Tag: hormone balance

Thyroid Problems in Men: Symptoms to Watch For & What to Do

Posted on by AmyADMIN

Thyroid problems in men are more common than most realize, yet they’re often overlooked because the symptoms can sneak up slowly or get written off as just getting older. This could show up as low energy, stubborn weight gain, or brain fog that won’t quit. Sound familiar?

In a recent episode of the Women Want Strong Men podcast, we met with Anna Griffith, DNP, who explained how many men live with sluggish thyroids without knowing it—and why “normal” lab results don’t always mean your thyroid is functioning at its best. 

Today, we’ll break down what to watch for, what causes thyroid issues in men, how to test for them, and what you can do to feel like yourself again. For a deeper dive into common thyroid misconceptions, check out the full podcast episode below. 

What Does the Thyroid Do?

Your thyroid might be small, but it plays a massive role in how you feel and function every day. Located at the base of your neck, this butterfly-shaped gland regulates your metabolism, which is how your body converts food into energy.

When it’s running smoothly, you’ll have steady energy, good focus, stable mood, and an easier time maintaining muscle and a healthy weight. 

But when thyroid function slows down (a condition known as hypothyroidism), it can drag down nearly every system in your body—from your hormones to your brain to your metabolism. That’s when the real problems begin. 

Common Symptoms of Thyroid Problems in Men

Thyroid symptoms don’t always hit right away. For many men, the changes are gradual and easy to ignore. You might just feel off: tired more often, less motivated, or slower to recover from workouts.

Some of the most common signs of thyroid problems in men include:

  • Persistent fatigue or low energy
  • Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
  • Feeling cold or sluggish, even in warm weather
  • Brain fog, poor focus, or irritability
  • Low libido or weaker morning erections
  • Dry skin, thinning hair, or brittle nails
  • Low mood or depressive symptoms

Even if your doctor says your thyroid labs are “normal,” that doesn’t always mean your thyroid is optimal. If several of these resonate with you, it’s worth digging deeper.

Can You Have Thyroid Problems with Normal Labs?

This is one of the biggest frustrations we hear from men. They’ve been told their labs are fine, but they still feel exhausted, foggy, and unable to lose weight. Here’s why that happens.

Traditional medicine often relies solely on one lab marker called TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone). The problem? TSH only measures how loudly your brain is asking your thyroid to work—not whether the thyroid is actually doing its job. 

You need a full thyroid panel, including Free T3 and Free T4, to see the complete picture. The “normal” lab range for TSH is very broad. Someone with a TSH at the high end of normal may already be experiencing symptoms of low thyroid function, even if their test results don’t trigger an official diagnosis.

What Causes Thyroid Problems in Men?

There’s no single cause of hypothyroidism — several factors can make your thyroid slow down or become less responsive over time. Many of these overlap with the same lifestyle and metabolic issues that affect testosterone, energy, and weight.

Here are some of the most common culprits:

  • Chronic stress and inflammation – Long-term stress hormones (like cortisol) can disrupt thyroid signaling.
  • Nutrient deficiencies – Low selenium, vitamin D, B12, iodine, and iron can all impair thyroid hormone production and conversion.
  • Insulin resistance – High blood sugar and insulin can interfere with how thyroid hormones enter cells.
  • Autoimmune thyroid disease (Hashimoto’s) – When the immune system attacks thyroid tissue, hormone output drops. This is the most common reason for thyroid problems.
  • Low testosterone or adrenal dysfunction – These systems are tightly connected, so if one is sluggish, the others often follow.
  • Infections and certain medications – Some viral and bacterial infections can trigger thyroid inflammation, while medications like lithium or amiodarone may interfere with your thyroid hormone production.

How Thyroid and Testosterone Work Together

It’s not uncommon for men with thyroid issues to also have low testosterone, and vice versa. These two hormones are deeply interconnected, so optimizing one often helps the other.

When thyroid function slows, it can suppress testosterone production, lower libido, and make it harder to maintain muscle. On the flip side, low testosterone can reduce thyroid conversion (from T4 to active T3) and contribute to fatigue, mood changes, and weight gain.

