When Do You See A Doctor For Low Libido?

We get it—low libido can be frustrating and concerning, leaving you wondering when it’s time to seek help. Well, you’ve landed in the right place because we’re diving into a question we’re commonly asked: When do you see a doctor for low libido?

Whether it’s been a gradual change over time or a sudden drop in desire, experiencing a decrease in libido can be a huge buzzkill. While it’s perfectly normal for your libido to fluctuate due to factors like stress, hormonal changes, or relationship issues, there comes a point where seeking help may be beneficial.

In this post, we’ll help you determine whether it’s time to see a healthcare professional for low libido. By arming yourself with knowledge and seeking the appropriate care, you can take proactive steps toward reclaiming your sexual health and well-being.

So, when should you see a doctor about your sex drive concerns? The guidelines we share below can help you decide.

What do I do if I’m experiencing symptoms of low libido?

Libido issues can come from a variety of things such as stress or a man’s testosterone levels. 

Physicians now have a validated questionnaire called the Androgen Deficiency in the Aging Male (ADAM) questionnaire that they use to help evaluate patients if they suspect a testosterone deficiency. 

If you answer “yes” to question 1 or question 7, or if you answer “yes” to 3 or more of the questionnaire’s criteria, this may be an indication that a hormone deficiency is to blame.

Here’s the criteria:

  1.  Do you have a decrease in libido or sex drive?
  2. Do you have a lack of energy?
  3. Do you have a decrease in strength and/or endurance?
  4. Have you lost height?
  5. Have you noticed a decreased “enjoyment of life”?
  6. Are you sad and/or grumpy?
  7. Are your erections less strong?
  8. Have you noticed a recent deterioration in your ability to play sports?
  9. Are you falling asleep after dinner?
  10. Has there been a recent decline in your work performance?

At Victory Men’s Health, we consider all these factors along with your lab results. By matching how you’re feeling day-to-day with data, we can help you feel better, quicker.

What do I do if my sex drive suddenly drops?

Remember, there is no such thing as a “normal” sex drive.  Some men seem to need sex or sexual release every day, while others aren’t bothered by less frequent sexual activity. Whatever your baseline, if your libido drops abruptly and doesn’t recover within a couple of weeks, you should let your doctor know.  If you have a sudden reduction in how you usually feel, that is not normal.

Should I take over-the-counter pills for low libido?

Many men are quick to throw over-the-counter pills or supplements at their low libido issues.  They assume that, because it’s over-the-counter, these supplements are safe; and that is simply not true. The U.S. consumer supplement market is largely unregulated. 

If you’re shopping for testosterone supplements online without support, you could end up doing more harm than good. If you don’t feel normal, talk to a healthcare professional like our team at Victory Men’s Health rather than turning to Dr. Google or over-the-counter supplements on your own. 

Low Libido vs. ED

Understanding the difference between low libido and erectile dysfunction is the key to finding the right treatment and taking charge of your sexual health. While both can impact your sex life, they come from different causes which means they need different approaches.

Low Libido 

Low libido, or a reduced interest in sex, is usually driven by psychological factors, hormonal imbalances, or lifestyle choices. It can also occur as a side effect of medications such as anti-anxiety, anti-depressants, hair loss medications (such as Propecia/finasteride), and some ADHD medications. 

If you’re experiencing low libido, you might notice a lack of desire for sex, which can strain your relationships and affect your overall well-being. Treatment often involves addressing the root cause, whether that’s through lifestyle changes, therapy, or hormone therapy.

Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

ED is the inability to get or keep an erection that’s firm enough for sex. This condition is often linked to physical health problems like heart disease, diabetes, obesity, or neurological issues. ED is usually diagnosed using tools like the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) questionnaire, which helps determine the severity and best treatment options.

Both low libido and ED can happen at the same time, but they need different diagnostic approaches and treatments. Knowing the difference can help you and your healthcare provider create a more effective plan for improving your sexual health.

If you’re not sure whether you have low libido, ED, or both, the next step is to take the questionnaire below. This will give you a clearer picture of your condition and help guide you toward the right treatment plan.

Do I have ED?

If you’re wondering whether you have erectile dysfunction and how severe it might be, this sexual health inventory for men (SHIM) questionnaire will help your physician determine your treatment options. To be able to truly explore all of your options, it’s best to meet with a physician who specializes in men’s health.  

For each question, note your answer by circling the number that approximates your belief. Add your numbers together for all the questions answered and refer to the table below to see what your score may mean.

Over the past six months . . . 

1) How do you rate your confidence that you could get and keep an erection?

  1. Very low (1 point)
  2. Low (2 points)
  3. Moderate (3 points)
  4. High (4 points)
  5. Very high (5 points)

2) When you had erections with sexual stimulation, how often were your erections hard enough for penetration (entering your partner)?

  1. No Sexual Activity (0 points)
  2. Almost never or never (1 point)
  3. A few times (much less than half the time) (2 points)
  4. Sometimes (about half the time) (4 points)
  5. Most times (much more than half the time) (4 points)
  6. Almost always or always (5 points)

3) During sexual intercourse, how often were you able to maintain your erection after you had penetrated (entered) your partner?

  1.  Did not attempt intercourse  (0 points)
  2. Almost never or never  (1 point)
  3. A few times (much less than half the time)  (2 points)
  4. Sometimes (about half the time)  (3 points)
  5. Most times (much more than half the time)  (4 points)
  6. Almost always or always (5 points)

4) During sexual intercourse, how difficult was it to maintain your erection to completion of intercourse?

  1.  Did not attempt intercourse  (0 points)
  2. Extremely difficult (1 point)
  3. Very difficult (2 points)
  4. Difficult (3 points)
  5. Slightly difficult (4 points)
  6. Not difficult (5 points)

5) When you attempted sexual intercourse, how often was it satisfactory for you?

  1.  Did not attempt intercourse (0 points)
  2. Almost never or never (1 point)
  3. A few times (much less than half the time) (2 points)
  4. Sometimes (about half the time)  (3 points)
  5. Most times (much more than half the time) (4 points)
  6. Almost always or always (5 points)

Total: _______________

SHIM ScoresYou may have . . .
1-7Severe ED
8-11Moderate ED
12-16Mild to Moderate ED
17-21Mild ED
22-25No signs of ED

How do I increase my testosterone levels?

Testosterone replacement therapy can significantly improve your sex drive while enhancing the quality and frequency of your erections. It’s no secret that testosterone plays a crucial role in male sexual health, influencing everything from libido to erectile function. By restoring optimal testosterone and other hormone levels through a personalized regimen, many men experience a revitalization of their sexual vitality and performance.

At Victory Men’s Health, we specialize in tailoring testosterone therapy to your individual needs, helping you regain confidence and enjoyment in your sexual experiences. So, if you’re ready to take control of your sexual health and optimize your testosterone levels, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Next Steps with Victory Men’s Health

Experiencing low libido can be wildly frustrating, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Our team understands the challenges that come with navigating issues related to your sexual health, and we’re here to offer compassionate support and expert guidance.

If you’ve been struggling with low libido and are unsure of when to seek help, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We specialize in men’s health and can provide personalized solutions to address your unique concerns. Whether you’re interested in exploring testosterone replacement therapy, discussing lifestyle modifications, or seeking other treatment options, we’re here to listen, support, and guide you toward reclaiming your sexual vitality.

So, if you’re ready to take the first step toward a healthier, more fulfilling sex life, reach out to Victory Men’s Health today. Contact us today to find the right solution for you and rediscover the joy and satisfaction of a thriving libido.

ED and Diabetes: What’s the Connection?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) and diabetes are two prevalent, treatable issues that many men encounter, particularly as they age. But how are these conditions interconnected, and can you treat one without negatively impacting the other? Today, we’ll delve into the complex relationship between ED and diabetes, examine various treatment options, and offer strategies for managing both conditions effectively.

If you’re new here, hello! We are Victory Men’s Health, and we’re here to help you navigate these challenges.

We offer a comprehensive range of services to support men’s health and well-being. Our offerings include hormone optimization, testosterone replacement therapy, personalized nutrition plans, advanced weight management strategies, and ED treatments such as wave therapy, oral and injectable medications, and the P-Shot. 

