Testosterone Basics @ 15 February 2008 05:21 PM

Just as estrogen and progesterone are the female sex hormones, testosterone is the male sex hormone (although women have testosterone levels one-tenth to one-twelfth those of men). Testosterone is the main hormone produced in the testicles and secreted by the testes.

Testosterone Benefits (Result may vary by individual)

Promotes libido and sexual desire;
Improve male sexual performance
Enhance mood in men
Reduce depression in men
Increased energy and vitality
Increase male bone density
Improve male fertility
Stimulates sperm production
Increased strength and endurance
Regulate distribution of body fat
Increase body hair growth
Reduce risk of heart disease
Develops lean muscle mass
Nourishes male reproductive systems

The major effects of testosterone is that stimulates the growth of certain organs, promotes protein anabolism, that is, the use of protein to build muscle, skin, and bone, and militates against protein catabolism, or breakdown. Testosterone regulates the production of prostaglandin, which seems to keep prostate growth under control.

The effects of testosterone are most pronounced during puberty. It brings on the enlarged larynx, thicker vocal cords, new body hair, increased muscle mass, and increased oil-gland secretion by the skin commonly associated with puberty. After puberty, levels of testosterone drop gradually in men, with profound effects on physical health and well-being and particularly on mood and libido.

Some males suffer when their bodies produce insufficient levels of testosterone, resulting in a condition called hypogonadism. Hypogonadism can be caused by ailments of the testes, such as testicular injury or infection, Klinefelter's syndrome (a chromosomal abnormality), and/or from disorders of the pituitary and hypothalamus