Thoughts on TRT for the middle aged and beyond

[akaTrex]

What I've learned is for many years, measuring total testosterone has served as the cornerstone for doctors assessing testosterone levels. However, science is shifting toward the measurement of free testosterone, as emerging research underscores its critical role in maintaining overall health.

Total testosterone levels play a vital role in diagnosing conditions such as hypogonadism and infertility, as well as in monitoring men on testosterone replacement therapy. Yet, this approach can be somewhat misleading, as approximately 98% of testosterone is bound to proteins like sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) or albumin. This binding obscures the true picture, making it possible to miss the vital amount of free testosterone circulating in the body.

Recent compelling studies have delved into the intricate relationship between testosterone levels and aging. The findings are striking, men with lower levels of free testosterone are not only more susceptible to memory issues but also face a significantly heightened risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease as they grow older. This highlights the importance of understanding and monitoring free testosterone levels in promoting not just hormonal health, but cognitive vitality throughout the aging process.

 

[Pegasus]

Free test would be the better measure if it is done accurately.
As it is normally measured it simply isn't

 

[akaTrex]

My bride recently received her blood test results from our doctor, as my wife has been impressed with my results. Her testosterone levels, both total and free, were excellent, but her estradiol levels were low. As a result, she was prescribed two hormones. One of the side effects of these medications is an increase in libido—Woo-Hoo!

The doctor also monitors my estradiol levels, as high estradiol, a form of estrogen, is detrimental to men. All men have some level of estradiol. Recently, my dosage of over-the-counter DHEA and pregnenolone was increased to maintain my slightly elevated estradiol levels within a safe range.

Now, six months into my testosterone therapy, my motivation to hit the gym and my renewed interest in my favorite sports and hobbies have been extraordinary.

Good Article to read:

High Estradiol in Men: Understanding the Impact on Male Health​

High Estradiol in Men: Understanding the Impact on Male Health » Central Texas Urology

Estradiol, a form of estrogen, is commonly misconceived as an exclusively female hormone; however, it also plays a crucial role in men's health. In men,

www.centraltexasurology.com

 

[Party]

TRT for years of course. Having to use more these days. I found an old bottle of Nugenix T booster so been popping a pill a day for four days. Idk

 

[Pegasus]

Aka can I ask the merhod your doc uses to measure free test?

 

[Pegasus]

Just want tp through this into the mix Ciailis probahly increases test (more large scale studies needed ) especially in guys with low test . It also decreases estradiol changing the ratio..

 

[akaTrex]

Free test would be the better measure if it is done accurately.
As it is normally measured it simply isn't

You are correct Sir! The clinic is all over Free Testosterone results. Before I went to this Dr. I only received my total T results.

The Blood Draw results are extensive. The doctor schedules a review shortly after the results are ready.
My results at my last Blood Draw and Review looked great, and they only recommended that I increase my DHEA and Pregnenolone dosages.

DHEA and Pregnenolone are used in TRT to optimize hormone levels. DHEA is a precursor to several other sex hormones, and its levels can become depressed during adrenal fatigue. Pregnenolone is used in combination with DHEA to balance the hormone system.

 

[Pegasus]

What test goes je use for free test ?

 

[akaTrex]

What test goes je use for free test ?

Here's a clip of my test.

My Testosterone Total is right at the top number @ 1180
My Free Testosterone was just under @ 24.5.
They bumped up my over-the-counter DHEA and Pregnenolone to 100mg just before bed.
It's important to watch Estradiol a female sex hormone that can cause enlargement of breast tissue (gynecomastia) Bitch Tit.

 

[Pegasus]

It doesn't say .

Ask your doc if free test is by sensitive measure. It seems low for the total test number is your shbg high.

 

[akaTrex]

It doesn't say .

Ask your doc if free test is by sensitive measure. It seems low for the total test number is your shbg high.

My Free Testosterone optimally should be between 25 and 40. The results of my first test my Free T was much lower.

 

[Pegasus]

Yes so typically if free test is low and total test high there is some sort of issue typically high shgb . Or the measure just might not be that accurate . If it is your doc will no doubt address it probably is already. This is not my area the things that happen with exogenous hormone use are a bit of a mystery to me ,so just take it as a guy on the net .

 

[Big Al]

Here's a clip of my test.
View attachment 3262635
My Testosterone Total is right at the top number @ 1180
My Free Testosterone was just under @ 24.5.
They bumped up my over-the-counter DHEA and Pregnenolone to 100mg just before bed.
It's important to watch Estradiol a female sex hormone that can cause enlargement of breast tissue (gynecomastia) Bitch Tit.

Not a medical opinion, but there's a serious imbalance if your total T is that high yet your free T is that low.

 

[akaTrex]

Not a medical opinion, but there's a serious imbalance if your total T is that high yet your free T is that low.

That's what we're working on. Both my Total T and Free T were low to start. It's easy to get your total T HIGH by taking Bodybuilder dosages. In one of my bloodwork results my T was high due to the blood draw being done the day after my injection.
My Free T has been moving upwards since I first started. It was much lower when I checked the results of my first Blood work.

 

[Pegasus]

Ok.

 

[Big Al]

That's what we're working on. Both my Total T and Free T were low to start. It's easy to get your total T HIGH by taking Bodybuilder dosages. In one of my bloodwork results my T was high due to the blood draw being done the day after my injection.
My Free T has been moving upwards since I first started. It was much lower when I checked the results of my first Blood work.

Some steroid using BB'ers experience all sorts of imbalances and negative side effects as the steroids they take aren't perfect testosterone mimics.

Please keep us posted on what you hear back.

 

[akaTrex]

Watched a Pod Cast on Peptides. Very Interesting!

 

[akaTrex]

Just added TMG to my supplement regime!
Spoke to the RN and confirmed its use, and the nutritionist, an IFBB Contestant, uses it.
It's in Beets and other foods as well.

 

[Pegasus]

Let us know how that goes I hear a lot of noise about it .

 

[akaTrex]

I have added NMN to my TMG supplementation!

I'm Getting more vascular as the result of my training and supplementation.