That’s why we don’t look at your thyroid in isolation. A thorough evaluation includes thyroid, testosterone, and adrenal hormones to see how they’re working together. Balancing all three can dramatically improve your energy, motivation, and metabolism.

Best Ways to Test Thyroid Function (& What to Ask For)

If you suspect something’s off, getting the right labs can make all the difference. Instead of a basic thyroid screen, ask for a comprehensive thyroid panel that includes:

  • TSH
  • Free T3 and Free T4
  • Reverse T3 (optional, shows how well your body converts T4 to T3)
  • Thyroid antibodies (to screen for Hashimoto’s)
  • Micronutrients like Vitamin D, B12, iron, and selenium

A full panel reveals whether your thyroid hormones are being produced, converted, and utilized properly—something a standard TSH test can easily miss.

How to Treat Thyroid Problems in Men

At Victory Men’s Health, our goal isn’t to put a bandaid on your symptoms—it’s to uncover why your thyroid isn’t working optimally and help you restore balance naturally whenever possible. 

For many men, optimizing lifestyle factors, nutrition, and hormone balance can improve thyroid function before medication is even necessary. 

Here are the most common ways to treat thyroid dysfunction in men: 

  1. Address micronutrient deficiencies
  2. Balance your hormones
  3. Build lifestyle habits that support thyroid health
  4. Consider thyroid medication

Address Micronutrient Deficiencies

Your thyroid depends on several key nutrients to do its job. Without them, even small imbalances can make a big difference in how you feel. We regularly test and optimize:

  • Selenium (100–200 mcg/day) to support thyroid hormone conversion
  • Vitamin D (goal range 50–80 ng/mL) for immune and hormone health
  • B12 and iron to support oxygen transport and energy

Correcting these deficiencies can often reduce symptoms like fatigue, sluggishness, and low metabolism before you need a thyroid prescription.

Balance the Hormones That Work With Your Thyroid

Your thyroid doesn’t operate in isolation—it’s part of a larger hormone network. Low testosterone or adrenal dysfunction can make thyroid symptoms worse and stall your progress. 

That’s why we evaluate and optimize testosterone, DHEA, and adrenal function alongside thyroid levels. When these are in sync, your energy and metabolism naturally improve.

Build Lifestyle Habits That Support Thyroid Health

Simple daily habits can make a major impact on your thyroid performance and overall hormone balance. Here’s a breakdown of the best places to start. 

  • Prioritize protein: Aim for roughly 1 gram per pound of body weight each day.
  • Strength train regularly: Building muscle improves insulin sensitivity and metabolic rate.
  • Limit alcohol and processed foods: Both can interfere with hormone conversion and increase inflammation.
  • Stay hydrated and get sunlight: Foundational, but often overlooked for energy and mood.
  • Sleep well and manage stress: Chronic stress hormones (like cortisol) can suppress thyroid function over time.

These are long-term strategies that set the stage for lasting energy and better overall health.

Consider Thyroid Medication

For some men, even after addressing nutrition, hormones, and lifestyle, the thyroid still needs extra support. In those cases, we tailor medication based on your body’s specific needs.

While T4-only medications like Synthroid work for some, others may benefit from combination therapy (T4 + T3) or a desiccated thyroid option that provides both T4 and T3. Studies have shown that patients prefer the latter due to better symptom response. 

The key is finding the right balance for you and remembering that medication is just one tool among many to help you feel your best again.

When to Get Your Thyroid Checked

If you’ve been feeling drained, gaining weight despite good habits, or noticing changes in focus, motivation, or libido—it’s time to take a closer look at your thyroid.

Here are some clear signs you should get tested:

  • You’ve been told your labs are “normal,” but still feel off
  • You struggle with unexplained fatigue or low energy
  • You’re gaining weight despite healthy eating
  • Your workouts feel harder, and recovery takes longer
  • You have mood changes or brain fog you can’t shake

If you’ve been experiencing any of these, we recommend asking your healthcare provider for a full thyroid and hormone panel to get answers.

