Page 23 - Nelson Vergel

Testosterone supplements are all the rage, and it seems like every fifth commercial stars Frank Thomas telling everyday Joes like us (or even Doug Flutie) how their lives (sex lives, too, guys) can be greatly enhanced by using their product. But is that truthful? We all assume that testosterone supplement marketing claims exaggerate the facts. But do we expect downright lies and deception? What you don’t know can hurt you. Read this article and step out of the shadows and into the light. We understand what you’re going through. Testosterone levels decline with age, making you look and feel ways you never expected when you were younger. I know how it feels to be grasping at straws, and I understand the desire to believe in magic bullets and fairy tales. But what you need to know about testosterone boosters is that beyond the hype and the slick marketing campaigns tugging at your wallets, there’s little proof that they work.   Table of Contents Amazon Unwittingly Contributes to Testosterone Boosting Supplement Scam 10 Most Common Ingredients in Testosterone Boosters Misleading Labels don’t Mislead. They Outright Deceive According to a recent analysis of popular online testosterone boosting supplements, the evidence of any positive impact on testosterone levels is sorely lacking.[1] The study looked at five popular testosterone boosters:   Prime Labs Manufactured by Prime Labs Alpha Boost Manufactured by Invictus Labs Extra Strength Manufactured by Dr. Martin’s Nutrition Iron Brothers Manufactured by Iron Brothers Supplements Pro-T Manufactured by Prometheus Wellness LLC   Researchers chose these five testosterone boosting products because they represent the top five testosterone booster supplements based on cost, ingredient profile, and Amazon reviews. In other words, these are the best of the bunch and are likely products you’re familiar with. Amazon Unwittingly Contributes to Testosterone Supplement Scam Let’s first look at exactly how these five products were chosen. Researchers searched the Amazon marketplace database using keywords “testosterone” + “booster” with default search settings and ranking items based on relevance. According to the study, “The top 5 T-Boosters identified on July 22, 2018, were reviewed based on price, ratings, reviews, manufacturer details, and ingredients. Consumer reviews were categorized using core themes in the Androgen Deficiency in the Aging Male (ADAM) questionnaire as a proxy to understand T-Booster efficacy and reanalyzed following filtration of untrustworthy comments using ReviewMeta.com, a proprietary Amazon customer review analysis software.” Why is that last part important? As some of you probably know, merchants have wised up to the fact that the way to win on Amazon, regardless of the product being sold, is to “get” great reviews from “customers.” The problem is that merchants have also realized that these great reviews can come from the companies themselves in a scam known as “brushing.” In a nutshell, brushing is when companies send out products to people who didn’t order them and then write reviews themselves using the unsuspecting consumers’ names. How much is a great review worth on Amazon? A heck of a lot more than the free products these scam companies are sending out, which is why those conducting this analysis sought to exclude those types of reviews. What percentage of reviews were determined to be scam reviews? A little more than 66 percent. This means if you’re one of the men who decided to purchase a testosterone booster based on customer reviews, you were more likely to be reading fiction rather than facts. The average review score for these five testosterone supplements was 4.56 out of 5. However, after filtering the reviews through ReviewMeta.com, here is the impact:   91 percent decrease in users reporting an increase in libido 59 percent decrease in reports of increased energy 93 percent decrease in reports of improved strength/endurance 60 percent decrease in reports of improved erections 67 percent decrease in reports of improved sleep 89 percent decrease in reports of improved sports ability   10 Most Common Ingredients in Testosterone Supplements   The 10 most common ingredients in the five testosterone boosters studied were:   Tongkat Ali Extract Horny Goat Weed Saw Palmetto Extract Boron Nettle Extract Maca Root Powder Ashwagandha Root Extract Fenugreek Bioperine DIIM (Diindolylmethane)   It should be mentioned that some of these herbs have real health benefits, but as the authors of this analysis discovered in their research, raising testosterone levels likely isn’t one of them. Of these 10 most common ingredients, there were a total of 191 studies conducted. However, after further review, researchers found that only 19 percent involved human subjects. Among those 37 studies that did use human subjects: 30 percent showed an increase in testosterone levels 3 percent showed a decrease 46 percent showed no effect 22 percent were indeterminate   Of the five popular testosterone boosters studied, three do not include the amount of each ingredient on their labeling and four of the five had the exact same ingredients in the exact same quantities. And all five refer to being produced in an “FDA registered facility,” which is half a world away from being “FDA approved.” The takeaway – marketing matters, also known as duping an unsuspecting population of men desperately searching for solutions to their low testosterone levels. Researchers of this study came to a similar conclusion, citing that their findings “raise questions as to the authenticity of both on-bottle marketing as well as reviews touting the benefits of these products,” and offers this bit of advice for men seeking therapeutics to raise their testosterone levels: “In the absence of additional human studies, patients should be cautioned before considering T-Boosters, given the availability of highly effective Food and Drug Administration approved therapies.” Another recent study looking at misleading labeling claims by supplement manufacturers found that “One such product, a purported testosterone booster, potentially mislead consumers by misusing and exaggerating scientific information.”[2] Regarding the testosterone booster in question, the report’s author sent an email to the manufacturer requesting information that would back up their marketing claims. However, what he received back from the company did not support those advertising claims in any way, shape, or form. The company specifically sent back three scientific articles and an Evidence and Safety Summary Report. The key ingredient in question, and the one reportedly most responsible for increasing testosterone levels, is D-aspartic acid. The first study the company sent back was on rats, not humans, and therefore dismissed. The second was a summary of D-aspartic acid’s role on the nervous and endocrine systems of mammals (not necessarily humans) but never looked at whether testosterone levels were increased. The third scientific article the company sent back, according to the study’s author, was the “only bona fide attempt at providing evidence for this product’s efficacy claims” and reports on the role and molecular mechanism of D-aspartic acid in the release and synthesis of luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone. The fourth document – the Evidence and Safety Summary Report – was simply a summary of the three previously mentioned studies plus eight additional studies, which also did “not provide any information to support the product’s testosterone boosting claims.” After scouring medical journals using the terms “D-aspartic acid” + “testosterone,” here is what the author of the study found:   There is no research on the effects of D-aspartic acid on human testosterone There is no evidence that supports the manufacturer’s claims that D-aspartic acid can boost testosterone levels There is evidence that people use it for the absorption of supplements and athletic performance.   Evidence that people use it for the absorption of supplements and athletic performance. No evidence that it has any effect on both.   Misleading Testosterone Supplement Labels don’t Mislead. They Outright Deceive   The study’s author writes that according to the marketing and manufacturer’s label, this “product can increase, support, stimulate, amplify, and boost testosterone levels. Additional claims are that the product has been clinically researched and that its results are clinically proven.”   Now, does that sound like misleading consumers or pure fiction compared to what the researcher found for the T-booster’s key active ingredient – D-aspartic acid?   The study’s author cites a few critical reasons why the product manufacturer’s claims are misleading:   Misuse of scientific information – one study involved men with the lowest testosterone levels (far below average) that were increased slightly but not enough to have a discernible effect.   One study cited used a different product, not the manufacturer’s testosterone booster, which had different ingredients.   One study contradicted several other studies on D-aspartic acid, all of which showed inconclusive results on its ability to increase testosterone.   