There’s no denying that slowing down is a natural part of getting older. Our energy levels drop, we’re not as strong as we used to be, and sexual interest decreases. However, for some—men especially—that slowing down can be a result of low testosterone. While testosterone is found in both sexes, testosterone levels are much higher in men as it’s the hormone responsible for stimulating the development of male characteristics. Take our quiz to get the facts on low testosterone and see if it’s time to talk about it with your doctor.
1. Testosterone is a hormone that plays a key role in which of the following bodily functions?
A. Sex drive and sperm production
B. Bone health, maintaining red blood cell levels, and muscle mass
C. Cognitive performance
D. Energy levels
E.All of the above
2. True or false? According to the American Urological Association, healthy male testosterone levels range between 450 and 600 ng/dL, and low testosterone is below 300 ng/dL. However, there’s no official consensus on healthy testosterone levels.
3. As men age, their testosterone levels may decline by up to 2% every year after what age?
A. 20
B. 30
C. 40
D. 50
4. Which of the following are signs and symptoms of low testosterone in men?
A. Low libido, impotence, erectile dysfunction (ED), and/or infertility
B. Changes in sleep patterns, difficulty concentrating, and/or lack of motivation
C. Reduced muscle bulk and strength, decreased bone density, decreased endurance, and/or large breasts in men
D. Loss of armpit and pubic hair
E. Depression
F. All of the above
5. True or false? Symptoms of low testosterone can vary considerably, with factors like age and the severity of the deficiency affecting an individual’s symptoms.
6. Which of the following is NOT a sign or symptom of low testosterone in women?
A. Cognition changes
B. Decreased libido
C. Growth of facial hair
D. Bone loss and/or decreased muscle mass
E. Changes in mood
7. True or false? The best way to check for low testosterone is to visit a doctor for a physical exam and a blood test, and the test should be performed between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. when testosterone levels are highest.
8. What other factors can play a role in decreasing testosterone levels?
A. Some chronic conditions, such as kidney and liver diseases
B. Thyroid gland and/or ovary disorders
C. Lifestyle choices like obesity or excessive alcohol use
D. HIV infection
E. A testicle injury or early or delayed puberty
F. Certain genetic conditions that appear at birth, such as Klinefelter syndrome
G. All of the above
9. Testosterone replacement therapy, a treatment for abnormal testosterone levels, includes which of the following options?
A. A testosterone injection
B. A patch that administers testosterone
C. Testosterone gel applied to your skin or up your nostrils
D. Testosterone pellets implanted under the skin
E. All of the above
10. True or false? To date, little research has evaluated the effectiveness of over-the-counter testosterone supplements or “testosterone boosters,” which contain ingredients like fenugreek, zinc, and Vitamin B6, for improving sex drive.
11. Which of the following are natural ways to increase testosterone production?
A. Exercise regularly, such as moderate- to high-intensity resistance exercise that involves multiple muscles.
B. Include enough fat in your diet; look for sources of healthy fat such as avocado, cheese, nuts, and fatty fish.
C. Get enough sleep as research has linked lack of quality sleep to lower testosterone levels. Try to get at least 7 hours of sleep each night.
D. Find healthy ways to manage your stress levels.
E. All of the above
compiled by ERIKA ALDRICH / information provided by Cleveland Clinic and healthline.com
ANSWERS:
- E. All of the above
- True
- B. 30
- F. All of the above
- True
- C. Growth of facial hair. It’s actually a sign of high testosterone levels in women, while the rest are signs of low testosterone in women.
- True
- G. All of the above
- E. All of the above
- True
- E. All of the above