Men With Low Testosterone Face Risks

A recent study links sex hormones to diabetes, osteoporosis, and depression.

By Ted Spiker

From Reader's Digest

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Testosterone levels affect mood and more.

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Testosterone levels affect mood and more.

While high levels of testosterone are associated with bed-hopping sex drive, low levels are linked to an increased risk of diabetes, osteoporosis, and, perhaps most alarming, depression.

A study of 4,000 older guys found lower testosterone levels in those who were depressed. Lower testosterone can, in turn, lead to a decline in the sex hormone estradiol, which has antidepressant properties, says lead study author Osvaldo P. Almeida, MD, of the University of Western Australia.

How to boost your levels? Your doctor might suggest replacement therapies or, simply, lifestyle changes. "Obese men have lower testosterone, as do men who smoke, are physically inactive, or consume more than 28 drinks per week," says Dr. Almeida.

From Reader's Digest - August 2008

• • Osteoporosis
• Diabetes
• • Mind & Body
• • Depression

• The Under-Reporting of Male Depression
• When he seems ticked off or withdrawn, it may not be what you think.
• 
• Diagnosing Depression
• Learn the classic symptoms of this serious condition.
• 
• Gender Mind-Benders
• Studies show that some sexist clichés could be biological.
• 

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