Misuse of the product label’s bar graph – the graph shows only the upper half of the results, which essentially exaggerates the difference between the experimental and placebo groups.   The study’s author also notes that “The advertiser did not mention the decline in the participant’s total testosterone three days after the suspension of D-aspartic acid.” The study’s conclusions are cautionary at best when it comes to advertising claims like ‘100% clinically validated’ and ‘clinically researched’, as “the consumer could infer that the product has been subjected to relevant, unbiased and independent clinical trials, that it is safe and effective, and that there is sufficient scientific evidence to support these claims.” But as we’ve learned here today, you can’t believe everything you hear and read, especially when someone is trying to sell you something. Are the days of snake oil salesmen a thing of the past, or has the game and deception just evolved? The only way to truly know if a testosterone boosting therapy works is to get a blood test, both before and after. This is the first step. Otherwise, you’re just guessing about the efficacy while simultaneously flushing money down the toilet if a therapy isn’t working. Discounted Labs has the most trusted information on the best testosterone tests available today. Don’t waste another precious day living with low testosterone levels. Get tested today and begin your journey to living more fully and with more energy, vigor, and of course, more lead in your pencil.   REFERENCES   Testosterone Imposters: An Analysis of Popular Online Testosterone Boosting Supplements, Alexander W. Pastuszak, MD, Ph.D., 2020 Feb 1, PMID: 30770069 Testosterone Boosters: A Report of a Supplement’s Misleading Labelling Claims, RW de Lange, Ph.D., 2020, DOI: 10.17159/2078-516X/2020/v32i1a7426  

Here are Some Important Things That Your Doctor May Fail to Tell You Before You Start Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT):       1- TRT decreases your sperm count.     Some doctor prescribe Clomiphene alone or hCG with TRT to preserve your fertility     2- TRT may increase your blood viscosity due to increased hematocrit, the amount of red blood cells in the blood.     Some doctors may want to stop your TRT when this happens, but this side effect can be managed easily with blood donations or therapeutic phlebotomy.   Just be careful: frequent blood donations can deplete iron and cause fatigue.     3- TRT shuts down your own testosterone production.     It may take up to 6 months for your testosterone to return to baseline after you stop.     4- TRT works to improve your sex drive, muscle mass, and burn fat.     But it does not work for everyone and dose/frequency are important along with other factors like side effect management.   TRT is not a magic bullet.     5- Testosterone can be injected under the skin (Most doctors think you should inject deeply into muscle)     6- Testosterone gels and creams are effective but some doctors do not adjust the dose based on your blood level and symptoms.     7- Many doctors still prescribe testosterone injections at 200 mg every two weeks.     Many are moving towards recommending 100 mg/week or 50 mg twice per week with an insulin syringe.     8- TRT can worsen sleep apnea.     Apnea can improve with weight loss and can be treated with a CPAP machine.     9- TRT improves erectile function in some men but not all.     It improves libido in most men regardless of age, though.     10- You can monitor your own blood tests via companies that sell discounted labs without a doctor visit.     11- You can access a testosterone doctor via telemedicine if you don’t have one close by.     However, most of them do not take insurance.     12- TRT does not cause prostate cancer or heart attacks.     Cardiovascular outcomes depend on proper monitoring of hematocrit, HDL, and blood pressure.     13- Many men do not know that they ask questions to TRT-experienced men by visiting the ExcelMale forum.     14- In follow up visits, some doctors only measure blood levels of total testosterone but forget to include free testosterone, DHT (metabolite), and thyroid function tests.     15- Most insurance companies only pay for certain TRT products but not others.     And most refuse to pay if your testosterone is over 350 ng/dL.     16- You can buy affordable TRT options with a prescription at compounding pharmacies like Empower Pharmacy.     17- Urologists are quickly becoming the most knowledgeable doctors of TRT management.     18- Some men fail to achieve benefits from TRT. Comorbidities and other issues can be to blame.     GO TO: DiscountedLabs.com/Resources for   Free Testosterone Book Doctor's Referrals Forums & More

Learn why a blood test is important, how it is performed, and how to interpret the numbers. In this video, we will discuss a lipid profile - a group of tests which assesses your risk of developing heart disease. We will also discuss the hemoglobin A1c test.   You likely had blood tests done when you visited your doctor. Do you ever look at the results and understand what they mean? This video will show you what, how and why. The blood sample is drawn from the vein in your arm by a health professional, and it is almost painless. Why is a blood test important? It is an extremely useful diagnostic tool. The results can tell you how your body's functioning and the overall state of your health. Blood tests can be used to screen for disorders, track the progress of medical treatments and alert you of potential health problems, thus helping you take action to prevent or treat them. Therefore, it is important for you to know how to read your results and to understand what the numbers mean. Interpretation of test results: Compare the numbers of your test results to that of the reference or normal ranges given. More importantly, follow the trend of your results with time for a more meaningful interpretation. Please note that the numbers can vary somewhat from laboratory to laboratory. Be sure to always use the reference numbers given by the specific laboratory where your test is done. What does a routine blood test panel include? This blood test panel include many different types of tests for different purposes, such as lipid profile, blood sugar level test, electrolyte levels and liver function tests. It is usually done with fasting blood, that is no foods or drinks except for water for more than 8 to 12 hours before the blood draw. It includes tests for risk factors for common disorders, such as heart disease, diabetes, liver disease and kidney disease, among others. Some of the slides in the above video show examples of some of the common tests that are performed in blood samples. Some of the tests that we will be going over include lipid profile, a comprehensive metabolic panel, measuring glucose levels and hemoglobin A1C, liver function tests, kidney function tests, thyroid function tests and complete blood count. You need to look at the whole picture, not just one of the tests. Lipid profile. It tells you if you have a risk factor for developing heart disease. A panel of tests includes the following, total cholesterol. The recommended level is under 200 milligrams per deciliter. Your body uses cholesterol to help build cells and make hormones. Too much cholesterol in the blood can cause formation of plaques on the walls of your blood vessels and increase your chances of having a heart attack or stroke. HDL or high-density lipoprotein. The recommended level is more than 45 milligrams per deciliter is often referred to as good cholesterol. It helps bind fat in the blood and carry it to the liver for disposal. Low density lipoprotein or LDL. The recommended level is lower than 129 milligrams per deciliter is often referred to as bad cholesterol and is made up of mostly fat and only a small amount of protein. A high level may increase your chances of developing heart disease. Triglycerides are essentially fat in the blood that is used to provide energy to the body. They are your main form of fat. Triglycerides, the recommended level is lower than 200 milligrams per deciliter. A level of 240 to 499 milligrams per deciliter is considered high. A level of more than 500 milligrams per deciliter is considered very high, so some action needs to be taken to lower it. High triglyceride levels may lead to heart disease, especially in people with low levels of good cholesterol and high levels of bad cholesterol. Having a healthy diet and regularly exercising can help lower triglyceride levels and improve cholesterol. Glucose or blood sugar is a source of energy for the cells in your body. Foods such as bread, pasta, rice, and fruit contain carbohydrates that are turned into glucose in your body. This raises your blood glucose level. The glucose test helps screen for diabetes or pre-diabetes. For fasting glucose level, the normal range is 70 to 99 milligrams per deciliter. Too high or too low a level indicates a problem with your glucose metabolism. Hemoglobin A1C, this is a more meaningful test for screening for diabetes. It checks your average blood sugar level over the past two to three months. The normal range is 4.5 to 5.7 percent. 5.7 to 6 percent suggests increased risk of diabetes. 6.1 to 6.4 percent suggests higher risk of diabetes. Greater than 6.5% is consistent with diabetes.   Buy a Lipid Profile here. Buy a Hemoglobin A1C here.

