Tag: hormone imbalance

Do Antidepressants Lower Testosterone Levels?

Posted on by AmyADMIN

If you’re taking antidepressants or thinking about starting them, you’re probably wondering if they could mess with your hormones. For the men we see in our clinics, this typically involves the following: “Do antidepressants lower testosterone levels?”

It’s a fair question! Testosterone plays a crucial role in how you feel and function, from energy levels to sex drive and mood. In this blog post, we’ll break down whether antidepressants can lower your testosterone, what low T might look like, and what you can do about it. Let’s dive in. 

man holding testosterone from victory men's health - do antidepressants lower testosterone

Can Antidepressants Cause Hormone Imbalance?

Antidepressants work by adjusting chemicals in your brain, like serotonin and dopamine. They’re meant to help lift your mood and ease the effects of mental illnesses like depression and anxiety. 

But sometimes, they can also influence other hormones—like testosterone and estrogen.

Some studies show that certain antidepressants might lower testosterone, while others suggest they could actually raise hormone levels. So, what’s the truth? Because antidepressants affect our neurotransmitters, experts believe they might also impact our endocrine system, which is responsible for hormone production. 

Do Antidepressants Lower Testosterone Levels?

While there is some evidence that antidepressants can affect testosterone levels, the results are mixed.  Some individuals may experience a small drop (or even an increase), while others might not see any hormone changes. 

However, regardless of hormone levels in bloodwork, many people experience sexual side effects from antidepressant or anti-anxiety medications. Oftentimes, hormone replacement therapy won’t reverse those side effects.

It’s also important to note that anxiety and depression can sometimes be symptoms of low testosterone. Before starting antidepressants, it’s a good idea to rule out hormonal imbalances as a potential cause of mood disturbances. That way, you can choose the best treatment path for your situation.

The key takeaway here? Everyone reacts differently to medication – and we first need a baseline for your testosterone levels.

If you’re concerned about your testosterone levels, it’s important to pay attention how you’re feeling and talk to your healthcare provider if you notice any changes. They can help you figure out whether your antidepressants might be impacting your hormones and what steps to take if they are.

What Does Low Testosterone Feel Like?

Low testosterone can bring on a wide range of symptoms that can affect both your physical and mental well-being. Struggling with these side effects can make it tough to get through your daily routine. But, if you’ve been experiencing a slow decline for years, you may not even recognize it. 

That’s why it’s important to chat with a healthcare provider if you think your hormone levels might be off. A simple blood test in one of our clinics can confirm if your T levels are low. Then, we can recommend a solution that fits your needs.

Here are some of the most common signs of low testosterone levels to be aware of. 

  • Fatigue: Feeling wiped out all the time? Low T could be to blame.
  • Low Sex Drive: If your libido has taken a dive, it might be linked to decreased testosterone.
  • Mood Swings: Irritability, depression, and just feeling off can all be tied to low testosterone.
  • Muscle Loss: Struggling to maintain muscle mass or noticing a decrease in strength? Low T could be the culprit.
  • Weight Gain: Low testosterone can lead to an increase in body fat, especially around your midsection. They don’t call it hormone belly for nothing! 
  • Brain Fog: Trouble focusing or remembering things? Low T might be playing a role.

How Can I Treat Low Testosterone?

If you think your testosterone levels might be low—whether it’s because of antidepressants or something else—help is out there. Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is a powerful way to get things back on track, and we’ll make sure it fits into your lifestyle without a hassle.

Many men successfully use antidepressants and TRT together without any issues. However, it’s important to work closely with your healthcare provider to manage both treatments and monitor for any changes. While TRT carries some risks, like increasing your red blood cell count or affecting cardiovascular health, it’s considered safe and effective when properly monitored by a knowledgeable provider.

Wondering how long it takes TRT to work? Most men start feeling small improvements, like a boost in energy, within a few weeks, but it might take a couple of months to feel the full effects—like a stronger libido. At Victory Men’s Health, we offer testosterone treatment in several forms: 

  • Injections
  • Creams
  • Pellets

In the video below, we break down the TRT options we provide for our patients.

Injections

Testosterone injections are the most popular method and can be administered either subcutaneously (under the skin) or intramuscularly (into the muscle). We customize the frequency of injections based on your individual needs, ensuring you get the right dosage at the right time. 

After your initial injection, we’ll draw follow-up labs 90 days later to monitor your progress and adjust the treatment if needed. If you like the idea of not having to think about daily treatments, injections might be a good fit for you.

Creams

Do you prefer something a bit more hands-on? Testosterone creams are applied daily to an area of the skin as directed by your physician. They offer a slower, more gradual absorption of testosterone, which some men find more manageable.

Like with injections, follow-up labs will be drawn 90 days after you start using the cream to track your hormone levels and make any necessary adjustments.

Pellets

If you like the “set it and forget it” approach, testosterone pellets might be the way to go. Testosterone pellets are bio-identical and are inserted just under the skin in the buttock area through a simple, quick in-office procedure. 

Once inserted, the pellets release testosterone steadily over 4-6 months, offering a low-maintenance option for long-term hormone balance. Follow-up labs will be drawn 4 weeks after pellet insertion and again at 4 months so we can make sure everything is on track.

Reclaim Your Stamina with Victory Men’s Health

If you’re worried that your antidepressants might be affecting your testosterone levels, you’re not alone. Understanding the potential link between your meds and your hormones is a great first step in taking control of your health. 

At Victory Men’s Health, we’re here to help you navigate any concerns and find the right solution to help you live your fullest life. Ready to take the next step? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let’s work together to get your testosterone levels back on track.

Hormone Belly | How To Treat It Effectively & For Good!

Posted on by AmyADMIN

Do you find yourself battling a stubborn “hormone belly” that just won’t budge, no matter how hard you try? We frequently see this in our office—it’s a common reason many clients reach out to us knowing that there is more than just diet and exercise required to get back on track.

Hormone imbalances can wreak havoc on your body, leading to excess or unwanted weight gain, particularly around the midsection. If you think you’re experiencing hormone belly, don’t worry – reclaiming your vitality and shedding that hormone belly is achievable with the right approach and support.

What is Hormone Belly?

So, what exactly is “hormone belly?” Hormones like thyroid, cortisol, insulin, estradiol, and testosterone play a significant role in regulating metabolism and fat distribution. When these hormones are out of balance, it can lead to increased fat storage, especially in the abdominal area.

Visceral fat—the fat stored around the organs—is particularly concerning because it is a key indicator of metabolic health and is directly influenced by hormone levels.

What Hormone Belly Looks Like

In men, a hormone belly typically appears as a noticeable increase in abdominal fat, giving the midsection a rounded or bloated look. This type of belly fat is often more resistant to diet and exercise compared to other types of fat, due to its association with hormonal imbalances, particularly with lower levels of testosterone and higher levels of cortisol. Men might find that their clothes fit tighter around the waist, despite efforts to lose weight.

The area can feel softer compared to the rest of the body, and in some cases, it may also feel tender or sensitive. Beyond physical appearance, a hormone belly might also be a sign of underlying health issues related to hormonal imbalances, such as metabolic syndrome or insulin resistance, making it important to address not only for aesthetic reasons but for overall health as well.

Common Symptoms of Hormone Belly:

  • Increased belly fat
  • Difficulty losing weight
  • Fatigue
  • Insomnia
  • Mood swings
  • Low libido

Treating Hormone Belly Effectively

Let’s explore how to treat and manage hormone belly:

  1. Hormone Balancing
  2. Nutrition
  3. Exercise
  4. Stress Management
  5. Supplements
  6. Medical Treatments

Hormone Balancing

The first step in addressing hormone belly is to tackle the underlying hormonal imbalance. This typically involves collaborating with our team to assess hormone levels and create a personalized treatment strategy based on your lifestyle, bloodwork, and other health markers. Depending on your specific needs, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) or other hormone-balancing options may be recommended to put your best foot forward.

Nutrition

A healthy diet is crucial for managing hormone belly. Focus on whole foods, plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive alcohol, as these can exacerbate hormonal imbalances.

