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Mum-of-three reveals 5st weight loss and still ate same diet of pizzas, burgers & kebabs – The Scottish Sun

Posted: March 5, 2020 at 1:46 pm

BUSY mum Rachel Falcus feared her children would be overweight and bullied at school, just like she had been.

She had tried every fad diet going but always regained any weight she lost.

But after discovering Slimming World she dropped an incredible six dress sizes with the added bonus that her kids learned about healthy eating too.

Rachel, 39, from Newcastle upon Tyne, says: I was really overweight, ordering in takeaways every night, and I just thought, I cant do this once the children grow up.

I worried my children would be overweight at school, like I was, and didnt want them to be picked on because of their size.

She lost 3st 7lb in a year and a half and the proud mum of three, says: The best part for me has been having my children on this journey with me. Theyve loved learning to cook meals from scratch with me.

"Now its a way for me and my family to maintain a healthy lifestyle."

Rachel had struggled with her weight ever since childhood.

She said: "I was overweight from the age of nine. I didnt play any sports and my mum worked nights so food was always convenience over health.

"We had a lot of takeaways and ready meals, as mum rarely cooked from scratch.

"I dont know what my weight was back then but I was always the biggest in my class at school and, by my teenage years, I was a size 12."

I was always the biggest in my class at school

After college, Rachel began work as a civil servant and started trying fad diets in a desperate attempt to lose weight.

And she continued to balloon after meeting her husband Craig, who she has children James, 15, Liam, 12, and five-year-old Emily with.

"I did at least two a year and, although Id lose around a stone, it never stayed off because the diets were unsustainable, so Id yo-yo up and down," she said.

"After I met Craig, we married when I was 23 and I walked down the aisle in a size 12 dress after two months of crash-dieting.

"I fell pregnant with James less than a year later, and gained three stone in nine months.

"The minute I became a mum, I knew I wanted more children, so I just put the weight to the back of my mind.

"I had my second child three years later and gained another three stone with that pregnancy, taking me to over 15st and a size 22."

It was only then that something switched in Rachel's attitude towards her weight and she decided to make a change so she could be a good role model for her children.

Rachel was at a parent-toddler group when one mum told her she was a Slimming World member.

"She said it was amazing, because she could cook the same healthy meals for herself and her family," Rachel said.

"It was what I was looking for, so I went home, researched my local group and signed up."

It was May 2007 when Rachel first walked through the Slimming World doors - which she found daunting at first.

I was eating the same foods I was eating before pizza, burgers, chips and kebabs

However, as soon as Rachel found out she could still eat her favourite foods she instantly fell in love with the weight loss group.

She added: "The minute I heard about the Food Optimising plan and the recipes, I loved it.

"I couldnt believe I was eating the same foods I was eating before pizza, burgers, chips and kebabs and losing weight at the same time.

"I was in the kitchen cooking up these healthier versions of the foods I loved and the weight just dropped off.

"It felt so good to be cooking for my family, knowing it was healthy, and seeing how they enjoyed the meals."

Rachel lost 3st 7lb in 18 months and says she felt "like a new woman".

"Everyone was amazed at the difference, not just in my looks but my confidence, too," she said.

"When I fell pregnant again, at the age of 33, everything was different third time around.

"During my pregnancy I ate healthy, home-cooked meals and, instead of feeling sluggish like I had during my first two pregnancies, I had energy.

"I only gained a stone over nine months and lost it straight away after giving birth. I felt so good."

By sticking to the Slimming World Food Optimising plan, Rachel has lost another two stone - taking her down to a dress size ten and 10st 7lb.

It gave Rachel the confidenceto join a gym and she now goes to spin and body-pump classes.

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She added: "Ive become a Slimming World Consultant and even my mum Lorraine, whos 64, signed up to one of my groups and has lost two stone.

"Clothes shopping is great fun now and the compliments from friends and family give me a buzz."Ive also saved hundreds of pounds by not getting takeaways cooking healthy food at home is much better value. If I can do it, you can too."

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Mum-of-three reveals 5st weight loss and still ate same diet of pizzas, burgers & kebabs - The Scottish Sun

6 Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar, Backed by Science – EcoWatch

Posted: March 5, 2020 at 1:46 pm

By Kris Gunnars, BSc

Apple cider vinegar is a popular home remedy. People have used it for centuries in cooking and medicine.

Many people claim it can relieve a wide range of health complaints, but you may wonder what the research says.

Apple cider vinegar has various healthful properties, including antimicrobial and antioxidant effects. What's more, evidence suggests it may offer health benefits, such as aiding weight loss, reducing cholesterol, lowering blood sugar levels, and improving the symptoms of diabetes.

However, little research exists, and further studies are needed before it can be recommended as an alternative therapy.

This article looks at the evidence behind 6 possible health benefits of apple cider vinegar.

Apple cider vinegar is made via a two-step process.

First, the manufacturer exposes crushed apples to yeast, which ferments the sugars and turns them into alcohol. Next, they add bacteria to further ferment the alcohol, turning it into acetic acid the main active compound in vinegar.

Acetic acid gives vinegar its strong sour smell and flavor. Researchers believe this acid is responsible for apple cider vinegar's health benefits. Cider vinegars are 56% acetic acid.

Organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar also contains a substance called "mother," which consists of strands of proteins, enzymes, and friendly bacteria that give the product a murky appearance.

Some people believe that the "mother" is responsible for most of its health benefits, although there are currently no studies to support this.

While apple cider vinegar does not contain many vitamins or minerals, it offers a small amount of potassium. Good quality brands also contain some amino acids and antioxidants.