Many of our patients experience both erectile dysfunction (ED) and diabetes simultaneously. We’re happy to report that even with diabetes, ED is treatable

Does diabetes cause ED?

Not necessarily. The connection between diabetes and erectile dysfunction (ED) is complex. Diabetes happens when there’s not enough insulin or when your body becomes resistant to it, leading to high blood sugar levels. This can be caused by autoimmune disease, obesity, genetics, lack of exercise, or poor diet. The tricky part is that diabetes often goes unnoticed until it starts causing significant damage to your organs. 

Uncontrolled diabetes will increase the risk of the disease affecting your blood vessels and causing damage that can lead to ED. 

However, even borderline diabetes can start inflammatory processes that lead to poor blood vessel health and erectile dysfunction. One part of this process is the loss of nitric oxide production that occurs with diabetes or insulin resistance. Nitric oxide is essential for the blood vessels to appropriately dilate and will be deficient in diabetics.

Many men with diabetes also deal with high blood pressure and coronary artery disease, which just makes ED even worse.

How Does ED Affect Type 1 vs. Type 2 Diabetes?

Erectile dysfunction can impact men with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, but the causes and how common it is can vary between the two types. The level of control that you have over your diabetes will also influence your long-term health outcomes and sexual health. 

A normal hemoglobin A1C, which is the average of your blood sugar over the past 3 months and the test used to diagnose diabetes, is under 5.6%. 5.7-6.4% is pre-diabetes and over 6.5% is considered diabetes. The higher this number, the more likely a person is to have complications of the disease.

In type 1 diabetes, which is typically diagnosed in childhood or adolescence, ED can arise from long-term complications associated with poorly controlled blood sugar levels. Over time, high blood sugar can cause significant damage to both nerves and blood vessels. This damage impairs blood flow and nerve function, which are crucial for achieving and maintaining an erection, leading to erectile dysfunction in men with type 1 diabetes.

In type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance and factors like obesity and hypertension play a more significant role in causing erectile dysfunction. Fortunately, this type of diabetes can often be managed with medication and lifestyle changes, depending on the severity of the condition.

At Victory Men’s Health, we offer therapies that can help you manage or reverse type 2 diabetes through weight loss and lifestyle modifications. Our comprehensive approach ensures that you not only manage your diabetes but also improve your overall health and well-being.

Diabetes can affect your testosterone, too.

Insulin resistance is the main reason why testosterone might be lower in someone with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Diabetes, whether type 1 or type 2, can significantly impact testosterone levels in men, leading to a condition known as hypogonadism. This condition is characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, decreased libido, reduced muscle mass, and mood changes. 


In type 1 diabetes, SHBG (a binding protein) may be higher which can lead to lower free testosterone. For men with type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance and related factors like obesity and hypertension can further contribute to low testosterone.

At Victory Men’s Health, we recognize the intricate link between diabetes and hormonal health. Our team is dedicated to helping you manage both conditions through personalized treatment plans that include hormone optimization, weight management, and lifestyle modifications. 

By tackling both diabetes and low testosterone head-on, we’re confident that we can find a solution that addresses your testosterone levels and ED, specifically tailored to your diabetes diagnosis.

I have diabetes and ED – what’s my first step?

Treating erectile dysfunction and diabetes simultaneously requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying causes and symptoms of both conditions. At Victory Men’s Health, we believe in not only providing medications and treatments but also tackling the root causes of these symptoms. For diabetes, lifestyle management is a highly effective tool to reduce your reliance on medication and alleviate symptoms like ED.

If you’re experiencing ED, here are the treatment options we would explore as part of your treatment plan.

  • Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT): Low testosterone levels can contribute to ED. We offer various forms of TRT, including creams, injections, and pellets. For more information, check out our blog post on choosing the right testosterone method for you.

  • Hormone Optimization: Balancing other hormones can also play a significant role in managing ED and diabetes. Our hormone optimization services are designed to ensure your body functions at its best.

  • Wave Therapy: This non-invasive treatment uses high-frequency acoustic waves to open up old blood vessels and stimulate the formation of new ones. This improves blood flow, resulting in stronger and more sustainable erections. Wave therapy is particularly beneficial for men with diabetes, as it addresses the vascular issues that often accompany the condition.

  • PDE-5 Inhibitors: We prescribe medications (the ones you’ve likely heard of) that are well-known treatments for ED. These medications work by increasing blood flow, helping to enhance sexual performance and maintain function.

  • Nutritional and Supplement Support: We provide personalized nutritional plans and recommend supplements that can help manage diabetes and improve sexual health. Our experts can guide you on which vitamins and minerals are essential for your well-being. Your diet will directly influence your blood sugar levels and therefore, your sexual health improvements.

  • Nitric Oxide Supplementation: A necessary molecule for our blood flow and circulation, this is essential to replace when treating ED.

  • Trimix Injection: This is an injectable medication that can be customized to the patient, providing immediate and reliable results. 

  • Priapus Shot: This is a non-surgical procedure using your body’s own cells to improve the function and appearance of your penis.

  • Vacuum Pump Device: This helps with ED by creating a vacuum around the penis, which increases blood flow and causes an erection.

At Victory Men’s Health, we are committed to finding a solution that addresses testosterone levels, ED, and your diabetes diagnosis. By combining lifestyle changes, hormone optimization, advanced therapies, and medications, we strive to enhance your overall health and well-being.


Which is the priority: ED or diabetes?

When managing both diabetes and erectile dysfunction, controlling diabetes should be the primary focus. Proper management of blood sugar levels can prevent further damage to blood vessels and nerves, thereby reducing the risk and severity of ED. 

Once diabetes is under control, treatments for ED can be more effective.

How Do Insulin and Metformin Affect ED?

Insulin plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels, which is essential for normal sexual function. In men with diabetes, either the body doesn’t produce enough insulin (type 1) or becomes resistant to it (type 2). For type 2 diabetics, Metformin is a popular medication that has proven to be useful in regulating blood sugar levels.

Improving insulin sensitivity improves overall health, which in turn can enhance sexual performance. Managing your blood sugar effectively is vital to improving your ED.

How Does Weight Loss Affect ED?

Weight loss can have a profound impact on erectile dysfunction, especially in men with diabetes. Losing weight improves insulin sensitivity, reduces inflammation, and enhances cardiovascular health, all contributing to better blood flow and sexual performance. Managing your weight is essential for improving ED.


This is why we work with you on a personalized weight loss plan, often including
Semaglutide, which is highly effective for those with Type 2 diabetes. Remember, it’s not Semaglutide that directly fixes ED; it’s the weight loss and improved health that result from it.

ED & diabetes go hand in hand, and we’re here to help.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) and diabetes are closely connected, with each condition impacting the other. Here at Victory Men’s Health, we help men every day who are dealing with ED due to diabetes. By focusing on comprehensive diabetes management and offering innovative treatments like Wave Therapy, we help men get their sexual health back on track and feel better overall.

If left untreated, type 2 diabetes can lead to erectile dysfunction that is also harder to treat. Therefore, restoring diminished blood flow through treatments like Wave Therapy should be done as soon as possible. Remember, managing diabetes effectively is the first step towards improving erectile function.

Our goal is to restore your confidence and assure you that faith is not lost in treating both simultaneously. With your diabetes managed, treating ED becomes easier and more straightforward. Contact us today to begin your journey to a healthier, more fulfilling life. 

Why You Should Worry About The Fat You Can’t See

People often gauge how much fat they have by what is visible to the eye and what you can grasp with your hand, also known as subcutaneous fat. But did you know that we have fat that you can’t see? Visceral fat lies out of reach beyond your abdominal wall and surrounds the organs in your midsection.

Dangers of high Visceral Fat:

A high level of visceral fat is cause for more serious concern than just your total body fat percentage because of where it’s located. According to research at Harvard Health, visceral fat was discovered to be biologically active, meaning it acts as an endocrine gland and produces hormones along with other substances that could negatively affect and disrupt our overall health.1 Visceral fat increases the small proteins called cytokines that are critical in cell signaling and are responsible for regulating inflammation in the body.  Systemic inflammation puts us at risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and other chronic diseases. Additionally, visceral fat strongly provokes your cells to resist insulin that normally pushes energy (in the form of glucose) into cells and resistance to this process causes glucose to stay in the blood stream eventually leading to Type 2 Diabetes.

