Testosterone is multifunctional and controls various bodily functions. Other than being known for its sexual functions, it plays a wide variety of roles. Interestingly, it also plays a role in maintaining brain health.
We will shed some light on the topic and dive deeper to understand more about Testosterone And Brain Health.
Testosterone – Multifaceted Mechanisms
Testosterone is a male sex hormone produced in the testes in men as well as in the ovaries in females. It belongs to a class of hormones known as androgens.
Testosterone is known mostly for the secondary sexual attributes it provides, including facial hair, muscle mass, and deep voice. It also determines libido, bone density, mood, sperm production, prostate health and more.
The brain has an extensive network of androgen receptors responsible for the connection between testosterone and neural processes. Studies have found that testosterone and brain health are connected through various mechanisms that can occur directly or through the modulation of neurotransmitters.
Cognitive Effects of Testosterone:
1. Memory – Testosterone has been linked to the cognitive functioning of the brain. It has been shown to enhance verbal fluency and memory. The memory increases due to synaptic plasticity which is an increase in the speed of signals that ultimately aids efficient learning and improved memory.
2. Mood – Testosterone is a hormone known to be a mood regulator in men. Lower levels of the hormone have been linked to increased risk of mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
On the other hand, those who receive testosterone supplements show better mood and lesser intensity of depressive symptoms. It highlights the role of testosterone in regulating the mood in men.
3. Decision-making – Testosterone is also known to influence a variety of executive functions. It may affect the processes involved in decision-making and inhibition along with cognitive flexibility. Research indicates that the hormone modulates these functions and might enhance cognitive control.Â
4. Anti-ageing – Testosterone is also seen for its neuroprotective properties. It is observed that the optimum hormone levels protect the body against age-related cognitive decline and also neurogenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.Â
It is seen that testosterone acts against oxidative stress and therefore reduces inflammation in the brain hence the protective properties.
Factors Affecting Testosterone Levels
Testosterone levels can be affected by various factors. Testosterone levels are known to decrease as men age. It begins to decline after 30 years of age in men and mostly there is a dip after that as men age and is known as andropause.Â
1. Diet
The diet also plays a crucial role in maintaining testosterone levels. Having processed and junk food may cause nutritional deficiencies that may also contribute to lower levels of testosterone.Â
2. Obesity
Along with that, obesity and lack of physical activity can have similar effects. Excessive abdominal fat and a sedentary lifestyle are known to be testosterone nemesis.Â
3. Adequate Sleep
Having adequate sleep is also essential for maintaining optimum testosterone levels. At the same time, it is important to keep stress at bay to maintain hormonal balance. Higher stress levels suppress testosterone levels which further may cause different issues.
4. Medical Conditions
Additionally, medical conditions and certain medicines may also act against testosterone levels. Examples of such conditions include diabetes, obesity, and a few metabolic syndromes.
Moreover, exposure to certain chemicals like BPA and phthalates also impact testosterone levels. In the end, genetics may also determine the testosterone levels in men.
It is also important to consider individual variation when we consider testosterone levels in men. If there is something about sexual intimacy or testosterone levels that bothers you, it is essential to consult a sexologist.
Future Implications
Understanding the role of testosterone in brain activity may open doors to endless opportunities. Hormone replacement therapy with testosterone has emerged as a treatment strategy for many disorders related to hormonal imbalance.
It is used to treat age-related hormonal decline, mood disorders, as well as neurodegenerative diseases. A healthcare provider undertakes all the medical factors, including medical history, risks, and alternative options, before suggesting the therapy.
More research is needed in the field to unveil the mechanisms of testosterone in the body and brain health. Understanding the complexities may help find solutions to health disorders and might help come up with personalised solutions to improve cognitive functioning. It may help men attain better mental and physical health, which is a stepping stone for overall well-being.
Bottom line
Understanding the role of testosterone in brain functioning has emerged as a new path to various treatment strategies. Testosterone is no more limited to sexual functioning and there is so much more to it.
Testosterone regulates mood and cognitive functioning, which can be utilised to treat several disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases. As the research continues, we can expect more clarity and treatment options.