What is the correct age to start using TRT for the most benefits?
The presence of testosterone replacement therapy has become massive in the fitness world. It is a process that involves administering testosterone right into the body in order to increase levels. This can be used to enhance muscle growth and strength, however, it is not a magic formula. There are many misconceptions about the use and what it can do in the end.
So, the question remains, is there a beneficial age to begin TRT? Our team at Generation Iron is going to break it down.
What Is Testosterone?
Testosterone is the male sex hormone that is essential in developing male growth and masculine characteristics. Hormones are chemical messengers in the body that travel from one organ through the bloodstream and will impact different bodily processes. Testosterone production is controlled by signals sent from the brain to the pituitary gland at the base of the brain.
Testosterone is an important hormone and plays a major part in many ways in the male body. This includes sex drive, sperm production, and deepening the voice but it is important in muscle size and strength and bone growth.
The use of TRT is an option for men with low testosterone levels. It is also possible for men to have too much testosterone, despite this not being a common problem. There are questions at times about what “normal” levels are and this could lead to confusion when deciding if you have too much or too little testosterone. There are certain issues to look out for if you believe your testosterone is high:
- Acne
- Headaches
- Insomnia
- Increased muscle mass
- Mood swings
- Fluid retention with swelling
- High blood pressure
Low Testosterone
Low testosterone, also known as male hypogonadism, occurs when the testicles do not produce enough testosterone. This can happen as any age but testosterone levels typically decline with age.
According to the American Urology Association, low blood testosterone is considered to be less than 300 nanograms per deciliter. This is a condition that can impact males at any age, ranging from birth to adulthood. People who are experiencing low testosterone might be dealing with side effects such as:
- Reduced sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Hot flashes
- Low sperm count
- Increased body fat
- Depression
- Loss of armpit and/or pubic hair
This condition is occurs when there is an issue with the testicles and this impacts their ability to produce testosterone.
TRT In Bodybuilding
TRT is becoming very common in, not just bodybuilding, but the fitness world as a whole. One of the benefits is that it allows weightlifters to recover faster after workouts. You will likely be able to exercise at a higher intensity while using TRT. This will increase protein synthesis rates in your body, which means more of the protein in your diet will be used to build lean muscle mass.
The use of TRT is typically continuous rather than cycling on and off. With that being said, certain weightlifters will choose to cycle 12-16 weeks to maximize muscle size.
Side Effects Of TRT
Like many substances, there are certain side effects associated with TRT in healthy men. According to the Mayo Clinic, this includes:
- Sleep Apnea
- Acne or skin reactions
- Enlarging breasts
- Limiting sperm production
- Stimulating noncancerous growth of prostate
Wrap Up: What Is The Appropriate Age For TRT?
As you age, your testosterone levels will naturally begin to decline, research shows about 1% a year after ages 30-40. Testosterone therapy can be used to reverse the effects of hypogonadism but is it beneficial to healthy men as they age? That answer is unclear.
All in all, there does not seem to be a recommended age to begin the use of TRT but many recommended to use it if you are experiencing low testosterone. Otherwise, it would be wise to consult your doctor before beginning any treatments.
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