The term “bio-identical hormones” refers to products that are chemically reproduced to be identical to natural body hormones. Bio-identical hormones are no different chemically, so the FDA has approved their use in hormone therapy treatments.

Hormone Replacement in Men

Hormone therapy is most often associated with women going through menopause, but it can benefit older men, as well. Males go through a later-life condition known as andropause. They may experience a different set of symptoms, but they are no less troubling. In men, these symptoms may include thinning hair, fatigue, gaining weight, depression, sexual performance issues, and loss of muscle tone. This is caused by reduced natural hormone production but reversible by Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT).

Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy

BHRT is an effective counter to the decline of hormone levels that come with male aging. However, hormone deficiencies can affect much younger men due to chemical imbalances caused by excessive stress, a lack of sleep, poor nutrition, or substance abuse.

Because bio-identical hormones are so similar to natural compounds, they are safe and more easily assimilated into the body’s hormone processes. This sharply reduces the chance of side effects as in other forms of medication. Hormones are generally applied through topical creams/gels, digestible tablets, or skin patches.

Male Hormones

In men, testosterone production is one of the key issues. It starts to decline when men hit the age of 30. By the time a man reaches his 50’s, his testosterone levels have been reduced by as much as 35%, and in his 70’s he may have only 10% of the peak levels of testosterone in the body of a 20 year old. Loss of testosterone has several debilitating effects in men.

Other hormones that tend to lower levels include pregnolone, DHEA, insulin, and melatonin. The first two hormones are precursors to the production of testosterone and estrogen, which is also found in men. Insulin helps to control blood sugar, while melatonin helps to regulate sleep and immune system functions. Low melatonin can lead to insomnia and chronic illness. Insultin deficiency is the the main cause of diabetes, which may include numbness of the extremities, slow healing, and increased chances of heart disease. All the body’s hormones must work together; when they are deficient or out of balance, more serious problems may develop.

Benefits of BHRT

* Stop Thinning Hair: Testosterone assists scalp follicles to produce hair.

* Increased Muscle: Testosterone is important to building muscle tissue and burning calories.

* Increase in Libido: With hormones restored, reproductive functions are more normal.

* Better Quality of Sleep: Hormone imbalances can interfere with our internal clocks and disturb sleep.

* More Energy: Blood sugar problems may lead to fatigue. Restoring hormones to the right balance helps the body produce more energy.

* Stronger Bones: Balanced hormones are necessary to the absorption of calcium.

These are some of the overall health benefits to restoring male hormones to healthier levels. Those who undergo BHRT can restore some of the happiness, vitality, and well-being of their younger years.

DISCLAIMER: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information is not intended to be patient education, does not create any patient-physician relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment.