Testosterone is a vital *male sex hormone* that plays a key role in reproduction, muscle mass, bone health, and more. Testosterone levels naturally rise during puberty and peak in a man's late teens or early 20s before slowly declining with age.
What are the main functions of testosterone?
Some key roles testosterone plays in men include:
- Stimulating sperm production
- Building muscle mass and bone density
- Facilitating penis/testes growth during puberty
- Affecting fat distribution
- Regulating sex drive (libido)
- Influencing red blood cell production
How do testosterone levels affect men?
Testosterone levels can significantly influence men's health. For example:
- Low T can cause low energy, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, infertility, loss of muscle mass, increased body fat, weakened bones, and emotional changes like depression.
- Excess testosterone due to steroid use can lead to testicular shrinkage, baldness, acne, aggressive behavior, cardiovascular issues, liver damage, and more.
What impacts testosterone levels?
Testosterone production depends on a balance of hormones. Levels are influenced by factors like:
- Age and genetics
- Injury/illness
- Stress management
- Nutrition - diet high in protein, vitamins, and minerals
- Strength training helps maintain muscle and T levels
- Sleep habits - testosterone increases during deep sleep
In summary, testosterone is an essential sex hormone in men that plays a crucial role in physical development and mental wellbeing. I hope this overview gives some insight into what testosterone is and how it works! Let me know if you have any other questions.