Unfortunately, as we age, our ability to focus at near distances decreases. This condition is known as presbyopia (literally translated as trying to see as old men do). It is inevitable, normal part of the aging process, and, although it may be hard to accept, it is something that you can be aware of and can prepare for. Although frustrating, presbyopia is benign, and readily treatable with the use of reading glasses.   What is Presbyopia? Presbyopia occurs because the... read more

Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is a hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland (a small endocrine gland in the base of the brain). Once secreted in men, it stimulates the testes to produce testosterone and sperm. Thus, FSH plays a vital role in the hormonal status and reproductive ability of men. Abnormal levels (levels that are too high or too low) may indicate either a problem with testicular function or hypothalamic/pituitary function.   The Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Testicular Axis The anterior pituitary secretes... read more

Luteinizing Hormone (LH) is a hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland (a small endocrine gland in the base of the brain). Once secreted in men, it stimulates the testes to produce testosterone, which acts as the primary male hormone and is essential for the production of sperm.1 Similar to follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), which is also produced by the pituitary gland, LH plays a vital role in the hormonal status and reproductive ability of men. Abnormal levels (levels that... read more

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is easily one of the most popular supplements in the US. Its popularity stems from claims that supplementation with DHEA slows down aging, increases energy, increases muscular strength, boosts immunity, and decreases body weight. Below is an overview of DHEA and what science and the medical community actually knows about its supplementation. Read on to learn exactly what it is, what it does, and why people use it as a supplement. Also, learn about DHEA and aging and... read more

Our bodies secrete growth hormone (GH) at their highest levels during puberty. However, beginning in early adulthood (20s), GH secretion decreases at an average rate of about 15% per decade.1,2 As a result, by late adulthood total GH secretion is typically less than half of total GH secretion in early adulthood.3 In some cases, GH levels may decline by up to 50% every seven years in men.4 The graphic shows typical growth hormone levels versus age. In one study, 35%... read more

Human Growth Hormone and Aging Our bodies secrete human growth hormone (HGH) at their highest levels during puberty. However, beginning in early to mid-adulthood, HGH secretion decreases at an average rate of approximately 14% per decade.1 As a result, by late adulthood total HGH secretion is typically less than half of total HGH secretion in early adultood.2 The graph below shows typical growth hormone levels versus age. Somatopause The decline in HGH secretion that occurs with aging is often referred to... read more

Men are often unclear about the relationship between sleep and aging. Most men commonly think that the older they get the less sleep they need. On the contrary, sleep need does not decrease with age. However, sleep and aging are related in that sleep quality and quantity do tend to decrease with age. As a man ages, he takes longer to fall asleep, sleeps worse, spends less time in deep sleep and REM sleep, and experiences more nighttime awakenings.  ... read more

As a man ages, he loses muscle mass, typically about 0.5- 1.0% per year after the age of 40.1 These loses may seem very small, but by the age of 50 these losses add up to roughly a 5-10% loss in muscle mass. Additionally, this loss in muscle mass is typically accompanied by an increase in fat mass, especially abdominal fat. The term for the age-related decline in muscle mass is sacropenia. According to one study, approximately one in every... read more

Reproductive and urinary problems increase in prevalence with aging. With the length of life expectancy in the US, most men will probably be affected by such a problem during their lifetime. The most common reproductive and urinary problems include prostate cancer, benign prostate hyperplasia, erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory disorders, and urinary incontinence. While many men find these issues embarrassing, understanding these problems and addressing them with a physician can greatly help in their diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. The following links provides... read more

The male aging process is associated with a significant number of bodily changes and health-related problems. Detecting and treating these changes/problems at an earlier stage can considerably increase the chances of a positive outcome to these changes/problems. Select a specific issue below to learn more about that issue, how to detect that issue, and how to most effectively treat that issue.   Read On Body Composition and Aging Testosterone Levels by Age Growth Hormone and Aging Reproductive and Sexual Function... read more