What is an endocrine disruptor?
The decline of testosterone levels in this country has become an epidemic among our men. The normal expected rate of decline as a feature of aging is approximately 1% per year after about age 30. However, when compared to the same age bracket, males today have lower levels than those tested 20-30 years ago. If newer generations of men in general seem less “manly” these days, this is not an imagined phenomenon! Actual studies demonstrate diminishing physical strength and around a 150 point drop in testosterone levels in young men in the last 20 years.
What is driving the trend? Obesity is a major factor, for sure, as young men weigh more on average than they did 20 years ago. But even the normal weight males are showing a drop in levels as well as decreasing fertility. This is partly explained by the tendency to lead more sedentary lifestyles now than a generation ago. But the larger piece of the puzzle is believed to be a result of near constant exposure to environmental toxins and chemicals that affect hormone balance. There are a staggering number of industrial chemicals (nearly 800!) that affect human hormones, and very few of them are regulated in this country. Among these are phthalates and bisphenol (BPA). Common sources of BPA include plastics used to package food, canned beverages, cash register receipts and fast food hamburgers! Phthalates can be found in PVC and personal care products such as deodorant, perfume and hair products.
What can be done? The best thing you can do is try to reduce your exposures. Check the products you regularly use to make informed choices. Try to reduce your plastic exposure as much as possible, and fast food hamburgers are not helping you in many ways already. Ditch the plastic water bottles, avoid Styrofoam packaging (it’s been linked to cancers anyway.)
Does it matter? Absolutely it matters! Testosterone is what makes a man a man. Beyond just appearances and improved quality of life, the health associations between testosterone and longevity and decreased risk of chronic disease are well established. These were previously discussed in an earlier blog post.
Benefits of a healthy testosterone level are many:
It’s a factor in a healthy immune system
It is critical in the building and maintenance of muscle mass
It is a factor in memory, mood and brain function
It preserves the flexibility and health of blood vessels
It lowers insulin resistance and improves blood sugar numbers
It helps regulate red blood cell production
Testosterone improves physical and mental well being
Let us help you live your best life by achieving a healthy testosterone level. If you are low, TRT can be part of a whole lifestyle approach to help you optimize your health and quality of life. Schedule your free 15 minute consultation today to get your questions answered.