Table of Contents   What is a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel?    Why Should You Get a CMP Lab Test?  What is a CMP Blood Test Used For?  Comprehensive Metabolic Panel Results  CMP Blood Test Measurements in More Detail    What is a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel?    A comprehensive metabolic panel (also known as a CMP blood test, comp metabolic panel, or CMP lab test) is a laboratory test that measures 14 different substances in a person’s blood. A CMP blood test provides important information about your body's chemical balance and metabolism – the process of how the body uses food and energy. We’ll get into specific detail about the comp metabolic panel in a minute, but the important takeaway is this: Abnormal levels of any of the substances we’ll be getting into, or in some cases, a combination of abnormalities can be a sign of a serious health problem.   Why Should You Get a CMP Lab Test?    The disease process can be very long. Therefore, even though your body may be heading down the road to serious heart disease, you may not notice symptoms for many months and often many years. And it’s not just for heart disease, as few diseases show up at your doorstep waving a big banner that reads: Welcome to Kidney Disease. That’s just not how the human body works. Just think about the word, disease, or dis-ease, meaning a body, not at ease. Your body can be in a state of dis-ease for as long as 10 or 20 years and then (not so) suddenly, you’ve got a serious problem on your hands. And one that may be nearly impossible to reverse. The last thing you want is to find out about disease by experiencing physical signs and symptoms or by a physical diagnosis. By then, it could be too late. And I don’t mean to sound like an alarmist; this is just how the human body works. For this reason, a comp metabolic panel is usually done as part of a larger routine checkup, and often when a healthcare provider thinks a patient may have kidney or liver disease. But as you now know, by the time those suspicions can be seen and felt physically, you’re already well into the disease process.   What is a CMP Blood Test Used For?    A CMP lab test is used to evaluate several body processes and functions, including:   Liver and kidney health Blood sugar levels Blood protein levels Acid and base balance Fluid and electrolyte balance Metabolism Side effects of some medications   A comprehensive metabolic panel, meaning all the tests you’ll see below, can be taken from just one blood sample. However, a CMP metabolic panel can also include a urine test and a thyroid test, as the point of the test is to get a comprehensive view of a person’s complete physical function. Now let’s look at what each test in the comprehensive metabolic panel measures and what those high or low numbers mean for you. However, it should be noted that we won’t get into specific numbers as these will often have no meaning for all but experienced healthcare professionals.   Comprehensive Metabolic Panel Results    Glucose (fasting or non-fasting)   What it is: Sugar in the blood What a low number means for you: Hypoglycemia, liver disease, adrenal insufficiency, excess insulin What a high number means for you: Hyperglycemia, certain types of diabetes, prediabetes, pancreatitis, hyperthyroidism   Sodium (Na)   What it is: An electrolyte which keeps your body in balance What a low number means for you: Use of diuretics, diarrhea, adrenal insufficiency What a high number means for you: Kidney dysfunction, dehydration, Cushing's syndrome   Potassium (K)   What it is: An electrolyte and mineral What a low number means for you: Use of diuretics or corticosteroids (such as prednisone or cortisone What a high number means for you: Acute or chronic kidney failure, Addison's disease, diabetes, dehydration   Chloride (Cl)   What it is: An electrolyte What a low number means for you: Emphysema, chronic lung disease What a high number means for you: Dehydration, Cushing's syndrome, kidney disease   Carbon dioxide (bicarbonate) (CO2)   What it is: Gaseous waste product from metabolism What a low number means for you: Kidney disease, certain toxic exposures, severe infection What a high number means for you: Lung diseases, including COPD   BUN (blood urea nitrogen)   What it is: A waste product formed in the liver and carried to the kidneys, filtered out of blood, and excreted through urine What a low number means for you: Malnutrition What a high number means for you: Liver or kidney disease, heart failure   Creatinine   What it is: A chemical waste produced by muscle metabolism What a low number means for you: Low muscle mass, malnutrition What a high number means for you: Chronic or temporary decrease in kidney function   BUN/creatinine ratio   What it is: The ratio between BUN and creatinine What a low number means for you: Malnutrition What a high number means for you: Blood in bowels, kidney obstruction, dehydration   Calcium (Ca)   What it is: A mineral stored in the hard part of bones What a low number means for you: Calcium, magnesium, or Vitamin D deficiency; malnutrition; pancreatitis; neurological disorders What a high number means for you: Kidney disease, hyperparathyroidism, cancer, excess vitamin D intake   Magnesium (Mg)   What it is: An electrolyte What a low number means for you: Diabetes, high blood calcium levels, kidney disease, pancreatitis, hypoparathyroidism What a high number means for you: Dehydration, Addison's disease, hyperparathyroidism, hypothyroidism, kidney failure   Protein (total)   What it is: Chains of amino acids essential for the growth and repair of cells What a low number means for you: Malnutrition, liver disease, kidney disease What a high number means for you: Liver disease, kidney disease, dehydration, multiple myeloma, WM   Albumin   What it is: Protein that keeps fluid from leaking out of blood vessels and that nourishes tissues and transports nutrients through the body What a low number means for you: Malnutrition, liver disease, kidney disease What a high number means for you: Dehydration   Globulin   What it is: Alpha, beta, and gamma proteins; some are produced by the liver and others by the immune system What a low number means for you: Malnutrition, liver disease, kidney disease What a high number means for you: Multiple myeloma, WM, leukemia, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and other autoimmune diseases   Albumin/globulin ratio   What it is: The ratio between albumin and globulin What a low number means for you: Multiple myeloma, WM, autoimmune diseases, liver disease, kidney disease What a high number means for you: Certain genetic conditions, some leukemias, liver dysfunction, hypogammaglobulinemia   Bilirubin (direct or total)   What it is: A pigment in the bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver What a low number means for you: Generally not a concern What a high number means for you: Liver disease, bile duct disorder, red cell destruction   Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)   What it is: Enzyme found in the liver and bones What a low number means for you: Malnutrition What a high number means for you: Paget's disease or certain cancers that spread to bone, bile duct obstruction, liver cancer   Alanine amino-transferase (ALT)   What it is: Enzyme found mostly in the liver What a low number means for you: Generally not a concern What a high number means for you: Certain toxins such as excess acetaminophen or alcohol, hepatitis   Aspartate amino-transferase (AST)   What it is: Enzyme found in liver, muscle, and other tissues What a low number means for you: Generally not a concern What a high number means for you: Excess acetaminophen, hepatitis muscle injury   Glomerular filtration rate (GFR)   What it is: Checks how well the kidneys are working by estimating how much blood passes through the glomeruli (filters) of the kidneys each minute. It is calculated with a formula. What a low number means for you: Chronic kidney disease or kidney failure; GFR decreases progressively with age What a high number means for you: Generally not a concern   If you’ve been tested recently and you’re wondering about the base level measurements for all the tests outlined above, check out this table: (link to table) These measurements are only for the U.S. or in other words, non-metric.   CMP Blood Test Measurements in More Detail    Serum glucose is used to diagnose diabetes. If your glucose measurement is 126 on a fasting blood draw (blood drawn first thing in the morning after an overnight fast), then you have diabetes, assuming another test confirms the diagnosis. Uric acid measurement is how gout is diagnosed. The BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen) is often at abnormal levels in people with kidney disease, dehydration, and heart failure, malnutrition, and liver disease. Serum creatinine is used to measure kidney function. The BUN to creatinine ratio provides information on possible causes of kidney dysfunction, heart failure, dehydration, or decreased kidney blood flow. Serum sodium can be increased in people suffering from dehydration and decreased in diarrhetic therapy and the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH). Serum potassium can be increased in adrenal insufficiency and acute renal failure, as well as with an inappropriate combination of medicines. Potassium could be decreased in primary aldosteronism, diuretic therapy, and renal tubular acidosis. Serum chloride can be increased in people suffering from dehydration and renal tubular acidosis, and it can be decreased in congestive heart failure and primary aldosteronism. Carbon dioxide can be increased in primary pulmonary disease, such as severe COPD and in primary aldosteronism. It can be decreased in metabolic acidoses, such as with diabetic ketoacidosis. Serum calcium can be increased in an endocrine disease known as primary hyperthyroidism. It can also be increased in malignancy. However, most of the time, when a person has a sudden rise in serum calcium, it's simply due to hyperparathyroidism, which can be treated. However, you can also have decreased serum calcium in hypoparathyroidism and vitamin D deficiency. Serum phosphorus can be increased in acute or chronic renal failure and decreased in malabsorption and vitamin D deficiency. Total serum protein can be increased in multiple myeloma and sarcoidosis, and it can be decreased in chronic glomerulonephritis – a type of chronic renal disease. Serum albumin can be decreased in liver disease, cirrhosis, and nephrotic syndrome. Total globulin and albumin to globulin ratio can be increased or decreased due to several causes. Total bilirubin can be increased in hepatitis, hemolytic anemia, and in bile duct blocks, either within the liver or within the bile duct that drains the gallbladder and the liver. Direct bilirubin is increased in the same things as total bilirubin, but the ratio of direct to total gives us further information on the causes. For instance, one of the most common causes of a mildly elevated total bilirubin found on a routine CMP blood test is a syndrome called Gilbert's disease. Alkaline phosphatase can be increased in bone disease and liver disease and decreased in malnutrition and celiac disease. AST, ALT, and GGT are often called liver enzyme tests. However, they don't measure liver function, but rather give evidence of liver damage. They can also be elevated when there is damage to other parts of the body. They can be increased in liver disease, muscle disease, pancreatitis. And the GGT can be a sensitive indicator of alcoholism.   We did say this article would be everything you needed to know, however, let us repeat the main takeaway: You have to be tested regularly to catch any of these diseases before they become an uncorrectable problem. And thanks to our modern world where we all have more access to these tests, you don’t even need to see a doctor.   Check out Discounted Labs Comprehensive Metabolic Panel today. It includes 14 of the most important tests we outlined above. The CMP blood test functions as a checkup for kidney function, liver function, and electrolyte and fluid balance.   Don’t put off these tests any longer. The information you get back may mean the difference between great health and poor health. There’s no room for regret when it comes to your health.

