Ever wonder what hormone helps us grow stronger? Testosterone, also known as the male “sex hormone” enables proteins in the body to build muscle. This hormone helps our muscles grow bigger. Being the the star of this department, it also gives guys their distinctive male characteristics. Enhancing their masculine defining features from their deep burly voices, to their bristly beards, and their impressive physical strength and stamina. Yet testosterone does far more than this. It is absolutely essential for many key functions that help your body maintain wellness. This is true for both men and women and pretty much all human beings.
This fundamental need for testosterone in both men and women is often overlooked. Bulking up, pumping iron, and bodybuilding may come to mind. What is often less understood is how important this hormone is for our physical health and well being. Without it, people can suffer from a myriad of health conditions ranging from issues with inflammation to slowed energy and metabolism, heart disease, frailty, and poor cognition. Research shows low testosterone may lead to an increased risk for all-cause mortality. Not to mention shrinking private parts in both men and women. Yikes, nobody wants that!
What does Testosterone do?
Testosterone is a steroid hormone made in small amounts by the adrenal glands in both sexes. It is also produced by the ovaries in women. And it is made in larger amounts by the testes in men. This sex hormone plays a prominent role in the development of the testes and prostate. Men have approximately 7-8 times the amount of testosterone than is found in women. Yet this sex hormone takes center stage in both sexes via prompting sexual responsiveness, libido, and sex desire. Testosterone signals the growth of new bone and muscle tissue as well as hair in both sexes. It increases muscle mass and strength by generating the production of proteins. It also enhances bone density which helps prevent bone fractures and osteoporosis.
Mood Altering Effects
One of the many great benefits of this sex hormone is that it helps us feel good. It is responsible for enhancing our energy levels, mood, sense of well-being, and perception. It has been known to make effort feel good. Some scientists even suggest that testosterone helps regulate the uptake of serotonin in the brain. Thus promoting feelings of happiness, contentment, and satisfaction. It also has anti-anxiety effects while lowering fear. Having optimal levels of this hormone can promote self-esteem, confidence, and motivation. For women, this ranges from (9-55 ng/dl) and for men, this ranges from (300-1000 ng/dl).
Testosterone and Decreased Inflammation
Not only does this hormone help us feel good, but research shows it is associated with decreased inflammation. According to an analysis of hundreds of articles studying testosterone and inflammation, testosterone levels are shown to be a determining factor in the inflammatory process. Higher levels of this sex hormone are correlated with decreased fat cell formation and the suppression of cytokines. Thus reducing fat mass and lowering inflammation.
Along with this, studies show an inverse relationship between CRP and testosterone. CRP, also known as C-reactive protein, is a protein secreted by the liver in response to rising inflammation levels throughout the body. CRP has both anti-inflammatory and pro inflammatory effects. Higher levels of testosterone are usually associated with lower levels of CRP and vice versa. High CRP levels are linked to heart disease and heart attack so having low CRP levels can be preventative against cardiovascular disease. People test their CRP to check for underlying infections and chronic inflammatory conditions. Having a CRP as close to 0 is ideal. This is correlated with optimal testosterone levels.
Testosterone And Metabolism
Furthermore, testosterone helps transport glucose to muscles and brain cells. It contributes to a well-oiled metabolism and supports optimal energy levels. This sex hormone can also increase the number of calories you burn. It is responsible for the breakdown of fats into fuel and helping your body burn the right amount of fat. Thus promoting optimal cholesterol levels.
Likewise studies show that higher levels of testosterone stimulate adiponectin. Adiponectin has anti oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. This helps reduce atherosclerosis and prevents plaque buildup and fatty deposits in the arteries. Adiponectin also helps the body regulate blood glucose levels and improves insulin responsiveness. This means that testosterone helps cells break down food for fuel more efficiently.
Testosterone and Red Blood Cells
To add to this sex hormone’s health toting benefits, testosterone levels are also associated with hemoglobin concentration. Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that delivers oxygen throughout the body. Our hemoglobin levels determine how healthy our red blood cells are. Thus optimal hemoglobin equates to our red blood cells’ ability to nourish our tissues, organs, and overall physiology.
This hormone also plays a significant role in the formation of red blood cells. Higher levels of this hormone are correlated with increased red blood cell formation. Men, who have more testosterone, typically have higher levels of RBC, red blood cells. Likewise, testosterone therapy raises the red blood cell count in people with anemia.
Additional Benefits of Testosterone
In addition to this, testosterone is neuroprotective. Studies have shown that it increases neurogenesis in adults. Neurogenesis is the formation of new neurons in certain parts of the brain including the hippocampus and amygdala. Therefore optimal levels of testosterone support mood, cognition, and learning. This can be protective against dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Moreover, testosterone supports the immune system. It enhances immune function helping the body combat infections and diseases more effectively. Studies have shown that individuals with higher levels of this hormone tend to have better immune responses, making them more resilient to illnesses. According to this study, optimal androgen levels which include testosterone promote targeted immune responses. This has a protective effect on the body in resolving distress.
As you now know, testosterone is vital for the well-being of men and women alike. This indispensable hormone goes far beyond its stereotypical role in masculinity. Understanding its importance and maintaining optimal levels of this sex hormone can enhance your quality of life and longevity. This underrated hormone is what gives you your zest and zeal for life! Not only does it bestow you that spark in the gym or bedroom, but it can help you live long and prosper!