Infertility medicine

Unraveling the Root Causes of Hormonal Imbalance in Men

admin May 09, 2024

Introduction

Hormone imbalance in men is a crucial issue that often goes unnoticed or is misunderstood. It’s quite common for men to experience hormone imbalances as they age. Male hormonal imbalance can experience a range of symptoms, from subtle to severe, significantly impacting daily life and even posing health risks.

A hormonal imbalance occurs when glands fail to synthesize and distribute the appropriate hormone levels in the bloodstream. While occasional hormonal irregularities are normal, experiencing frequent imbalances can significantly impact overall health.

Many men struggle to recognize the signs of a hormonal imbalance, often attributing the changes in their bodies to lifestyle factors or the natural process of aging. However, they often overlook the underlying cause, prolonging the problem. Recognizing the key symptoms of hormone imbalance in men is critical to seeking appropriate solutions and regaining a fulfilling and vibrant life.

Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalance in Men

Dry skin
Tiredness
Nervousness
Excessive perspiration
Weight fluctuations
Headache
Changes in the pattern of urination

What Causes Hormonal Imbalances in Men?

Hormonal imbalances can develop virtually at any time. In fact, everyone experiences some type of hormonal imbalance or fluctuation at one point in their life or another. However, when the body doesn’t regulate itself back out, some other factors might underlie this condition.

Psychological Reasons

In the modern environment, one is exposed to several stressful conditions. Stress can alter the serum levels of many hormones, including glucocorticoids, catecholamines, growth hormones, and androgens. In males, there can be a decline in sperm count and motility and altered sperm structure.

Type 2 Diabetes and Insulin Resistance

When an individual has insulin-related hormone imbalance, other hormones, such as testosterone, can also become out of balance. Low testosterone levels impact physical as well as emotional health. It is because insulin resistance with weight gain leads to estrogen imbalance - increased estrogen. Estrogen reduces free testosterone levels.

Additionally, low testosterone can make men more prone to other medical conditions, such as cardiac/heart disease. Apart from diabetes, other health conditions, such as cancer, thyroid disorders, viral infections, and cardiovascular conditions, can also lead to hormonal issues.

Aging

As men age, their hormone levels can alter, too. Testosterone is a hormone in men linked with sex, muscle bulk, cardiac/heart health, and bone strength. Testosterone levels can lower with age, making it tough to lose weight.

Chemical Exposure

Skincare products, shampoo, conditioners, scrubs, or other chemical exposure, such as to plastic (through consuming food in plastic containers and straws), impact estrogen and testosterone levels. These products comprise xenoestrogens that can lead to hormonal imbalance.

Lifestyle

The present-day lifestyle, non-healthy food choices, and lack of exercise can trigger hormonal imbalances. Since it has become a trend to utilize steroids for body shaping, too much cardio exercise can decrease testosterone and elevate estrogen levels in the body.

Food Choices: Managing Hormones in Men

Quest for Protein: Eating protein at every meal, but especially at breakfast, can help decrease ghrelin levels. Lower ghrelin levels, in turn, may decrease overeating later in the day. Explore the perks of eggs or Greek yogurt for breakfast.
Eat Foods Rich in Vitamin D: Vitamin D, available in tuna, egg yolks, fortified milks, and cereals, is an important nutrient for men.
Cutting Back on Refined and Added Sugars: Refined carbohydrates are present in salty snack foods such as chips, fast food, white bread and pasta, regular soda, and sweets such as cookies and pastries.

Try replacing some of these processed carbohydrates with natural, whole foods, such as vegetables, fruit, beans, chickpeas, and lentils.

Men experiencing symptoms of a hormonal imbalance, impacting their normal routine, should consult a healthcare professional!