Androgens

Androgens are a group of steroid hormones that define male traits, influence strength, endurance, and sexual desire, but are also important for the female body.

The main androgen is testosterone. In men, it is produced in the testes, while in women, it is produced in the ovaries and adrenal glands.

Without androgens, normal development of muscles, bones, the brain, and reproductive function is impossible.

Functions of androgens

• formation and maintenance of male sexual characteristics – beard growth, voice pitch, fat and muscle distribution;
• regulation of libido and fertility in both sexes;
• maintenance of muscle mass, strength, and bone density;
• participation in the regulation of fat, sugar, and protein metabolism;
• influence on mood, cognitive functions, and overall energy levels;
• stimulation of blood formation and protein synthesis.

Regulation and production

The production of androgens is controlled by the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis. The hypothalamus releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone, which stimulates the pituitary gland, leading to the production of luteinizing hormone (LH), which initiates testosterone synthesis.

In men, the peak level of androgens occurs at ages 20-30, after which the concentration decreases by about 1% per year.

Women also have androgens – they are responsible for sexual desire, bone density, and mood, and after menopause, they become the main source of estrogens.

Androgen deficiency

Androgen deficiency (hypogonadism) manifests as:

• decreased libido and erectile dysfunction;
• loss of energy, chronic fatigue, and apathy;
• loss of muscle mass and strength;
• increased fat mass, especially in the abdominal area;
• concentration difficulties, depression, and irritability;
• decreased bone density and risk of osteoporosis.

Androgen excess

Elevated testosterone levels are found in women with polycystic ovary syndrome, adrenal tumors, or the use of anabolic steroids.

This can cause:

• acne and oily skin;
• male-pattern baldness;
• increased hair growth on the face and body in women (hirsutism);
• increased aggression and irritability;
• menstrual cycle disturbances.

Androgens and the keto diet

A keto diet high in fats and low in carbohydrates helps normalize hormonal levels.
Research shows that moderate consumption of saturated and monounsaturated fats supports testosterone synthesis, while excess sugar and insulin spikes suppress it.

Transitioning to a ketogenic diet can:

• increase testosterone levels in overweight men;
• lower insulin levels and improve tissue sensitivity to hormones;
• balance the ratio of androgens to estrogens in women with insulin resistance or PCOS;
• improve body composition by increasing muscle and reducing fat.

Conclusion

Androgens are a fundamental component of health. They influence appearance, psyche, energy, metabolism, and lifespan. Maintaining their optimal levels through nutrition, sleep, physical activity, and stress reduction helps preserve youth, libido, and metabolic flexibility.