Table of Contents Does Testosterone Increase Risks of Heart Disease? What is the Effect of Testosterone Therapy in Older Men? What Can You Do to Prevent Heart Disease While on Testosterone Replacement Therapy? BUY A TESTOSTERONE BLOOD TEST PANEL Reference:  Does Testosterone Increase Risks of Heart Disease? There is widespread misinformation that testosterone supplementation increases the risk of heart disease. There is no evidence to support this belief in men younger than 65 years of age. Testosterone administration to middle-aged men is associated with decreased visceral fat, triglycerides, lower blood sugar concentrations, and increased insulin sensitivity. Several studies have shown that low total and free testosterone concentrations are linked to increased intra-abdominal fat mass, the risk of coronary artery disease, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Testosterone has also been shown to increase coronary blood flow. Similarly, testosterone replacement retards the build-up of plaque in experimental models of atherosclerosis. In 1994, Phillips and colleagues studied 55 men with angina. They found a strong correlation between very low levels of testosterone and increased severity of coronary artery disease as measured by arteriograms, suggesting that testosterone may have a protective effect. This is consistent with the observation that the risk for atherosclerosis increases with age in men, while testosterone levels decrease. Two other smaller studies found that the administration of testosterone decreased risk factors for coronary artery disease. The prospective European investigation into cancer in Norfolk (EPIC- Norfolk) Prospective Population Study examined the prospective relationship between the body’s own (endogenous) testosterone concentrations and mortality due to all causes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer in a nested case-control study based on 11,606 men aged 40 to 79 years surveyed in 1993 to 1997 and followed up to 2003. Among those without prevalent cancer or cardiovascular disease, 825 men who subsequently died were compared with a control group of 1489 men still alive, matched for age and date of baseline visit. Lower endogenous testosterone (the body’s own) concentrations at baseline were linked to mortality due to all causes (825 deaths), cardiovascular disease (369 deaths), and cancer (304 deaths). So this study found that in men, endogenous testosterone concentrations are inversely related to mortality due to cardiovascular disease and all causes and that low testosterone may be a predictive marker for those at high risk of cardiovascular disease.   What is the Effect of Testosterone Therapy in Older Men? But there are some emerging contradicting data from a much smaller study that showed that older men who have higher endogenous testosterone (without taking testosterone) might have a higher incidence of heart disease. A large U.S. multicenter study showed that older men with higher testosterone levels are more likely to have a heart attack or other cardiovascular disease in the future. The results were presented at The Endocrine Society’s 92nd Annual Meeting in San Diego in June 2010. Study participants were age 65 or older and included 697 community-dwelling men who were participating in the National Institutes of Health-funded study, called the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men (MrOS). None of these men were receiving testosterone therapy, according to the study abstract. All subjects had blood tests to determine their testosterone levels. The investigators then divided the men into quartiles, or four groups, of testosterone range to observe trends in rates of coronary heart disease events. This type of heart disease results from plaque-clogged or narrowed coronary arteries, also called atherosclerosis. A coronary heart disease event included a heart attack; unstable angina, which is chest pain usually due to atherosclerosis and which doctors consider a prelude to a heart attack; or angioplasty or bypass surgery to clear blocked arteries. During an average follow-up of nearly four years, 100 men, or about 14 percent, had a coronary disease event, in particular, heart attacks. After the researchers adjusted for other potential contributing risk factors for heart disease, such as elevated cholesterol, they found that higher total testosterone level relates to an increased risk of coronary disease. Men whose total testosterone was in the highest quartile (greater than or equal to 495 nanograms per deciliter, or ng/dL) had more than twofold the risk of coronary disease compared with men in the lowest quartile (below 308 ng/dL). So, this is contradictory data that may be concerning, but does it say anything about the cardiovascular risks of supplementing testosterone to men with testosterone deficiency? A report published in the New England Journal of Medicine in June 2010 about a study researching the use of testosterone gel in older men showed that such study was stopped early due to a higher incidence of side effects in men treated with the gel. Participants in this trial called the Testosterone in Older Men with Mobility Limitations, or TOM, were non-institutionalized men aged 65 and older who had difficulty walking two blocks or climbing ten steps and whose serum testosterone was 100 to 350 ng/dl (very low levels). So, these were frail older men. The goal was to recruit 252 men, but only 209 subjects had been enrolled by the time the trial, which started in 2005, was stopped on December 2010. Testosterone use had the desired effect of improving the men’s muscle strength and mobility. But they also experienced a high rate of adverse effects — not just cardiovascular problems but respiratory and skin problems. Unfortunately, they did not report hematocrit, estradiol, and bioavailable testosterone. I dream of the day when a study will be done the right way to include all of those variables. Only then we can draw the right conclusions about who is more prone to side effects. Managing high hematocrit with blood donation/phlebotomy and high estradiol with anastrozole can probably eliminate some of the reported side effects in older men, but there is only one way to find out: To have proper studies using those management strategies. To date, no study listed in clinicaltrials.gov is following men who are taking testosterone and who have access to phlebotomy or estrogen blockers to manage the two main side effects that may affect cardiovascular health in older men: high hematocrit and estradiol. Previous studies have shown that in general, older men have more side effects when using testosterone (polycythemia, gynecomastia, high blood pressure, prostatic hyperplasia) and more comorbid conditions. High hematocrit and estradiol increase clotting and viscosity, so it is not surprising to me that older men who use testosterone would have more cardiovascular risks if monitored poorly by their physicians. It amazes me how many older men using TRT are walking around with hematocrit over 54 and estradiol levels above 100 pg/dl without being offered phlebotomy or estrogen blockers. This is one of the main reasons I felt compelled to write this book. Older men also require more testosterone to reach normal levels since they have more sex hormone binding globulin that attaches to testosterone and renders it useless. So, physicians should carefully monitor these patients if they decide to provide testosterone replacement. The age cut off when the risk-to-benefit ratio of testosterone changes is not known yet. There are several studies that are currently being performed to provide more answers. A U.S.-based study showed that testosterone therapy does not increase men's risk for heart attack. The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, examined 25,420 Medicare beneficiaries 66 years or older treated with testosterone for up to eight years. It appeared in the July 2, 2012 issue of the Annals of Pharmacotherapy. So, the jury is still out. But if no complicating factors like high cholesterol, blood pressure or strong family history of heart disease are present, many doctors opt for prescribing testosterone to older men who need it to have a better quality of life. And most doctors keep an eye on hematocrit but few on estradiol. Hopefully, this will change as more doctors wake up to the risks associated with poor monitoring and management of TRT. It is the excessively high doses of testosterone used by athletes and recreational bodybuilders that are linked to significant decreases in the plasma concentration of HDL (high-density lipoprotein - the good cholesterol) and increases in LDL (low-density lipoprotein – the bad cholesterol). Replacement doses of testosterone have been shown to have only a modest or no effect on plasma HDL in placebo-controlled trials. Testosterone supplementation has been shown to decrease triglycerides, a dissolved fat that can lead to cholesterol increases and metabolic syndrome. In spite of these studies, some physicians continue to think that testosterone replacement can dramatically increase cholesterol levels.   