Testosterone is synonymous with virility, sexual prowess, and vitality for many men. But even if you’re in your 20s or 30s, you may be surprised to find that your body’s natural production of this important hormone starts to slow down as you age. Fortunately, there are testosterone boosting supplements to boost your testosterone levels — even if you’re unmarried! Though the reasons for this hormone’s fluctuations throughout your life aren’t fully understood, it could have something to do with testosterone being linked to marital status and age, as new research has recently discovered.
What Is Testosterone?
Testosterone is a hormone that is primarily produced in males, although it also has some functions in females. It is responsible for the development of male reproductive organs, sex drive, bone mass, red blood cell production, and energy levels.
For this reason, testosterone can play a role in women’s health, as well as their relationships with men. In fact, there are studies linking marital status to hormonal changes in both sexes. Research has found that testosterone levels were much higher in those who are married than those who aren’t.
Usually, this hormone level declines as people get older and this could explain why there is such a difference in hormone levels among men of different ages. Testosterone begins to decline around age 30 and this affects how the body works.
It may even lead to changes in mental health, like mood disorders. Some studies show that low testosterone levels may lead to depression, anxiety, irritability, poor sleep quality, weight gain, and loss of muscle mass. Low testosterone may even play a role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
How Does One’s Relationship Status Affect Their Testosterone Levels?
There are several ways a relationship can affect testosterone levels, either by boosting it or suppressing it. The first is through sex. Sexual activity helps in boosting testosterone in both men and women. A one-time sexual encounter has been shown to boost testosterone for up to two weeks in some cases. Sex not only boosts your own testosterone but also that of your partner, which can lead to even greater sex life.
Can Marriage Really Increase T Levels?
Studies have shown that testosterone levels in men can vary based on marital status. In a conducted study, a group of married men was compared to a group of single men, with the assumption being that the married men would have higher testosterone levels than the single ones.
Married men have higher testosterone levels than unmarried men. More attractive men with high testosterone levels are more likely to get married since they are more competitive in the marriage market.
For this theory to work, it must also explain why attractiveness is linked with increased testosterone levels. Attractiveness can lead to competition because people find good-looking people more desirable mates. Therefore, the relationship between testosterone levels and marital status could be just a side effect of how our brain interprets attractiveness when choosing a mate.
Other studies have shown just the opposite, indicating that single men had higher testosterone levels than those who were married on average. It is unclear why this is so, but some speculate it might be due to the amount of stress or responsibility that comes with marriage. Men in long-term relationships are also less likely to produce T after orgasm than their unmarried counterparts.
What Are the Benefits of Higher Testosterone Levels?
High testosterone levels can have several benefits, including increased libido, improved mood, reduced risk of depression, and even weight loss. Testosterone is a hormone that aids in both male and female sexuality.
Higher testosterone levels typically lead to an increase in sexual desire, arousal, and response as well as an improvement in mood. It is not only beneficial for men but it can also help women with post-menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness. However, you should note that it can lead to aggressive behavior as well.
Thoughts
Ultimately, many factors can affect testosterone levels. Research shows there is a strong correlation between testosterone levels and marital status. In general, it is believed that marriage boosts testosterone levels which leads to more energy, improved sexual function, better moods, and less chance of developing certain diseases associated with aging.
If you are experiencing low testosterone levels, speak to your doctor about your lifestyle habits, possible medical conditions, and what steps to take next.