Sperm Lab Test

Are you aware of the most common heavy metals that can ruin your health? No, not “heavy metal,” the famous rock genre, but heavy metals represented primarily by arsenic, lead, and mercury. Heavy metal testing is necessary to determine the levels of metals such as cadmium, lead, arsenic, and mercury in the body. Lead poisoning and mercury poisoning, among others, are significant concerns in the US and worldwide. It is a well-known fact that these heavy metals don’t offer any health benefits and might contribute to the development of different types of cancers. Table of Contents How to test for heavy metals? What are heavy metals? Are heavy metals dangerous? Why should I test for heavy metals? What heavy metals are tested using a blood and urine sample? How are samples collected? Are there any risks involved? Who should test for heavy metals? What are the most common types of heavy metals? Arsenic Mercury Sources of mercury Mercury treatment and prevention options Lead Sources of lead: Lead poisoning symptoms The lead-crime connection hypothesis Lead treatment and prevention options Cadmium Sources of cadmium include: Cadmium poisoning symptoms Cadmium treatment and prevention options Heavy metals summary What to do next? Essential tips to know before screening for heavy metals Order the heavy metal blood and urine test today! How to test for heavy metals? Testing for heavy metals can be done in various ways, and the most important ones are blood and urine tests. Taking blood and urine samples helps healthcare providers determine the levels of mercury, arsenic, cadmium, and lead in the body. Appropriate treatment options and dietary changes can be recommended to patients with high levels of heavy metals in the body to help them safely and progressively eliminate these unwanted substances. This article strives to inform readers about the adverse effects of heavy metals on the body. Keep reading to learn more about the symptoms of potential mercury poisoning, what foods contain high levels of arsenic, and how these metals can be excreted. What are heavy metals? Heavy metals occur naturally on earth and have high densities and atomic numbers. They have numerous applications and have been widely distributed worldwide in various formats. For example, batteries and metal alloys contain high levels of cadmium and mercury. Certain paints contain lead and other toxic elements. Pesticides, insecticides, and different types of glues also have heavy metals in their composition. Plastics and certain household items might contain arsenic and lead. Although the usage of heavy metals is carefully monitored nowadays, it is paramount to learn more about these dangerous substances and their potential effect on human health. Are heavy metals dangerous? If heavy metals accumulate in the human body in high quantities, they are dangerous and can develop different health conditions. For example: · Colds and flu · Chronic diarrhea · Anemia · Cardiovascular diseases · Respiratory illnesses · Neurodegenerative diseases This list is just a small sample of symptoms. Each heavy metal can trigger specific ailments and complications, depending on the organ it gets deposited in (such as the heart, kidney, liver, etc.). Why should I test for heavy metals? Heavy metals should be tested to assess their levels in the human body and undertake appropriate prevention/treatment options for eliminating them. These substances can be hazardous to human health, and they can create a lot of symptoms. Acute heavy metal poisoning can lead to impaired brain functioning, behavioral changes, and brain atrophy. In the worst cases, heavy metal poisoning can lead to life-threatening ailments. What heavy metals are tested using a blood and urine sample? The most common metals tested are arsenic, mercury, lead, and cadmium. Some metals, such as zinc, copper, chromium, and others, might be tested. How are samples collected? After ordering the heavy metal test, the patient receives an appointment at a nearby lab where a doctor can take blood samples. The healthcare provider will insert a small needle into an arm’s vein to collect blood for testing. The patient’s urine sample might also be required, collected into a 24-hour urine collection kit. The blood and urine samples are preserved in special containers to minimize exposure and contamination with other substances. Heavy metals can also be detected in hair and fingernails, although such testing procedures are rarer. Are there any risks involved? Minor bruising might occur when blood is collected from the arm, but it will pass in a couple of days, so testing for heavy metals is a risk-free experience. Who should test for heavy metals? Anyone who wants to measure his or her levels of heavy metals in the body qualifies for this test. The body can process a small number of heavy metals, but certain complications can occur when these substances are present in higher quantities in one's organism. Some people are more predisposed to heavy metal poisoning and are strongly encouraged to undertake this test. For example: · People who work in the construction industry · People who work in the mining industry · People who work in firing ranges or appliance repair shops · Factory workers who create metal alloys such as aluminum, bronze, and brass · People who handle batteries and paints regularly · People who live next to large industrial centers and waste disposal areas · People who live in very crowded cities What are the most common types of heavy metals? The list of heavy metals which can cause poisoning is broad. For example, cobalt, copper, barium, lithium, silver, zinc, and