Exercise

While incorporating exercise into your regimen is essential for health, it’s often not enough on its own to tackle hormone belly effectively. True progress often requires addressing underlying hormonal imbalances. Even though targeted exercises and high-intensity workouts can help burn calories, especially in areas like the obliques and lower abs known for stubborn fat, optimal results usually come from also correcting hormonal imbalances.

Stress Management

Chronic stress can contribute to hormone imbalances, so it’s essential to find healthy ways to manage stress. Getting enough sleep and prioritizing self-care can also help reduce stress levels. Sleep apnea left untreated will increase cortisol levels and cause your body to store fat. 

Supplements

Certain supplements may help support hormone balance and reduce belly fat. Consult with your healthcare professional to create a tailored health plan based on your needs. For those located in MO or IL, we’d love to work with you on this!

Medical Treatments

We also utilize GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide, which help suppress appetite and aid in weight loss. These treatments can be particularly effective for reducing hormone belly by improving the body’s ability to manage weight and enhance satiety.

“Am I a candidate for semaglutide?”

Once the root cause of your hormonal imbalances has been determined and addressed, medications like semaglutide, known by the brand name Ozempic, can offer an additional layer of support in managing hormone belly. 

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that not only aids in regulating blood sugar levels but also promotes a feeling of fullness, potentially leading to weight loss. These medications work by enhancing the body’s insulin response, slowing digestion, and reducing appetite. This can be particularly effective for weight management in individuals with hormone-related weight issues.

This can be particularly beneficial for those dealing with hormone belly, as it targets one of the stubborn areas where fat accumulates due to hormonal shifts. Incorporating semaglutide into your treatment plan, under the guidance of a healthcare professional, can further enhance your efforts to reclaim balance and reduce abdominal fat, complementing lifestyle changes and any hormonal treatments you’re already utilizing.

When Clients Are Hesitant About Semaglutide…

Many people hesitate to start treatments like semaglutide because of potential side effects. At Victory Men’s Health, we use semaglutide rather than brand-name Ozempic specifically because it allows us to adjust the dosage more precisely. This way, we can keep the treatment effective while reducing the likelihood of any discomfort.

Combining semaglutide with testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has also proven to be highly effective. Semaglutide helps with weight management and boosts metabolism, while TRT enhances energy, muscle growth, and overall hormonal balance. Testosterone helps to reduce visceral fat over time and, for some, is effective on its own for getting rid of the belly. Others may need some extra help, which is where semaglutide comes in. Together, these treatments work to improve your health comprehensively, ensuring you feel your best.

We’d love to explore whether medications like Semaglutide and TRT could be a good fit for you. At Victory Men’s Health, we are well-versed in prescribing this medication when it aligns with your personalized health plan. Our healthcare professionals offer a tailored approach to your health and well-being, ensuring that your plan fits seamlessly into your life. 

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How Do I Prevent Hormone Belly from Coming Back?

Consistency with your hormone-balancing treatments, nutrition, and exercise is key. It’s also essential to listen to your body and make adjustments as needed. Regular check-ins with your healthcare provider can help ensure that your hormone levels stay balanced and that you continue to make progress toward your goals.

Take the First Step with Victory Men’s Health

At Victory Men’s Health, we understand the complexities of hormone imbalances and their impact on your health and well-being. Our elite team is dedicated to helping you reclaim your vitality and achieve lasting results. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards treating hormone belly effectively and for good. Your journey to a healthier, happier you starts here.

We’re sharing it all on the podcast.

For those interested in learning more, we invite you to check out the Women Want Strong Men podcast hosted by Amy Stuttle, the founder and CEO of Victory Men’s Health, available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify.

For those living in Missouri and Illinois, taking the first step towards optimizing your hormones is easy with Victory Men’s Health. Whether through telehealth or in-person visits, our team is ready to assist you with a comprehensive panel to identify where you might be lacking and develop a treatment plan that works for you.

Your first visit is $99, this fee includes a confidential consultation with one of our medical providers, PSA testing, testosterone assessment, body composition analysis, and a customized “test dose” of our proven medication if needed.