How do I know how much I have?

If we can’t see it, how do we go about knowing how much we have? While a good indicator may be measuring your waistline, this is not always the most accurate reading. Luckily, there is an easy and noninvasive technology available called the bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) which is a method used to measure the components of the body, including muscle mass, body fat, and total body water. Alternating low and high-frequency electrical currents are sent through the water in the body via contact with electrodes to measure impedance. The impedance is used to determine total body water (TBW), which can then be used to derive your fat-free mass – the portion of your body that does not contain fat, including your muscle and bone – and then body fat.2

At Victory Men’s Health we use the InBody scale which is a medical-grade body composition device used to measure outputs such as skeletal muscle mass, percent body fat, basal metabolic rate and the presence of visceral fat. Having this valuable information allows us to have a better and deeper understanding of our complete body composition for overall health goals. Your visceral fat level reading on this scale will tell you if it falls within a range considered to be dangerous for your overall health.

What to do?

Aside from a genetic predisposition and poor diet, the other causes of accumulating visceral fat over time are:

  • Consuming more calories than burned due to lack of exercise
  • Overconsumption of alcohol
  • Excessive stress, likely related to cortisol levels
  • General aging as muscle mass decreases with age making it more difficult to maintain a healthy weight for your height
  • Hormone imbalances

While this can be a wake up call for many, the good news is regular exercise paired with a healthy diet can reverse visceral fat build up and prevent future fat storage. Processed foods are the enemy of healthy body composition and avoiding as much as possible is a good start.

In addition to lifestyle changes, hormone optimization increases lean body mass (muscle) and decreases visceral fat. Hormones are often overlooked by primary care physicians in treating body composition challenges but they can have a profound effect. For more information on getting your levels checked, visit victorymenshealth.com or call 618-632-9000 (IL) or 314-833-9000 (MO).

References

Did You Know: Erectile Dysfunction Can Save Your Life?

Often times, men avoid seeking medical care unless absolutely necessary. The “necessity” becomes pressing when they start to notice less frequent morning erections, erections that won’t last through intercourse, or even the inability to get an erection at all. These instances are defined as erectile dysfunction; or ED.

So how can ED save a life? Simple – it encourages the patient to seek medical care. Erectile dysfunction can be an indicator of other serious health issues. It is a legitimate medical problem and should be treated as such. The physiology of ED is endothelial dysfunction, which is a breakdown of the lining of the blood vessels. Erectile dysfunction usually presents itself as a “warning” to the body before the endothelial dysfunction causes other major traumas such as heart attack or stroke. Seeking care for ED often leads to discoveries and treatment options that will improve the health of the patient, not only sexually, but overall.

What are the causes?

There are a variety of causes; here are a few of the most common:

  • Hypertension or high blood pressure also know as “the silent killer”
  • Undiagnosed or uncontrolled diabetes
  • Age
  • High body fat levels
  • Smoking
  • Drinking alcohol in excess
  • Certain medications (diuretics, hair loss medications, opioids, SSRIs, etc)
  • Hormone imbalances

What you need to know

  • ED is very common. The numbers are increasing yearly. In a study published in July 2019 by BJUI, it is estimated that there will be 322 million men affected by erectile dysfunction by 2025. That estimation is up 152 million men from 1995.
  • Treating ED early is vital. The sooner you seek treatment, the better chance of improvement.
  • The risk of ED increases with age, but young men experience ED too. It is crucial for men under 40 to understand that erectile dysfunction presents itself in different ways. The time to seek help is when you start to notice a decline.

What can be done?

Treatment options vary person to person.

  • First and foremost, lifestyle evaluation and improvement, including but not limited to a cleaner diet, increase in exercise, and smoking cessation.
  • Hormone Therapy
  • PDE5 inhibitors (Viagra, Cialis and Levitra)
  • Trimix
  • Wave therapy
  • Priapus shot
  • Nitric Oxide supplementation

Finding a Provider

Seek a medical provider who values your comfort, encourages treating you as a whole person, offers treatments that address different aspects of the cause (body composition, blood flow, hormones), respects your sexual health goals and expectations.

Give one of our offices a call to see if we are the right fit for you.

Illinois Location:
O: 618.632.9000
F: 618.589.3448
1405 N. Green Mount Rd,
Suite 240 O’Fallon, IL  62269

Missouri Location:
O: 314.833.9000
F: 618.589.3448 1036
Town & Country Crossing Dr
Town & Country, MO 63017

What to Know About Nitric Oxide

What is Nitric Oxide?

Nitric oxide is one of the most important molecules produced naturally in the human body.  This molecule is so important that in 1998 three scientists won a Nobel Prize for discovering Nitric Oxide as a miracle molecule. Nitric oxide (NO) is a gas composed of one atom of nitrogen bonded to one atom of oxygen. It serves as a critical signaling molecule in the cardiovascular and circulatory system. Our bodies cannot function as intended without proper circulation. This means that NO affects absolutely every function in our bodies.

NO is made by the blood vessel’s lining called the endotheliumNitric oxide expands the blood vessels, increasing blood flow and decreasing plaque growth and blood clotting.

Why is NO important in our bodies?

The loss of NO is recognized as the earliest onset of most, if not all, chronic diseases including the #1 killer of men and women, cardiovascular disease. Starting in your 30’s nitric oxide production begins to decline by 20% every 10 years. Most over the age of 65 have lost 85% of their ability to make NO. Factors influencing the decline in natural production of NO include aging, oxidative stress, lack of exercise, poor nutrition, diabetes and smoking.

NO is a vasodilator that helps keep arteries open and prevents plaque buildup. Reduced NO availability is often used as an early marker for various cardiovascular diseases.

Who needs NO?

  • Men experiencing sexual dysfunction
  • Anyone looking to support healthy blood pressure
  • Anyone over the age of 30
  • Anyone with low energy
  • Diabetics
  • Anyone suffering from issues with circulation
  • Anyone diagnosed with vascular dysfunction

How do we get more NO?

  • Start exercising regularly – Not only does exercise improve your ability to produce NO, the NO in return improves your ability to exercise. Moderate intensity exercise has been proven to yield the best results in enhancing endothelium vasodilation and increase production of NO. Research shows the best benefits come from 150 minutes a week of moderate intensity such as a brisk walk or 75 minutes a week of vigorous exercise like running, biking, or swimming laps.  The key is to get your heart rate above resting and to break a sweat.
  • Stop using mouthwash or fluoride toothpaste. These products kill the good NO creating bacteria in your mouth.
  • Re-evaluate if you are taking daily antacids, NSAIDS (ibuprofen, aspirin) and statin drugs which all block the production of NO.
  • Eat your vegetables – Vegetables rich in nitrate and nitrate can be converted into NO. Foods rich in NO include green leafy vegetables (kale, arugula, spinach), beets, radish, and cabbage.
  • Stop smoking. Smoking blocks your ability to make NO and causes your blood vessels to constrict, reducing blood flow to every cell and tissue in the body.

(https://drnathansbryan.com/nitric-oxide-science/)

How to supplement NO?

Restoring NO production can lead to better vascular production and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Nitric oxide supplements are easy to order online and over the counter but NOT all are created equal. Supplements often market “increase blood flow to the muscles” or use as a pre-workout to “get blood flowing”.  Although the marketing on the outside seems appealing, the ingredients on the inside are often misleading and do not increase production of NO. Most OTC supplements include L-Arginine or L-Citrulline. The pathway to make more NO requires L-Arginine along with OTHER molecules. If supplements do not include the other molecules, supplementing L-Arginine can actually make things worse. According to research by the American Heart Association, “Long term administration of L-Arginine does not increase nitric oxide synthesis or improve the ability of blood vessels to widen.”

Other products often include beet root extract or kale but that doesn’t mean they have sufficient nitrates to create more NO. These vegetable sources are not all equal and are subject to growth conditions, chemicals, processing, heat and packaging.

How to pick a NO supplement?

