Andropause – by Marthinus Opperman – May 16, 2025

What Is Known About Andropause?

Research seems to indicate that there are actually two forms of andropause: Based on research are there 2 forms of andropause:1. Acute andropause Acute adndropause is the type that most closely follows the patterns associated with menopause in women. The relationship between a womans ovaries, estrogen, the pituitary, and the brain are almost identical between a mans testes, testosterone, pituitary, and brain.However, unlike female menopause, acute andropause is not common. Testicular function declines slowly for most men, but certain conditions can cause it to happen rapidly. Among the most common are: Certain autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosis, which often attacks and breaks down the testes. Vascular conditions such as diabetes. Heavy smoking Chemotherapy Certain surgeries such as hernia repairs, vasectomies, and surgery for testicular cancer. Genetic conditions that allow normal development, but lead to premature testistical failure. One example is called chromosomal mosaicism, a rare illness that involves two lines of certain cells forming from one chromosomal combination. Pituitary tumors 2. Gradual andropause Gradual andropause is the usual type that the majority of men will experience. This occurs due to the natural declination of the male hormones testosterone (from the testis), DHEA and androstenedione (from the adrenal gland), and human growth hormone (from the pituitary). After the age of 55 or so, the levels of these hormones drop significantly in some men. With some individuals this may not happen until they are in their 60s or 70s, but on the other hand, because of the onslaught of hormone disrupting chemicals in our everyday lives, symptoms can start as early as the 30s in many men. Another factor involves certain proteins in the blood that are called sex human binding proteins or globulins. Their purpose is to bind testosterone in a biologically unavailable form. A certain amount of this is normal and necessary in order to bring balance to a mans body. However, some conditions can cause an abnormally high amount of testosterone in the blood to become bound like this. One of the biggest causes for this is overexposure to other hormones including phytoestrogens found in plant sources such as soy, and compounds used as hormonal additives in cattle feed. Some pesticides as well as other chemicals can also cause overexposure to hormones. All of these factors will cause an abnormally low amount of bio-available testosterone in the body and can be contributing factors in andropause. If you eat soy, make sure it is properly fermented and organic. Read the ingredients on every prepackaged item you pick up in the grocery store. Chances are it has soy in it. It is very disconcerting to think about the consequences of all this hormonal exposure, especially to young children. What Are the Symptoms of Andropause? Typical signs may sound very familiar, because many of them are also found in women who are going through menopause. Some common symptoms that an andropausal man may expect to experience include: Lowered libido Weaker erections Less intense orgasms Poor energy levels Decreased strength and endurance Lowered athletic ability Joint aches, stiffness in the hands Decreased productivity at work Loss of satisfaction in life Apathy towards things that formerly brought enjoyment Depression Desire to isolate Fatigue Falling asleep after dinner Urinary changes Weight gain (especially around the belly) Hot flashes Irritability Mood swings Insomnia and other sleep disturbances Premature aging Changes in hair growth Changes in skin quality Increased anxiety Loss of self-confidence Poor concentration Memory loss With a list like that no wonder they call it mid-life crisis. Just as menopause can rock a womans world, so it is with men and andropause. It really helps if you can understand what is going on and why, men, so learn all you can about this inevitable consequence of aging and be prepared to meet it head on. How to I Handle Andropause? Healthy Diet In addition, the importance of an active lifestyle and a healthy, natural diet cannot be underestimated. Follow the well balanced Manna Diet if you are serious about a change in lifestyle. If you smoke Now is an excellent time to stop. If you are overweight Now is a good time to concentrate on losing those extra kilograms. Exercise Exercise will help you both physically and emotionally, and is especially important for men going through andropause. If you have been involved in sports since you were younger, just because you may have lost a bit of your edge athletically does not mean you should slack off physically. You may want to drop the intensity level somewhat, or even switch to a less intensive activity. An example might be exchanging jogging for cycling. Supplements or BHRT? BHRT (bioidentical hormone replacement therapy for men) is very controversial because it can promote cancer. We rather recommend the alternative and safe option, like phyto-testosterones (plant derived testosterone), which might take a bit longer to boost testosterone levels, but is 100% safe. The Manna Andropause Supplement was especially formulated with the best phyto-testosterones to do the job without jeopardizing your health.