Take Control of Your Thyroid Health

Thyroid problems in men can impact everything from your metabolism and mood to muscle strength and focus. The good news? Once you uncover what’s really going on, the right plan can help you get back to feeling like yourself again.

At Victory Men’s Health, we look beyond basic labs to uncover the full picture of your health. Whether you’re struggling with fatigue, weight gain, brain fog, or low libido, we can create a personalized treatment plan to restore balance. 

Ready to take your health into your own hands? Book your consultation today to begin the journey toward feeling like the best version of yourself.

Enclomiphene for Low Testosterone: Does It Work?

Posted on by AmyADMIN

Tired of feeling like your energy and drive aren’t what they used to be? Many men dealing with low T want a way to feel better without relying on injections—which is why more are turning to enclomiphene for low testosterone as an alternative to testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). 

For men who want to boost testosterone naturally without potentially reducing fertility, enclomiphene offers a promising option. But does it actually work? Let’s take a closer look at how it functions, what the research says, and who it’s best for.

What Is Enclomiphene and How Does It Work?

Enclomiphene belongs to a class of medications called selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) — the same class as clomiphene (Clomid®). They’re similar compounds that differ only by one isomer, and both can be used off-label to support testosterone production in men. 

Rather than replacing testosterone directly, enclomiphene encourages your body to produce more of its own by signaling the brain to release luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).

Here’s how it works: 

  • By blocking estrogen’s normal feedback loop in the hypothalamus, enclomiphene tells your brain that testosterone levels are too low. 
  • The brain responds by sending stronger signals to the testes, which ramp up testosterone and sperm production.

TL;DR — While it’s not the right fit for everyone, the goal with enclomiphene is to increase testosterone while keeping your body’s own production active.

Enclomiphene vs. TRT: What’s the Difference?

Both enclomiphene and testosterone therapy aim to increase testosterone levels, but they work in different ways. TRT provides testosterone directly through injections, creams, or pellets. Enclomiphene, however, changes the signaling between the brain and testes to encourage your body to make more of its own testosterone. 

It can be a good temporary option for younger men who want to maintain fertility. That said, not every man feels the same symptom relief even if lab numbers improve, and it’s rarely recommended for men over 40 unless there’s a specific clinical reason.

At Victory Men’s Health, we’ve seen patients use enclomiphene on its own or as part of a broader treatment plan, depending on their lab work, goals, and medical history.

Does Enclomiphene Boost Testosterone?

Research suggests that enclomiphene for low testosterone can effectively increase both total and free testosterone levels in men with secondary hypogonadism.

In clinical studies, men taking enclomiphene saw testosterone levels rise from below 350 ng/dL to within the normal range (around 500–600 ng/dL) after just a few weeks of use. What makes it unique is that it also increases LH and FSH: two key hormones involved in both testosterone and sperm production.

While TRT also improves testosterone levels, enclomiphene’s appeal lies in how it maintains the body’s internal signaling systems rather than suppressing them.

How Fast Does Enclomiphene Work? 

Results can vary, but most men begin noticing higher energy, improved focus, and better mood within 2 to 4 weeks. By 6 to 8 weeks, bloodwork often confirms testosterone levels have climbed back into the healthy range.

You might also notice other changes, like more consistent morning erections, better gym performance, and renewed motivation. That said, enclomiphene isn’t a quick fix. 

Like any hormone therapy, it works best when supported by good nutrition, quality sleep, and stress management. Think of it as giving your body a nudge in the right direction, not flipping a switch overnight.

Can Enclomiphene Improve Symptoms Like Fatigue or Low Libido?

If you’re struggling with low energy, reduced sex drive, or inconsistent erections, enclomiphene for low testosterone may help. Because it boosts your own testosterone rather than replacing it, it often leads to more mild improvements compared to TRT. 

When testosterone rises, most men notice a lift in libido, motivation, and stamina. It can also help with erectile performance when low T is part of the cause. In some cases, enclomiphene may be combined with therapies like tadalafil (Cialis®) to support both hormone balance and blood flow. 