Read the research. If a product has no published clinical trials in humans, stay away. Clinical trials are expensive but prove that a product does what it says. Very few companies go through this test to prove the quality of their product. At Victory Men’s Health our staff and medical providers have done extensive research on the best products on the market and only use clinically tested NO supplements.

Nitric Oxide and Erectile Dysfunction

The leading cause of erectile dysfunction is poor blood flow to the erectile tissue. Nitric oxide dilates blood vessels which in turn can increase blood flow to the penis. The key to getting and maintaining erections revolves around continuous activation of NO. Men often use medications like Viagra, Cialis, Levitra to assist in maintaining erections. These medications let NO go to work and stay at work. Here is the science in action behind the scenes. First, NO binds to the receptors of an enzyme called guanylyl cyclase. Second, this binding process boosts levels of CGMP (cyclic guanosine monophosphate), which leads to widening of arteries in the penis. Third, more blood flows into the penis, filling the corpus cavernosum, which is the spongy tissue that expands to form an erection. Fourth, Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra work by blocking the compound of PDE5 (phosphodiesterase type 5), which in turn dissolves cGMP.

For more information on NO supplements please contact our medical providers.

Clinical references:

  • Bryan PHD, Nathan “How to boost the body’s miracle molecule to prevent and reverse chronic disease.”  The Nitric Oxide (NO) Solution, 2010.
  • Bryan PHD, Nathan “Nitric Oxide Science.” https://drnathansbryan.com/nitric-oxide-science/
  • Woolford, Andrea. “Nitric Oxide Study Guide”. 2020. Cardiology Institute.

Illinois Location:
O: 618.632.9000
F: 618.589.3448
1405 N. Green Mount Rd,
Suite 240 O’Fallon, IL  62269

Missouri Location:
O: 314.833.9000
F: 618.589.3448 1036
Town & Country Crossing Dr
Town & Country, MO 63017

Testosterone Cream For Your Balls? Is It A Superior Alternative To Injections?

Have you been skeptical of testosterone creams?  Were they never your top choice?  Have you thought they have historically been ineffective?

Well, you MAY have been right.  Traditionally, the concentrations of transdermal testosterone were too low, and it was difficult to control the delivery of the dosage; not to mention poor absorption of testosterone via skin due to sweat glands, location of the application, and other factors.

Transdermal testosterone had been used for years to treat patients with low testosterone symptoms. Most transdermal testosterone is prescribed in a gel form and is applied to the upper arms and shoulders.  When prescribed in a cream form with the appropriate base compound, transdermal testosterone can be applied to the scrotum.  Scrotal skin is thin and has high steroid permeability.  It is extremely important to avoid using a cream or gel with alcohol as alcohol is harmful for scrotal skin health.

The literature and highly trained physicians with clinical experience have proven that trans-scrotal testosterone cream is a highly effective delivery method of testosterone.

The Andrology Department at Concord Hospital and ANZAC Research Institute did a study on testosterone cream applied to scrotal skin, and in their research they indicated that testosterone via transdermal delivery is an excellent method to achieve therapeutic concentrations of testosterone. Most importantly, the patient’s symptoms resolved without side effects. They noted that the bioavailability of testosterone via the scrotal skin is strikingly higher than other application areas using the same testosterone cream and in this study they observed about an EIGHTFOLD increase in testosterone bioavailability.

Testosterone Injections vs Testosterone Cream?

For one, it’s certainly less invasive as you don’t have to spend the rest of your life injecting yourself, thereby lessening scar tissue formation.  Anybody looking for a faster and completely pain-free experience with testosterone optimization therapy should consider it.

The cream also offers a slightly better increase in dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels; therefore enhancing erectile strength and overall sexual functioning. As DHT is crucial to a man’s libido, it makes sense that the trans-scrotal cream has an edge over intramuscular injections. The increase in DHT and potentially PSA is transient at best (and why it’s critically important you work with a doctor who is an expert at using transdermal delivery systems in their practice).

The daily use of cream is a great protocol for mimicking endogenous production of testosterone; keeping your testosterone level fluctuation to a minimum. 

The only real downside with the trans-scrotal cream is the possibility of wiping it off on someone else by accident.

You will have to avoid certain activities for up to 90 minutes for maximum absorption of testosterone to take place (sex, working out, and showering).

Aside from these primary differentiators, the creams and injections provide very similar results under the guidance of a progressive-minded physician.  You will end up getting the same physiological benefits with either method: muscle mass gain, cognitive enhancement, greater energy levels, and endurance.

At the end of the day whatever treatment the patient will be the most compliant with should be the delivery method of choice.  Either way of administering therapeutic testosterone can help you optimize your testosterone and estrogen levels when used properly.  It is important for patients to realize that hormone optimization is not a one size fits all approach and there are several great options for them. 

What is the Difference Between Lean Body Mass and Muscle Mass?

Editors note: This article has been re-published from an original article at InBody USA

Consider the following three statements:

  • “I’m not working out to get huge; I just want to build strength and put on five pounds of lean muscle.”
  • “My goal is to workout more and put on a healthy five pounds of muscle mass before next season.”
  • “I’m going to add more protein to my diet and hopefully gain 5 pounds of lean body mass by the end of the month.”

In each one, someone wants to gain five pounds of something but is using three different terms.  Are these three ways of saying the same thing? Can they be used interchangeably? Or are they different?

Let’s get one thing out of the way: “lean muscle” is a bit of a misnomer.  Although there are indeed different types of muscle, from a biological point of view, there is no such thing as “lean muscle”. The word “lean” is usually meant to suggest the absence of body fat.  But here’s the truth: all muscle is “lean muscle”.

What about Lean Body Mass and Muscle Mass?  Both of these exist. However, they are two very different parts of your body composition, and in order to understand your weight, health, and fitness goals properly, you’ll need to understand the differences between them.  Let’s take a look below.

Lean Body Mass Vs Muscle Mass

Lean Body Mass (also sometimes known as simply “lean mass,” likely the source of the word “lean muscle”) is the total weight of your body minus all the weight due to your fat mass.

Lean Body Mass (LBM) = Total Weight – Fat Mass

LBM includes the weight of:

  • Organs
  • Skin
  • Bones
  • Body Water
  • Muscle Mass

Unlike lean muscle, Lean Body Mass correctly uses the word “lean” as it describes the entire weight of your body minus fat.  This is why it is also known as “Fat-Free Mass.”

Because your Lean Body Mass comprises so many parts, any change in the weight of these areas can be recorded as changes in LBM. Keep in mind, the weight of your organs will not change much. Bone density will decrease over time, but it won’t significantly affect the weight of your LBM.

Two major areas to focus on with Lean Body Mass is body water and muscle mass.

When people talk about gaining muscle by eating more protein or muscle building workouts, what they’re really talking about is gaining or building their Skeletal Muscle Mass.  This is because of the three major muscle types – cardiac, smooth, and skeletal – skeletal muscle mass is the only type of muscle that you can actively grow and develop through proper exercise and nutrition.

But Skeletal Muscle Mass is one part of your Lean Body Mass. Another major influencer is water and this can be a problem when people use muscle gain and “lean gains” interchangeably.

The Problem with “Lean Gains”

Because an increase of Skeletal Muscle Mass is an increase of Lean Body Mass, people will lump them together as “gaining lean mass” or “lean gains.”

However, it doesn’t work the other way: an increase of Lean Body Mass is not always an increase in muscle.  That’s because body water makes up a significant portion of your Lean Body Mass. To illustrate this point, here’s a body composition analysis of a 174.1-pound male.

Body Composition Analysis taken using the InBody

98.1 (Total Body Water) + 35.5 (Dry Lean Mass) = 133.6 Lean Body Mass

Water made up more than 70% of the total body weight, which is normal for healthy adult males.

Notice how from a body composition standpoint, Lean Body Mass is made up of three components, two of which are water.  Everything else is grouped together in what’s called your “Dry Lean Mass,” which includes your bone minerals, protein content, etc.

Muscle gains definitely contribute to LBM gains, but so does water, which can fluctuate throughout the day. For instance, this means that if you were to drink a significant amount of water, enough to raise your body weight by one pound, this weight would technically be a “gain” of lean mass.