Apple cider vinegar is made by fermenting the sugar from apples. This turns them into acetic acid, which is a main active ingredient in vinegar and may be responsible for its health benefits.

Vinegar can help kill pathogens, including bacteria.

People have traditionally used vinegar for cleaning and disinfecting, treating nail fungus, lice, warts, and ear infections.

Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, used vinegar to clean wounds more than 2,000 years ago.

Vinegar is also a food preservative, and studies show that it inhibits bacteria like E. coli from growing in and spoiling food.

If you're looking for a natural way to preserve your food, apple cider vinegar could help.

Anecdotal reports also suggest that diluted apple cider vinegar could help with acne when applied to the skin, but there doesn't seem to be any strong research to confirm this.

The main substance in vinegar acetic acid can kill harmful bacteria or prevent them from multiplying. It has a history of use as a disinfectant and natural preservative.

To date, one of the most convincing applications of vinegar is helping treat type 2 diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes is characterized by high blood sugar levels caused by insulin resistance or the inability to produce insulin.

However, people without diabetes can also benefit from keeping their blood sugar levels in the normal range, as some researchers believe that high blood sugar levels are a major cause of aging and various chronic diseases.

The most effective and healthiest way to regulate blood sugar levels is to avoid refined carbs and sugar, but apple cider vinegar may also have a beneficial effect.

Research suggests that vinegar offers the following benefits for blood sugar and insulin levels:

The National Centers for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) says it's very important that people do not replace medical treatment with unproven health products.

If you're currently taking blood-sugar-lowering medications, check with your healthcare provider before increasing your intake of any type of vinegar.

Apple cider vinegar has shown great promise in improving insulin sensitivity and helping lower blood sugar responses after meals.

Perhaps surprisingly, studies show that vinegar could help people lose weight.

Several human studies show that vinegar can increase feelings of fullness. This can lead you to eat fewer calories and lose weight.

For example, according to one study, taking vinegar along with a high carb meal led to increased feelings of fullness, causing participants to eat 200275 fewer calories throughout the rest of the day.

Furthermore, a study in 175 people with obesity showed that daily apple cider vinegar consumption led to reduced belly fat and weight loss:

However, keep in mind that this study went on for 3 months, so the true effects on body weight seem to be rather modest.

That said, simply adding or subtracting single foods or ingredients rarely has a noticeable effect on weight. It's your entire diet or lifestyle that creates long-term weight loss.

Overall, apple cider vinegar may contribute to weight loss by promoting satiety, lowering blood sugar, and reducing insulin levels.

Apple cider vinegar only contains about three calories per tablespoon, which is very low.

Studies suggest that vinegar can increase feelings of fullness and help you eat fewer calories, which may lead to weight loss.

Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death.

Several biological factors are linked to your risk of heart disease.

Research suggests that vinegar could improve several of these risk factors. However, many of the studies were conducted in animals.

These animal studies suggest that apple cider vinegar can lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as well as several other heart disease risk factors.

Some studies in rats have also shown that vinegar reduces blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for heart disease and kidney problems.

However, there is no good evidence that vinegar benefits heart health in humans. Researchers need to do more studies before reaching any strong conclusions.

Several animal studies have shown that vinegar can reduce blood triglycerides, cholesterol, and blood pressure. However, there is no strong evidence that it leads to a reduced risk of heart disease in humans.

Apple cider vinegar is a common remedy for skin conditions like dry skin and eczema.

The skin is naturally slightly acidic. Using topical apple cider vinegar could help rebalance the natural pH of the skin, improving the protective skin barrier.

On the other hand, alkaline soaps and cleansers could irritate eczema, making symptoms worse.

Given its antibacterial properties, apple cider vinegar could, in theory, help prevent skin infections linked to eczema and other skin conditions.

Some people use diluted apple cider vinegar in a face wash or toner. The idea is that it can kill bacteria and prevent spots.

However, one study in 22 people with eczema reported that apple cider vinegar soaks did not improve the skin barrier and caused skin irritation.

Talk to your healthcare provider before trying new remedies, especially on damaged skin. Avoid applying undiluted vinegar to the skin, as it can cause burns.

Apple cider vinegar is naturally acidic and has antimicrobial properties. This means it could help improve the skin barrier and prevent infections. However, more studies are needed to know how safe and effective this remedy is.

The best way to incorporate apple cider vinegar into your diet is to use it in cooking. It's a simple addition to foods like salad dressings and homemade mayonnaise.

Some people also like to dilute it in water and drink it as a beverage. Common dosages range from 12 teaspoons (510 mL) to 12 tablespoon (1530 mL) per day mixed in a large glass of water.

It's best to start with small doses and avoid taking large amounts. Too much vinegar can cause harmful side effects, including tooth enamel erosion and potential drug interactions.

Some dieticians recommend using organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegars that contain "mother."

Bragg's seems to be the most popular option, which is available online along with reviews and ratings. However, several other varieties are also available.

Read more about the right dosage of apple cider vinegar here.

A common dosage for apple cider vinegar ranges from 1 teaspoon to 2 tablespoons (1030 mL) per day, either used in cooking or mixed in a glass of water.

Many websites and natural healthcare proponents claim that apple cider vinegar has exceptional health benefits, including boosting energy and treating disease.

Unfortunately, there's little research to support most claims about its health benefits.

That said, some studies suggest it may offer some benefits, including killing bacteria, lowering blood sugar levels, and promoting weight loss.

Apple cider vinegar appears to be safe, as long as you don't take excessive amounts of it.

It also has various other non-health-related uses, including as a natural hair conditioner, skin care product, and cleaning agent.

Reposted with permission from Healthline. For detailed source information, please view the original article on Healthline.