However, even when testosterone improves on paper, some men don’t experience the symptom relief they’re hoping for. It also isn’t intended as a long-term therapy, and current research doesn’t extend beyond three years of use.

How Does Enclomiphene Affect Fertility?

For men who want to preserve or improve fertility, enclomiphene can be an appealing option. It increases LH and FSH (the same hormones responsible for sperm production) while also boosting testosterone.

That’s a major difference from TRT, which can suppress sperm count over time by signaling the body to pause its own production. In men planning for children, enclomiphene may help maintain healthy sperm levels while improving testosterone balance.

Is Enclomiphene Safe? Side Effects to Know About

Like any medication, enclomiphene can cause side effects in some men, but most are mild and short-lived. Reported effects include headaches, mood changes, or mild nausea during the adjustment period.

Compared to clomiphene, some men prefer enclomiphene because it lacks zuclomiphene—an isomer linked to more estrogenic effects. But both tend to have few side effects seen in clinical practice. Rarely, men experience temporary changes in vision or slight increases in estradiol. 

If you experience any visual disturbances, you should stop taking the medication. At Victory Men’s Health, safety always comes first. We perform comprehensive labs and follow-up testing to ensure hormones remain in a healthy range throughout treatment.

Is Enclomiphene FDA-Approved and Where Can You Get It?

Clomiphene citrate and enclomiphene both have solid research supporting their safety and effectiveness in men, with clomiphene being more widely available. Because neither is FDA-approved specifically for treating low testosterone in men, they’re prescribed as off-label therapies through licensed medical providers when clinically appropriate.

Working with a trusted men’s health clinic ensures your prescriptions are sourced from high-quality compounding partners, properly dosed, and monitored for results.

Can You Take Enclomiphene Long-Term? 

The effects of enclomiphene don’t vanish overnight, but men often return to the testosterone levels they started with after stopping medication. Over time, your body may become less responsive to the medication, which could lead to exploring testosterone therapy as a longer-term solution. 

That said, consistency matters. Long-term results depend on healthy habits: managing stress, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting quality sleep. Ongoing bloodwork and provider follow-ups help determine whether you should continue, taper, or try another approach.

Who’s a Good Candidate for Enclomiphene?

Not every man with low testosterone is an ideal fit for enclomiphene, and that’s okay. This therapy works best for specific hormone patterns and goals, especially when your body still has the ability to make testosterone naturally. 

Enclomiphene is ideal for men who:

  • Have secondary hypogonadism (low testosterone caused by low brain signaling)
  • Want to preserve fertility while increasing testosterone
  • Prefer an oral alternative to topicals or pellets
  • Have mild to moderate testosterone decline due to age or lifestyle
  • Are coming off TRT and want to reactivate natural testosterone production with less hormonal “crash.”

If you’re unsure whether it’s right for you, comprehensive lab testing can clarify where your low testosterone stems from—the key to knowing which therapy will work best.

FAQs About Enclomiphene for Low Testosterone

How Fast Does Enclomiphene Work?

Most men see some improvement in about 2 to 4 weeks, with full results reached around the two- to three-month mark.

Does Enclomiphene Lower Estrogen?

No. It blocks the receptor that estrogen attaches to, which tells the body to keep making testosterone. Basically, it puts the workers on overtime. 

Is Enclomiphene Better Than Clomid?

Not necessarily, but some men tolerate it better because it doesn’t contain zuclomiphene, the part of Clomid that can cause estrogenic side effects.

How Do I Know If Enclomiphene Is Right for Me?

A blood test and consultation with a hormone-specialized provider will confirm whether you’re a good candidate for this therapy.

Restore Your Testosterone Without Sacrificing Fertility

Testosterone troubles don’t have to mean lifelong injections or impacted fertility. Enclomiphene for low testosterone offers a more natural path to restoring energy, drive, and balance.

At Victory Men’s Health, we customize every treatment to your lab results, symptoms, and goals. Whether you’re looking for help with hormone optimization, weight loss, or erectile dysfunction, our goal is to help you feel strong and confident again. 
Ready to take the next step? Book a consultation with our team and start restoring your hormones the right way.