Increased Risk of Andropause in Younger Men

Andropause, more commonly known as male menopause, is no longer a problem plaguing only older men. Younger men are experiencing the problem as well.

The condition occurs when men start to lose testosterone. However, an unusual phenomenon has been noted: more and more young men are experiencing symptoms that are associated with male menopause. Interestingly, an increasing number of men has reported to their doctors nearly the same symptoms that women go through during perimenopause and menopause.

What Is Andropause?

In general, men do not experience a period in which they go through menopause like their female counterparts. However, doctors recognize a comparable problem brought on by a decline in testosterone, also known as low testosterone or androgen. Usually, this occurs in men as they reach their senior years. It can happen naturally as a man ages but may also come about as a result of certain medical conditions like diabetes.

However, male menopause has been affecting many younger men as well, who have reported problems like erectile dysfunction and a decreased sex drive. Doctors believe that several factors come into play to contribute to younger men’s experiencing the condition, such as lack of sleep, stress and obesity. Because of these and other factors, a young man may experience lower levels of testosterone, which, in turn, can result in a decrease in libido.

Other Problems Stemming From Male Menopause

As a result of male menopause, young men can experience other health problems. They include the following:

• Anger problems
• Decrease in bone density
• Decrease in muscle mass
• Depression
• Insomnia
• Weight gain

It should be noted that male menopause differs considerably from female menopause. While women eventually lose their fertility, men will continue to produce testosterone and maintain their fertility throughout their lifetime. Generally, testosterone begins to decline at around one percent per year after reaching age 30, but men will still be able to produce sperm throughout the rest of their life.

How Do Younger Men Combat the Problem?

Young men can combat the problem of male menopause through a variety of methods. Doctors recommend a change of lifestyle, such as incorporating certain types of exercise, like weight training, into one’s everyday routine. It’s important to avoid excessive cardio exercise because it can work against a man and actually lower his testosterone levels.

Consuming the right diet is also important as it can improve testosterone production. Men should eat plenty of fruits rich in fiber, vegetables, whole grains and legumes. They should also be careful about the types of fats they consume and should opt for healthier options such as macadamia nuts, coconut oil and grass-fed meats. Some carbohydrates are also necessary, but it’s important to avoid diets that can lead to obesity and insulin resistance.

Of course, healthy lifestyle changes that young men can make to improve not only their sexual health but their general health include not smoking or quitting the habit and consuming less alcohol.

Getting a good night’s sleep is also important for young men experiencing male menopause. It is wise for people to put their smartphones and tablets down at least one to two hours prior to bedtime. Taking a warm shower or bath can also help relax the body, and setting the temperature in the bedroom to a comfortable 70 degrees is helpful and can encourage better sleep.

When young men experiencing andropause see their doctor and incorporate the necessary lifestyle changes, they can get back to their normal selves again.