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Tipping the scales: Keto diet, fasting and group helped man reach weight-loss goal – The Spokesman-Review

Posted: March 5, 2020 at 1:45 pm

Airway Heights resident Shawn Impett decided to restrict carbohydrates and sugar in his diet, leading to a 130-pound weight loss.

Impett, 43, once tipped the scale at 335 pounds but dropped to his goal weight of 205 in December 2018 after starting the ketogenic diet in the previous year. Along with keto, he follows an intermittent fasting plan and has kept the weight off for more than a year.

He also attends a Spokane Valley Take Off Pounds Sensibly group, which he joined in 2010 and credits for its members support. His mother had first tried ketos high-fat, low-carbohydrate eating plan, so he began soon after.

When my mom and her friend found the keto diet, I started doing it, he said. I found that I had more energy, and the pounds were dropping off quickly, so I thought, There is something to this.

I started doing it more seriously, and I kept showing better and better results.

Keto is short for ketosis, a metabolic state when the liver begins to use stored fat to produce ketones for energy. It happens if the body loses access to its preferred fuel from carbohydrates. Health professionals often caution people to incorporate foods such as green vegetables and whole grains.

Impett cut out certain foods such as one favorite: chips. He consumes more fatty proteins, including eggs and beef, and has gone to a one-meal-a-day model.

He said his health and energy have improved significantly. With the weight off, Impett doesnt have the symptoms of two prior-diagnosed medical conditions essential tremors and atrial fibrillation.

The symptoms of those have pretty much gone away, he said. Its really beneficial to lose the weight and to get rid of the bad foods.

About eight years ago, the atrial fibrillation had caused heart palpitations and, at times, a racing heartbeat.

Back in February 2012, I woke up with my heart just beating rapidly. I went to the hospital, and my heart beats were at 220 beats per minute. Plus, I could kind of feel light flutters, which were the palpitations.

Thats when I was diagnosed with AFib. For a while, I was on a very light dosage of medication, but it was just to keep my heartbeat regular. Since Ive lost the weight, every once in a while Ill have a little flutter here and there, but its very rare now. Im off the medication.

He no longer takes medication for tremors, which previously caused problems for writing and eating soup, he said. Talking about health is part of Impetts comeback when people tell him they cant cut back on certain foods.

A lot of my friends have asked me what I have done, and when I tell them, You have to get rid of the sugar and the carbs, they say that they cant get rid of those, he said.

Youve got to make a decision on whats more important, the food or your health. I made the decision that my health is more important than the food. Are they themselves more important than the food? Once they have made that decision, it becomes easier to lose weight.

This time, he also did research and learned how to maintain his weight, he said.

I had previously lost weight through Weight Watchers and had gotten down to 160 pounds, but, after a bad marriage, I gained it all back, plus some, Impett added. But when I previously lost weight, I was almost starving myself. I didnt really know why and how to get the weight off.

This time, I knew what I was doing and how to keep it off. Ive already kept it off for over a year. Having more information makes it easier.

Today, hes a co-leader of his TOPS group. Impett received the 2018 TOPS Washington King award, recognized at a state conference last year. Impett uses strategies to keep on track such as what to do at restaurants.

Ive switched more to a kind of carnivore-type keto, but every once in a while Ill have vegetables, he said. Mostly, its when I go to restaurants with my TOPS friends because restaurants dont have plain meat plates.

So at a Mexican restaurant, for example, he said hell ask for fajitas but skip the beans and rice. Ill eat the guacamole that comes with it. Its a good source of fats.

His daily activity happens at work where he is a cook for a Zips restaurant, he said. On the job, he usually averages about 8,000 steps a day.

Im also doing whats called one meal a day, Impett said. Ive found for me that with intermittent fasting and keto together, its very powerful in a good way. It works a lot better than keto by itself or intermittent fasting by itself.

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Tipping the scales: Keto diet, fasting and group helped man reach weight-loss goal - The Spokesman-Review

Oprah Takes Her Brand of Self-Improvement on the Road – LA Magazine

Posted: March 5, 2020 at 1:45 pm

Even blocks away from the Forum, you can feel Oprahs gravitational force. Traffic snarls around the venue as motorists with Orange County license frames honk at hapless traffic guards, desperate to get into the parking lot. Still, the mood is jubilant. Im at the Oprah Winfrey show! a parking lot assistant exclaims into his phone while passing a group of anti-vaxxers holding signs.

No, Oprah is not swooping in to save the Democratic Partyat least not yet. Instead, she is doing elaborate branded content for a company that produces small frozen meals and assigns points to edible goods. Oprahs 2020 Vision Tour is an all-day eventlike schoolmeant to transform the mind, body, and spirit of attendees, and is sponsored by WW (or Weight Watchers).

At the media sign-in, a woman hands me a low-cal cookbook wrapped in a pretty bow before looking down at her phone and twisting her face in horror. Oh my god, she says. Oprah just fell down.

Oprah had been talking about achieving balance when she fell, her flowy white pantsuit rippling in the wind. Thankfully, she regrouped quickly and by the time I enter the auditorium, the 66-year-old billionaire media mogul is already deep into delivering a lesson about achieving the highest version of yourself to a rapt audience of nearly 14,000.

What is holding you back? she asks the crowd, channeling a very 90s strain of self-help that is more concerned with banishing internalized doubts than addressing things like structural inequalities.

