Low Testosterone In Women

Low Testosterone In Women
Next Health Staff
|
May 2, 2024

Do Women Have Testosterone?

Yes, in fact, testosterone is the most abundant hormone in the female body. Testosterone’s effect on women’s health extends far beyond sexual health as it affects the heart, blood vessels, intestinal tract, lungs, brain, skin, bone, and more.

Because of this, at certain times during a woman’s lifespan, testosterone levels measure up to 10 times higher than estrogen levels.

Low Testosterone Symptoms in Women

Starting around the age of 30, our hormone levels begin to decline. In fact, women lose approximately 50% of their testosterone per year starting between the ages of 20-40. ‍Because hormones are critical messengers that relay essential information to cells, when hormone function is not optimal, we do not feel our best. Many of the stereotypical signs of aging such as sluggishness, hair loss, low libido, and others are actually due to a decline in hormones. ‍

Signs of low testosterone in women include:

  • Decreased libido (sex drive)
  • Fatigue or low energy levels
  • Loss of muscle mass
  • Weight gain, particularly around the abdomen
  • Mood changes, including irritability or depression
  • Difficulty concentrating or memory lapses
  • Changes in menstrual cycles, such as irregular periods or absence of periods
  • Decreased bone density, leading to increased risk of osteoporosis
  • Dry skin and hair
  • Hot flashes or night sweats

Testosterone Killing Foods

The popularized term “testosterone killing foods” really just refers to foods that may disrupt hormone function (endocrine disruptors) when consumed over extended periods of time:

Foods That Lower Testosterone

  • Processed Foods: Processed foods high in refined sugars and unhealthy fats can trigger inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation can disrupt the delicate balance of hormones, including testosterone. Additionally, these foods may lead to an imbalance in insulin levels, which can further contribute to hormonal disruptions. Insulin resistance, often associated with a diet high in processed foods, is linked to lower testosterone levels as it interferes with the body's ability to regulate hormone production.
  • High-Sugar Foods: Excessive consumption of high-sugar foods and beverages can lead to insulin resistance. When blood sugar levels spike repeatedly due to frequent consumption of sugary foods, the body's cells become less responsive to insulin, leading to elevated insulin levels in the bloodstream. Furthermore, chronically high insulin levels can suppress the activity of the enzyme responsible for testosterone.
  • Alcohol: Heavy alcohol consumption can have detrimental effects on hormone production and metabolism. Alcohol disrupts the function of the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis, which plays a central role in regulating testosterone levels. Chronic alcohol consumption can suppress the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland, which in turn reduces testosterone production. Additionally, for men, alcohol can directly damage testicular tissue and interfere with testosterone synthesis.
  • Soy Products: Soy products contain compounds called phytoestrogens, which are plant-derived compounds that have estrogen-like effects in the body. Phytoestrogens can bind to estrogen receptors, potentially interfering with the body's natural hormone balance, including testosterone levels. While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, some research suggests that high consumption of soy products, particularly those containing phytoestrogens like genistein and daidzein, may lead to reduced testosterone levels.

Best Testosterone Supplement

For those looking to restore their testosterone levels and relieve symptoms of low testosterone, our experts recommend Hormone Replacement Therapy.

For women, optimizing hormone levels, especially post-menopause, is crucial for improving quality of life. Balancing female hormones will improve mood, decrease unwanted side effects like weight gain, vaginal dryness, and hot flashes.

By restoring and optimizing hormone levels, you can experience benefits such as:

  • Enhance energy
  • Increase lean muscle
  • Improve mental clarity
  • Reverse signs of aging
  • Weight loss
  • Healthy hair, skin, and nails

Testosterone Pellets for Women

At Next Health we offer bio-identical testosterone pellets. Bio-Identical hormones are exactly what they sound like; they are hormones designed to mimic the natural hormones produced by a patient’s body.‍In most cases, bio-identical hormones are created from plant-derived sources such as yams. They are considered "molecularly identical" to the hormones your body makes naturally. ‍As a result, bio-identical hormones can potentially offer greater advantages and lower risks for side effects compared to regular hormones used in certain hormone therapy treatments.

Testosterone Gel

Testosterone gel is a topical medication used to supplement testosterone levels in individuals with low testosterone levels, a condition known as hypogonadism. It is applied directly to the skin, where it is absorbed into the bloodstream.

Testosterone Cream

Testosterone cream, also known as testosterone topical gel or testosterone transdermal gel, is a medication prescribed to supplement testosterone levels in individuals with low testosterone levels, a condition known as hypogonadism. It is typically applied to the skin and absorbed into the bloodstream, where it can increase testosterone levels.

Join Our Hormone Program

Hormone Optimization at Next Health is a personalized journey available to both men and women. Our approach, crafted by a team of Functional Medicine Experts, goes beyond the one-size-fits-all prescription.

We're dedicated to assisting you in restoring and balancing your hormone levels, unlocking benefits such as improved energy, enhanced sleep, effortless weight maintenance, and a path towards enhanced longevity.

Your path to well-being is as unique as you are, and we're here to support your individual health goals.

Your journey It begins with testing your hormones through our Next Health Advanced Hormone Blood Test. The test is designed to detect hormone imbalances in both men and women. This comprehensive test serves as a prerequisite to join our Hormone Optimization Program, and allows both you and the physician to make a data-driven decision regarding the treatment plan that is best suited for you.

Questions? Request a complimentary consult here

Call or text: (310) 295-2075

Sources:

https://www.tampabioidenticals.com/hormone-imbalance/myths-about-testosterone-in-women/

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