Let’s talk about testosterone.
Many people immediately turn to men’s health when we talk about low T.
But both men and women produce testosterone (as well as estrogen). And yes, maintaining healthy levels is important for both sexes.
In fact, if you’re a woman, low T could be downright dangerous…
Heartbreaking reality
Low T can contribute to unfavorable symptoms in women—like fatigue, hair loss, and reduced sex drive.
But research shows it could also DOUBLE one’s risk of a serious cardiovascular event, to boot.
For the analysis, researchers measured blood levels of testosterone, DHEA, and estrogen in women over 70 with no prior cardiovascular events (or disease).
Turns out, the women with low T and DHEA concentrations had TWICE the risk of a cardiovascular event…
Like stroke, coronary heart disease, heart attack, and/or heart failure.
(DHEA is an important hormone made naturally by the adrenal glands. It actually converts testosterone and estrogen in the body. Learn more by clicking here.)
In other words, maintaining healthy levels of these sex hormones in women could ultimately save their lives.
Amp up the T
Women, like men, should get their total and free testosterone levels tested regularly.
Total testosterone levels should generally fall between 20 and 80 ng/dl. (Though, I find closer to 80 is usually ideal.)
If your levels are low, ask about hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
The first step is working with a doctor who knows what they’re doing. To find a knowledgeable holistic practitioner familiar with natural hormone replacement therapy, contact the American College for Advancement in Medicine at www.acam.org or call 1-800-532-3688.
The International and American Associations of Clinical Nutritionists (IAACN) can also be a good resource. You can contact them through their website at www.iaacn.org or by calling 972-407-9089 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. CST, Monday through Friday.
There is, of course, an exception to every rule. And the one case where I’m reluctant to recommend testosterone to a female patient is if she has had triple-negative breast cancer that’s positive for androgen receptors. In these unique cases, the extra testosterone could contribute to the disease.
So, be sure to discuss current and past medical history with your treating physician.
In addition, for more science-backed strategies to protect your heart from disease, and fatal events, check out my Ultimate Heart-Protection Protocol. Click here now!
Source:
“LOW TESTOSTERONE IN OLDER WOMEN ASSOCIATED WITH DOUBLE RISK OF HEART ATTACK.” Advanced Hormone Solutions. (advancedhormonesolutions.com/low-testosterone-in-older-women-associated-with-double-risk-of-heart-attack/)