Still, its comforting to think that we could all achieve anything we put our minds to, were it not for our own inner critic. And I quickly remember that Oprah is also funny as hell: she talks about being scared of her grandmothers giant breasts (which she pronounces breast-esis) and says thats why she now hugs children from the side. Even when shes describing a recent pneumonia scare, she manages to turn it into a joke about how her doctor was scared to have her as a patient, lest she die on his watch. The folks around me seem to be laughing not out of shock or surprise but deep relief and identification, her honeyed voice distracting us from the Coronavirus alerts bombarding our phones.

As we fill out workbooks meant to gauge our satisfaction with life, Oprah walks through the audience, peeking at our answers. (According to mine, Im an emotional basket case.) Oh Jesus! someone screams when she pops up behind them. This being L.A., it seems like everyone she talks to has something to promote, but our host knows how to handle it: when one man who lost 160 pounds starts shilling his book, Oprah gives him a hug and succeeds in getting him to shut up.

In many ways, though, its a bizarre moment in time to be taking Oprahs advice seriously. The television host-turned-tycoon has long offered spiritual guidance and materialist solutions to middle-class anxieties, but they seem out of step with the plans proposed by nearly all of the Democratic presidential contestants. What good is a wellness intention, which her workbook encourages us to set, when so many people cant afford to see a doctor?

Likewise, when Oprah says Life is going to give you the experience you need for your own evolution, the mantra sounds similar to the idea that its god or the universes plan for bad things to befall certain peoplesay, being evicted or become homelessbecause it will help them grow. These ideas dont necessarily seem to reflect where Oprah is at politicallyin her Golden Globes speech, she linked her mothers struggles to those of abused women workers and called out systemic sexual harassment and gender discrimination in Hollywoodbut they make up the philosophy she is selling to tens of thousands across the country.

Her thinking on weight-loss seems a little more evolved. She treats her own journey as fodder for a standup set: [Longtime partner] Stedman and I went on a cleanse together, she says. Dont do it! You get evil without bread. She then does an impression of Stedman begging her to eat a biscuit. Shes quick to note that some people feel comfortable at any size, and thats OK! When a local teacher is trotted out on stage for losing over a hundred pounds, she tells the audience that we should love ourselves at every stage of our weight loss journey.

Our own travels involve a simple boxed meal from Panera. As we file out of the auditorium for our lunch break, we find a ring of selfie-stations where we can pose alongside Oprahs beaming face or hold vegetables in front of a backdrop of Oprahs farm. (To the surprise of no one, a representative tells me the veggies arent actually plucked from Oprah-owned soil.)

Im in the Oprah cult, says Beatrice Friedman, a retired speech therapist who drove from San Diego to attend the Vision 2020 tour for her birthday. This particular tour is different from anything shes done before, and Im just in that spot where Im ready to dive in for some more wellness.

A group of sorority sisters whod stayed in touch well into their professional lives told me they appreciated Oprahs take on FOMO (she says she has JOMO, or Joy of Missing Out) as well as answering questions like Whats your why? to figure out why they want to accomplish a certain goal.

I wondered about my own life goals as we filed back into the auditorium for a dancing class led by Julianne Hough, a meditation session from Jesse Israel, and an interview with Jennifer Lopez (elsewhere on the tour, O was joined by Dwayne Johnson, Tina Fey, Michelle Obama, and other huge names). Was my highest calling endlessly refreshing Twitter, desperate for the freshest memes? Was I living my lifes purpose by obsessively washing my hands?

Theres a Hallmark card quality to the kind of life advice Oprah is selling, but its potency stems from its deep familiarity. What kind of American isnt nostalgic for an afternoon spent sitting in the living room, enjoying a deeply satisfying parasocial relationship with a rich, empathetic woman who seems to have it all figured out?

Even when Oprah later bragged about the number of trees in her backyard (6,300; she hired a tree counter to tabulate), I didnt think much about how absurd it was that one person could own so much property. Exhausted and desperate for some kind of truce, the rational part of my brain had temporarily short-circuited. All I could think was, Wow, seems nice.

RELATED: Theres Already an Oprah for President Billboard Up in DTLA

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Oprah Takes Her Brand of Self-Improvement on the Road - LA Magazine

The Armies: A high-leverage loss, radio wars and the Jake Virtanen thing – The Athletic

Posted: March 5, 2020 at 1:45 pm

It was a swing game, a significant one. And it swung away from the Vancouver Canucks, as too many games have over the past week.

Aside from a pair of early Arizona Coyotes power-play opportunities in which the Canucks struggled to contain their opponent, Vancouver played superb hockey for almost 50 minutes.

Down early on a strange bouncer that deflected off Carl Soderberg and shot up, the puck spinning and arcing, a zany parabola, before landing on Thatcher Demkos head and into the net, Vancouver found their footing and controlled 35 minutes of the game ably. They built a territorial advantage, generated chances in bunches and tested Darcy Kuemper repeatedly.

Until the Canucks took the lead on a Tanner Pearson goal in the third period, Vancouver looked the better team. And then it rather quickly fell apart.

The club just seemed to stop playing. They managed only six even-strength shot attempts in the entire third period.

Of course, as...

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The Armies: A high-leverage loss, radio wars and the Jake Virtanen thing - The Athletic

Testosterone Replacement Therapy For Men – Low T Treatment Center

Posted: March 5, 2020 at 1:44 pm

If you have any of these common symptoms, it is recommended you have a proper and thorough set oflabs drawnto help determine if you havehypogonadism.

Testosterone replacement therapyis essential for men with hypogonadism. In these men, full replacement of testosterone is necessary. The amount of total testosterone in men can range from 300 to 1100 ng/ml, while the range for free testosterone is 50 to 250 ng/ml. It is more accurate to utilize free testosterone levels instead of total T levels.

