View source for Hypogonadism - Male

== What Does It Mean? ==

* Hypogonadism in males is a condition characterized by reduced function of the testes, leading to lower levels of testosterone and impaired spermatogenesis.
* This dysfunction can result from primary testicular failure, hypothalamic or pituitary dysfunction, chronic stress, or metabolic imbalances.
* Functional medicine seeks to identify and address the root causes, including nutrient deficiencies, inflammation, and endocrine disruption.

== How Did We Get Here? ==

=== Root Causes & Contributing Factors: ===

* Chronic Stress: Disrupts the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, leading to hormone imbalances.
* Nutritional Deficiencies: Inadequate levels of zinc, magnesium, vitamin D, and essential fatty acids impair testosterone synthesis.
* Inflammation & Oxidative Stress: Chronic inflammation contributes to endocrine dysfunction and impaired testicular function.
* Metabolic Dysfunction: Insulin resistance and dyslipidemia impact hormonal regulation.
* Aging: Natural decline in testosterone levels with age can contribute to hypogonadism.

=== Signs & Symptoms: ===

* Reduced libido and erectile dysfunction.
* Fatigue, depression, and mood disturbances.
* Decreased muscle mass and increased fat deposition.
* Loss of body hair and reduced bone density.
* Difficulty concentrating and cognitive decline.

=== Lab Test Findings ===
The following lab tests help evaluate male hypogonadism and its underlying causes:
{| class="wikitable"
|'''Lab Test Name'''
|'''Expected Changes'''
|'''Optimal Range'''
|-
|% Free Testosterone
|Decreased
|1.60-2.20%
|-
|Arachidonic Acid : EPA Ratio
|Altered
|3.7-40.7
|-
|Arachidonic Acid (AA)
|Altered
|8.6-15.6 µg/mL
|-
|Dihydrotestosterone, LCMSMS
|
|50.00-65.00 ng/mL
|-
|Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
|Increased
|1.60-8.00 mIU/mL
|-
|Free Testosterone, Calculated
|Decreased
|0.8-1.2 pg/mL
|-
|Linoleic Acid
|Altered
|18.6-29.5%
|-
|Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
|Increased
|1.50-6.15 mIU/mL
|-
|Omega-3 total
|Altered
|5.4-10%
|-
|Omegacheck (EPA+DPA+DHA)
|Altered
|5.4-50%
|-
|PSA, Total
|
|0.00-2.00 ng/mL
|-
|Testosterone, Total
|Decreased
|700.00-1100.00 ng/dL
|}

== How Do We Treat It? ==
Treatment focuses on restoring hormonal balance, reducing inflammation, and optimizing metabolic function.

=== Supplement Protocol ===
{| class="wikitable"
|'''Supplement'''
|'''Function'''
|'''Dosage & Frequency'''
|-
|Hormone Plus
|Supports testosterone balance and testicular function
|2 capsules with or without food, daily
|-
|Vita DIM
|Aids in testosterone metabolism and hormonal detoxification
|1 capsule with or without food, daily
|}

=== Additional Lifestyle Interventions: ===

* Hormone-Supportive Nutrition: Consume healthy fats, lean proteins, and cruciferous vegetables to support testosterone production.
* Stress Management: Incorporate mindfulness, meditation, and adaptogenic herbs to balance cortisol levels.
* Optimize Sleep: Ensure sufficient deep sleep to regulate hormonal rhythms and support testosterone levels.
* Strength Training & Resistance Exercise: Helps maintain muscle mass and naturally boosts testosterone.
* Avoid Endocrine Disruptors: Limit exposure to plastics, pesticides, and environmental toxins that interfere with hormone function.