What Can You Do to Prevent Heart Disease While on Testosterone Replacement Therapy? Given the state of the modern diet, all of us should have our doctor check our fasting cholesterol and triglycerides (another lipid-linked with heart disease risk). If you think that you have low testosterone, you may already have a problem with your lipids. The recommendations of exercise and diet (low in sugars and animal fats) apply for everybody but are especially important for men who have high LDL and high triglycerides at the time of starting testosterone replacement. Testosterone therapy can be an important part of your health regimen but don’t start it thinking that it will cure high cholesterol. Sometimes high lipids are related to poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, medication side effects, and bad genes. Your treatment for high cholesterol and triglycerides can also include statin and fibrates drugs prescribed to you by your doctor. I would try to modify your diet and to exercise before you jump on taking these medications since they may have muscle related side effects and do not correct the root cause of the problem, which is a metabolic abnormality that could be addressed with good adherence to lifestyle modifications. The key word is “adherence,” which seems elusive is many people who rather take a pill than watch their diet and exercise. For more on diet and exercise, refer to the chapter “ Miscellaneous Health Tips to Support Healthy Testosterone.” NOTE: I think you’re getting why I’m telling you that you need doctor’s supervision when on testosterone. So far you’ve read about the potential impact on hemoglobin and hematocrit, blood pressure, and estradiol, all of which can negatively affect your cardiovascular health. Imagine the even greater risk of those using testosterone at higher than replacement doses that usually buy it from underground sources and do not have a doctor who monitors them. No wonder testosterone and anabolic steroids get such a bad reputation. I tell bodybuilders that do not have a doctor to follow them to at least decrease their risks by getting a bodybuilder panel on DiscountedLabs.com that do not require a prescription. There are many around the United States, and you can find them by visiting DiscountedLabs.com . Of course, this is not the best solution and in no way a replacement for the supervision of a doctor. Irresponsible bodybuilders do more self-inflicted damage when their mistakes fuel the hysteria surrounding hormones in the United States. This hysteria has made it difficult for many men who need TRT to get it. Over-the-counter “testosterone boosters” may present problems with lipids, so do not think that because you are buying something at a health food store, that makes that product safe. Let your doctor know if you are taking any of those. Most do not work and those that did where banned by the FDA and taken off the market.   BUY A TESTOSTERONE BLOOD TEST PANEL   Reference:  From the book “Testosterone: A Man’s Guide” by Nelson Vergel (available on Amazon.com)

Table of Contents What is aldosterone? The ALD test What is Renin? Hypertension and the renin test What is Adrenal Corticotropic Hormone (ACTH)? The ACTH test References A frequent cause of high blood pressure and water retention is when levels of certain hormones in the body are unbalanced or functioning poorly. The hormones that are frequently at fault are secreted by the kidneys and the pituitary or adrenal glands. They are called aldosterone, ACTH, and renin What is aldosterone? Aldosterone (ALD) is one of a group of connected hormones. They form the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (1); this system is activated when there is a decrease in blood flow to your kidneys following a drop in blood volume or blood pressure such as during heavy bleeding, or sodium levels fall below healthy levels (1). Aldosterone is a mineralocorticoid, which means that it adjusts the mineral levels in our cells, particularly sodium and potassium (2). It regulates both fluid levels and blood pressure in the body. Stress is a factor that can increase the release of aldosterone and cause sodium levels to rise. Regardless why, an increase in aldosterone results in edema (water retention) and high blood pressure (3). Someone experiencing high aldosterone levels may also experience (4): Low potassium levels (causing muscle cramps) Abnormally increased blood volume Unusually alkaline blood (because aldosterone promotes acid secretion) People experiencing high blood pressure and edema may be advised to check their aldosterone level with an aldosterone (ALD) test. When the level of this hormone is too high, it can cause damage to the cardiovascular system. If levels are too high, medicines can be prescribed that will lower aldosterone to healthy levels. The ALD test An ALD test is frequently used to diagnose both fluid and electrolyte disorders (5) that may be caused by: Diabetes Adrenal disease Heart problems Kidney failure An ALD test may help diagnose problems like (6): Over-secretion of aldosterone Underactive adrenal glands (adrenal insufficiency) Low blood pressure caused by standing up (orthostatic hypotension) Hard to control high blood pressure or high blood pressure that occurs at a young age What is Renin? Renin is also called angiotensinogenase; it’s an enzyme produced by the kidneys to control aldosterone production (7). It’s also essential in the renin–angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) which maintains your body’s fluid balance and blood pressure. This system regulates blood plasma volume, lymph and interstitial fluid (the fluid which surrounds the cells in the body) and controls constriction of the arteries and blood vessels (7). Three factors stimulate the secretion of renin (8): When a drop in arterial blood pressure is detected by pressure-sensitive receptors in the arteries When a drop in salt level is detected in the kidneys When activity is detected in the sympathetic nervous system activity Renin’s primary function is to increase blood pressure to maintain healthy blood flow to the kidneys. It’s secreted by specialized kidney cells that can detect changes in blood pressure through stretch receptors in the vascular walls (8). Renin starts a chain reaction that makes the hormone called angiotensin, which makes small blood vessels narrower and stimulates the adrenal glands to secrete aldosterone. Aldosterone signals the kidneys to hold on to fluid and salt. Both can increase blood pressure. When this process is out of balance, blood pressure can rise to dangerous levels. Hypertension and the renin test If you experience high blood pressure (hypertension), your doctor needs to find out the reason why to prescribe the correct treatment. A renin test is used to discover what’s happening in the body that may be causing it. The doctor might order this kind of test if high blood pressure starts when you’re young or medication hasn’t kept it under control. Because renin is involved in aldosterone metabolism, an ALD test may be conducted at the same time (9). Your test results will tell the doctor if your renin levels are high, low, or healthy. Either high or low levels could help explain why your blood pressure is too high. What the renin and ALD test results may mean (10, 11): Excess renin with normal aldosterone levels could mean that you’re salt-sensitive Low renin and excess aldosterone may indicate that your adrenal glands aren’t functioning properly If both renin and ALD are high, it may be a sign of kidney trouble Whatever the results are, they will help the doctor decide which drugs or treatments are best to get your blood pressure under control. What is Adrenal Corticotropic Hormone (ACTH)? Adrenocorticotropic hormone is a hormone secreted in the anterior (front) pituitary gland in your brain (12). The role of ACTH is to maintain appropriate levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which is released by the adrenal glands. Cortisol is our body’s natural alarm system. As our body’s primary stress hormone, it works with different parts of the brain to influence our fear, mood, and motivation (13). Cortisol is best known for fueling the body’s “fight-or-flight” response in a crisis. But, cortisol also has a critical role in a variety of things the body does, like (13): Controlling the sleeping and waking cycle Boosting energy levels to better handle stress (and restore normal levels afterward) Influences how the body uses carbs, proteins, and fats Reducing inflammation Regulating blood pressure Increasing blood sugar Symptoms of high cortisol can include; high blood pressure, obesity, high blood sugar levels, and edema. Low cortisol levels can cause weight loss, fatigue, low blood pressure, and muscle weakness (14). The ACTH test If you’re experiencing the symptoms of a cortisol imbalance, your doctor may order an ACTH test to measure the levels of both ACTH and cortisol in the blood (15). The ACTH test will help your doctor detect the diseases that are associated with too much or too little cortisol in the body (15). Your doctor might also perform a physical examination before making a firm diagnosis. If it’s determined that an ACTH secreting tumor (sometimes located on an adrenal gland) is the cause of your cortisol imbalance, then surgery may be indicated (16). You may also be prescribed a drug like cabergoline to normalize your cortisol levels (17).   