Is your lifestyle affecting your testosterone level?
It has been found that a chemical in plastics and soap can affect insulin resistance and weight in men. Studies previous to this showed that phthalates, which are in various shampoos, soaps, lotions, lubricants, paint, pesticides, plastics and cosmetics and in some drugs can also affect reproduction. The study shows that almost 75% of some populations are affected. Results are from test cases in their urine tests.
These chemicals and other environment pollutants could lower testosterone levels and affect sperm quality. The effects have been studied in the USA over the last 30 years and this study is simply a follow up on the previous ones done by the University of Rochester however the results don’t only apply to the USA because all of us have the above chemicals in our households.
Researchers have theorised that this class of chemicals, as well as other environmental pollutants, may be lowering testosterone levels in men and responsible for the substantial declines in testosterone levels and sperm quality that have occurred over the last several decades.
Animal studies in the past found that these phthalates have led to lower testosterone and it was also found they led to poor semen quality in men and changes in the reproductive organs in male children.
Men with lower testosterone men put on weight around the middle and are more predisposed to diabetes. They analysed many different body samples such as urine, blood etc. from people of different ethnicity for over 3 years and of the men participating found a definite link. Lowered levels of testosterone can also cause other problems in men and it is important that this is checked. All men should take a zinc supplement particularly in Australia as there is a lack of this mineral in our water which can lead to all sorts of male prostrate problems etc. It is also important to not wear underwear that is too tight and to not have showers that are too hot. This becomes especially important if your partner is attempting to fall pregnant. If you are planning a baby and it’s not happening it is important not only for the female to have a good diet and take the right supplements but also you, as the man in her life. Given the correct eating plan, less alcohol and cutting out the smoking will increase not only your health but the health of your sperm to ensure you have a healthy baby. Your diet, amount of alcohol you drink and whether you smoke or not always affect your sperm levels specifically as you age.
As men age they will find if they look after themselves they will still be able to have good quality intimate relationships. However, as most things it requires a balance of good food, exercise, relaxation and to make sure you are actually absorbing the nutrients from your food. Simply taking your supplements and vitamins does not always mean you are absorbing them and the same goes for any medication from the doctors. If your digestion is not functioning properly and you are constipated then you may not be absorbing your nutrients and are taking them to no avail. That is why it s important to consult a natural therapist who will assess your needs and give you a correct health plan for your individual development.
As a general rule it is best to lower your exposure to chemicals, plastics, pesticides etc and to attempt as much of a ‘get back to nature’ lifestyle as possible. So when you are not working why not grab that fishing rod, the four wheel drive and head out to our beautiful countryside for some R&R?