Because the range is so broad, testosterone optimization must be individualized. In general, Dr. Rob aims to provide the lowest dose of testosterone that relieves symptoms and causes the man to be in the optimized zone. All while monitoring testosterone and its by-products for any potential unwanted side effects. There are several delivery method options and Dr. Rob presents the pros and cons of each before a mutually agreed upon delivery method is instituted.

It is also important to note that men should not be started on testosterone replacement without a careful endocrine evaluation to determine the cause of the low testosterone. Serious conditions including pituitary tumors can present with low testosterone.

Women have testosterone too

Men have 10 to 20 times higher levels of testosterone than women. Nonetheless, even this small amount of testosterone in women is important for maintaining sexual function, and healthy bladder and vaginal function.

When used in small physiologic doses with monitoring of testosterone blood levels, testosterone in women is well tolerated. High doses must be avoided as they can cause facial hair, loss of scalp hair, deepening of voice, and acne. Just like men, womenshould not be started on testosterone replacement without a careful endocrine evaluation to determine if it will provide a health benefit.

ReNue Healthis located conveniently in Springboro, Ohio with easy access from Dayton International Airport, Cincinnati International Airport or the adjacent Wright Brothers Private Airport (MGY) for those travelling by private aviation.Click here for directions and contact information.

Only one visit is necessary to perform a comprehensive history, interview, and education. Follow up evaluations, adjustments and balancing of hormones are done by phone or written communications and a return visit to Dr. Rob is not necessary. Ongoing testing and adjustment is mandatory and performed through a laboratory convenient to your home.

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Testosterone Replacement Therapy For Men - Low T Treatment Center

What Is the Best Treatment for Low Testosterone? | BodyLogicMD

Posted: March 5, 2020 at 1:44 pm

Low testosterone, also known as low-T, can occur as a result of injury, surgery, or chronic illness and cause a host of symptoms that compromise your quality of life. But the most common cause of low testosterone isnt an accident or illness its aging. And the symptoms are no less serious because theyre driven by a natural process.

After a man reaches peak testosterone levels around his late 20s, the body gradually decreases testosterone production at a rate of 1-2% per year. The resulting changes may be undetectable at first. But by the time you reach the age of 40 or 50 (or younger, for some men), you may start noticing a significant difference in the way your body performs. May be due to andropausealso known as male menopause.

If youre struggling with low libido, low energy, and low mood, you may be experiencing the effects of low-T. But before seeking treatment, its important to determine whether low testosterone is indeed the cause of your discomfort. An expert hormone practitioner will thoroughly evaluate your symptoms and complete comprehensive lab testing. If your testosterone levels are low, theyll work with you to create a treatment plan, combining proven medications with alternative remedies as needed. And theyll discuss all the risksand benefitsassociated with the best treatment for low testosterone: testosterone replacement therapy.

As we age, our bodies undergo a long list of changes that may be uncomfortable for both our minds and our bodies. Many of these can be attributed to hormones, like testosterone, and others can be caused by the choices we make every day.

To determine if low testosterone is the primary cause of your symptoms, youll want to discuss everything youre experiencing with your doctor. Some of the most common symptoms of low testosterone are:

Because these symptoms could also be related to other conditions or lifestyle choices, its essential to discuss other possible causes with your doctor before deciding on a treatment. Common complaints like erectile dysfunction and hair loss, for example, may be related to other hormones, lifestyle factors, or a separate health condition.

An expert hormone health practitioner will be able to determine which of your symptoms can be attributed to low testosterone. Through thorough clinical evaluation, theyll help you decide whether treating low testosterone will be the best course of actionand how to treat it.

Although low testosterone levels can create a wide variety of subtle or severe symptoms, theres one widely prescribed and highly effective treatment for them all: testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).

TRT has been proven to relieve symptoms of low testosterone, increasing libido and sexual function, improving mood, increasing muscle mass and bone density, and improving cognitionall of which contribute to a higher quality of life for men. While its not a cure-all, testosterone therapy may be the key to helping you regain a sense of health and wellbeing.

Testosterone replacement therapy is widely accessible across the United States and comes in a variety of preparations to suit your preference:

For many men, testosterone pellet therapy is a particularly attractive choice, as they avoid the fluctuations that come with shorter-acting therapies and only require re-insertion every few months instead of more frequent dosing.

Like any medication, testosterone replacement therapy can come with a few side effects. And while generally considered a safe treatment, there may be health risks that make TRT inappropriate for some men. Youll want to discuss these possible outcomes extensively with your hormone practitioner before deciding whether or not hormone replacement therapy is right for you.

Some of the common side effects associated with TRT include:

If you have problems with your liver, kidneys, or prostate, or if you are currently trying to have children, testosterone replacement therapy may not be the best choice. Discuss these risks with your physician. Although the most recent research indicates there may not be a connection between TRT and prostate cancer, its still very important that you report your complete medical history (and any family incidences of cancer) before starting hormone therapy. Studies also indicate that TRT could reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and mortality by all causesbut testosterone has previously been associated with an increased risk of cardiac events including heart attack. Men with heart conditions or clotting disorders should consult with a cardiologist prior to starting hormone therapy.

Although testosterone replacement therapy is widely acknowledged as the best treatment for low testosterone, the symptoms you experience could also be caused by lifestyle choices. Rather than replacing testosterone with medication, its best to treat these issues separately by pursuing alternate therapies.

For those who do not qualify for testosterone replacement therapyfor instance, those who experience very mild symptoms or those who have low-T without symptomsthe following options may be viable alternatives or powerful supplements to therapy:

It is important, however, to note that while these alternatives may be effective for some mild cases, they are typically not enough to raise low testosterone levels for most men. As such, testosterone replacement therapy remains the gold standard for treating low-T.