GET THE ALDOSTERONE LAB TEST HERE   References 1) Manrique C, Lastra G, Gardner M, Sowers JR. The Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone System in Hypertension: Roles of Insulin Resistance and Oxidative Stress. The Medical clinics of North America. 2009;93(3):569-582. doi:10.1016/j.mcna.2009.02.014. 2) Aldosterone and Mineralocorticoid Receptors in the Cardiovascular System Funder, John W. Progress in Cardiovascular Diseases , Volume 52 , Issue 5 , 393 – 400 3) Yoo HD, Choi KS, Jung MH, et al. A Study of the Renin-Angiotensin System and the Blood Volume in the Nephrotic Syndrome. The Korean Journal of Internal Medicine. 1986;1(1):72-77. doi:10.3904/kjim.1986.1.1.72. 4) https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/hormonal-and-metabolic-disorders/adrenal-gland-disorders/hyperaldosteronism 5) Balcı AK, Koksal O, Kose A, et al. General characteristics of patients with electrolyte imbalance admitted to emergency department. World Journal of Emergency Medicine. 2013;4(2):113-116. doi:10.5847/wjem.j.issn.1920-8642.2013.02.005. 6) Sau-Cheung Tiu Cheung-Hei Choi Chi-Chung Shek Ying-Wai Ng Fredriech K. W. Chan Chiu-Ming Ng Alice P. S. Kong. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, Volume 90, Issue 1, 1 January 2005, Pages 72–78, https://doi.org/10.1210/jc.2004-1149 7) Hall JE. Control of blood pressure by the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Clin Cardiol. 1991 Aug;14(8 Suppl 4):IV6-21; discussion IV51-5. 8) Persson PB. Renin: origin, secretion and synthesis. The Journal of Physiology. 2003;552(Pt 3):667-671. doi:10.1113/jphysiol.2003.049890. 9) Rayner BL, Opie LH, Davidson JS. The aldosterone/renin ratio as a screening test for primary aldosteronism. S Afr Med J. 2000 Apr;90(4):394-400. 10) https://www.uclahealth.org/endocrine-center/renin-test 11)https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=167&contentid=aldosterone_renin_blood 12) Lim CT, Khoo B. Normal Physiology of ACTH and GH Release in the Hypothalamus and Anterior Pituitary in Man. [Updated 2017 Oct 24]. In: De Groot LJ, Chrousos G, Dungan K, et al., editors. Endotext [Internet]. South Dartmouth (MA): MDText.com, Inc.; 2000-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279116/ 13) Fujiwara, Toshihiko et al. Role of cortisol in the metabolic response to stress hormone infusion in the conscious dog. Metabolism - Clinical and Experimental , Volume 45 , Issue 5 , 571 – 578 14) https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cushing-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20351310 15) https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003696.htm 16) Chiara Dall'Asta Luigi Santambrogio Massimo Castellani Bruno Ambrosi. Difficulties in diagnosis and treatment of ectopic ACTH-producing tumors of the chest. European Journal of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, Volume 21, Issue 1, 1 January 2002, Pages 149–151. 17) Ferriere A, Cortet C, et al. Cushing's disease: a large retrospective multicenter study. Eur J Endocrinol. 2017 Mar;176(3):305-314. doi: 10.1530/EJE-16-0662. Epub 2016 Dec 22.

Table of Contents Lab Test Ranges and Complications Of High Or Low Blood Levels – A to C 1. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT, SGPT) 2. Albumin 3. Alkaline phosphatase (adults) 4. Androstenedione (adult) 5. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST, SGOT) 6. Bilirubin, direct 7. Bilirubin, total 8. Calcium 9. Carbon dioxide, total 10. Chloride 11. Cholesterol 12. Creatinine Lab Test Ranges and Complications Of High Or Low Blood Levels – A to C   It's important to test different substances and hormones in the human body to discover their exact levels. For example, most people do glucose or calcium tests. The results usually get back to you in a few business days and you can ask your doctor to interpret these results. However, why shouldn't you be educated when it comes to the lab ranges of hormones in your bloodstream? In other words, what complications might arise if you have too little testosterone? What should you expect if you have too much bilirubin in your blood? The following content is part of a series of articles that explain the complications of having abnormal lab ranges for popular substances and hormones. The substances in this article include alanine aminotransferase, albumin, alkaline phosphatase, androstenedione, aspartate aminotransferase, bilirubin direct, bilirubin total, calcium, carbon dioxide, chloride, cholesterol, and creatinine. Keep reading to become more educated about your health and understand your body better! 1. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT, SGPT) The normal values are: 10-55 U/liter for males 10-55 U/liter for females Alanine aminotransferase is an enzyme made by your liver. It's important to test this substance to determine whether your liver is infected or not. When it's too high The liver cells might be seriously damaged, to the point of necrosis It might be a sign of extensive trauma to the liver, left heart failure, cirrhosis or jaundice Might also be a sign of muscular dystrophy, fatty liver, myocardial infarction, and liver tumors When it's too low Low values of ALT indicate pyridoxal phosphate deficiency that can result in various health complications including epilepsy 2. Albumin Normal values 1-4.3 g/dl for men and women Albumin is one of the most important proteins in the human body. It helps to carry nutrients to various tissues and it prevents blood vessels from leaking fluids. When it's too high It might signify severe dehydration. It's not possible to increase albumin levels naturally. The only way albumin concentration might get higher is if plasma water decreases significantly When it's too low This is a sign of acute or chronic inflammation Albumin levels might drop if the liver has problems synthesizing this protein properly, so it might indicate liver damage The transportation of bile acids and metal ions might be affected if the albumin levels get too low 3. Alkaline phosphatase (adults) Normal values 45-115 U/liter for males 30-100 U/liter for females Alkaline phosphatase is also known as ALP and it's found in different tissues in the body. This enzyme is mostly present in the bones and liver. It plays a vital role in bone formation and mineralization. When it's too high It might be a sign of biliary obstruction or liver diseases such as hepatitis or cirrhosis Sign of bone disorder or even renal problems In some cases, it might indicate thyroid issues When it's too low It might signify nutritional deficiencies such as a lack of vitamin B12, magnesium or zinc Might be caused by severe anemia 4. Androstenedione (adult) Normal values 50-250 ng/dl for men and women This is a precursor of major sex hormones such as testosterone and estrogen. Testing for this hormone is necessary in conjunction with other hormonal tests to determine the levels of testosterone or estrogen in the body. Androstenedione is produced by the gonads and adrenal glands. When it's too high Elevated levels might indicate a gonadal tumor, especially when the levels exceed 500 ng/dl When it's too low This might signify a dysfunction of the adrenal glands such as adrenal insufficiency It might signify ovarian or testicular failure if the levels are too low 5. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST, SGOT) Normal levels 10-40 U/liter for men 9-25 U/liter for women Aspartate aminotransferase is an enzyme found in most tissues in the human body, particularly in the liver and the heart. It has multiple functions in the human body and abnormal levels usually indicate a liver problem. When it's too high This could be a sign of liver cell necrosis or obstructive jaundice It might also signify hepatitis or a liver problem caused by drugs and medications Since this enzyme is found in the muscles, it might be a sign of skeletal muscle, inflammatory disease or even heart failure Normally, the levels of aspartate aminotransferase should be low. Problems appear when these levels get very high due to organ failure or inflammation. 