Andropause, otherwise known as “male menopause” or PADAM (Partial Androgen Deficiency in the Ageing Male), is the impact of decreasing androgens in aging men. While the decrease in androgens is a normal part of aging, it can be accompanied by a gradual decline in sexuality, mood and energy.
Andropause usually begins between the ages of 40 and 55, however it may be much more gradual, expanding decades. Attitude, stress, injuries, medications, infections and obesity can all contribute to the onset of andropausal symptoms. Men begin to experience symptoms similar to female menopause. However, because there is no clear signal, like loss of menstruation for women, men are often misdiagnosed or fail to see a healthcare professional at all. With changes in mood, loss of energy, sex drive and agility, and an increase in fatigue, many men find it difficult to even admit there is a problem. Another reason for under-diagnosis and under-treatment is that most men experience these symptoms at a time that is commonly referred to as, “mid-life crisis.” Because many men question their accomplishments and direction in life at this time, it is often difficult to distinguish the cause of their symptoms between actual physiological changes and external conditions.
Testosterone helps build protein in men. It is vital for normal sexual behavior and achieving erections. Also, it affects the production of blood cells in bone marrow, bone formation, carbohydrate metabolism, liver function, lipid metabolism and prostate gland growth. Around age 30, testosterone levels begin to drop at a rate of about 10% each decade. At the same time, SHGB, Sex Binding Hormone Globulin, is increasing. SHBG traps testosterone, making it unavailable to affect the body’s tissues. The testosterone that is left is called bioavailable testosterone. When men experience a decline in this type of testosterone, they can experience andropausal symptoms like decreased sex drive, emotional and behavioral changes, decreased muscle mass, increased upper and central body fat and back pain. This condition also puts men at increased risk for osteoporosis and heart disease.
Fortunately, new methods for blood testing are now available. Coupled with an increased interest in men’s aging, much more attention is now being focused on this condition and treatment. Assistance is also available through supplements for optimizing hormonal production and balance.
MHP’s Amidren is the first complete male hormone modulating formula that addresses Andropause and is available at I-supplements.com.
