Most people have heard of menopause, the time at the end of a woman’s reproductive life during which hormone levels dip considerably. However, many don’t realize that men undergo a similar process. As men age, levels of androgens (male hormones) decrease, often contributing to a variety of health problems. This time period is called andropause, but is also known as men’s change of life or “manopause.” In addition, during this time many men deal with physical changes such as hyperplasia in their prostate and other new health concerns.
The effects of gradually-decreasing levels of testosterone and other male hormones can affect almost every part of your health and your life. Men often report a lower libido, fatigue, depression and weight gain. In addition, they may experience more subtle effects such as a higher risk of diabetes. Unlike menopause, andropause happens slowly and subtly over decades, which means many men never realize that they are going through it and don’t seek out the treatment that they need. The good news is there are many natural ingredients and supplements for andropause that can support your body in optimal health as you go through this natural transition.
Changing Needs Over a Lifetime
From birth through old age, our bodies are constantly changing and undergoing different processes. As a result, we have unique health needs in each stage of life. For example, infants need a diet rich in fats and cholesterol to support rapid growth in their brains. Children have higher calcium needs because their bones are growing quickly. Gender also plays a role; women of childbearing age need extra folic acid because this is so important to fetal development.
Like all people, men in andropause and beyond have a special set of health needs. They benefit from B vitamins to provide energy, vitamins E and C which function as healthy building blocks and other natural ingredients that can support healthy androgen levels without harming their prostate or their heart. While this may seem like a tall order, there are a variety of natural supplements for andropause that promote good health in aging men.
Supplements for Andropause
Our bodies are designed to experience declining levels of sex hormones as we age and our fertile years wane. However, there are several supplements for andropause that can offer support during this adjustment. These include:
L-arginine
L-arginine is a natural amino acid that encourages healthy blood flow and supports cardiovascular health. It accomplishes this by supporting healthy levels of nitric oxide, a natural blood vessel and muscle relaxant.
L-taurine
This amino acid functions in the human body as a “membrane stabilizer.” L-taurine has been found to help maintain muscle strength and proper nerve transmission.
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto has been found to help protect against prostate problems that often occur as men age. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is one of the most common health problems in older men and can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms such as urinary retention and frequent urination.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo promotes normal cognitive function, supporting healthy memory and attention span. These are both major concerns for many aging men.
Lignans
Lignans are a class of plant phenols that act as powerful antioxidants in the human body. Supplying the body with sufficient levels of antioxidants can help protect against some of the deleterious effects of aging and specifically support cardiovascular and cellular health.
Tribulus Terrestris
Tribulus is a derivative of the terrestris or puncture vine plant that works to naturally support healthy testosterone levels in men.
Piperine
Piperine is a black pepper derivative that has been found to have a wide range of health benefits, including helping to soothe minor pain.
B Vitamins
B vitamins act as vital co-factors to help boost energy and support a healthy metabolism.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant vitamin that helps your body to resist the biochemical stressors it encounters on a daily basis over the years.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an essential vitamin for the creation and repair of connective tissue. The breakdown of connective tissue and the collagen that supports it is the main culprit behind wrinkles and other visible signs of aging.
There are many natural, affordable and side-effect free supplements that can help you to age more gracefully and enjoy better health along the way. If or someone you love is a man approaching the golden years, research supplements for andropause and the difference that these can make in your quality of life.