even gold poisoning are possible. However, arsenic, mercury, lead, and cadmium are the most widely distributed heavy metals. They are present in numerous household items and foods and usually produce the most health damage. Arsenic Arsenic divides into organic arsenic and inorganic arsenic. The United States is one of the largest consumers of arsenic worldwide. This heavy metal is usually excreted through urine and can be deposited in the spleen, liver, kidney, and lungs. Foods that contain arsenic Organic forms of arsenic include arsenobetaine, and these can be found in different types of foods such as: · Sardines · Oysters · Clams · Crabs and lobsters · Certain types of fish Trace amounts of arsenic can also be found in: · Beverages, including water · Rice · Vegetables · Fruit and fruit juices · Grains · Meat Inorganic arsenic can usually be found in the water extracted from wells. This heavy metal also gets in foods such as vegetables and fruit from contaminated soil. Medication containing arsenic was used to treat different types of skin conditions. The creams containing arsenic-caused skin cancer and were eliminated from pharmacies. Arsenic was also used to treat syphilis, but it was quickly replaced with powerful antibiotics, which are much safer. Arsenic poisoning symptoms When too much arsenic accumulates in the body, it causes different types of symptoms, including: · Seizures · Confusion · Headaches · Drowsiness · Fever · Diarrhea · Weakness · Muscle loss · Edema · Low blood pressure · Encephalopathy · Vomiting These symptoms usually appear approximately 2 to 8 weeks after exposure to high levels of arsenic. Other symptoms include abnormal darkening of the skin, white lines on nails, and inflammation of sensory nerves. Severe arsenic poisoning can lead to a burning sensation in the mouth, abdominal pain, muscle spasms, and hypotension. Occasionally, arsenic contamination can lead to jaundice-like symptoms such as yellowing eyes and skin. Arsenic poisoning treatment and prevention methods Before treating arsenic poisoning, it is necessary to gauge how much of this metal is present in the body. An arsenic blood or urine test is necessary; both tests can be ordered online. A healthcare provider interprets the results of the samples and determines if arsenic poisoning is a genuine concern for the patient. Remember that arsenic is excreted through urine, so most of it will be eliminated in a couple of days or weeks, depending on how much arsenic was present in the body in the first place. It has been discovered that selenium and vitamin E might help the body eliminate arsenic quicker, but more research is necessary. When it comes to prevention, there are several ways one can reduce his or her arsenic intake: · Consider water filtration systems. Buy a water cooler with an integrated reverse osmosis filter which can eliminate most arsenic and other heavy metals and impurities. · Consume seafood in moderation since most of it contains arsenic, particularly sardines · Get regular blood tests to measure arsenic levels and keep them under control · Consider soaking the rice for a couple of hours before cooking it, as this can eliminate most arsenic content · Chelation therapy might help Mercury Mercury poisoning can be another dangerous health problem as this heavy metal is present in multiple objects, tools, cosmetics, and applications people use daily. Mercury divides into metallic mercury, organic mercury, and inorganic mercury. It can be excreted through urine and feces, affecting the lung, skin, brain, and other vital organs. Sources of mercury Similar to arsenic, mercury can also be found in different types of seafood, such as: · Tilefish · Mackerel · Shrimp · Salmon Mercury can also get into the body from various other sources, such as: · Contaminated water · Contaminated air, particularly near power plants that burn mercury · Contaminated soil – mercury gets into the body through grains and vegetables Mercury poisoning symptoms Having too much mercury in the body can lead to multiple symptoms and health illnesses such as: · Constricted visual fields and even blindness · Joint problems · Mental fatigue · Nervousness and anxiety-like symptoms · Gastroenteritis · Muscle spasms · Insomnia · Weakness · Muscle loss Mercury can get into the body through vapors, creating a suite of respiratory problems such as: · Excessive coughing · Fever · Pneumonia This heavy metal tends to get deposited in red blood cells. Testing for mercury poisoning with a blood sample is the best way to discover if the mercury levels are dangerously elevated. Organic versions of mercury are particularly problematic as they can damage the central nervous system, causing mood swings, poor emotion control, and even mild personality changes in some patients. Mercury treatment and prevention options As mentioned earlier, mercury is excreted through urine and feces, and less than 1% can be eliminated through sweat. Getting rid of mercury isn’t a quick process. It can take approximately 6-12 months to eliminate 50% mercury content after a single exposure. However, there are some ways to excrete mercury faster. For example, one should increase his fiber intake to sustain two to three bowel movements per day. Another way of eliminating mercury from the body would be by increasing sulfur stores, which can be done using garlic. People might want to eat three or four cloves of garlic per day since the powerful anti-inflammatory properties of garlic help excrete mercury faster. It is best to use raw garlic instead of a garlic supplement. To prevent an unpleasant breath, it is possible to ingest the