What is an Androgen?
Introduction
Androgen, also known as testoid or androgenic hormone, is the generic term used for a synthetic or natural compound. This is usually a steroid hormone and is most famous for controlling the maintenance and development of male characteristics. This is mainly related to the activities of the male sex organs and sex characteristics.
Androgens were first discovered in 1936 and are considered very important for a healthy life. There are several types of androgens with testosterone being one of the most important and well-known androgens.
Testosterone – The Most Important Type of Androgen
Testosterone plays a very important role in the development of male reproductive tissues such as prostate and testis. This type of hormone is also associated with other characters such as the growth of body hair and increased muscle mass. In addition to sexual health, testosterone has also been proven to be important for a person's overall well-being.
Testosterone's plasma concentration is greater in males when compared to females because metabolic consumption of the hormone is greater in males. Due to this reason males produce more testosterone then females (about 20 times greater). Testosterone deficiency in males is a common problem with a great number of people suffering from it. Since reduction in testosterone levels is natural with aging, there is generally nothing much to be worried about, until and unless the reduction is at an alarming rate and not due to natural or normal causes.
Most symptoms associated with reducing testosterone levels are pretty common and are often attributed to other diseases. These symptoms include headache, weakness, emotional trauma and loss in mass. However, there are some extreme symptoms as well such as erectile dysfunction and reduction is sex drive.
In addition to all these impotency or infertility is also a symptom of poor testosterone levels. Better said, poor testosterone levels can actually cause impotency or infertility.
This is why it is important to pay attention to the symptoms and visit a specialist to find how good your testosterone levels are. The falling levels can be controlled with the help of therapies and natural herbs.
The best method depends on several things including the cause for the decrease etc. However, make sure you only consult a doctor who specializes in the field so that you can get the energy back.
Types of Androgens
Other types of androgens include:
Dehydroepiandrosterone is a steroid hormone found mainly in the adrenal cortex from cholesterol. It is the primary precursor of naturalestrogens. This hormone is also commonly known as dehydroandrosterone and dehydroisoandrosterone.
Androstenedione is an androgenic steroid that is produced by the adrenal cortex, ovaries and testes. Thes hormone is the parent structure of estrone and was once heavily used in several sports due to its performance enhancing qualities. However, under the recent laws several sporting organizations including The International Olympic Committee have banned the use of androstenedione.
Androstenediol is the steroid metabolite that acts as the chief regulator of gonadotropin emission. Like most other hormone this is also important for the human body.
Androsterone is a chemical that is formed when androgens break down. This type of hormone is found in both males and females in almost equal concentration.
Dihydrotestosterone is a very potent androgen especially when compared to testosterone. This hormone binds strongly to androgen receptors and is produced in the adrenal cortex.
All these androgens play different roles; however, they are all important to be able to live a healthy life. In order to maintain good levels of androgens one should consume a balanced diet and stay happy as many of these hormones' productions are directly linked with such behaviors.
Androgen Definition, What is an Androgen
This information presented is intended to be used for educational purposes only. The statements made have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (U.S.). This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease.