosterone. Studies nearer to the turn of the century seemed to suggest that there may be a correlation between cardiovascular disease and Testosterone Therapy, and this necessitated further study to truly recognize the safety concerns related to Low-T Treatment with Therapeutic Testosterone. Testosterone Therapy Safer than Once Believed Fortunately for men with Testosterone Deficiency interested in Hormone Therapy, these studies have not been corroborated, and … Read more »

What are Telomeres, and what do they have to do with longevity? In any living organism, including humans, cells divide (or split) into a higher number of cells. This is how our bodies maintain themselves and heal themselves from injury. Within cells are chromosomes. Our DNA patterns are primarily found in chromosomes. Telomeres are located on the ends of chromosomes. They keep the chromosomes from deteriorating, among other things. However, telomeres themselves degrade over time. In the early stages of life, telomeres are long, and they are shortened as a human gets older. When a telomere becomes too short, the cell is no longer able to divide and produce new cells. Instead, it begins to deteriorate and will eventually die. In short, the longer the telomere is, the better able the body is to maintain itself on a cellular level. When telomeres become too short, the body begins to degrade. What is Telomerase? Enzymes are responsible for chemical reactions on a cellular level. Telomerase is an enzyme that can work to increase the length of telomeres. However, note that telomeres can sometimes become too long. When this happens, it can result in cancer and various tumors. When telomeres are a … Read more »

If you've ever tried to diet in your life, which most Americans have, you've probably felt frustration with the weight scale. You spend two or three weeks working out and eating better only to find that you have just lost a little bit of weight, or perhaps even none at all! Some people even gain a little weight when they start working out. It's important to realize, however, that the scale never tells the whole story of your dieting journey. Most people are somewhat aware of the concept that muscle weighs more than fat, but don't realize the implications. This fact is actually the biggest reason why people get so frustrated with scales when they start working out for health. For people that are trying to drop fat and feel better, it may even be better not to use scales at all, and just trust your health regimen and the mirror. One of the many reasons that diets fail is because people focus only on the scale and lose faith in their ability to lose weight. Muscle Vs. Fat At first glance, the idea that muscle weighs more than fat might seem a little strange. Of course, an ounce of … Read more »

Nitric Oxide is a crucial and multifaceted chemical messenger, that is incredibly vital for maintaining human function. Nitric Oxide acts similar to a hormone but is an inorganic compound. There is even some evidence that Nitric Oxide can be used therapeutically to halt the growth of cancerous tumors. Though Nitric Oxide has been heavily studied, scientists are still in the process of learning the specific mechanisms by which Nitric Oxide mitigates tumor growth. Depending on external factors, Nitric Oxide can also facilitate tumor growth, so it is essential to understand precisely the role that Nitric Oxide plays to both promote new and better cancer treatments and reduce cancer risk. What is Nitric Oxide? Nitric Oxide has been a known entity since the late 19th century, but it was not until 1998 that researchers began to discover the functions of Nitric Oxide in the human system. Three doctors won the Nobel Prize in 1998 for describing Nitric Oxide's role as a vasodilator. All living human cells can produce Nitric Oxide, which is a free radical molecule that can be absorbed in water. What does Nitric Oxide Do? Nitric Oxide is a chemical messenger that the cells use to communicate with one … Read more »

Heartburn is incredibly painful, and most people have experienced the condition at least a few times in their lives. Surprisingly, though heartburn has been studied since the dawn of modern medicine, there are still a lot of important questions to be asked, and hypotheses that were previously considered correct are being questioned once again. Heartburn and Acid Reflux is a widespread health issue throughout the United States. Around 20% of Americans deal with heartburn or Upper Gastrointestinal Pain. What Causes Heartburn? For closing in on a century, it has generally been agreed upon that the cause of heartburn is the excess secretion of acid in the esophagus. Recent research provides convincing evidence that Heartburn is a much more complex condition, and that the problem isn't due directly to the influence of the acid itself, but to inflammation that stimulates that acid production. Chronic inflammation is a major medical issue that has far-reaching effects, and new research shows that inflammation has a powerful impact on proper digestion, and can lead to heartburn in many patients, exacerbating the issues already resulting from elevated acid levels. Redefining Heartburn: GERD The scientific term for Heartburn is Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), relating to the buildup … Read more »

