IFBB Pro Ben Pakulski has made a name for himself through his science-driven approach to training and longevity. In the latest episode of his podcast The Muscle Intelligence Podcast, Pakulski sits down with Dr. Thierry Hertoghe MD, who currently acts as President of the International Hormone Society, to talk about hormone therapy and what testosterone therapy can do for someone suffering from low testosterone levels. You can watch the full video below, along with timestamps of important topics throughout the video.
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00:10 Introduction to the Podcast
- Dr. Thierry Hertoghe, an expert in hormone optimization, discusses the significance of hormones, particularly testosterone, growth hormone, thyroid, and other lesser-known hormones in influencing how we look, feel, and perform as we age.
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03:41 The Role of Hormone Optimization in Healthy Aging
- Dr. Hertoghe emphasizes the importance of hormone optimization and how age plays a role in determining when one should consider hormone replacement therapy. He discusses the visible signs and symptoms of hormone deficiencies.
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08:04 Facial Features and Hormone Deficiencies
- Dr. Hertoghe provides examples of facial features that indicate hormone deficiencies, such as a receding hairline, pale complexion, deep wrinkles on the forehead, and eyebrow thinning, highlighting the importance of identifying these visual clues.
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13:41 Addressing Concerns About Hormone Replacement Therapy
- Dr. Hertoghe addresses concerns related to hormone replacement therapy, such as its impact on cancer growth. He explains the benefits of hormone therapy and how it positively affects overall health.
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15:49 Dosage and Assessment of Hormone Replacement Therapy
- Dr. Hertoghe discusses the importance of a comprehensive assessment, combining lab tests, physical examinations, and patient questionnaires to determine the right hormone replacement therapy dosage. He emphasizes individualized treatment.
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19:29 Gene Therapy and Its Potential
- Dr. Hertoghe touches on gene therapy as a developing field and its potential, particularly in relation to telomeres and how it may contribute to extending healthy aging.
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21:36 Hormone Replacement Therapy and Dosing Frequency
- Hormone replacement therapy often requires daily dosing.
- Daily dosing can spare the glands and have long-term benefits.
- Overdosing is not recommended; individualized dosing is more effective.
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24:52 Nighttime Administration of Growth Hormone
- Growth hormone is best taken in the evening (98% of patients).
- Nighttime administration mimics the natural growth hormone secretion pattern.
- Morning administration may lead to decreased energy due to cortisol reduction.
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25:06 IGF-1 Supplementation for Growth Hormone
- IGF-1 supplementation is recommended for most patients above age 50.
- Combining IGF-1 and growth hormone in treatment appears to work well.
- Long-acting IGF-1 options are available, but human studies are limited.
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29:25 Hormonal Regulation of Cholesterol and Health
- Hormone deficiencies can lead to increased cholesterol levels.
- Correcting hormone deficiencies can help lower cholesterol naturally.
- Coffee and alcohol consumption can elevate estrogen levels in men.
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35:06 Desiccated Thyroid vs. T3 or T4 for Thyroid Hormone Replacement
- Desiccated thyroid contains a spectrum of thyroid hormones, including T3 and T4.
- Desiccated thyroid can provide more natural and stable thyroid hormone replacement.
- Classical thyroxine (T4) alone may not be as effective in some cases.
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38:29 Estrogen and Estrogen Blockers for Men
- Men should be cautious about high estrogen levels, which can lead to various issues.
- Blocking estrogen conversion may be necessary in some cases.
- High estrogen in men can result from factors like coffee and alcohol consumption.
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41:51 Capillary Health and the Importance of Dilation
- Capillaries' ability to dilate is essential for overall health and function.
- Warm and cold temperature alternation can help open capillaries and improve circulation.
- Various hormones, including thyroid and estrogen, play roles in capillary health.
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43:38 Injecting hormones for local benefits
- Injecting growth hormone around the eyes can have local benefits, rejuvenating the face and improving eyesight.
- Mesotherapy with small injections around the eyes and face can lead to skin rejuvenation.
- The treatment's effectiveness can vary based on the patient's overall health and nutrition.
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45:43 Possible effects on coronary calcium and arterial aging
- Vitamin K supplementation may have positive effects on calcium deposits in coronary arteries.
- Arterial calcification might not necessarily be a bad thing, as it could be a protective response.
- Some treatments can reverse arterial aging (atherosclerosis), but reversing coronary calcium is more challenging.
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47:04 The role of vasopressin and its effects
- Vasopressin can enhance memory when taken in the morning.
- Vasopressin helps retain water in the body, improving skin quality and reducing the need for frequent urination.
- It can be beneficial for individuals who experience sleep disruptions due to frequent bathroom visits.
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50:23 Testosterone replacement therapy and the importance of age
- Consideration of testosterone replacement therapy after the age of 30, particularly for those who engage in intensive sports.
- The importance of maintaining a balance between hormones.
- The significance of adjusting testosterone doses based on individual body size and muscle mass.
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56:01 Administration and optimization of testosterone
- The preference for transdermal creams, especially in younger patients.
- Recommendations for applying testosterone cream to specific areas, such as the face.
- Frequency and methods of administering testosterone injections for older individuals and athletes.
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59:31 Balancing anabolic hormones and considering rapamycin
- Discussion of rapamycin's potential benefits in small doses and potential issues with high doses.
- The importance of maintaining a balanced hormone profile for overall health.
- How excessive use of anabolic hormones, like testosterone, can lead to imbalances and health issues.
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01:04:42 The significance of cortisol in health and well-being
- The role of cortisol in providing energy, stamina, and resistance to stress.
- The potential consequences of cortisol deficiency and adrenal burnout.
- The need for careful consideration when supplementing with cortisol due to its influence on multiple other hormones.
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01:05:58 Hormone Replacement Therapy and Its Importance
- Dr. Hertoghe discusses various hormones, including DHA, cortisol, aldosterone, and their significance.
- Low cortisol can lead to a range of issues, including negative thinking and paranoia.
- Other hormones like melatonin, 5-HTP, and GABA play a role in improving sleep quality.
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01:09:27 Dosage and Specifics of Cortisol Replacement
- Dr. Hertoghe talks about the dosage of cortisol replacement therapy.
- The absorption rate of natural cortisol and the need for higher doses in some cases.
- Adjusting cortisol dosage for specific situations, like running a marathon.
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01:10:52 Additional Resources and Information on Hormone Replacement
- Dr. Hertoghe mentions his website and clinic for more information and treatment options.
- He highlights his book on testosterone therapy, offering comprehensive guidance on hormone replacement.
- Emphasizes the importance of taking control of your health and happiness through proper hormone management.
Still not convinced that TRT will help you? Check out our top Benefits of TRT.
While Dr. Hertoghe promotes his clinic for hormone therapy needs, we recommend checking out Fountain TRT if you are looking for one of the highest-rated TRT resources. You can check out our full Fountain TRT Review here.
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