If youve been diagnosed with low testosterone and are taking or about to start testosterone replacement therapy, you may want to pause and examine your options.

On one hand, you could receive standard androgen medications from your primary care physician. They will prescribe a standard dose and help you monitor side effects. But this doctor may not have the full range of experience and training in hormone imbalances and therapies. In other words, you may not receive the highest quality care possible.

You may be better off seeking testosterone replacement therapy from a qualified expert in hormone health. At BodyLogicMD, our expert practitioners are committed to delivering integrative care that takes the whole person into account. They will perform extensive testing to determine your hormone needs, prescribe fully customizable medication regimens for your symptoms, and help you reach optimal wellness through consistent monitoring and careful adjustment throughout the treatment process. They will also listen to your individual concerns and ensure that your treatment plan works for you.

If youre looking to start testosterone replacement therapy under the care of the nations best hormone practitioners, consider partnering with BodyLogicMD.

BodyLogicMD is a network of hormone health practitioners who specialize in hormone therapies and integrative medicine. Our practitioners are among the highest qualified experts in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy and dedicated to providing the best care possible. When you partner with BodyLogicMD, your practitioner will create a comprehensive treatment plan that is fully customized to you and your low testosterone symptomsincluding lifestyle consulting and nutrition advice. Start your journey toward optimal health today. Contact a local practitioner in your area or take the BodyLogicMD Hormone Balance Quiz to learn more about the best treatment for low testosterone.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. All content on this website is for informational purposes only. The content is not intended diagnose, treat, cure or prevent diseases.

Charlotte is a patient care coordinator specializing in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. She is committed to helping patients who struggle with the symptoms of hormonal change and imbalance explore their treatment options and develop effective strategies to optimize wellness.

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What Is the Best Treatment for Low Testosterone? | BodyLogicMD

Testosterone Therapy Treatment Types, Uses & Risks

Posted: March 5, 2020 at 1:44 pm

Testosterone therapy is intended to treat male hypogonadism (low testosterone or Low T), a condition in which the body fails to make enough hormones because of a problem with the testicles, pituitary gland or brain. A number of prescription testosterone products are available to treat hypogonadism.Testosterone productscome in different forms, including gels, injectable solutions, patches, pills and pellets implanted under the skin.

Once a patient starts testosterone therapy, the patient usually undergoes lifelong treatment. Doctors will monitor the patients hormone levels every six months to a year. Depending on the patient, the checkups may be more frequent.

Fast Facts: Use of Testosterone Therapy Over the Years

Testosterone can be administered in skin patch, skin gel, pill or cream form or as an injection, a solution applied to the armpit or a patch or a buccal system applied to the upper gum or inner cheek.

While many testosterone products areavailable only with a prescription, some drug stores and health food stores sell them over the counter. A few of these products also claim to be all-natural.

Testosterone gel is a prescription medication applied directly to a mans skin on the shoulders and upper arms and/or abdomen, depending on the brand. Testosterone gel can inadvertently transfer from your body to others and can lead to serious health reactions. To avoid such contact, apply testosterone gel to clean, dry, intact skin that will be covered by clothing. Wash your hands right away with soap and water after applying. Once the gel has dried, cover the area with clothing and keep it covered until you have washed the area well or have showered.

First approved in 1979, Depo-testosterone is one of the older drugs of its kind on the market. Its a liquid and is designed for injection deep into the gluteal muscle. The active ingredient, testosterone cypionate, is a white or creamy white powder mixed with other ingredients to make a solution. The drug is available in two strengths, 100 mg and 200 mg.

Testosterone transdermal patches, including Androderm, come as patches to apply to the skin. Patches work best when applied around the same time each night and are left in place for 24 hours. Testosterone patches are meant to be worn at all times until replaced with new patches. Androderm patches should be changed every 24 hours. The old patch should be removed before applying the new one. You should apply the patches to different spots each night and wait at least seven days before re-using a spot.

The testosterone capsules Methyltestosterone and Android have been discontinued but have been used in men and boys to treat conditions caused by lack of hormone, such as delayed puberty, and in women to treat breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. Methyltestosterone is a man-made form of testosterone. It can affect bone growth in boys who are treated for delayed puberty.

Manufacturers of testosterone boosters like Testofen have touted their products as means to increase muscle mass, strength and sex drive in men. Among the most popular testosterone boosters are products that contain some combination of tribulus terrestris, DHEA, zinc and d-aspartic acid. These ingredients have been associated witha number of side effects, including aggressiveness, breast enlargement, cholesterol changes, prostate problems and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Makers of testosterone products use two types of hormones:

Bioidentical HormonesAndroGel and a number of other products contain bioidentical hormones. Scientists create bioidentical hormones in a lab to chemically match the hormone naturally made by the body. In theory, this results in fewer side effects.

Synthetic HormonesSynthetic hormones are altered from the original chemical makeup, so they do not match those made by the body. These types of drugs typically have more side effects.

Unusually high or low levels of testosterone can significantly affect a mans physical and mental health. Men typically use testosterone drugs to address a medical issue like Low T or erectile dysfunction or to enhance their physical performance

Testosterone levels in men start to spike during puberty and drop on average by 1 percent every year after age 30. Lack of this key sex hormone in older men can cause health issues, including osteoporosis, loss of muscle mass and strength (sarcopenia), and psychological symptoms. Doctors prescribe testosterone drugs to treat these symptoms.

While declining testosterone levels tend to be part of normal aging in men, others experience the dip because of disorders of the testicles, pituitary gland and brain that cause hypogonadism. Other factors such as injury to the testicles, cancer treatments, chronic diseases and stress can also contribute to low testosterone production.

