The most common solution that comes to mind when looking to treat ED is usually Viagra, however, it has been noticeable by professionals as well as ED patients that generic pills are not only limited to varying and low success rates across the general population, but it also does not seem unique enough for every individual’s sexual lifestyle and lack of performance. With the introduction of the internet, more and more men are looking for natural supplements to boost their sex life and among this list there is a very interesting but usually forgotten theory of zinc supplements and its undeniable impact when zinc is not received in sufficient amounts. It might be quite frustrating to pay a whole lot of attention to zinc intake levels, absorption, as well as possible zinc toxicity; however, can this forgotten supplement be a key to a higher libido, testosterone level maintenance, as well as performance boost?

In order to understand the key concept of supplementation, it is vital to acknowledge the significance of underlying factors when it comes to ED. As discussed in other BMG articles, erectile dysfunction depends a whole lot on underlying conditions, which include but are not limited to low testosterone production, psychological factors, physiological deformities and more. Often, nutrients have been used to help with managing these underlying conditions by providing the necessary elements which are used by the body to transfer, uptake, and transition the required nutrients to a state which the body can use to boost production, regulation, and balance.

Benefits of Zinc Sexually

Zinc is an example of a nutrient which has been put in the spotlight recently, and that is mainly due to its ability to help boost production of testosterone, prolactin, as well as prostate fluids which help greatly during sexual activities [2].

Zinc is a popular mineral which is proven vital for regular physiological functioning, and although it is needed in trace amounts, it plays a significant role in many aspects of the human body’s cellular and molecular functions, ranging from immune system regulation to sexual performance. Zinc is not produced by the body, so it is essential to receive the sufficient amount through diet and supplementation therapy for those deprived of this valuable mineral. Zinc boasts a lot of health benefits such as helping with growth, acute diarrhea, wound repair, blood clot formation, thyroid regulation, as well as keeping the body’s immune system strong, and many more. This article pays significant attention to zinc’s role in sexual health, and its importance in testosterone boosting and prolactin production—two very key sex hormones. A healthy testosterone level is vital for a healthy sexual relationship, as it helps with the sex drive, performance, and erectile dysfunction [2]. Besides helping with testosterone levels, zinc is also found to improve inflammation management by the body and benefits the regulation of treating enlarged prostates. In addition, zinc is believed to help sperm quality, vitality, as well as increased male fertility.

Studies have shown that the recommended dose for adult men is around 11 milligrams of zinc daily. Zinc benefits are many as they are great. However, it is important to note that before jumping on any sort of supplementation therapy, it is always a great idea to speak to a healthcare professional to ensure the right dosage and frequency is achieved. The doctor’s at Boston Medical Group Telemedicine will gladly discuss the rights and wrongs with zinc therapy with patients, allowing them to know what the right amount for their bodies is, and how zinc can be utilized supplementary in their treatment of low-testosterone and ED. It is important to note that zinc may not have a direct impact on erections; however, it’s deficiency can pair well with other underlying conditions, which will directly impact erection and sexual competency. A study also found that zinc improved ejaculatory control for those who suffer from premature ejaculation [3].

Zinc Supplements

The next question is what are some sources of zinc? The most appropriate and effective approach is through diet and eating a balanced portion of foods rich in zinc. Certain foods such as oysters, seeds, rice, almonds, beans, wheat germ, and red meat are good sources of dietary zinc. Other choices besides food would be zinc supplements. Zinc is usually found as the main ingredient of any zinc supplement, or it can be found in multivitamin packages along with other useful minerals. Zinc supplements are available as zinc gluconate, zinc sulfate, or zinc acetate in multivitamins. It is a good idea to look for supplements made specifically for the male body, as these supplements include the recommended dose with each serving, which allows men to receive the sufficient amount. It is always a great idea to speak to a doctor about Zinc supplementation as too much zinc can also play a negative role on your health and cause severe health problems. Zinc toxicity could cause some undesirable side effects such as cramping, nausea, diarrhea, fever, and even loss of muscle coordination, which is definitely something unhelpful especially when it involves a sexual dysfunction like ED.

Erectile dysfunction can have underlying conditions which impacts the overall sex life of an individual; therefore, deficiencies such as low zinc levels could be contributing to erectile dysfunction and low sex drive. A regular diet including appropriate amounts of zinc can possibly play an important role in regaining sexual confidence, boosting testosterone levels, improving sperm quality, and a better performance in the bedroom.

