Understanding Andropause
What is “andropause”?
You’ve undoubtedly heard of menopause – the natural phase women go through as they age. Men undergo a similar phase, known as andropause. Sometimes called the “male menopause,” andropause is a period in a man’s life when his hormone levels, particularly testosterone, begin to drop. This typically happens gradually, often starting in a man’s 40s or 50s, although it can vary from person to person. Unlike menopause in women, where hormonal changes happen over a relatively short period, andropause tends to be a slower and more subtle process.
Why haven’t you heard about it?
The truth is that andropause isn’t as well-known as menopause. Partly, that’s because the symptoms aren’t as sudden or obvious. Many men experience changes like reduced energy, mood swings, lower libido and shifts in body composition (like gaining weight around the midsection), but might not connect these changes to their hormone levels. It’s often chalked up to “just getting older.”
Common signs of andropause
So, how do you know if you might be experiencing andropause? Here are some common signs:
Feeling more tired than usual, even with enough sleep
Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
Mood changes, such as irritability or mild depression
Decreased sex drive
Difficulty concentrating or “brain fog”
Gaining weight, especially around the midsection
Reduced muscle mass and strength
If you’re noticing some of these changes, you’re not alone. Many men experience them, but they’re not often talked about.
Why should you care?
Understanding andropause can help you take control of your health. When you know what’s happening in your body, it’s easier to find the right strategies to feel your best. From adjusting your diet and exercise routine to exploring lifestyle changes, addressing andropause can make a real difference in your daily life.
How I can can help
Together, we’ll look at areas such as:
Diet: Adopting a primal way of eating that’s easy to follow, nourishing your body without counting calories or macros.
Exercise: Helping devise a fitness plan that works for you, building strength and boosting energy.
Lifestyle: Exploring small, practical changes to help manage stress, improve sleep and regain vitality.
While there’s no specific diet or lifestyle change that can cure andropause, making informed choices about how you eat, move and live can help counterbalance many of its effects. My coaching is grounded in a primal, or ancestral, approach to health – focusing on simple, natural ways to support your body and mind through this phase of life.
Ready to take the next step?
If you’re experiencing signs of andropause and want to explore how a primal lifestyle could support you, I’m here to help.
My coaching is fully online, so we can work together no matter where you’re located. Let’s have a chat about your journey and how I can help improve your health and vitality.