Health Conditions: Know the Causes of Low Testosterone

Men may experience a drop in testosterone for a variety of reasons. Among the common health conditions and related factors that may increase the risk of low testosterone are:

• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Trauma
• Previous steroid use
• Certain medications, such as corticosteroids
• Genetic causes

Research shows that low testosterone and diabetes are connected

 Low testosterone and diabetes often go hand in hand. In fact, men with type 2 diabetes are twice as likely to have low testosterone as men who don't have diabetes.

A study published in 2013 in the journal BioMed Research International found that low testosterone levels may help predict if a man will develop insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes in the future. According to the researchers, in a group of more than 300 obese and non-obese men, 44 percent had both type 2 diabetes and low testosterone, compared with 33 percent who had low testosterone but did not have diabetes. The researchers also noted that 25 percent of those with type 2 diabetes and low testosterone were not obese, concluding that low testosterone is linked to insulin resistance regardless of body weight.

Preventing Low Testosterone

Positive lifestyle steps can boost overall health and help prevent low testosterone levels. These include:

• Eating a healthy diet
• Exercising
• Getting enough sleep
• Not smoking
• Managing stress
• Following your doctor's management plan for any health condition you may have, such as diabetes

“One of the most important things all men should do is maintain a healthy weight," Dr. Shindel says. "In fat tissue in both men and women, testosterone converts into estrogen. That means being overweight or obese may contribute to low testosterone levels. Weight loss may already be part of your overall health management plan, and know that it could benefit your testosterone levels as well."

Low Testostrone Men’s Clinic offers Diabetic Counseling

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6213 Colleyville Blvd.       Colleyville, TX  76034       817-416-5698         LTmensclinic.com