What is testosterone?

August 8, 2014

Testosterone is a steroid hormone. Mostly the testicles produce testosterone, and a small amount is produced by the adrenal glands. The testicles receive a signal from hormones in the pituitary gland (in your brain) that tell them to either start or stop testosterone production. Testosterone is used in the medical world to regulate many functions such as energy, sex drive, mood, muscle integrity, and erectile dysfunction.

Is testosterone good for you?

Your body needs testosterone for many daily functions. Some of these functions include energy levels, sex drive (libido), erectile function, muscle integrity, mood and many other things. It also protects against (when it is within normal ranges) bone loss, heart disease, and diabetes. On the other hand, if testosterone is too high (outside the normal reference range) it can put you at risk for heart attack and stroke. If you are on testosterone supplementation, it is very important to follow up regularly with your doctor to check levels.

Is testosterone a steroid?

Testosterone is a steroid sex hormone. Hormones have important functions in your body; however they can be unsafe or detrimental at abnormal levels. Hormones should not be replaced or supplemented without physician supervision.

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