What is Male Premature Andropause?
Male premature andropause is when the body stops or produces less male hormones even though the age is still young. Normally, the testosterone hormone level ranges from 300-1,000 nanograms per deciliter. Research has found that men aged 20-80 years experience an average hormone decrease of about 100 nanograms per deciliter or a 0.4% decrease per year, which is a gradual decline. This is different from women, whose hormone levels drop suddenly when entering menopause. Therefore, men usually do not have severe symptoms, but some may experience mood swings similar to those seen in women due to the gradual hormone decrease.
What Symptoms Indicate Risk of Male Premature Andropause?
- Decreased sexual desire
- Feeling tired and exhausted
- Feeling less happiness in life
- Mood swings, irritability, sadness, loneliness
- Wanting to isolate from society, preferring to be alone
- Decreased ability to play sports
- Frequent drowsiness after meals
- Easily gaining weight but hard to lose
- Reduced work efficiency, lack of concentration
Reduce, Cut Down, Quit Behaviors That Increase Risk of Premature Andropause
Stop! Overworking, lack of sleep, insufficient rest, accumulated stress, drinking alcohol, smoking, and regularly eating sweet, fatty, and salty foods. These behaviors contribute to hormonal dysfunction in the body, increasing the chance that the body will stop or produce less male hormones, which affects health.
Male Premature Andropause Can Be Treated with “Hormone Replacement”
If behavioral adjustments do not work, hormone replacement is another effective method. Currently, hormone replacement can be done in three main forms, but which method suits each person must be determined by a doctor based on appropriateness and under medical supervision, as improper use may cause dangerous side effects.
1. Oral Male Hormones
This is an easy and convenient method but requires taking hormones with fatty foods so that fat can help transport the hormone into cells. Exercise is necessary to prevent fat accumulation, which can lead to overweight or high blood fat levels.
2. Injectable Male Hormones
This method is quite popular, involving injections into the muscle, either every 3 weeks or every 3 months.
3. Topical Male Hormones
These are clear gels applied to the shoulders, upper arms, or abdomen every morning. This is suitable for those who dislike injections or taking pills.
Easily Boost Male Hormones with Common Minerals and Vitamins
- Zinc is an essential mineral that helps the body produce male hormones effectively and is also necessary for metabolism and immune support. It is found abundantly in seafood such as oysters, crabs, shrimp, salmon, mussels, as well as other foods like pork, chicken, beef, eggs, grains, nuts, and avocado.
- Fish Oil mainly contains omega-3 fatty acids DHA and essential fatty acids for the body. It helps increase male hormone production and reduces inflammation in blood vessels and joints. Improved blood circulation allows organs to function more efficiently.
- L-Carnitine Although not directly related to male hormones, L-Carnitine is important for transporting fat to be burned as energy, reducing the risk of abdominal obesity, which is another cause of hormonal imbalance. It is abundant in red meat, dairy products, pumpkin, legumes, and grains.
Andropause symptoms can occur in men of all ages. If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned, do not ignore or be embarrassed. Consult a specialist doctor early, as proper diagnosis and treatment can improve symptoms effectively.
Dr. Kanpitcha Potanghuadpajaroen
Anti-Aging and Health Rehabilitation Physician
Anti-Aging Medicine Center, Phyathai 3 Hospital
