Private MD News

Low testosterone connected to decreases in muscle mass

Category: Male Specific Tests

Testosterone testing may play an important role in a man's ability to maintain his muscle strength as he gets older. New research has shown that lower testosterone levels are associated with decreases in muscle mass and body strength.

Every man experiences a reduction in testosterone as he ages. It is a natural part of growing old. However, some men go through much more dramatic hormonal shifts that may leave them at risk for serious deficiencies.

The new research, which was published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, showed that men who experience this type of testosterone reduction are at a higher risk of low muscle mass, frailty, mobility limitations, falls and bone fractures.

"The amount of testosterone men have in their bodies may contribute to how much muscle and strength they lose as they get older," said lead researcher Erin LeBlanc. "Our study adds evidence to the growing body of literature that suggest higher levels of endogenous testosterone may be favorably associated with some key components of healthy aging in men."

For men who receive low testosterone test results, supplements containing the hormone may help them boost their levels and avoid these age-related complications.