garlic without chewing it. Increasing the levels of antioxidants such as vitamin E and vitamin C can be beneficial for eliminating mercury more quicker. Lead Lead poisoning is equally dangerous and can contribute to numerous health complications. This heavy metal is present in gasoline, medical equipment, paints, batteries, metal alloys, and more. Lead is primarily deposited in bones, affecting individuals directly, depending on their age and health levels. It is excreted through urine and feces but can also be found in breast milk, saliva, and sweat. Sources of lead: Although the presence of lead in household items has been drastically monitored and reduced, this metal can still be found in: · Air and soil · Potable water · Different types of paints · Old toys and furniture items · Jewelry · Cosmetics and particular medicines · Ceramics Lead poisoning symptoms When the level of lead in the body increases to an alarming value, certain symptoms can appear such as: · Stomach problems · Anemia · Sleep disturbances · Muscle weakness · Neuropathy · Lack of appetite · Constipation In severe cases, lead poisoning can cause death, mainly if the quantity ingested has been high. These symptoms usually appear after three weeks from the moment of exposure. More severe symptoms can include: · Slurred speech · Mental retardation · Poor cognitive function · Brain damage · Encephalopathy · Convulsions and seizures · Change in behavioral patterns The lead-crime connection hypothesis During the 1960s and 1970s, lead was added to the gasoline used by vehicles and ended up in the atmosphere. Kids growing up in these decades were more exposed to lead (inhaling it from the air). Since this metal is known for causing behavioral patterns changes, researchers believe it provoked a substantial increase in the crime rate. However, a significant decrease in crime rate occurred between 1994 and 2004, which might be attributed to a drastic reduction in lead exposure among children. This happened mainly because fuels were manufactured without pollutants such as lead since the 1980s, and their quantity in breathable air was heavily reduced. Lead treatment and prevention options A urine specimen is required to determine the lead levels in a person’s body. Depending on the results, doctors can recommend specific treatment options to eliminate lead content and prevent additional exposure. Here are a few helpful prevention tips: · Water filtration systems can purify tap water and eliminate most lead content as well as other pollutants · Keeping a clean and dust-free house · Inspecting painted surfaces and addressing paint deterioration immediately · Washing hands often Eliminating lead from the body is a natural process that happens over time. Adults successfully eliminate lead, but kids are more vulnerable to its dangerous effects. When lead levels exceed 5mcg/dL, chelation therapy might be recommended as a treatment method for children and adults alike. Cadmium Cadmium poisoning poses serious health problems as this metal gets deposited primarily in the kidneys. It can be available near mining sites and places where waste is incinerated. Tobacco leaves also extract cadmium from contaminated soil, which gets in cigarettes. Smokers have a high risk of accumulating a large quantity of cadmium and other harmful toxins in their bodies. Cadmium is often found in batteries, fertilizers, and plastics. Sources of cadmium include: · Air (as vapors) and water (available in soluble forms) · Vegetables and plants (extracted from contaminated soil) · Seafood such as sardines and shellfish · Potatoes · Rice · Cocoa · Soybeans · Peanuts · Sunflower seeds · Meats It is important to note here that cadmium is present in trace amounts in the foods above. However, one should get tested for cadmium exposure using a urine sample to determine the levels of this heavy metal in the body. Cadmium poisoning symptoms This heavy metal can affect numerous organs in the body, and it is the source of many health complications. Symptoms include: · Fatigue and dizziness · Headaches and nausea · Abdominal pain · Vomiting · Pulmonary edema (particularly in smokers) · Rapid heartbeat for no reason · Impaired sense of smell Serious cases of cadmium exposure can cause significant kidney and liver damage. Cadmium is eliminated slowly from the body, which might take years. Cadmium treatment and prevention options There are several ways one can limit exposure to cadmium. These include: · Give up smoking and won't be exposed to second-hand smoking · Eat a diet containing sufficient amounts of iron · Keep a clean and dust-free home and workplace Similar to lead poisoning, chelation therapy might also help eliminate cadmium from the body quicker, but exposure should be drastically limited before beginning treatment. Heavy metals summary 1. Heavy metals don’t bring any health benefits, and they can cause severe complications in both adults and children 2. The most common types of heavy metals which can get into the body are arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and lead 3. Heavy metals are present almost anywhere, including the atmosphere, water, soil, foods, and electronics people use every day 4. Heavy metal poisoning can lead to numerous symptoms such as headaches, nausea, abdominal pain, confusion, dizziness, brain impairment and so on 5. Most heavy metals tend to be excreted through urine and feces, and they are deposited in bones and organs such as kidney, liver, and heart 6. Testing for heavy metals can be done using blood and/or urine sample 7. The body slowly eliminates heavy metals, but this process can be improved using