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Health A-Z
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AndropauseIntroductionAndropause or male menopause is a name that has been given to a menopause-like condition in aging men. This relates to the slow but steady reduction of the production of the hormones testosterone and DHEA in middle-aged men between the ages of 40 and 55. Unlike women, men do not have a specific marker such as the end of menstruation to establish this transition. However, both men and women experience a decline in the production of hormone levels. Decreased male hormone production may result in mood swings, fatigue, decreased sex drive as well as physical agility. Common CausesHormonal imbalance, physical and psychological stress, alcohol, poor diet, nutritional deficiencies, sleep disorders (sleep apnea), injuries or surgery, medications, obesity, infections. topNatural TreatmentSupporting hormonal balance naturally is the most optimal approach to treating the symptoms of andropause. Before beginning any program, however, it is recommended to get baseline testing of male hormones using a Male Hormone Panel. Once hormone levels have been established, it will be essential to focus on adrenal gland health since the adrenals are largely responsible for hormone production. A customized nutrition plan that includes a low stress diet and adrenal supportive supplements is recommended to ensure proper production and utilization of male hormones. Weight management is critical as excess fat stores are depots for estrogen deposits will which cause a further imbalance of hormones in men. Furthermore, many of the foods we eat as well as commercial products used may contain xenoestrogens which cause an increase in the amount of estrogen-mimicking compounds circulating in the body. Sleep quality and quantity must also be addressed because of the significant impact that sleep has on metabolism, brain chemicals and hormone production. Consult with the EB Nutrition Dietitians to learn specifics about covering all of your male health needs. topReferencesEverything Andropause. February 11, 2010. Available at: http://www.everythingandropause.com/index.php Accessed February 11, 2010. top |