Low testosterone isn’t just a concern for men over 50—it’s showing up in younger men, too. At my practice, I often see patients in their 20s, 30s and 40s asking the same questions: What’s happening to my testosterone? Why is this so common? Is testosterone replacement safe? And most importantly—can I turn this around?

Let’s take a closer look.

Testosterone is a steroid hormone produced by the testes and adrenal glands. In fact, the adrenal glands create the direct precursors for testosterone, making adrenal health essential for balanced hormone production.

Here’s where it gets tricky: testosterone can easily convert into estrogen. While a small amount of estrogen is normal for men, an imbalance can lead to unwanted issues—weight gain, low energy, and mood swings. Factors like excess body fat, chronic stress, inflammation and exposure to hormone disruptors (like BPA and phthalates) can all drive this conversion.

And there’s cholesterol—often misunderstood, yet vital. It’s the foundation for steroid hormones, including testosterone. We’ve been told to lower cholesterol, but without enough of it—especially the "good" HDL type—our bodies struggle to make hormones effectively.

The good news? There are science-based, natural ways to support healthy testosterone levels. The key lies in addressing the real root causes: chronic stress, inflammation and lifestyle factors. When we tackle these, the body has an incredible ability to restore balance—without relying on synthetic hormones.

Did You Know?

• Cholesterol is the building block for all steroid hormones, including testosterone.

• Chronic stress and inflammation can hijack hormone production, pushing the body to prioritize cortisol over testosterone.

• Exposure to everyday hormone disruptors (like plastics and pesticides) may cause testosterone to convert into estrogen.

• Supporting adrenal health and managing stress is key to restoring natural testosterone balance.

Dr. David L. Pollack is the founder of Pollack Wellness, located at 66 Commack Rd., #204, Commack, NY. For appointments or information, call 631-462-0801 or visit PollackWellness.com.