TheFDAapproved testosterone as replacement therapy only for men who have low testosterone levels due to disorders that cause hypogonadism. However, the agency has said testosterone is being widely used to try to relieve symptoms in men who have low testosterone for no apparent reason other than aging a use for which the benefits and safety have not been established.

Doctors analyze testosterone levels in two categories: total testosterone and free testosterone. Most testosterone is attached to a protein called sex hormone-binding globulin (SHGB). A small amount of testosterone is free, and a small amount regularly attaches and detaches itself from a protein called albumin. Any testosterone that is not attached to SHGB is considered free testosterone.

Some men turn to testosterone to increase sex drive and treat erectile dysfunction (ED), which is the inability to get and keep erections. In fact, according to an article published by Harvard Health Publications, some doctors used it to treat ED beforePfizerreleased Viagra in 1998.

Its well established that testosterone by itself, for men with sexual dysfunction that includes erectile dysfunction, can improve erections in the majority of men who take it.

However, only about 5 percent of men experience ED solely from low testosterone. Low testosterone levels can be a contributing factor to ED but are more likely to reduce sexual desire than cause ED. Many doctors wont consider prescribing testosterone to a patient unless he presents certain other symptoms, too.

Dr. Abraham Morgentaler is an advocate of using testosterone for treating men with sexual dysfunction, including ED.

Morgentaler does admit that some men may require testosterone andViagra, however, in order to have adequate erections.

Because testosterone allows men to increase muscle mass and performance, athletes and body builders use testosterone-boosting supplements and drugs to increase strength and improve recovery time. The practice of using these drugs is called doping. Athletes use both synthetic and bioidentical supplements. Body builders in particular are known for their use of synthetic hormones to rapidly increase muscle mass.

Testosterone can help increase muscle mass in a much faster fashion. Athletes who use anabolic steroids may find that theyre able to increase their endurance and their strength by doing the same amount of training as they would otherwise, Dr. Anthony Yin, an endocrinologist at California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco, told SF Gate.

However, using performance-enhancing drugs, testosterone included, is illegal in most sports. While the drug is helpful to men who are clinically diagnosed with Low T, men who abuse these drugs solely to boost performance face a number of possible side effects.

As use of testosterone therapy has increased so has the amount of concern surrounding these products.

Some doctors say that in reality, few men are actually diagnosed with clinical hypogonadism, and that many symptoms are just a normal part of aging. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism shows record numbers of men in the U.S. are turning to testosterone therapy simply to increase their sex drive and energy levels.

Critics say that Low T is a conditionmarketed by drug companiesto increase profits. Doctors are concerned that the long-term effects have not yet been properly studied and feel there should be more agreement about what constitutes a normal testosterone level. Because testosterone therapies are not proven treatments, they caution that risks may outweigh benefits forhealthy men.

Dr. Lisa Schwartz, a professor at the Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, wrote a paper on drug companies marketing these hormone therapies.

Were giving people hormones that we dont know they need for a disease that we dont know they have, and we dont know if itll help them or harm them.

Over the years, men havesued the makers of testosterone productsafter using the therapies and suffering from heart attacks, strokes and blood clots. Meanwhile, researchers have conducted studies to better understand the effects of testosterone therapy.

Researchers for a year studied the effect of testosterone treatment on cognition, bone health, anemia and cardiovascular health in 788 men aged 65 or older who had low testosterone levels that couldnt be explained by anything other than age.

According to the findings, reported in February 2017 in JAMA and JAMA Internal Medicine, testosterone treatment did not have an effect on memory or cognitive abilities, though it appeared to increase hemoglobin levelsin men with anemia and improve bone density. In addition, a clinical trial found one year of testosterone treatment in men aged 65 or older with Low T was associated with a significant increase in coronary artery plaque, a risk factor for heart disease.

Studies have linked testosterone products to serious side effects, prompting the FDA to take action in recent years towarn the publicof the potential dangers of these products.

Testosterone therapy is associated with an increased risk for these health problems:

Testosterone therapy for men can be dangerous to women and children if they come in contact with the drug by touching the patients skin. This usually occurs when men use testosterone gel and the application site is exposed. Anyone who comes in contact with the application site is at risk of developing side effects.

Women can experience acne or hair growth, and if they are pregnant, the unborn baby may be harmed.

In 2009, the FDA issued a warning about adverse effects in children exposed to testosterone gels through contact with application sites. Symptoms included abnormally large genitalia (penis and clitoris), advanced bone age, early puberty and aggressive behavior. Young boys may even develop enlarged breasts. A doctor should be contacted right away if these symptoms occur.

Pets exposed to testosterone can become violent and aggressive and develop enlarged genitals.

Benefits of Testosterone Therapy Treatment

Posted: March 5, 2020 at 1:44 pm

Benefits of Testosterone Therapy

The testosterone therapy potential benefits have been considered to be remarkable and have changed the quality of life for those dealing with a testosterone deficiency (also called low T). Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a form of treatment where a patient will get a full service program including:

All these elements listed above are imperative to be in place in order for a patient to reap safe and legal testosterone replacement therapy benefits. A reputable TRT clinic will not just dole out medication to patients who want it. The only way to get the best health benefits testosterone therapy is to be a part of a full service program that abides by the law. The clinic should make sure that everything needed for successful testosterone treatment is provided to each and every client.

The benefits of testosterone therapy when a person is a part of a professional, caring and compassionate team of professionals will happen quicker and more powerfully when a person trusts the clinic with which they work. When a patient knows that the TRT clinic has a successful past track record, that all of their doctors are fully trained and licensed and that their clinical advisor are all qualified and compassionate, this knowledge can certainly help with the treatment process. When a patient knows that he or she is part of a team of the finest professionals for TRT, this will be in part what will give them the best testosterone replacement therapy benefits.