chelation therapy 8. Children and newborns are more vulnerable to the dangerous effects of heavy metals in comparison with adults 9. Certain parts of Asia, such as Bangladesh, are significantly more exposed to heavy metals due to air and soil contamination 10. Hair and fingernails can also be sources of elimination of heavy metals What to do next? The next step would be to order a heavy metal test which consists of a urine and blood specimen. These will be sent to a laboratory for analysis, and the results will be received by email in a couple of business days. A professional healthcare provider helps the patient interpret the results and can make recommendations based on these results. The goal is to increase awareness regarding heavy metals and help people take control of their health. Essential tips to know before screening for heavy metals 1. Most seafood contains a decent amount of heavy metals, including arsenic and mercury. It is advised not to eat sardines, shellfish, oysters, or other types of seafood for up to 48 hours before being tested. 2. Avoid red wine approximately 72 hours before the test since this drink can significantly influence your results. Order the heavy metal blood and urine test today! Especially if you usually have some of the symptoms mentioned above, it is paramount to take this test and assess the levels of heavy metals in your body. Order the heavy metals test today, and you’ll have more peace of mind.   FIND OUT IF YOU HAVE HEAVY METAL POISONING BY GETTING THESE TESTS: Click here  

Table of Contents Brain Aromatase and Why It’s Not a Good Idea to Reduce Its Activity Estrogen and its beneficial effects in bodybuilding Estrogen function in men and why inhibiting its production can be detrimental.  High estrogen levels and prostate cancer Testosterone’s conversion to estrogen is important to eliminate anxiety and depression Testosterone activity in the brain High estradiol levels are not correlated with erectile dysfunction Estradiol improve endothelial function in healthy men Estradiol and libido, erectile function and reproduction How estradiol works when testosterone levels are low Estradiol and its influence in eugonadal men (men with normal testosterone levels.) Analyzing the role of estradiol on hypogonadal men who undertake testosterone replacement therapy Aromatase inhibition can decrease insulin sensitivity The relationship between estrogen and bodybuilding Estradiol and DHT can make you age more slowly Symptoms of low estradiol in men Estradiol and reproductive function in men Brain Aromatase and Why It’s Not a Good Idea to Reduce Its Activity Every man has free and bound testosterone circulating through his bloodstream. The bound testosterone is attached to either sex hormone-binding globulin or albumin. The free testosterone is available in small quantities in comparison with the bound testosterone. A small portion of it is converted to estrogen using the enzyme called “aromatase”. Although estrogen is a female sex hormone, it plays an important role in a male’s body too. For example, estradiol, a type of estrogen, is vital for proper sexual functioning and libido in men. However, too much estrogen can be detrimental, leading to poor sexual functioning, poor erections, accumulation of fat in the abdominal area and male boobs (gynecomastia). During testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), some men take drugs to inhibit aromatase and prevent it to convert too much testosterone into estrogen. these drugs inhibit the aromatase enzyme. Although this might sound like a good idea at first, altering the normal production of aromatase can lead to brain inflammation, studies suggest. The levels of aromatase and estrogen have been measured in injured brains and it has been discovered that the aromatase enzyme increased to protect the damaged neurons and the connections between them. Evidence concludes that inhibiting the normal levels of aromatase can lead to inflammation in healthy brains and more injury to already damaged brains. This happens because the aromatase/estrogen expression is moved from neurons to astrocytes which are a different type of brain cells. Astrocytes act as a cushion for neurons and they are usually more active when brain injury is detected. These cells can help with the healing process, but if they stay active for too long, this can lead to further damage to the brain. Studies also show that an insufficient amount of brain aromatase can indicate neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's. Low amounts of aromatase can increase plaque development which damages the brain. That’s why it is recommended to be careful when taking an aromataseinhibitor during testosterone replacement therapy as this drug might mess with the normal levels of aromatase and lead to brain complications.   Estrogen and its beneficial effects in bodybuilding Estrogen, one of the most important female sex hormone, is vital for professional athletes who aim at increasing their muscle mass. For example, estrogen can increase the anabolic response by modifying the way glucose is processed in muscle tissue. This hormone can influence the amounts of glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase which is directly correlated to muscle growth and repair. In other words, having adequate amounts of estrogen can maximize muscle gains and strength. In studies performed on rats, estrogen has also been correlated with a whopping 480% increase in methyltrienolone which is an androgen connected to the levator ani muscle. The production of growth hormone and IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor) are also influenced by estrogen. This female sex hormone can increase the proliferation of IGF-1 in body tissues and liver which leads to greater muscle gains and protein synthesis. Estrogen also plays an important role when it comes to serotonin production. Serotonin is known for regulating the sleep/waking cycle. Bodybuilders who take aromatase inhibitors as drugs might have low levels of estrogen in the body. This can alter the serotonin production and lead to a thing called “steroid fatigue”. This is usually characterized by a general feeling of tiredness which can interfere with training regimes and prevent the athlete from performing at his peak. Maximizing muscle gains can be difficult in this case. Estrogen function in men and why inhibiting its production can be detrimental.  