When psychologist James Davis approached his 50th birthday, he noticed his energy waning faster than the candles on his birthday cake.
“My wife, Claire, was actually the first to notice that I was becoming withdrawn, struggling to focus, and losing energy,” Davis, 52, told NYP. “I realized I felt depressed, a bit apathetic, life seemed flat, and I was losing motivation and direction at work.”
Soon, Davis discovered he was experiencing andropause, also called “male menopause” or manopause. Unlike female menopause, which is universal, andropause manifests more subtly and doesn’t affect all men.
“The term ‘andropause’ is useful for the general public,” explains Dr. William T. Berg, assistant professor of urology at Stony Brook Medicine. “It describes age-related testosterone decline, which can present as fatigue, reduced libido, concentration problems, low mood, and sleep disturbances.”
Experts estimate that andropause affects 40% of men over 45 and up to half of men over 80, though many suffer in silence. Social pressures often prevent men from acknowledging symptoms or seeking help.
Why Testosterone Drops
Andropause begins at the cellular level. Leydig cells in the testes produce testosterone using cholesterol, but their function gradually declines — usually starting around age 30. A diagnosis is typically made when testosterone levels fall below 300 ng/dL accompanied by noticeable symptoms.
How to Restore Energy: Exercise, Nutrition, and Hormone Therapy
The good news: lifestyle changes can naturally boost testosterone. Short, intense workouts, strength training, healthy fats, protein, vitamins (C, D3), zinc, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids all help restore balance. Meditation, stress management, and quality sleep are also crucial.
Follow NEWS.am STYLE on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
18:29, September 26
“We Would Be Happy to Bring Projects Here”: Filippo Innocenti on the Possibility of Zaha Hadid Architects Working in Armenia17:19, September 26
Diamond Showdown in Milan: Georgina Rodríguez and Aryna Sabalenka Compare Their Jaw-Dropping Engagement Rings15:22, September 26
Demna Turns the Page at Gucci: A Lavish “Store Show” in Milan Unveils a New Aesthetic14:14, September 26
Jay-Z Accuser Recants Rape Allegations and Says She Never Met the Rapper13:21, September 26
Kanye West Steps Out With Bianca Censori: She Goes Braless Again and Turns Heads in a Sheer Top12:36, September 26
“Welcome to America”: Trump’s 15-Year-Old Granddaughter Impresses Xi Jinping With Her Fluent Chinese11:18, September 26
From Gucci Sales Assistant to Fashion Star: Georgina Rodríguez Turns Heads in a Daring Mini Suit10:30, September 26
“When I Hear Our Song, I Cry”: Michael Schumacher’s Wife Opens Up About Her Pain for the First Time in 12 Years23:01, September 25
90 Years Old, 19 Titles and a Dream Physique: Japanese Bodybuilder Refuses to Grow Old22:17, September 25
The World’s Most Expensive Bottle of Whisky Is Going Back to Auction — and Could Break Its Own Record21:10, September 25
Max Mara Unveils a Collection for Women Who Have Too Much to Do20:22, September 25
British Scientists Discover Why Men Who Are Too Generous May Put Women Off