6. Bilirubin, direct Normal values 0-0.4 mg/dl for men and women Bilirubin is a yellow substance involved in the process of cleaning organic waste from the body such as dead red blood cells, etc. It is excreted in the bile and urine and it consists of direct and total bilirubin. When doing a blood test, your results might indicate the levels of direct and total bilirubin as both of these are important to diagnose certain diseases. When it's too high It might signify a biliary tree obstruction, cholestasis, and damage to the hepatic cells The patient might have the Dubin-Johnson syndrome which is characterized by an increase of direct bilirubin in the liver When it's too low Low levels of direct bilirubin are usually not a cause of concern. These levels might be temporarily lowered by caffeine consumption or barbiturates 7. Bilirubin, total Normal values 0-1.0 mg/dl for men and women This is the total amount of bilirubin enzymes in your body, including direct and indirect ones. Low levels of total bilirubin are not a problem in most cases. You should see a doctor when these levels are elevated as they can signify different types of damages to your organs. When its too high It might be a sign of neonatal physiological jaundice High levels might be caused by damage to the hepatic cells caused by toxins or inflammation It might be a sign of biliary tree obstruction 8. Calcium Normal values 5-10.5 mg/dl for men and women Calcium is one of the most important minerals in the body. It's directly involved in the mineralization and growth of bones and it ensures that teeth remain in good condition. When it's too high This might be a sign of hyperparathyroidism, bone disorders, malignant disease such as metastatic carcinoma of breast and kidney, etc Your blood might contain too much vitamin D which leads to intoxication Acromegaly or dehydration When it's too low It might be a sign of hypoparathyroidism or chronic kidney failure Might be caused by a deficiency of vitamin D or magnesium The patient might have acute pancreatitis, anemia or problems with the pituitary gland 9. Carbon dioxide, total Normal values 24-30 mmol/liter for men and women Carbon dioxide is a byproduct of the food metabolization process. This gas is released into the bloodstream when cells are broken down in simpler substances. The blood full of carbon dioxide returns to the lungs where this gas is eliminated through respiration. When it's too high It might be a sign of respiratory acidosis resulted from a poor gas exchange in the body Can also be caused by metabolic acidosis, especially if it's accompanied by multiple episodes of vomiting When it's too low It might signify tubular acidosis of the kidneys Might be a sign of loss of alkaline fluids through the intestines or compensated respiratory alkalosis 10. Chloride Normal values 100-108 mmol/liter for men and women Chloride forms when the element chlorine gains an electron. This is an important electrolyte that helps to maintain cell homeostasis or balance. When it's too high It might be caused by metabolic acidosis, especially when it's accompanied by loss of fluids caused by diarrhea It can also be caused by severe dehydration or a problem with the kidneys such as renal tubular acidosis or acute renal failure Hyperparathyroidism can also cause chloride levels to increase When it's too low It might be caused by too much vomiting or prolonged episodes of diarrhea Low levels can also be caused by gastric problems such as gastric suction or gastric secretion Excessive sweating or respiratory acidosis can also make the chloride levels drop significantly 11. Cholesterol Normal values for men and women The ideal level is less than 200 mg/dl The upper limit is 200-239 mg/dl High is anything above 239 mg/dl Cholesterol is one of the most popular substances tested by patients all over the world. This substance lines up the interior of your blood vessels and arteries. It's necessary for making new cells, but too much of it can be a problem. Cholesterol is made by the liver, but it can also be taken from foods. When it's too high It might be a sign of prostate or pancreas dysfunction, but it can also be caused by gout, hypothyroidism, chronic renal failure or extrahepatic cholestasis Can be caused by alcoholism or anorexia nervosa as well as acute intermittent porphyria Might facilitate the development of atherosclerosis that can lead to various cardiovascular diseases When it's too low This might signify lipoprotein deficiency or the necrosis of liver cells Can also be caused by malabsorption of nutrients as well as malnutrition It might be associated with mental retardation, rheumatoid arthritis or obstructive lung disease 12. Creatinine Normal levels 6-1.5 mg/dl for men and women Creatinine is a byproduct of creatine and it's produced by the muscles, especially after a strenuous workout. It's eliminated from the body by kidneys through urine. When it's too high Too much creatinine in the body might be a sign of renal failure or kidney dysfunction Hyperthyroidism can also be a cause of too much creatinine building up in the body as well as acromegaly Eating too many meals containing meat can increase the level of creatine and creatinine in the body When it's too low This might be a sign of excessive muscle loss, probably caused by muscular dystrophy It can also be a sign of liver problems or a lack of protein in your diet  

  The statistics are staggering regardless of where in the world they come from and the message they bring with them is the same – men are more likely to become infected with Covid-19 and die from it than women. In Europe, it has recently been estimated that 63 percent of all Covid-19 deaths are men. In one large subset of Covid-19 patients in China, more than 70 percent of those who died were men. And in New York City, as of early April, the rate of Covid-19 infection for women was 23 per 100,000, while for men it was nearly double that at 43 per 100,000. Data cannot lie, and there’s a lot more of it that all points to the same conclusion. Let’s first look at a few reasons why this trend exists then dive into a particular subset of men who are especially vulnerable to the coronavirus.   Men have More Preexisting Conditions We’ve heard it dozens of times. Anyone with a certain preexisting medical condition is more likely to be affected negatively by the Covid-19 virus, while those who do not have those conditions are more prone to a better outcome. Here’s the unfortunate part if you’re a man: Men have higher rates of nine out of the top 10 leading causes of death in the U.S. compared to women. All of those conditions are going to be problematic when you ask the human body to deal with another threat. But when it comes to Covid-19, conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, and liver disease are all a concern and all conditions that men have in greater abundance than do women.   It’s in the Enzyme A recent study has shown that men have higher concentrations of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) in their blood than women. Since ACE2 enables Covid-19 to infect healthy cells, researchers reported that this may contribute to men being more vulnerable to the disease than women.   Negative Lung Health Behaviors Research has suggested that smoking may play a role in Covid-19 deaths, as smoking is related to higher expression of those ACE2 receptors we mentioned above. However, it’s not just smoking that can have negative respiratory effects that may contribute to Covid-19 related problems. Air pollution is also a concern. And unfortunately for men, we’re the ones more likely to be working outside.   Women have Stronger Immune Systems It’s no surprise. A stronger immune system can ward off illness and disease more easily than an immune system that’s not working as it should. And thanks to an extra X chromosome, women appear more biologically capable of fighting those battles than men. According to Veena Taneja, who studies differences in male and female immune systems at the Mayo Clinic, the second X chromosome isn’t usually activated, but it can be activated. "Many of those genes are actually immune-response genes," Taneja said. She added this could provide women with an additional layer of protection against the coronavirus. That extra X chromosome is also thought to contribute to a higher rate of autoimmune diseases in women.   