The aforementioned aromatase inhibitors are taken orally while one of them can be injected. There haven’t been studies assessing the short-term symptoms of these drugs on the physiology of an athlete. However, although drugs which inhibit aromatase and subsequently reduce estrogen levels are not usually used for a long period of time, they can cause problems when the estrogen drops under the normal range limit. Estrogen, particularly estradiol, is a powerful hormone which influences multiple body processes in both men and women. For example, estrogen can be anabolic in certain tissues such as bone and fat. It directly impacts bone density and can influence how much fat the body accumulates, particularly in the abdominal area. Estrogen can also have a stimulatory role and it influences protein production in the liver. It has a metabolic effect in the endocrine system and influences the binding globulins for vitamin D. Estrogen is also a neurosteroid influencing neurotransmitters in the brain. This can have an effect on emotions, motivation, and other functions. Since estrogen is so important in the human body, it is safe to assume that reducing it to dangerously low levels using drugs can have negative consequences on health. Similarly, having estrogen levels above the normal limit can also be detrimental for a male’s body. The key is to maintain balance when it comes to estrogen levels and make sure that estradiol E2 doesn’t drop below 20pg/mL.   The effects of aromatase inhibition on bone mineral density in older men A study was conducted at a tertiary care academic center in Boston, MA, measuring the levels of testosterone and estradiol of 69 men over 60 years of age. The participants had borderline or low testosterone levels and the study included a placebo group. The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of aromatase inhibition on bone mineral density and bone turnover. Each participant received 1 mg of an aromatase inhibitor daily or a placebo drug. At the end of the study, the serum testosterone increased from 319 ± 93 ng/dl at baseline to 524 ± 139 ng/dl in month 3 and dropped slightly after one year. The estradiol levels also decreased from 15 at baseline to 12 after 3 months and remained there. The bone mineral density decreased in the aromatase inhibitor group in comparison with the placebo group. Taking aromatase inhibitors reduce the amount of testosterone which is converted to estradiol and because participants had less estradiol in their bloodstream, their bone mineral density also dropped. This concludes that estradiol is important for bone mineral density, particularly in older men. Is anastrazole for men a good idea?   High estrogen levels and prostate cancer Some studies conclude that high levels of estrogen might help develop prostate cancer cells, but men who already have prostate cancer don’t have high levels of estrogen in the bloodstream. Other studies show that a sharp increase in estrogen levels might lead to prostate cancer, but more information is required to reach a definitive conclusion. A small part of the free testosterone which circulates through the bloodstream is converted into estrogen. This hormone is required for maintaining proper health and avoiding cardiovascular diseases as well as diabetes type 2. On the other hand, low testosterone levels have also been associated with an increase in prostate cancer cells. A significant body of evidence indicates that high estrogen levels might be dangerous for men and affect their prostate only when testosterone levels are too low. Increasing testosterone levels through TRT (testosterone replacement therapy) will also increase estrogen levels in a natural way, but this doesn't automatically mean that the risk of prostate cancer will be higher. Approximately 50 years of studies show that testosterone administration alone doesn’t lead to prostate cancer.   Testosterone’s conversion to estrogen is important to eliminate anxiety and depression It is estimated that approximately 20 million adults in the United States are affected by depression each year. Many of these people receive antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs, but this medicine can have different effects on certain people and they don’t come without side effects. Testosterone plays an important role in reducing anxiety and depression feelings in men, while estrogen and progesterone also act together as a protective mechanism against depression in women. Women, in particular, are 70 percent more predisposed to depression during their lifetimes, in comparison with men. However, certain low-testosterone males also develop depression and antidepressants seem to be inefficient for them. New evidence suggests that the conversion of testosterone to estrogen is necessary to reap the antidepressant effects of testosterone. Professor Mohamed