It’s also important to note that muscle itself contains water – a lot of it.  According to the USGS, muscle can contain up to 79% water content.  Research has also shown that resistance training promotes the increase of intracellular water in both men and women.

All of this points to two main problems when talking about “lean gains”:

  1. Big Lean Mass gains, when it occurs quickly, are largely increases in body water
  2. It’s difficult to say with any certainty how much any gain in Lean Body Mass is due to Skeletal Muscle Mass without using the right tools

Since there’s a significant difference between Lean Body Mass and Skeletal Muscle Mass, how is it possible to know how much of each you have?

Let’s start with what not to do: do not try to use a scale to calculate changes in Skeletal Muscle Mass.

It’s a popular method to estimate muscle gain using a combination of the number on the scale and advice from fitness magazines.

The problem with using a scale to estimate progress is there are so many factors that can influence an increase in body weight, a few of which include:

There is only one way to calculate what is happening to your Lean Body Mass: getting your body composition analyzed.  Without testing your body composition, there will be no way to know what any gain or loss in your body weight is due to.

Most methods of body composition analysis will at the minimum divide your body into Lean Body Mass (this may be referred to as Fat-Free Mass) and Fat Mass.  These methods include:

  • Skinfold calipers
  • Hydrostatic Weighing
  • Air displacement plethysmography

Each of these has their pros and cons, and accuracy may vary depending on a number of factors unique to each testing method.

For more in-depth body composition analysis, you would need to look to two more sophisticated methods: dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and Direct Segmental Multi-Frequency bioelectrical impedance analysis (DSM-BIA). Not only will these methods tell you how much fat you have, but they will differentiate your skeletal muscle mass from your lean body mass.

So, Lean Body Mass, Muscle Mass, Lean Mass, Which Is it?

Back to our originally three statements: which is correct to say?  Let’s review:

  • Lean Muscle: You should stop using this term because it is misleading.  All muscle is “lean muscle,” and it is a confusing mix of two real terms: Skeletal Muscle Mass and Lean Body Mass.
  • Muscle Mass (or Skeletal Muscle Mass): Yes, it is likely true that if you’re performing resistance training/weight lifting workouts and adding enough protein to your diet, a percentage of the change is likely due to muscle mass development. But remember that skeletal muscle mass is part of LBM. Things get tricky when you start putting numbers on your muscle mass gains. Everyone’s body composition is different, and the proportion of your skeletal muscle mass to Lean Body Mass will not be the same as someone else’s. This makes accurate estimations even harder unless you have access to sophisticated tools that can differentiate between LBM and SMM.
  • Lean Mass (lean body mass):  This is probably the best and safest term to use to describe your gains.  When you use this term, you’re telling people that you have gained weight from muscle and water, not body fat.

However, that’s all you can really say.  Because of the nature of Lean Body Mass, it is very hard to say how much of the gain is due to water and how much is due to muscle (which is largely water to begin with). A gain of 5 pounds of LBM is not 5 pounds of pure muscle,

When it comes to tracking your muscle gain (or fat loss), it all comes down to what tools you’re using to measure your progress.  If all you are working with is a weight scale, then all you will ever know for sure is your weight is increasing or decreasing. It would be hard to differentiate the weight gain from water, muscle, or body fat. If you are serious about accurately measuring your muscle gain and assessing your health, go get a body composition analysis. Then – and only then – can you tell people that you gained five pounds of muscle with confidence.

The Truth About Cortisol

Let’s face it: cortisol gets a bad rap these days.

“I have high cortisol.”

“I have low cortisol.”

My cortisol is out-of-whack.”

You’ve no doubt heard this all before or said it yourself.

The human body is unable to differentiate between legitimate, perceived, positive or negative stress. That means worrying and excitement casts the same stress hormone response as an actual stressor.

What is cortisol?

Cortisol is popularly known as “the stress hormone” and is released by the adrenal glands which are located on top of the kidneys. Its primary role is to increase blood sugar for fuel. Other benefits include macronutrient absorption, blood pressure regulation, decreased inflammation, sleep, mood, and motivation.

Cortisol | Victory Men's Health
Cortisol levels can be tested.

Cortisol levels gradually decline throughout the day, being highest in the morning and lowest at night. An important point is if you think primitively, just like the sun, cortisol rises in the morning as we prepare for the busiest part of our day. By the end of the day, we can settle down, go to sleep, just like the sun setting and that is when cortisol should be at its lowest. Over time we have changed cortisol from an acute hormone to a chronic hormone.

How to maintain healthy Cortisol levels:

Lifestyle and everyday behaviors such as sleep schedules, balanced diet, exercise, perceived stress, and stress management heavily influence this rhythm.

What is meant by “perceived stress” is that our brains do not know the difference between perceived reality or what we can imagine and what is actually true.  It is important to always focus on what you want.  Many people struggle with that because people are inherently  negatively wired.

Unhealthy cortisol levels:

Elevated cortisol at night interferes with the anabolic output of hormones such as testosterone, growth hormone, and melatonin. When we don’t sleep as well, we don’t recover as easily and cannot fully repair tissues and our cells. Over time cell reproduction slows down and we have more toxins in our system.

With cortisol being so important for maintenance of the body’s basic regulatory systems, chronic stress can lead to unhealthy levels of cortisol causing a number of serious health risks:

High Cortisol levels can be reduced.
  • Breakdown of muscle tissue
  • Consistent fatigue
  • Weight gain due to increased appetite
  • High glucose levels
  • Increased visceral fat – fat surrounding organs
  • Hormone imbalances

Common lifestyle factors that attribute to unhealthy levels of cortisol include:

  • Irregular sleep schedule
  • Rotating shift work
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Overstimulation from electronic devices
  • Diet consisting of high amounts of sugar and processed foods
  • Stressful activity
  • Sleeping with the TV on
  • Blue light

The fast-paced, high-demand, technology-driven expectations of the 21st century make managing stress a difficult task. Although challenging, it is crucial in achieving optimal health. Understanding the role of cortisol and how our bodies respond to stress and is a great first step in the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle.

Sun’s Out Guns Out: Are you Getting Enough of the “Sunshine Vitamin”?

As we head into the summer months, everyone is excited for a little extra Vitamin D. Despite your tan skin, you may not be getting enough of the “sunshine vitamin”. According to a study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vitamin D levels in Americans have significantly declined in the past few decades. In fact, in the United States, 41% of the total population are Vitamin D deficient. 

The body does produce high amounts of Vitamin D when skin is directly exposed to the sun, however, excess sun exposure may increase the risk of skin cancer. Additionally, few foods contain Vitamin D and our ability to produce it declines as we age. Not the ideal circumstances, which is why doctors often prescribe a daily supplement.

WHAT IS VITAMIN D?

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, meaning that it dissolves in fats and oils and can be stored in your body for a long duration. There are two main forms of Vitamin D:

  •   Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol): Found in animal foods like fatty fish and eggs.
  •   Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol): Found in plants such as mushrooms and yeast. 

Vitamin D3 is found to be twice as effective at increasing blood serum levels than Vitamin D2.

HOW IS VITAMIN D USED IN THE BODY?

Despite its name, Vitamin D isn’t technically a vitamin. Vitamin D is a potent steroid hormone responsible for switching our genes on and off. It has a similar molecular structure to testosterone, cholesterol and cortisol, all of which your body makes naturally.

Vitamin D is responsible for cell to cell communication making Vitamin D important for muscle health, mood and well-being, memory, heart function, and more, explains Arti Lakhani, M.D., Director of Integrative Oncology at AMITA Health Cancer Institute in Illinois.

VITAMIN D DEFICIENCIES

Vitamin D deficiency is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies and a silent epidemic. Some symptoms are subtle and may take years to surface, however signs may be detectable early on.  A blood test is the only true gauge of a Vitamin D deficiency but be on the watch for a few of these signs and symptoms:

  •   Getting sick often
  •   Bone density declines
  •   Great risk for heart attacks
  •   Increased body fat & loss of muscle mass
  •   Fatigue, depression, and mood disorders

BEST SOURCES OF VITAMIN D

The sun is an excellent source of Vitamin D, but it is hard to quantify how much Vitamin D you get from time in the sun and the risk of skin cancer may outweigh the benefits.  Other factors affect the skin’s ability to produce Vitamin D, including season, time of day, latitude, air pollution, cloud cover, sunscreen, body parts exposed, color and age.

