Dr. Rand McClain busts common fitness myths: testosterone is not just a “male hormone”
In a recent episode of The Mike O’Hearn Show, renowned regenerative and sports medicine specialist, Dr. Rand McClain, sat down with fitness icon Mike O’Hearn to delve into the intricate and often misunderstood world of testosterone levels. The discussion was rich with insights into how testosterone impacts our bodies, how “normal” levels might not be optimal for everyone, and the potential benefits of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), especially as we age.
Understanding the Subjectivity of “Normal” Testosterone Levels
Mike O’Hearn kicked off the conversation by posing a thought-provoking question: What if someone’s testosterone levels fall within the typical healthy range, but those levels aren’t truly optimal for their specific body? This question underscores a common issue in modern medicine— the reliance on generalized standards that may not fit everyone.
Dr. Rand McClain agreed with Mike’s premise, emphasizing that “normal” is often a relative term when it comes to hormone levels. He explained that many people live their entire adult lives with suboptimal testosterone levels without even realizing it. Because they’ve never experienced the potential of higher, more individualized levels, they might not recognize the subtle symptoms of low testosterone, such as decreased energy, reduced libido, and a general sense of diminished well-being.
These symptoms are highly subjective, which complicates the matter further. For instance, an individual might consider their energy levels normal simply because they’ve never known anything different. This is particularly true for peak athletes who often push through fatigue and low mood with sheer willpower, potentially masking underlying hormonal imbalances.
Recognizing the Objective Signs of Low Testosterone
While subjective symptoms can be easy to overlook, Dr. Rand highlighted that objective signs often drive individuals to seek medical advice. Unexplained weight gain and unfavorable body composition changes are typically the most noticeable indicators. When someone who has been diligent with their training and diet still experiences these changes, it might be a sign that their testosterone levels are lower than ideal.
Dr. Rand circled back to the question of how one can determine whether their “normal” testosterone levels are optimal. He admitted that it’s a challenging question, likening it to the adage, “You don’t know what you don’t know.” The key, he suggested, lies in self-awareness. If you feel less vibrant or energetic in your 40s than you did in your 20s, despite being active and fit, that might indicate suboptimal testosterone levels—even if your blood tests suggest otherwise.
The Limitations of Blood Tests and the Importance of a Holistic Approach
One of the most eye-opening parts of the discussion was Dr. Rand’s critique of the reliance on single blood tests to determine hormone levels. He pointed out that blood tests provide only a snapshot of your body at a specific moment in time. Factors like blood pressure, cholesterol, and testosterone can fluctuate daily, or even hourly. Therefore, the results of a single test might not accurately reflect your overall hormonal health.
In an ideal world, multiple blood tests over a short period would give a more accurate picture by revealing patterns and averages. However, this approach is expensive and not typically practiced. For those on the fence about their testosterone levels, Dr. Rand suggested that a second blood test could be beneficial to confirm the initial results.
Dr. Rand also stressed the importance of not relying solely on “cookie-cutter” standards. The process of determining optimal hormone levels is complex and involves piecing together various data points to create a complete picture of an individual’s health. It’s a gradual process of gathering information and making informed decisions, rather than expecting a single test to provide all the answers.
Hormone Replacement Therapy for Women: A Proactive Approach
As the conversation progressed, Mike O’Hearn shifted the focus to women and the role of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) as they age, particularly as they approach menopause. Dr. Rand was unequivocal in his support for starting HRT before menopause begins. He explained that as women age, their hormone levels naturally decline, and starting HRT early can help normalize these levels before the onset of menopause, potentially reducing some of its more severe side effects.
Mona, Mike O’Hearn’s partner and a former competitive bodybuilder, shared an anecdote from her recent visit to a gynecologist. Despite being in her 50s and maintaining an impressive level of fitness, her gynecologist was surprised to learn that she wasn’t on testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). This led to a discussion about the different perspectives within the medical community regarding HRT.
Dr. Rand acknowledged that there is ongoing debate about the pros and cons of women starting TRT or other HRT treatments at certain ages. However, he dismissed much of the existing research as “garbage,” citing inconsistent results and small sample sizes. In his view, the best time to start HRT is when a medical professional determines that your health would benefit from it—regardless of age or preconceived notions.
Debunking Myths: Testosterone is Not Just a “Male Hormone”
Dr. Rand also addressed a common misconception: the idea that testosterone is exclusively a “male hormone.” This outdated notion persists, leading many women to believe they don’t need TRT or other hormone treatments. However, Dr. Rand clarified that testosterone is a hormone present in all genders, and maintaining appropriate levels is crucial for overall health.
He shared that many women initially reject the idea of TRT because of this misconception, but the truth is that women can suffer from low testosterone, which can negatively impact their health and well-being. Dr. Rand emphasized that cultural perceptions shouldn’t dictate medical decisions, and women should consider TRT if it’s recommended by a trusted healthcare provider.
Wrap Up
The episode concluded with a powerful takeaway: the path to optimal health is a journey that involves continuous self-evaluation, open-mindedness, and a willingness to explore options beyond traditional standards. Whether it’s understanding that “normal” testosterone levels might not be optimal, recognizing the limitations of blood tests, or challenging misconceptions about hormones, the conversation between Mike O’Hearn and Dr. Rand McClain offered invaluable insights for anyone interested in improving their health and well-being.
By approaching health as a holistic and individualized process, we can better navigate the complexities of our bodies and make informed decisions that enhance our quality of life.
You can watch the full episode above. And don’t forget to check back every week for new episodes on the Generation Iron Fitness Network or wherever podcasts are downloaded!