Kabbaj reached this conclusion during his studies which were promoted by the National Institute of Mental Health. It has been discovered that there is a link between testosterone conversion to estrogen and depression in animal studies, but this link might be valid in human studies as well. This might lead to new antidepressants which impact the brain differently and are more efficient for low-testosterone men. Testosterone influences a plethora of pathways in the brain and it can have multiple side effects. That’s why it is important to develop a drug which acts only on the pathways responsible with anxiety and depression. Some of the side effects caused by antidepressants include heart problems and these should be avoided. Better drugs are necessary to impact the brain differently and safely treat anxiety and depression feelings. Dr. Kabbaj discovered that the antidepressant effects of testosterone happen only after this hormone has been converted to estrogen. The conversion process is regulated by a special enzyme in the brain. Dr. Kabbaj inhibited this enzyme in the hippocampus area of the brain. This area is responsible for mood regulation and has a strong influence on how a person feels. When this enzyme has been inhibited, the antidepressant effects of testosterone weren’t present. This leads to the conclusion that the conversion of testosterone to estrogen is very important. Testosterone impacts the MAPK pathway in the brain to produce these positive and beneficial antidepressant effects. However, this pathway is also implicated in multiple other body processes, including cell growth and cancer. More work is required to find out ways to get the antidepressant effects of testosterone without increasing the risk of cancer. Testosterone activity in the brain Tests have been done on rats to discover the behavior of testosterone when it enters the brain. Castrated rats have been injected with estradiol instead of testosterone and the recovery process of intromission and ejaculation worked normally. The estradiol was injected into the hypothalamus. However, when DHT was injected instead of testosterone (DHT is a powerful androgen which doesn’t convert to estrogen), no recovery process was detected. This concludes that testosterone converts to estrogen when it is injected into the hypothalamus and facilitates sexual behavior. The aromatase enzyme is present in this part of the brain as well as estrogen receptors. It has also been discovered that injecting drugs which block the aromatization process of testosterone to estrogen can change the behavioral effects of testosterone and significantly influence sexual function. This means that testosterone must convert to estrogen to enable proper male sexual behavior. Further studies show that inhibiting the aromatization process in monkeys can interfere with their sexual behavior. Men who have a congenital deficiency of aromatase also have a low sex drive and they can benefit greatly from small doses of estradiol to improve sexual functioning. The testosterone’s effects on male sexuality are twofold. This hormone influences libido directly with the help of androgen receptors and indirectly using estrogen receptors. However, more work is necessary to determine the exact differences between these effects.   High estradiol levels are not correlated with erectile dysfunction Contrary to the popular belief, high estradiol levels are not associated with poor sexual function in males. A study was conducted on low testosterone centers in the United States, comprising more than 34,000 men. The participants had different ages, some of them being younger than 25 while others being older than 65. Estradiol levels were measured using electro-chemiluminescence immunoassay and it has been discovered that having too much estradiol in the bloodstream doesn’t lead to poor sex drive and erectile dysfunction. It has also been discovered that those with low or normal estradiol levels have a higher incidence of poor sex drive and potential erectile dysfunction.   Estradiol improve endothelial function in healthy men Studies show that estradiol (sometimes written as oestradiol) can improve endothelial function in healthy men. The endothelium is a very thin membrane which lines up the insides of your blood vessels and heart. It can also be found on lymph vessels. Its role is to release substances which help relax or constrict the blood vessels, depending on various factors. The endothelium is also important for controlling platelets, blood clotting and to regulate immune function in men and women. It is already known that supplementing with estrogen (particularly estradiol) is linked to a reduced incidence of cardiovascular disease in women who are deficient in this hormone. The purpose of the study is to determine if estrogen can also be beneficial for the endothelial function in healthy men. The study included 23 men aged 32 years, give or take up to 8 years. They were split into three groups. One group was given testosterone supplements alone, one group received a combination of testosterone and 10mg of estradiol and the third group received testosterone and 20mg of estradiol. These participants were measured one month and six months after multiple tests were performed to determine the influence of estradiol on their health. The study concluded that those who received estradiol supplementation had a better endothelial function. This means that administering estradiol to healthy men can improve their cardiovascular system.   Estradiol and libido, erectile function and reproduction Estradiol impacts multiple processes in a human body and it can have a strong influence on the brain. This hormone can directly influence the brain and dictate the sexual behavior of mammals, creating arousal states and moods which are conducive to reproduction. This is done by the release of pheromones. These substances can increase activity in the area anterior to the hypothalamus. Neurons play an important role in converting testosterone to estrogen using the aromatase enzyme. There are billions of neurons in the brain and they transmit electrical information 24/7, helping humans function correctly. Another important brain cell is the astrocyte. These cells help the neurons transfer information from one part of the brain to the other. They are star-shaped cells which play an important role, particularly when the brain is injured and they also use the aromatase enzyme to convert testosterone to estrogen. The anterior area of the hypothalamus contains numerous estrogen receptors. These receptors work similarly to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors which are known for lowering sex drive. This might indicate that estrogen can significantly influence sexual functioning and behaviors in men.   How estradiol works when testosterone levels are low Having low testosterone levels can definitely lead to poor sexual functioning and lack of libido. To determine the efficacy of estradiol in men and what influences it has, it is important to analyze it in people who have normal as well as low testosterone levels. Studies have been done on men with low testosterone. They received doses of estradiol and reported an increased sexual drive. These human studies are supported by the ones performed on rats. Castrated rodents were given estrogen and it has been discovered that this increased their sexual activity. Another important finding consists of patients who had prostate cancer and received androgen deprivation therapy. This type of therapy is known to slow down or completely stop the advancing of prostate cancer since the cancerous cells require testosterone to grow. When the androgen levels reached a critical point, the patients reported symptoms which are commonly found in people who have a low sex drive and erectile dysfunction such as hot flashes and other adverse effects. It has also been discovered that androgen receptor blockers are more efficient in maintaining sexual activity in comparison with castration. This might happen as a result of testosterone conversion to estrogen. It is possible that supplementing with estradiol might make patients who undertake androgen deprivation therapy have increased brain activity in those areas responsible with sexual behavior.   Estradiol and its influence in eugonadal men (men with normal testosterone levels.) Eugonadal means men with healthy testosterone levels. Estradiol has been proven beneficial for people with low testosterone levels, increasing libido, and sexual desire. However, some studies show that the same positive results don't apply to eugonadal men. One study was performed on men with healthy testosterone levels. They received estradiol on a regular basis and they reported a decrease in sexual functioning, libido, masturbation, and erections. On the other hand, another study reported that administering estradiol to 50 men aged between 20 and 40 years didn’t influence their sexual function and libido at all. More research is required to understand how estradiol affects eugonadal men, but administering this hormone exogenously can be beneficial for people who have testosterone levels, increasing their libido and sexual desire.   Analyzing the role of estradiol on hypogonadal men who undertake testosterone replacement therapy Testosterone supplementation therapy aims to improve the quality of life of hypogonadal men as well as increase the levels of circulating testosterone in their bloodstream. This therapy also tries to increase the number of testosterone metabolites such as estradiol which is known for playing a vital role in sexual desire. In a test performed on men with secondary hypogonadism, c l o mi phene was used to increase the levels of testosterone by influencing the estrogen receptors directly. Secondary hypogonadism means that the testicles function correctly, but there is a scarcity of luteinizing hormone produced by the pituitary gland and this translates into low testosterone levels. The clomiphene citrate managed to increase testosterone levels in men with secondary hypogonadism as well as increasing the conversion of testosterone to estrogen. Other studies show that clomiphene citrate can increase sexual desire and libido. Another study performed in 2013 looked at the role of testosterone in healthy men and how it can influence sexual behavior. Some of the study participants received testosterone in combination with aromatase inhibitors, while others received testosterone without aromatase inhibitors. As a result, the sexual function was impaired when aromatization was inhibited. Other studies show that sexual desire increased significantly when men received testosterone supplementation therapy and had estradiol levels above 5 ng/dl. Even when testosterone levels were below 300 ng/dl and the estradiol levels were higher than 5 ng/dl, the sexual desire was increased. Yet another study looked at the sexual behavior of men who received l etr ozole which is a powerful aromatase inhibitor. These men had low testosterone levels and after being given le tro zole, their estradiol level dropped even lower. The result was that libido was significantly decreased. This means that both testosterone and estradiol are important in people who have testosterone deficiency to achieve and maintain healthy sexual desire and libido.   