Geographic location plays a large part in your ability to get Vitamin D from sunshine. Harvard Health found that outside of the summer months, there’s little chance of getting enough Vitamin D if you live in the midwest.  

VITAMIN D IN FOOD

Vitamin D is naturally present in few foods.  Most people assume drinking milk helps to keep adequate levels, however the average milk is fortified with only 100 IU of Vitamin D per cup. At that rate you would need to drink 50 glasses per day to reach recommended dosage. Food manufacturers are fortifying other foods, such as yogurt, cereal, and orange juice to help consumers fill the nutrient gap in their diets. Although fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, swordfish, trout, tuna, and sardines are decent sources, you would have to eat them almost every day to get enough.  

Supplementing Vitamin D with a daily tablet can be a very cost-effective option to ensuring you are getting adequate levels. When looking for Vitamin D, choose the D3 gel capsule or liquid form for better absorption. It’s recommended to take Vitamin D supplements with a meal to enhance absorption. Quality supplementation is also critical due to over the counter supplements often contain fillers and may not contain the amount of Vitamin D needed. Elect for a medical grade, FDA regulated supplement to ensure efficacy and absorption. 

  • According to one study in 17 people, taking Vitamin D with the largest meal of the day increased Vitamin D blood levels by about 50% after just 2–3 months.
  • In another study in 50 older adults, consuming Vitamin D alongside a fat-heavy meal increased Vitamin D blood levels by 32% after 12 hours compared to a fat-free meal. 

HOW MUCH VITAMIN D DO I NEED?

In July 2011, the Endocrine Society Practice Guidelines published recommendations for the evaluation, treatment and prevention of Vitamin D recommending an upper limit of 10,000 IU/day.

The Vitamin D council states that those who rarely get sunlight need to supplement with 5,000IU per day. This would equate to 50 glasses of fortified milk a day or 10 multivitamins.

The Endocrine Society Practice Guidelines, as well as many laboratories and experts recommend a minimum Vitamin D blood level of 30 ng/ml as an acceptable level.

VITAMIN D AND TESTOSTERONE

Researchers found that Vitamin D deficiency, defined by levels less than 20ng/ml, was independently associated with testosterone deficiency. Men with Vitamin D deficiencies were 2.65 times more likely to have testosterone deficiency compared to those with levels above 20 ng/ml. 

Vitamin D affects the production of natural and free testosterone along with formation of male sperm cells. Supplementation with Vitamin D has been associated with higher levels of testosterone and sex hormone binding globulin.

If you are experiencing signs or symptoms of low Vitamin D, talk to your doctor about testing your blood serum levels of Vitamin D and adding a supplement to your routine. 

Understanding Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG)

HCG – HCG stands for Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, and it is a natural hormone that has been found to mimic the effects of Luteinizing Hormone (LH) in males. LH plays a vital role in the synthesis and secretion of testosterone. When HCG is utilized to treat male infertility or hypogonadism, it gets to work on mimicking the effects of LH. This, in turn, means that it stimulates the natural production of testosterone from within the testes.

HCG injections are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat specific medical conditions in both women and men.  In men, hCG injections are FDA-approved for a type of hypogonadism in which the body doesn’t adequately stimulate the testes to produce the sex hormone testosterone.  HCG is incredibly safe, so during the treatment, the male in question will likely not suffer from any adverse side effects at all.

HCG is sometimes used during testosterone replacement therapy because testosterone replacement therapy can lower sperm production due to the feedback loop on both the hypothalamus and pituitary gland.  In men still wanting to have children hCG therapy can help preserve sperm production by maintaining intra-testicular testosterone levels. Not only will hCG help to restore your fertility and sperm production, but it can reduce the testicle shrinkage.   Using hCG with TRT can restore your testicles to their normal, healthy size and function.

Studies have shown that in healthy normal testosterone men selected to undergo TRT, it was shown that their intra-testicular testosterone levels dropped by 94% while on therapy. However, in those who received HCG injections along with TRT, their intra-testicular testosterone levels only dropped 7%. Additionally, in men who received TRT and a higher dose of hCG every other day, had an increase in intra-testicular testosterone by 26% from baseline was observed. This proved that co-administering low dose hCG could maintain intra-testicular testosterone in those undergoing TRT. It was later shown that not only is intra-testicular testosterone increased with co-administration hCG but the sperm count is preserved as well at one year follow up.

According to the American Urological Association, HCG is appropriate for those men with testosterone deficiency who also desire to maintain fertility.  Some of the main uses and benefits of hCG injections include:

  • Correcting undescended testes.
  • Regulating testosterone production.
  • Recovering from diseases or medical conditions that affect the body’s testosterone production.
  • As a part of hormone replacement therapy.
  • Weight loss, as increasing testosterone levels can help with exercise.
  • Maintaining your testicular size.
  • Repairing sexual dysfunction. Male sexuality is heavily linked to testosterone levels.

It is important to note that injectable medication provides a more reliable delivery than other drug administration methods of HCG on the market.  HCG drops or supplements are NOT a viable alternative to medical-grade HCG.  An HCG injection is injected subcutaneously into the fat tissue in the lower stomach or the fat pad of outer glute with a small insulin syringe.  Injectable hCG is available through prescription only. 

Thanks to the testosterone replacement therapy & HCG therapy, you may experience normal intra-testicular testosterone production, leading to increased fertility and overall health!

Why Over the Counter ED Drugs May Not Be Worth the Risk

Over-the-counter medications are available for a wide variety of ailments such as common colds and sore throats. Typically they are easy to come by and inexpensive.

So, what about over-the-counter erectile dysfunction medications and supplements?

Over-the-counter supplements are not regulated by the FDA (Food & Drug Administration). Many of these products contain other chemicals, some of which have not been tested. It is important to remember that even if products are described as “natural” or as an “herbal remedy” on the label, that doesn’t mean they are safe. Health claims like this are not closely regulated and there is no official FDA-approved definition or requirement. When it comes to over-the-counter male enhancement supplements, the risks are simply too high to justify the lower price tag compared to a prescription ED medication.

The FDA has issued a warning for these types of over-the-counter ED supplements. The problem is with the purity and safety of the ingredients. For example, Man Up Now is made with Sulfoaildenafil, a chemical similar to the active ingredient in Viagra, Sildenafil. Though similar in chemical structure, Sulfoaildenafil has not undergone the same degree of clinical testing as Sildenafil and it has the potential to cause serious drug interactions. The FDA demanded that the manufacturers of Mr. Magic Male Enhancer recall the product because the two main ingredients (Hydroxyhomosildenafil and Sulfoaildenafil) were not included on the list of ingredients.

What Should You Try Instead?

If you are concerned about the severity or frequency of your erectile issues, your first step should be to speak to a physician that specializes in erectile dysfunction. With your doctor’s help, you can identify the underlying cause of your ED and determine the best course of treatment. In cases where vascular issues or other health problems are to blame, doing a treatment such as Wave Therapy or taking erectile dysfunction medication might be the best option. If you choose to take an ED medication, there are several options to choose from at Victory Men’s Health.

With a prescription from one of our healthcare providers, you can try Sildenafil (Viagra) Tadalafil (Cialis), Vardinafil (Levitra), or a Combo Pill of both Sildenafil and Tadalafil. Some of these drugs are intended for daily use to improve long-term erectile function and some are intended for use as-needed. ED drugs come in several different dosages as well.

What about natural remedies?

If you are looking for a nutritional supplement for ED, you may be able to find this at your local drug store or at Victory Men’s Health. An example would be Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) which has been identified by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) as “possibly effective” for the treatment of ED. The human body naturally produces this hormone, but your levels decrease with age, particularly once you hit 30. Taking 25-50mg per day may help improve your erectile function.

Another supplement that may benefit your erectile function is L-arginine, an amino acid that boosts nitric oxide production in the body. Nitric oxide plays a role in relaxing the blood vessels to improve circulation and studies have shown that daily doses up to 1,000mg may produce a significant improvement in sexual function.

If you prefer not to take prescription medications for your erectile dysfunction, or if you are looking for a long-term solution to your problems, hands down the best natural remedy to treat erectile dysfunction is Wave Therapy. It is safe, natural, and helps restore your erections without the use of medications.

Do a lot of men struggle from ED?

Erectile dysfunction is no small matter. The Massachusetts Male Aging Study conducted in 1994 reported a 52% prevalence for erectile dysfunction among men – the study also demonstrated that the condition becomes increasingly prevalent with age.

Because ED is such a widespread issue among men of all ages, it is no wonder that there are so many medications and supplements out there to treat it – both prescription and over-the-counter. Unfortunately, not all ED drugs are created equal and not all of them are effective. Over-the-counter ED drugs may seem like an affordable and convenient alternative to prescription medications, but there is little concrete evidence to suggest that most of these products are effective. You must also consider the risks of taking a supplement made with ingredients that have not been tested or approved.

It is better to be safe than sorry, so avoid OTC male enhancements and go for the real deal.

Sermorelin Therapy: A Solution to HGH Restoration

Starting at around the age of 30, human growth hormone production starts declining for both men and women. Sermorelin therapy intends to replace this lost HGH with the use of a compound called Sermorelin acetate. Sermorelin is not HGH, it is a growth hormone secretagogues (GSHs) which is a class of molecules that stimulates the secretion of GH from the pituitary gland. Sermorelin therapy is a gradual anti-aging therapy that can take a few months before the effects start to become noticeable, although many patients experience positive health effects within just days or weeks of starting the therapy. Even if you have a small HGH deficiency, you will likely start noticing positive health effects soon after starting the treatment.

Many Health Benefits of Sermorelin

There are many benefits to restoring your HGH levels. The decline in human growth hormone levels is associated with several aging symptoms such as a lower energy level, lower libido, decreased muscle mass, increased body fat, a slower metabolism, aging skin signs, and more. These symptoms can be treated with Sermorelin therapy, and some of the health benefits are seen more quickly than others. For instance, it may take a while before skin elasticity and tone improves, but energy levels and libido can often improve much sooner. The changes in body composition can be substantial even if you don’t exercise, but if you do exercise you will get the most out of the treatment and may see very fast results.

While results may vary from patient to patient, clinical studies have shown that Sermorelin treatment can lead to a range of physical and mental benefits, such as:

  • Increased lean body mass
  • Fat reduction
  • Improved energy
  • Increased vitality
  • Increased strength
  • Increased endurance
  • Accelerated wound healing
  • Improved cardiovascular and immune function
  • Better sleep quality
  • Improved bone density
  • Improved skin quality and higher collagen density

Sermorelin Improves Your Exercise Performance

One of the most beneficial Sermorelin results is that it can greatly improve your exercise performance by helping you recover more quickly and by putting on muscle faster than before. Sermorelin can restore your HGH levels so that exercise is easier and you have more energy to get through more strenuous workouts. It can take longer for the treatment to improve exercise performance, but the effect does occur, and it can usually be seen within three to six months after starting the treatment.

Sermorelin Increases Muscle Strength

Your body composition gets more and more difficult to change as you start to age. This occurs partially as the result of a lower HGH production, as well as the long term effects of carrying excess fat, which can change your body’s chemistry and metabolism which make it more difficult to lose weight. Sermorelin can help you lose weight by improving fat metabolism. When your body produces HGH, it starts burning adipose tissue for energy, and the treatment can improve a slow metabolism. Several studies have found a correlation between increased HGH production and the burning of visceral fat, and patients who are exercising while taking Sermorelin see a much faster gain in muscle mass than they would without the therapy. The changes in body composition occur more gradually without exercise, and with regular exercise, they can be dramatic and occur within a matter of weeks.

It Can Improve Your Heart Health And Bone Mineral Density

There are some studies that suggest that a human growth hormone deficiency is associated with a higher risk of heart disorders, and Sermorelin may help protect against heart diseases and cardiovascular problems by restoring normal HGH levels. For example, supplementation with HGH has proven to be effective at improving symptoms for patients who are suffering from congestive heart failure. Many patients who develop heart disease and other heart disorders also suffer from a decline in HGH production which can be corrected with Sermorelin therapy. Another major health benefit of the treatment is that bone density can increase back to youthful levels, and this is very important for preventing debilitating injuries as a person ages along with bone and joint disorders.

Sermorelin Can Improve Your Mood And Libido

A decline in HGH is often associated with mood disorders and a low libido because lower hormone levels can be associated with decreased energy levels. Restoring normal human growth hormone levels can provide a boost in energy and improve mood, and this can be helpful for treating mood disorders like anxiety and depression. A decreased libido is also associated with a decline in testosterone and estrogen production, but restoring normal HGH levels has been shown to improve libido for both men and women. Patients also often experience an overall general feeling of well-being as the result of the treatment, even for patients who do not have any mood disorders or a low libido.

Sermorelin With GHRP2 And GHRP6. What’s The Difference?

While both of these amino acid peptides release GH, there’s a noticeable difference in GHRP-6, which speeds up digestion of food. It’s worth adding that this particular peptide is a first-generation GHRP.

What distinguishes GHRP-2 is its ability to cause growth hormone to be released more intensely. This second-generation GHRP is best for those who want to get the absolute most value from the GH releases. On the other hand, if increasing low appetite is the main concern GHRP-6 would be best.

Sermorelin Is Best Taken For Several Months Consecutively

You may see some of the quicker results mentioned above within a few weeks of time, but to see real results with the therapy you need to continue it for at least three to six months. There is no reason why you can’t take Sermorelin for up to twelve months or even longer because it is a safe treatment and there is no indication that there are any long term negative health effects from it. To see some of the results like improved skin quality, a more youthful body composition, higher bone density, improved sleep quality and more, you may need to use the therapy for a long period of time, but after you have used it for several months in a row, the higher level of HGH production often maintains itself for several months and you may be able to stop the therapy for a period of time.

Speak To Your Healthcare Provider

Doctors specializing in bio-identical hormone therapy can prescribe FDA approved Sermorelin to adults suffering from symptoms of growth hormone deficiency. The program at Victory Men’s Health includes physician-directed individual evaluations, the use of hormones and the close monitoring of blood levels to restore youth and minimize the symptoms associated with andropause and aging. If you are interested in Sermorelin please discuss with one of our medical providers providers.

Why Wave Therapy May Be Right for You

There are many advantages to potential wave therapy patients. Unlike medications, wave therapy doesn’t require people to take oral drugs or shots prior to sex. It’s also non-invasive, so there is no surgery involved and there are few side effects to the treatments.

Many men have vasculogenic ED, which is caused by a lack of blood flow to the sexual organ. Wave therapy can help them and diabetic men whose condition contributes to their ED. It has also been used to treat those who are both responsive and unresponsive to ED medication.

Wave therapy works by breaking up plaque formation in the blood vessels and by stimulating the growth of new blood vessels in the penis.  This increases the blood flow to the penis and improves sexual function.

At Victory Men’s Health we offer wave therapy that was created by our Urologist with tremendous patient success. The therapy is non-invasive, performed in-office and provides long-lasting results. Our patients experience:

  • Increased erections: morning, night and throughout the day
  • More sensitivity
  • Increased effects of ED meds, quicker onset, may require less
  • Increased erection time
  • Increased girth and vasculature of the penis
  • Shorter rebound time after climax to regain an erection

There are several companies such as GAINSwave® and Big D Wave® that have specific protocols that use high-frequency acoustic sound waves.  These companies sell their protocol and turnkey marketing program to medical offices in exchange for the clinic to be able to advertise that they offer their “trademarked” name.  They do not have any proprietary devices.

There are several wave therapy devices (also referred to as LI-ESWT therapy) on the market that utilize high frequency, low intensity sound waves to improve blood flow to the penis. Some of the more popular devices currently on the market are the Cellatcor by Storz Medical, Z Wave by Zimmer, and Evive by Eclipse Medical, to just name a few.  With this area of the market exploding, there will be more and more devices hitting the market.

If you are a potential patient ask yourself, “What type of clinic are you going to trust to administer this procedure?”

This is what we do. This is what we specialize in. This is what we are experts at! Be You Again at Victory Men’s Health.

Testosterone and the Everyday Athlete

Testosterone is crucial for building muscles and fueling your sex drive. Receptors for the hormone actually exist throughout your body, from your brain to your bones to your blood vessels.

“If you are low on T, the health consequences should extend far beyond your bedroom,” says urologist, Dr. Lawrence Hatchett, M.D., Medical Director for Victory Men’s Health in O’Fallon, IL.

For this articles’s purpose, we are going to only focus on 1 symptom of testosterone and the benefits of supplementing it for the everyday athlete…. like most of us are.

LOW TESTOSTERONE SYMPTOM: YOUR MUSCLES SHRINK.

You start noticing that your strength is not what it used to be. Lifting heavy items seems to be getting harder. You might not work out as much as before, but there is nothing you can think of to explain this loss of strength.

Studies have found that when a man is relatively inactive, he will lose one half percent of muscle strength each year between the ages of twenty- five and sixty. After sixty, the rate of muscle loss doubles every ten years. While some decrease in strength can be attributed to age, some can be tied to a decrease in testosterone levels. In other words: as testosterone levels decrease, so does muscle mass.

Muscle is one of the key areas of testosterone action. Testosterone is a necessary component in gaining and retaining lean muscle mass. In a recent study, men, who used testosterone replacement for six months to bring testosterone levels into the “normal” ranges, experienced an increase in muscle mass.

We provided Dr. Hatchett with a real life scenario on how this relates to the everyday man. “I am fifty- eight years old, an avid golfer and have low testosterone that I was diagnosed with a few years ago, but I chose to leave it untreated. I have been noticing I don’t hit the golf ball as far as I use to. When I was forty-five I could hit the ball 250 yards without even trying. Now I’m lucky if I put it out there 200 yards.

Can testosterone therapy improve my distance off the tee?

“It is quite possible that testosterone therapy might help your golf game,” says Dr. Hatchet of Victory Men’s Health. “I have several patients whose only symptom of low T was reduced athletic performance. These men were extremely pleased with the results of their testosterone therapy; and most men felt better in ways they hadn’t even expected.”

If you have questions about low testosterone, and if you are a candidate, there is now a mens health center located at 1405 N. Green Mount Road in O’Fallon IL. 618-632-9000.

The Priapus Shot: A Drug-Free Option to Improve Sexual Dysfunction!

For men struggling with sexual dysfunction a drug-free shot may now provide a solution.

There is a new progressive men’s clinic in O’Fallon, IL, called Victory Men’s Health who offers this specific type of therapy! The medical professionals at Victory Men’s Health are experts in men’s sexual health.

The Priapus Shot, or “P-Shot” for short, is designed to improve the sexual health of men, especially those struggling with performance due to factors such as poor circulation, prostate cancer, diabetes, surgery and medication side effects.

“I see patients that are candidates for the P-Shot on a daily basis, and I highly recommend the procedure to those patients because it’s a quick and virtually pain-free procedure that has provided lasting and dramatic results for men who a better sex life,” said urologist, Dr. Lawrence Hatchett, Medical Director at Victory men’s health.

The P-Shot is a platelet rich plasma (PRP) therapy, which uses the patient’s own blood platelets to kickstart growth and promote healing.

” When the PRP is isolated and injected into penis, both tissue and blood vessel growth are promoted, leading to improved erectile strength and penile sensitivity,” Dr. Hatchett explains.

A surgeon by the name of Dr. Charles Runels, M.D., is credited for pioneering this ingenious application of PRP(Platelet Rich Plasma) that he has since trademarked as the Priapus Shot. This shot has helped thousands of men achieve new levels of sexual potency, performance, and pleasure.

Here are some facts and improvements patients experienced in Dr. Runels reports:

  • Better quality of erection
  • One of the safest and most effective ways to treat Peyronie’s Disease
  • Sixty percent report an increase in at ½ inch in penis length and girth
  • Feeling like you’ve turned back the clock on your love life
  • Dramatically increases blood flow to penis by opening the small arteries and capillaries without crating systemic vascular side effects like Viagra and other medications
  • Since PRP is derived from your own body , there has never been any reported systematic side effects
  • Takes one to six weeks to see results; full effects are achieved within three months
  • Improved sensation
  • Results can last up to 2 tears
  • Creates an overall healthier sexual organ

 

AM I A CANDIDATE?

Generally, men in good health who want to improve their sexual well-being are good candidates for the Priapus-Shot. Many men choose this therapy when they considered all of it advantages:

  • An all-natural treatments that uses your body’s natural ability to rejuvenate tissue
  • No side effects common to other sexual wellness treatments, such as lumpiness, nodules, necrotic tissue, or allergic reactions
  • A safe therapy administered by a doctor using FDA-approved technology
  • Procedure is done in the office and takes less than an hour

Urologist, Dr. Lawrence Hatchett of Victory Men’s Health is a certified provider of the Priapus-shot.
To acquire more information about this breakthrough in treatment for erectile dysfunction contact Victory Men’s Health at 1405 N. Green Mount Road, O’Fallon, IL 62269. 618-632-9000.

Shock Waves May Change The Future of ED Therapy

It’s hard to argue against an erectile dysfunction treatment that is potentially disease modifying, is noninvasive, and seems to do no harm. The treatment, low- intensity shock wave therapy, has yet to earn the FDA’s approval but is widely used in other countries.

Early results from ongoing U.S. trials are promising. A shock wave is a wave of energy that travels faster than the speed of sound. Urologists commonly apply the energy, during shock wave lithotripsy to break up kidney stones. But when directed at a scarred penis, the therapy is different.

Linear shocks waves used for erectile dysfunction use about one-tenth of the energy of traditional shock wave machines for kidney stones. And rather than break something down, as is the case with the stones, shock waves make the penis healthier, according to Ranjith Ramasamy, MD, MBA, professor of urology at John Hopkins University.

During a study conducted by Ramasay et al, 602 patients were tested using Shock Wave Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction. Key findings showed that test subject IIEF scores significantly improved 6.4 points from baseline in men receiving Shock Wave Therapy vs. 1.65 points in those receiving sham therapy.

Li et al also showed similar results after testing 637 patients, concluding that Shock Wave Therapy significantly improved patients’ IIEF and Erection Hardness Score.

Note* This article was originally posted in the Urology Times. The full article can be viewed here.

Tony La Russa Endorses Local Business Victory Men’s Health

Baseball fans, you might have heard a familiar voice on the radio these days. Former Cardinal and hall of fame manager, Tony La Russa is the new spokesperson for Victory Men’s Health located in O’Fallon, Illinois.

La Russa’s advertisements are tongue and cheek stemming from his legendary baseball career bringing a lighter tone to a sensitive topic. Victory Men’s Health is the first men’s clinic in the Southern Illinois and Metro East Area that specializes in men’s health and wellness. They focus on treating issues such as low testosterone, erectile dysfunction and overall sexual health.

Victory Men’s Health also administers a variety of vitamin infusions. La Russa’s commercials tell men there is “no excuse for striking out anymore and Victory Men’s health is how they can step up their game.”

It is not just the celebrity endorsement that distinguishes Victory from every other men’s clinics, it is their Medical Director, who is a nationally recognized Urologist. Dr. R. Lawrence Hatchett, M.D, was a standout division 1 basketball player for Marquette University and completed his Urology fellowship through Harvard University. Tony La Russa says Dr. Hatchett will have you “stepping up to the plate in no time, stronger and more confident.” Dr. Hatchett has extensive medical training and expertise treating erectile dysfunction, low testosterone and anti aging therapies for men.

Victory Men’s Health is designed to feel like a ‘man cave’ with its wood paneling, sports memorabilia, and flat screen TV’s throughout. Victory Men’s Health wants all patients to feel comfortable, relaxed, and in an environment that embodies masculinity. They are located at 1405 N. Green Mount Rd. Suite 240, in O’Fallon, Illinois. Call 618.632.9000 or visit www.victorymenshealth.com for more information.