Erectile dysfunction refers to a man's inability to generate or sustain an erection in a way that allows him to enjoy sexual activity. Erectile dysfunction has many causes and becomes more common as men grow older. There are many effective treatments for erectile dysfunction to help men restore their sexual vitality and potency. Erectile dysfunction also refers to issues which hinder sexual drive as well as core sexual function. What Causes Erectile Dysfunction? Erectile dysfunction (commonly referred to just as “ED”) is always the symptom of another underlying problem. The male erection is a hydraulic process tied to erotic desire and sensation. Anything that prevents a man from “getting hard” is a cause for erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction can even be rooted in psychology. Some men, especially those that experience psychological trauma or depression, can have issues with sexual function. The following are some other causes of erectile dysfunction: Sleep issues Alcoholism and drug abuse Treatments for enlarged prostate Prostate cancer treatment Prescription drug side effects Obesity Diabetes High blood pressure Poor cholesterol Atherosclerosis Cardiovascular disease and heart disease Metabolic syndrome Hormone imbalance As you can see, erectile dysfunction is associated with a variety of other health issues that can … Read more »

What is Sermorelin Acetate? Sermorelin acetate is a recombinant prescription medication designed for the treatment of idiopathic human growth hormone deficiency in children and adults. Sermorelin acetate is often prescribed instead of human growth hormone therapy to elevate and restore ordinary endogenous human growth hormone levels. Sermorelin acetate is a truncated version of a naturally produced hormone known as growth hormone-releasing hormone or GH-RH. How Does Sermorelin Acetate Work? Sermorelin works by correctly copying the effect of GH-RH on the pituitary gland. When the body recognizes a need for human growth hormone, the hypothalamus releases GH-RH to stimulate the pituitary somatotrophs which are responsible for secreting endogenous human growth hormone. GH-RH travels through a series of blood vessels in the brain known as the hypophyseal portal system to activate the somatotrophs. At this point, human growth hormone is released. What's the Difference between Sermorelin and GH-RH? Sermorelin is a functional analog of GH-RH, meaning that, though it is not molecularly identical, it stimulates the human body in the same way. Sermorelin contains the functional protein structure of GH-RH, without the physiologically impotent junk proteins that comprise a portion of the hormone. This makes it cheaper to produce than bio-identical GH-RH … Read more »

It's common to emphasize the physical benefits of exercise, but for many people, the psychological benefits of exercise are just as significant, and may even outweigh the importance of losing weight and improving strength and energy levels. It can be hard to establish a diet or exercise plan. Ask anyone that's tried to convert from a sedentary lifestyle to a more thoughtful and active lifestyle. On the other hand, most people that engage in a life of activity seem to feed off of it, and the psychological and physiological changes caused by a good exercise routine are self-reinforcing. Increased energy levels ward off fatigue. Sleep comes more natural and provides improved wakefulness. In general, there is an improved sense of well-being that is directly associated with exercise. It works the other way around too. People that don't get enough exercise are more likely to struggle to get off the couch or even out of bed. They also are more likely to suffer from memory issues and are more likely to suffer from problems with anxiety and depression. Many psychological problems have a direct physical component. Mental fatigue and physical fatigue go hand in hand. People that don't get enough physical … Read more »

The human body is a beautiful machine that requires a lot of ingredients to function properly and keep you feeling happy and healthy. This article is about the three macronutrients that the body needs to survive: Proteins, Carbohydrates, and Fats. Each serves a specific need for your body, and each has a life-sustaining role to play. What Are Proteins? Proteins are organic compounds which are comprised of amino acids. To date, there are twenty known amino acids that the body utilizes, eleven of which are made naturally by the human body. The means that nine others must be consumed in your diet. These amino acids are known as Essential Amino Acids. Why Do We Need Protein? Every one of our cells uses protein, and protein is necessary for the diet to fix what's broken and to help build and rebuild tissues. For example, after you work out, your body uses protein from your food to patch up and reinforce your muscle tissue, which is what heals you and makes you stronger. Positive Nitrogen Balance is an important concept to consider when thinking about protein. This just means that you are eating enough protein frequently enough to meet the needs of … Read more »

For men with testosterone deficiency, life can feel like walking uphill every day, all the time. It makes it difficult just to keep moving forward with your life, much less maintain your current pace. Testosterone therapy is magnificent because it can put you back in the driver's seat of your own life, not only restoring sexual livelihood but giving you back the strength and energy to make the most of your life. Using Testosterone Safely First, we should note that testosterone should not be used by men with healthy testosterone levels. There are many that turn to testosterone to try to elevate their masculinity to super-human levels, but there are significant risks associated with the abuse of testosterone. Testosterone, when administered therapeutically for low-t can lead to life-changing benefits, but there is just too much risk associated with testosterone abuse to ever recommend it to a healthy man. How Long Will it Take to See Results with Testosterone? For those beginning a testosterone therapy regimen for the first time, it's important to realize that testosterone is not a magic potion — the amazing results you've read about don't come in a day or even a week. Low-t therapy with bio-identical … Read more »