Low Testosterone in Men Makes Covid-19 Much Worse There are a number of reasons, as you can see from the above list, why men have a higher death rate when it comes to Covid-19. There are also a number of solutions: Be healthier in general. Don’t smoke. Make sure your immune system is getting the support it needs. But when it comes to Covid-19, there seems to be one factor in particular that separates strong males from susceptible males. A study published on April 27, 2020 has shown testosterone to be a key hormone in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic. The study points out that testosterone is reduced by age and many preexisting conditions and this, too, comes with higher rates of a poor Covid-19 outcome. The study found that low testosterone levels can cause a reduction in respiratory muscle activity, while normal testosterone levels have a protective effect on the respiratory system. Most importantly, researchers found a correlation between inflammation, testosterone, and the virus. The study highlights the role of proinflammatory cytokines in the progression of the Covid-19 infection and how any successful treatment must include reducing that cytokine activity. The study’s researchers also mention how testosterone may downregulate this inflammation and suggested, “testosterone may have a role in the cascade of events leading to progression of Covid-19 infection due to the cytokine storm.” According to another study, the majority of male patients with Covid-19 also presented with low testosterone levels on admission to the intensive care unit at University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf in Hamburg, Germany. According to the study, researchers “systematically analyzed sex hormones as well as cytokine and chemokine responses in male and female patients with laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections upon hospital admission.” Researchers also identified risk factors like hypertension (high blood pressure), cancer, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and chronic heart disease, with cancer being the only factor where the women admitted had a higher prevalence than the men. But it was their testosterone findings that were most surprising. Most male Covid-19 patients admitted to intensive care had low testosterone levels – 69 percent – and low dihydrotestosterone levels – 49 percent. Perhaps more shocking, most female Covid-19 patients had elevated testosterone levels – 60 percent. The study’s researchers concluded that “We here show that critically ill male Covid-19 patients suffer from severe testosterone and dihydrotestosterone deficiencies. Both androgens are required to mount antiviral immune responses to combat infection in males.” There is still much we don’t know about this virus and new information is coming in all the time. However, there are a few things that are becoming clear, like men having a higher prevalence of a bad outcome from Covid-19, but also how important testosterone levels are to every man’s chances of fighting this virus.   TIPS: Would you like to maximize your testosterone levels? Would you like to have more energy and enthusiasm for life? Would you like to increase your chances of successfully fighting Covid-19? Check out Nelson Vergel’s new 386-page illustrated book – Beyond Testosterone– for FREE. Simply follow that link to claim your copy. You can also find out if you have low testosterone by buying your own testosterone blood test cheaply online with no doctor order needed (U.S. only). Last but not least, chat with other men and experts about men's health and testosterone on the best men's health TRT forum.    

Table of Contents The Importance of Routine Blood Testing Top Reasons Why You Should Buy Your Own Discounted Lab Tests 1.  It's Fast and Secure 2.  Helps You Prevent Serious Illnesses 3.  No Doctor Visit is Required 4.  Multiple Tests and Panels to Choose From Types of Blood Tests You Can Order 1.   Complete Blood Count 2.   Hormone Tests 3.   Inflammation Tests 4.   Musculoskeletal Tests How to Take Advantage of Blood Tests? Blood is for the body as engine oil is for your car - completely indispensable. New blood cells are produced every day to replace old and damaged ones. Not only that human blood keeps you alive, but it also contains a lot of information related to your health. This is where blood workups and blood tests come into the picture. A single drop of blood can be sufficient to determine if you have vitamin deficiencies or if you're predisposed to certain diseases. You can draw a blood sample at a nearby lab test clinic and order various blood tests to check your health. Many people already do this by typing "labs near me", "blood work near me" or "lab testing near me" in Google. You can do the same and the results might redirect you to a nearby clinic where you can run a few blood tests. Keep reading to learn why blood testing is so important and what are its benefits. The Importance of Routine Blood Testing Back in the day, doctors had limited information about a person's health. They could prescribe basic treatments, heal some wounds using herbs, and perform simple surgeries. They weren't able to draw blood and analyze it using a microscope and other specialized equipment. Nowadays the situation is different. Your blood contains hundreds of nutrients, vitamins, minerals, hormones, and other substances. It is possible to check these nutrients and obtain valuable insights related to your health. Doing routine blood workups is important because it helps you take better control of your health. For example, some studies indicate that a lack of vitamin D is commonly associated with depression and anxiety. Depression is a serious mental condition that could affect your quality of life. Vitamin D is metabolized by your body as a result of exposure to sunlight. If you stay indoors most of the time or live in a Nordic country, you might be predisposed to vitamin D deficiency. A vitamin blood test is inexpensive and highly accurate. Maybe your chronic anxiety is indeed related to vitamin D deficiency and a simple lab test can confirm it. Based on this finding, your doctor might prescribe you a vitamin D supplement to alleviate your depression and anxiety in a few weeks. This is just an example, but there are plenty of others. You can test for virtually any type of nutrient or hormone using a simple blood test. This gives you a better snapshot when it comes to your health and helps you avoid more dangerous ailments. Top Reasons Why You Should Buy Your Own Discounted Lab Tests You might be happy to find out that doing a blood test is less and less expensive. Moreover, you can order a complete panel that tests multiple substances at once. For example, many people order an inflammation panel that looks at specific inflammation biomarkers in your bloodstream. Before going any further, let's take a look at a few quick benefits of doing a lab test in your area. 1.  It's Fast and Secure Thanks to direct-to-consumer blood tests, you can have a general snapshot of your health in just a few business days. Most blood workups take less than a week to complete, and you get the results sent back to you via email. The process is fast, secure, and confidential. 2.  Helps You Prevent Serious Illnesses One of the most significant advantages of doing routine blood tests is discovering predispositions to specific ailments. A simple blood glucose test can reveal if you're healthy or pre-diabetic. Since diabetes type 2 is a life-threatening disease, this information might save your life. 3.  No Doctor Visit is Required It is possible to order a blood test without requiring a visit to your primary healthcare provider. You order a direct-to-consumer lab test from Discounted Labs, and their physicians provide the prescription for you to print a lab requisition form to take to a nearby lab location. You get the results in a few days and compare them with reference values. Since you don't have to go through your doctor first, you save a lot of time and money. 4.  Multiple Tests and Panels to Choose From Today's healthcare providers and scientists use state-of-the-art technology and methods to extract information from a blood sample. There are hundreds of blood tests you can order, and more are developed each year. Therefore, whether you want to check your testosterone level or find out if you have thyroid problems, there's an inexpensive blood test for it. Types of Blood Tests You Can Order Here are just a few test categories you can order today to give you a broader understanding of blood workups and lab tests. 1.   Complete Blood Count This panel of tests looks at different substances in your bloodstream, such as white blood cells, red blood cells, platelets, and so on. A complete blood count is usually required to see if your immune system is working efficiently. 2.   Hormone Tests Whether you're a man or a woman, you can now accurately find out the level of testosterone, estrogen, and other sex hormones in your bloodstream. This information is essential for people who are deficient in certain sex hormones and show up symptoms that alter their quality of life. 3.   Inflammation Tests Specific inflammation biomarkers such as C-reactive protein can help doctors determine if your body is actively fighting disease. Having a high level of inflammation in your body can predispose you to chronic illnesses such as diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and so on. 4.   Musculoskeletal Tests Certain blood tests can also reveal if your muscles are working properly if you have silent bone diseases or if you're predisposed to arthritis. This type of information is beneficial if you know that someone in your family had muscle or bone problems in the past. How to Take Advantage of Blood Tests? As mentioned at the beginning of this article, it all starts with a simple Google search. Type "lab testing near me," "blood work near me," "labs near me" or a combination of these words in your favorite search engine. This search query should redirect you to a reputable vendor of direct-to-consumer blood tests in your area. Or, if you want to skip all the hassle, go to DiscountedLabs.com and pick your favorite blood test from there. This website also offers some of the most inexpensive lab tests you can find in the US today, so you will save some money.