Testosterone - The Hormone That Makes Men, Men
Tips and key points to consider on testosterone maintenance
Testosterone is often referred to as the "male hormone" as it plays a key role in masculine characteristics and traits. Produced primarily in the testes of males and to a lesser extent in females' ovaries, testosterone levels significantly impact physical and behavioral characteristics. In this article, we will explore testosterone in more depth - what it is, how it affects the body and behaviour, interesting research findings about its relationship to various factors, as well as some myths and facts. What is Testosterone? Testosterone is an androgen, or male sex hormone. It is an anabolic steroid hormone that plays critical roles in the body. Some key points about testosterone: It is produced mainly in the testes of males and ovaries of females, with males producing significantly higher amounts than females. Production ramps up during puberty when it supports the development of secondary sex characteristics like increase in muscle and bone mass, facial/body hair growth, and sex organ maturation. In adult males, it supports symptoms maintenance of these characteristics as well as libido, sperm production, fat distribution and red blood cell production. Levels peak in early adulthood between ages 20-30 then gradually decline with age at a rate of 1% each year past 30. Too high or low levels can impact physical and mental health, with low levels (hypogonadism) associated with conditions like osteoporosis, depression and metabolic syndrome. Some key ways testosterone affects the male body and behaviour include: Increased muscle/bone mass. Higher levels support building muscle mass and denser bone structure. Redistribution of body fat. Testosterone causes fat to accumulate more in the abdomen rather than hips/thighs commonly seen in females. Secondary sex characteristics. Facial/body hair growth, deeper voice and Adam's apple development stem from testosterone effects during puberty. Libido and sexual function. Testosterone supports libido as well as erections and prostate functionality. Low levels are linked to lowered sex drive. Dominance and competitiveness. Higher levels may increase dominance behaviors and competitiveness as evidenced by research studies. Mood. Low testosterone has been linked to depression, irritability and other mood issues in some studies. Cognitive abilities. Some research links higher levels to improved spatial skills and memory in certain tasks. Research over decades has uncovered various unique relationships between testosterone levels and other factors: Money/risk taking. Studies found traders with naturally higher morning levels tend to make more profitable trades due to willingness to take risks. Aggression levels. Research links short-term testosterone increases to feelings of dominance and aggression, but other factors also contribute to violent behaviours. Facial features. Higher levels are correlated to more masculine facial traits like a square jaw and forehead. Athletics. Both long-distance runners and weightlifters can experience short-term testosterone decreases during intense training phases. Status/competition. Levels may rise in response to challenges or threats as an adaptive response in various species including humans. Relationships. Studies found levels lower in committed, partnered men compared to single men and higher in competitive versus cooperative interactions. Career choices. Research using MBA students found testosterone and risk tolerance predicted choosing finance careers seen as higher risk. While much research has provided valuable insights, some myths persist that are dispelled by scientific evidence: Myth: High levels automatically make men "alpha males." In reality, very high levels can indicate health issues needing medical attention. Myth: It determines overall aggression levels. Many interacting biological and sociological factors contribute to violence or anger issues. Myth: Oral supplements effectively boost aging men's health and vigor. Studies found limited real benefits and possible metabolic issues in some cases instead. Fact: Moderate amounts through healthy lifestyle habits like exercise and diet are not inherently bad and may provide benefits when optimised normally through natural production. Fact: Levels fluctuate throughout the day and in response to various stimuli or threats based on an evolutionary adaptation, not a fixed state. In closing, testosterone plays an undeniably important role in establishing and maintaining masculine characteristics throughout a man's life. However, its effects are complex with intertwining physical, behavioral and social impacts that also depend on various interacting internal and external factors. With more research ahead, its wide-ranging influence on the human body and mind continues providing fascinating insight into our physiology and behavior.
About the Creator
Rakindu Perera
I’m a highly successful content writer with articles recognised by huge varieties of organisations. Also being in completion of a Bachelors Degree in Mechanical Engineering, I have the upmost know when it comes to exteme applications.
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