Testosterone therapy can benefit both men and women in many ways. Treatment with the accurate testosterone prescription can help:

When most people think of testosterone replacement therapy, they immediately think of a man who wants to increase his muscles, spark his sexual drive and improve his ability to perform sexually. However, there are actually many more benefits of testosterone for the body and this goes for men and for women. Women need less testosterone in their systems than men do, but they do need this hormone for optimal health as well.

The following are the most popular physical benefits of testosterone replacement therapy:

The following are the most popular emotional benefits of testosterone replacement therapy:

The following are the most popular mental benefits of testosterone replacement therapy:

The following are the most popular sexual benefits of testosterone replacement therapy:

There may be other benefits of testosterone replacement therapy that are not mentioned above; however, feeling generally healthier and happier is the main overall benefit of TRT. This would be the most practical outcome when physical, emotional, mental and/or sexual health improves and testosterone replacement therapy can make this a reality.

The best way to get the benefits of testosterone replacement therapy is to follow your doctors prescription exactly how it is written and to live a healthy lifestyle. Taking your testosterone injections is only part of the battle to help keep your testosterone levels plentiful and long lasting. The other part of your therapeutic plan should involve the following:

There are many foods that have been proven to increase testosterone levels and to help a person to find relief from the symptoms of a growth hormone deficiency. Some of these food choices are:

The foods mentioned above are high in protein, zinc and vitamin D. The nutrients have been proven in medical studies to help the body to produce testosterone naturally.

Eating well and properly removing refined sugars and too much of the bad fats found in certain foods can help with the benefits of testosterone replacement therapy. It is important to remember to eat each food in moderation and mix them up. For an example, make sure not to eat too many egg yolks or beef if cholesterol levels are a problem for your health.

It is important to give the body the proper amount of physical activity each day for optimal health and hormone production. Studies have proven that plenty of high intensity exercise and strength training with weights can increase testosterone production. Cardiovascular activity is vital for hormone production and for heart health.

Experts say that at least 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep per evening is vital for optimal health in all ways. Most testosterone is naturally produced within the body during deep sleep as shown in studies that measure testosterone levels upon first waking in the morning (they tend to be at their highest).

Keeping calm and without tension or stress response is important for good health. Stress is detrimental in all physical, emotional, mental and sexual ways and certainly does not help with the production of testosterone. Keeping stress low is also very important to reap the best benefits from testosterone replacement therapy.

If engaging in alcohol consumption, always drink responsibly. An alcoholic drink once per day can have its health benefits, according to many studies, but abusing this vice can be dangerous. Drinking too much alcohol can impede upon the natural production of testosterone.

Smoking is toxic, plain and simply put. The toxins in cigarette smoke have been proven to deteriorate the body and all of its systems. This will include the endocrine system; responsible for the natural production of testosterone. Smoking will also get in the way of receiving the benefits of testosterone replacement therapy.

For more information about the benefits of testosterone therapy and what you can do naturally increase your levels, please reach out to us. We provide you with a simple online contact form to fill out or you can call us as well. Our experts are ready and waiting to help you change your life as you raise and balance your testosterone levels safely and legally.

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Benefits of Testosterone Therapy Treatment

Testosterone Replacement Therapy – Maui Athletics

Posted: March 5, 2020 at 1:44 pm

Testosterone Replacement TherapyMale Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is treated by many doctors as taboo. This is mainly due to under-education on the topic, stigma from the public, and fear of litigation in todays society. Due to liability issues, a large percentage of doctors are not willing to even educate themselves on the matter. In reality, TRT is a valuable treatment modality that can greatly increase quality of life for many men, with minimal risk in otherwise healthy individuals (as long as some precautions are followed). A competent doctor will focus on treating symptoms and root-cause, not numbers on a blood panel.

This compilation intends to provide the most up to date information on all things TRT. Bare in mind that this research does not look into supra-physiological use. It is also not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition, please talk with your physician if you suspect you are a candidate for TRT.

Testosterone preparations come in various forms (injectable, cream, pellet, etc). My number one recommendation is always injectable as you can more safely and accurately tailor the dose to your own body. Testosterone is generally bound to an ester in injectable form. The type of ester yields vastly different speeds of absorption. Fast acting (short-acting) esters such as Propionate produce higher blood levels much quicker, but also come at the risk of more side-effects.

One such side is the aforementioned erythrocytosis. This is why longer esters such as Cypionate or Enanthate (or in the future Undecanoate) are typically used for TRT. Benefits of these long-acting esters include decreased side effects/risks as well as the requirement for less frequent injections. Another way to mitigate red blood cell production (and estrogen conversion) is to inject smaller doses more frequently to produce smaller blood level spikes of testosterone. Blood panels to monitor hematocrit are of paramount importance during TRT. Luckily, a therapeutic phlebotomy can take care of the issue of erythrocytosis should the need arise. The trick is regular monitoring to catch this before it becomes a significant problem. In many following a TRT dosing protocol, this is never an issue.

When monitoring estrogen, especially in men, I recommend an E sensitive test rather than the standard test. Standard estrogen tests can give false values as they can be altered by C-reactive protein. E sensitive tests take this into account and provide a more reliable reading.

All graphics credited to their respective authors.

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http://www.societaitalianadiendocrinologia.it/public/pdf/bellastellanovembre2017.pdf

Testosterone Therapy Coronary Plaque and Calcium Score

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29542875

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29978359

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29974886

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https://www.nature.com/articles/ijo2016242