November 23, 2004

Dr. Moore

Yes, in men testosterone decreases and estrogen increases beginning by age 50. In fact, at age 54 and above the average man has more estrogen than the average woman. The trick is to not be "the average man." High intensity, short duration exercise without over-training, is an important part of maintaining healthy hormone levels. Also essential is strict avoidance of estrogenic foods such as beans, as well as most herbal products since so many of them are polyphenol compounds which are estrogenic.

Supplementing with testosterone is never a good idea. First, as you point out, to do so inhibits your own testosterone production. Even more significant, however, is that much of that testosterone is converted into estrogen. Many men do, however, reach the point when supplementation with DHEA or pregnenolone is extremely beneficial. DHEA should be considered for all men 45 years of age or older who consistently test either anaerobic, ketogenic, or electrolyte insufficient. Also, men who have thyroid problems most often have DHEA insufficiency as a first condition with the thyroid condition being secondary. Men who test consistently dysaerobic are more directly helped by pregnenolone.
 

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