What is Testosterone?
Testosterone is a male hormone produced in the testicles of men, and in smaller amounts in the ovaries of women. It is also produced in the adrenal glands of both sexes. Testosterone is highly important for the development of sexual characteristics and various body functions. Want to know what they are? Let’s find out!
What is the function of Testosterone?
In men:
Masculine Development: Testosterone supports physical changes in males during adolescence, including the growth of the genitals, a deepening voice, and the appearance of body and facial hair.
Building Muscle and Strength: Testosterone helps stimulate protein formation within the body, resulting in men naturally having bigger and stronger muscles than women.
Maintaining Strong Bones: Testosterone helps maintain the strength and density of bones, reducing the risk of bone thinning or osteoporosis.
Supporting Sperm Production: Testosterone is the primary hormone essential for producing healthy and high-quality sperm.
Increasing Sexual Desire: Testosterone has a significant impact on sexual desire and performance, helping to maintain normal sexual activity.
Impact on Energy and Emotions: With proper testosterone levels, men feel energetic, refreshed, and in a good mood, while low testosterone can lead to fatigue, moodiness, or depressive feelings.
In women:
Even though women have significantly lower levels of testosterone than men, it still has a crucial impact on their overall health in various aspects, such as
Sexual Desire: Helps stimulate sexual feelings and enhance satisfaction in women.
Energy and Emotions: Contributes to feeling more energetic, emotionally stable, and less fatigued.
Bone Health: Helps build and maintain bone mass, lowering the risk of bone loss or osteoporosis.
What are the causes and effects of abnormal testosterone levels?
Testosterone levels may change due to age, lifestyle, or health issues. Whether too high or too low, they can impact both physical and mental health in the following ways:
Abnormally low levels
Low testosterone levels in men can result in several issues, such as:
▶️ Lower sexual desire
▶️ Erectile dysfunction
▶️ Feeling weak, easily fatigued, and low energy
▶️Loss of muscle mass and increased body fat
▶️ Reduced bone density leading to a higher risk of osteoporosis.
▶️Emotional instability, irritability, or depression.
Causes of low testosterone levels may be age-related (which is normal), chronic diseases, certain medications, or issues affecting the testicles.
Abnormally high levels:
In men, naturally high testosterone levels are generally uncommon. However, the use of synthetic substances such as steroids to boost hormone levels can lead to side effects such as:
▶️ Cardiovascular problems
▶️ Liver problems and liver failure
▶️ Behavioral issues such as intense mood swings and aggression
In women, high testosterone levels can lead to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), causing symptoms such as:
▶️ Unusual facial and body hair growth
▶️Oily skin and frequent acne
▶️Irregular periods
Ways to maintain balanced testosterone levels
Balancing testosterone levels is important for both physical and mental health. It can be maintained through the following methods:
Regular Exercise: Especially resistance exercises such as weight training, which helps stimulate hormone production.
Consume Healthy Foods: Choose foods high in protein, vitamin D, and zinc, which help support hormone production.
Sufficient Sleep: Sleeping at least 7–8 hours per night helps the body produce hormones more effectively.
Managing Stress: Accumulated stress can negatively impact testosterone levels.
Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Overweight and obesity can contribute to reduced testosterone levels.
If you suspect your symptoms are related to testosterone imbalance, it is important to consult a doctor for blood tests and accurate hormone level assessment, as well as appropriate treatment recommendations.
Testosterone is not only a male hormone but also an important hormone that affects both physical and mental health in men and women. It has functions across multiple body systems and is an essential component in promoting better overall quality of life.