Aromatase inhibition can decrease insulin sensitivity Insulin sensitivity is extremely important when it comes to diseases such as diabetes type 2. Those who have low insulin sensitivity are more predisposed to become diabetic in the future. Inhibiting the aromatase enzyme through different types of drugs can have a significant influence on insulin sensitivity in both humans and rats. A study conducted at a clinical research facility tested 17 healthy men with ages between 18 and 50 years. This was a double-blind, controlled study. Each participant received an aromatase inhibitor, or a placebo drug for 6 weeks. The study concluded that inhibiting aromatase can lead to poor insulin sensitivity, particularly when it comes to peripheral glucose disposal.   The relationship between estrogen and bodybuilding It is well known that estrogen gives you a feeling of wellbeing and the lack of it can lead to depression, mood swings, emotional instability, and even depressive thoughts. Aromatase inhibitors can reduce the amount of estrogen the body produces and it usually makes a person feel lethargic and unhappy. For example, menopausal women seem to become more emotionally unstable and being haunted by feelings of anxiety and depression. Studies show that this can also be the case for bodybuilders and top athletes who regularly take aromatase inhibitors to convert less testosterone to estrogen. Estrogen is vital when it comes to sexual drive and libido as well and it is a well-known fact that aromatase inhibitors can negatively impact sex drive. A study on two groups of men reached the conclusion that estrogen is very important for libido. The first group received testosterone treatment alone while the second group received testosterone and an anti-estrogenic agent. At the end of the test, the group who received only testosterone treatment had better sexual drive and libido. Researchers also believe that lowering the estrogen levels too much in healthy men can lead to anxiety feelings, depression and even osteoporosis.   Estradiol and DHT can make you age more slowly Another study performed in Australia looked at the link between telomere length and the amount of serum estradiol and DHT in men. Telomeres are sequences of nucleotides at the end of each chromosome. They are used as a biomarker for aging. Having shorter telomeres means that the biological age is higher, regardless of the actual age of the person. Having longer telomeres correlated with a smaller biological age which basically means that the person is younger than his or her real age. The study performed in Australia looked at the telomere lengths of men aged 53, give or take approximately 15 years. The conclusion of the study was that estradiol and DHT correlate with telomere length and a small reduction in estradiol can amount to an approximate age increase of a decade. Estradiol alone can influence telomere length and that’s why it is important not to reduce it too much using aromatase inhibitors.   Symptoms of low estradiol in men A study performed in a medical center on several hundred men concluded that lack of estradiol can give certain vasomotor symptoms similar to those menopausal women have. These symptoms include hot flashes, sweats and flushes. The study participants were healthy men with ages between 20 and 50 years. They had normal serum testosterone levels and were split into two groups The first group of men was administered goserelin acetate which stops gonadal steroids. After 4 weeks, they received placebo drugs or different doses of testosterone gels. The second group of men received a treatment similar to those in the first group, but they also received an inhibitor of the aromatization of testosterone to estrogen. The study concluded that those who received aromatase inhibitors and had low estradiol levels experienced vasomotor symptoms such as night sweats and hot flashes. Similarly, those who received high doses of testosterone gel (approx 10 grams daily), as well as aromatase inhibitors, didn't experience the same symptoms. This means that when high amounts of testosterone are administered, it can suppress the effect of the aromatase inhibitor and leave estrogen levels intact.   Estradiol and reproductive function in men The sexual function in males is directly influenced by a mix of multiple substances and organs including testosterone, estradiol, estrogen receptors, testes, penis, and brain. The aromatase enzyme and estrogen receptors have a similar location in the brain and they are important in the development of sexual function early in life. They also influence sexual behavior in adulthood in combination with other substances called pheromones. Estrogen influences the mood and libido of a man, enabling him to alter his cognition for a mental state conducive to reproduction. Spermatogenesis is another important part of male reproduction. The creation of sperm cells relies on estradiol and these cells contain estrogen receptors and the aromatase enzyme. Men who undertake testosterone supplementation therapy should also be monitored for their estrogen levels. This is because an estradiol level below 5ng/dl can cause a significant drop in sex drive and libido.   Conclusion The role of estrogen in the male body is unquestionably important. Bodybuilders, professional athletes, and patients who undertake testosterone replacement therapy should be careful when it comes to managing estradiol levels since this hormone can significantly impact their wellbeing, sex drive, and bone density.   Get Your Estradiol Blood Test and Find Out More!