As men age, their testosterone levels and physical activity generally decrease, and risk of cardiovascular disease increases. Research has indicated that testosterone may have beneficial effects on vascular health and in reducing some of the components of cardiovascular disease.
But a recent study. of 78 overweight men aged 50-70 with low to medium testosterone levels revealed that a 12-week program of exercise alone — on stationary bikes and with resistance training equipment — produced benefits to vascular health, whereas testosterone therapy alone did not. In addition, exercise was more effective at reducing body fat and developing lean body mass than testosterone.
The study was limited — with a small group over a relatively short period — and there may be reasons for taking testosterone other than vascular health. But Bu Yeap, endocrinologist and professor at University of Western Australia’s Medical School, said that because of an “unproven belief that testosterone therapy was rejuvenating and might have anti-ageing effects,” sales of the hormone have been increasing.
“We know that being active helps to delay, prevent and manage many chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and some forms of cancer,” said Adjunct Professor Trevor Shilton. “It can help prevent and reverse weight gain, high blood pressure and cholesterol — all of which contribute to heart disease and stroke.”
