Are you running low on vital sex hormone?

Testosterone has been hailed as a wonder drug. But do you have enough of it? Men's health expert Dr Jeff Foster reports

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Testosterone has become a buzzword for vitality, health, strength and sex.

In fact, it's nigh on impossible to go into any health-food store without finding tablets, supplements and other treatments claiming to boost your levels.

The problem is we are now almost led to believe none of us has enough testosterone and we should all have more (even women). But what is the truth around this hormone, and is so-called testosterone deficiency in men even a thing? Is it still considered a rare medical condition, or is it something we should all think about as we get older?

What is true is that a growing body of research suggests that for men and women, it can often be key to improving midlife health and relationships.

What is testosterone?

The male sex hormone got its name in 1935 after being isolated from bull testes. In men, it is principally produced in the testicles and plays a vital role in sperm production and sex drive. However, it also affects bone and muscle mass, fat distribution and the production of red blood cells.

Testosterone levels naturally peak in men in their early 20s and remain stable until they hit approximately the age of 30. After this age, men typically lose around 1% in testosterone production per year, but this may not have any impact on overall health.

If you're fit and healthy and born with a naturally high level of testosterone, a 1% drop may have no impact on how you feel for your entire life. However, if you are someone who is born with slightly low levels or has developed other medical problems, you might notice a drop.

What is considered low?

In the last 80 years, testosterone has been one of the most studied hormones but, despite this, the prevalence of low levels in the general population still remains controversial. Studies range from those who claim to have a single-digit level to newer research suggesting that as many as 25% of all men will have low "T".