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:
| 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
| 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.