For those with severe testosterone deficiency, low-t therapy with testosterone injections, creams, or other forms of prescription testosterone are the only way to get testosterone levels back into a state of harmony, but for those struggling with a mild deficiency, or those looking to pump up testosterone levels naturally, there are some steps that you can take to bolster your testosterone production. You may be aware of some other ways you can promote healthy t-levels, such as anabolic exercise, interval training, and sound sleeping habits, but in this article, we'll be focusing on how diet may impact testosterone balance. Vitamin D and Testosterone Vitamins and minerals play a crucial role in promoting testosterone production, absorption, and utilization. Vitamin D is among the most important. Recent studies have shown that, for patients with significant vitamin D deficiency, testosterone levels also become suppressed. Doctor-monitored vitamin D supplementation was shown to increase testosterone in patients. Of course, in this study, patients were provided with therapeutic levels of vitamin D, which isn't advisable without a doctor's consent and advice. On the other hand, it does show us how important vitamin D is for hormone production. To make sure your body gets enough vitamin D, … Read more »

As we learn more about testosterone deficiency and how our bodies respond to declining testosterone levels, we periodically revise our strategies regarding the determination of low-t. Every patient is different and responds to declining testosterone production in their own way, but there are defined clinical limits to what is considered normal testosterone levels and what is characterized as low-t or andropause. What is the Testosterone Normal Range? The clinical range for establishing healthy testosterone levels consists of two values. If your testosterone levels are lower than the base of the range, then you are considered testosterone deficient. The healthy testosterone range is referred to as either the normal range or the reference range. Any value that falls outside of this range is grounds for further examination. Abnormally high testosterone levels are associated with testosterone abuse and cancer, low testosterone volume is a sure sign of low-t. When you meet us for clinical hormone evaluation, we primarily use Labcorp as the diagnostic testing firm of choice. We utilize the efficient diagnostic capabilities of Labcorp to provide you with fast and accurate diagnoses of hormone imbalance and deficiency. Recently, Labcorp adjusted the way that they evaluate your testosterone levels. Previously, the normal … Read more »

Testosterone is a potent Hormone that has huge effects on human physiological function. Most people are aware of the impact that Testosterone has on sexual function, strength, and body composition, but Testosterone also affects pulmonary health as well. These effects can be seen concerning both gender differences and about the impact of Low-T on male health. Women Are More Prone to Experience Asthma than Men Because Women Produce Less Testosterone Though our understanding of Testosterone's many functions has grown tremendously in the past generation of medical study, there is still so much to learn. Just this year, new research was published which presents substantial evidence that Serum Testosterone has a direct impact on the volume of a particular set of white blood cells that target human airways. In men, elevated Testosterone Levels keep this form of white blood cell in check, but women have a tendency to produce too many of these cells, which leads to an increased prevalence of asthma and bronchial/lung inflammation. There are many autoimmune conditions which are impacted by sex-differences, but this is the first time that Testosterone has been directly implicated in asthma. Among adults, women are twice as likely to suffer from asthma as … Read more »

Managing Testosterone Levels is a significant goal for men of all ages. Testosterone helps bolster strength, metabolism, energy, and sex drive. By keeping Testosterone Production elevated, men can amplify their masculinity and virility. One of the best ways to keep your body pumping out Testosterone is through a regular exercise program. Anabolic weightlifting is a fantastic way to encourage the release of Testosterone. Why are Maximized Testosterone Levels so Important? For your workouts to have the best effects, you should emphasize exercises that bolster Testosterone and Human Growth Hormone Production. The body responds to physical exertion with the release of these hormones. Over time, beginning in the late 20s, the body loses its ability to adequately produce hormones like HGH and Testosterone, which can eventually lead to deficiency. By your 40s, you can expect Testosterone Production to fall by around two percent annually. Even when these hormones are in the normal range, they can still be sub-optimal if you aren't living your life right. By engaging in a quality exercise routine, you make sure that your body is pumping out as much of these vital hormones as possible. Healthy Testosterone Levels are associated with an active sex life, confidence, and … Read more »

Vitamin A is not just one nutrient, but a class of nutrients which all fill the same necessary range of needs for the human body. The most commonly known source of Vitamin A is Beta-Carotene, but others include Retinoic Acid, Retinal, and Retinol. Vitamin A is not only a crucial Antioxidant, but it also facilitates normal and healthy function in a range of other ways. For example, Vitamin A is critical for eye development and eye health, because it is a component of Rhodopsin, which is necessary for the eyes to absorb light properly. Beyond vision, Vitamin A is highly influential in the normalized function of other organs and systems, such as the kidneys, lungs, and heart. Types of Vitamin A—Preformed Vitamin A and Provitamin A Though there are many subclasses of Vitamin A, they can all be divided into two groups—Preformed and Provitamin A. Preformed Vitamin A is found solely in products of animal origin, such as meat, fish, and dairy. Provitamin A is found in plant pigments, and the three most common forms of Provitamin A are Beta-Cryptoxanthin, Alpha-Carotene, and the famous Beta-Carotene. The body absorbs both types of Vitamin A and converts it into Retinoic Acid and … Read more »