Diet: Rebalancing hormones needs a reduction in the consumption of saturated fats, refined sugar products and food preservatives. Men are advised to eat plenty of fresh vegetables and fruit that are high in nutrients. It is also important to increase the consumption of legumes, especially soy; essential fatty acids found in evening primrose, borage and flaxseed oils; dark green leafy vegetables for their antioxidant properties as well as nuts and seeds for their zinc content.
Male menopause causes an increase in estrogen due to the testosterone levels being low. Estrogen, which is essentially a female hormone, reduces the effects of testosterone in the body. Soy contains phytoestrogens, which block the estrogen action in the body. Even cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and cauliflower help the body get rid of estrogen. Dietary fiber has to be maintained in proper balance, to eliminate estrogen.
Just as in females, hormonal imbalances in men are also attributed to toxins and environmental estrogens. If possible, men should totally eliminate or at least reduce exposure to such substances. The best way to do this is to eat meat that has been grown organically, without using antibiotics or hormones. Trying to find free-range chicken and organic vegetables, fruits and dairy products is very important. However, this can prove to be an expensive proposition where they are not available easily. It is a good idea to reduce meat products and grow vegetables and fruits in the home garden if possible.
Male menopause can be eased with testosterone replacement, which experts say, increases sex drive, improves mood and increases bone density, as well as brings about an improvement in other areas of health. Before considering testosterone therapy, a saliva or blood test is done to check the testosterone levels in the body. If the levels are found to be low for a particular age, testosterone therapy works wonders in avoiding symptoms of andropause and improving the health in general.
The idea behind hormone replacement is to be able to restore the testosterone levels in the blood back to that of a younger man. This treatment can be in the form of injections, skin patches, skin cream or lozenges. A physician will be able to determine what suits a particular individual the best. Many physicians do warn not to take the pill form as this has been found to cause liver dysfunction in some cases. There are several other factors that are taken into consideration when starting on testosterone replacement therapy and this is the reason, it has to be done only under the guidance of a qualified physician.
The herb, saw palmetto has been found to reduce the conversion levels of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone, which is a stronger testosterone version. High levels of testosterone are bad for the health and have even been linked to prostate cancer.
Ginseng, which is a popular and well-known herb have been hailed as a super herb with many uses and useful cures. The oriental version, “panax ginseng,” has been considered to be a great aid for virility and has shown to increase the testosterone levels. However, side effects such as skin problems and headaches have been noted. Even the herb, Chinese wolfberry is said to increase testosterone levels. Most people would remember their grandmother or mother saying that oats are good for health. It is an age-old remedy that is believed to have the potential of stimulating the levels of male hormones and has been used as an energy tonic by our ancestors. The Indian herb, “ashwagandha” has also been indicated to treat infertility and impotence. One must remember that herbs also have side effects and need to be used only under supervision. In fact, there can be harmful complications when used in conjunction with certain allopathic medicines.
Any form of andropause treatment revolves around correcting hormone deficiencies and ensuring hormonal balance. There are several remedies in homeopathy, which work by themselves or need to be used in conjunction with other forms of treatment. Some of them stimulate the male brain, adrenal and sexual function and reduce fatigue; and some are used for the detoxification of the body and other inflammatory processes.
With so many treatments available, male menopause is something that can be handled with ease. However, all the above information is only to be used for the purpose of gaining in-depth knowledge about male hormones. Prior to undergoing any form of treatment, it is advised that a health practitioner be consulted.