Sources:

1. https://www.healthline.com/health/erectile-dysfunction/zinc#zinc-deficiency
2. https://www.bensnaturalhealth.com/blog/sexual-health/benefits-of-zinc-sexually/
3. https://www.spandidos-publications.com/etm/12/4/2083
4. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/316241#zinc-ED
5. https://www.emedicinehealth.com/ask_what_vitamins_good_for_erectile_dysfunction/article_em.htm
6. https://www.mdlinx.com/article/-is-vitamin-d-the-next-viagra-plus-more-of-your-favorites-in-supplement-and-vitamin-research/lfc-2431
7. https://prostate.net/benefits-of-zinc-for-mens-health/

This Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Fundamentally, telemedicine can allow patients to communicate with healthcare providers using telephonic technology, as opposed to physically visiting a doctor’s office or hospital. With telemedicine, discussions of symptoms, medical issues, and even more can allow a healthcare provider, sometimes even using video in real time, to provide help with email follow-ups, including testing results and reports.

Doctor House Calls Are Back!

Since telephones have become “smart,” along with many desktop & laptop computers, more and more patients are having their doctor visits online. At home, in bed, anywhere! Using telemedicine, you may be able to receive a diagnosis, learn your treatment options, and get a prescription. In cases where it’s necessary, healthcare providers can even monitor readings from medical devices remotely to keep an eye on your condition.

It should be noted Telemedicine is not appropriate methodology for emergency situations, such as heart attacks. Call 911 in case of an emergency.

Types of telemedicine may include:

• Interactive medicine, or “live telemedicine.” Here, physicians and patients communicate in real time.
• Remote patient monitoring, where in caregivers monitor patients who have mobile medical equipment that collects data on things like blood pressure, blood sugar levels, etc.
• Providers can also share a patient’s health information electronically with other healthcare professionals or specialists.

Telemedicine vs. Telehealth

With Telemedicine, a physician in one location uses a telecommunications infrastructure to deliver care to a patient at a distant site.

Telehealth is different from telemedicine in that it refers to a broader scope of remote healthcare services that might include some aspects of telemedicine. Telemedicine refers specifically to remote medical clinical services, while telehealth usually refers to remote non-clinical services, such as providing basic health information, non-prescription services and general healthcare recommendations. It should be noted that these terms are sometimes be used interchangeably. But there is a difference. In short, all telemedicine is telehealth, but not all telehealth is telemedicine.

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines telemedicine as “healing from a distance.” This gives you the freedom to receive treatment without needing to schedule an appointment with your physician to go to their office for medical services.

HealthIT.gov defines telehealth as “the utilization of electronic information and telecommunications technologies to support and promote long-distance clinical healthcare, patient and professional health education, public health and health administration.” Telehealth is not a service. It is a way to improve patient care and physician education. Telehealth expands beyond telemedicine, to cover non-clinical events like appointment scheduling, continuing medical education, and physician training.

How Does Telemedicine Services Work?

The need for more accessible healthcare is a driving force behind the growth of telemedicine. Whether a patient lives in a remote area or has a busy schedule that doesn’t allow time to visit a physician, telemedicine can help improve a person’s overall health and well-being. And it can also help your financial health. Access to a telemedicine provider can reduce the need to visit the emergency room. According to a 2017 study, the average telemedicine visit costs $79. The average doctor’s visit is $149 and the average trip to the emergency room is $1,734.

And as the popularity of telemedicine grows, many health insurance plans are beginning to offer coverage for telemedicine visits. Some states have enacted laws that require health insurance plans to reimburse telemedicine visits at the same rate as in-person doctor visits. Medicaid may also offer reimbursement for telemedicine services as long as they meet all federal requirements and eligibility. It’s best to check with your specific plan’s benefits before using telemedicine to understand your financial obligation.

Does My Doctor Offer Telemedicine Services?

The best way to know if — and to what extent — your current healthcare provider offers telemedicine services is to ask. Your physician’s practice administrator or manager should be able to explain what telemedicine services are offered, as well as the associated costs.

“The Boston Medical Group Telemedicine (BMG), the globally recognized medical practitioner leader in the area of Erectile Dysfunction (ED), proudly unveils its new Telemedicine Division. As part of its comprehensive offering to patients, this enables them to book online sessions from the comfort of their own home.” It was recently announced by Daniel Ha, one of the codevelopers of The Boston Method®, the patented method for diagnosing and treating ED that has been successfully utilized by BMG for over 20 years.

Boston Medical Group Telemedicine is pleased to add the new Telemedicine Center for ED at this critical time of expansion. We continue our efforts to innovate and build our organization to its fullest potential. This new division will successfully complement our growth strategy with a keen focus and commitment to excellence for our valued patients throughout the country.

This new Telemedicine Center for ED, facilitates direct sessions for patients. As such, BMG has further expanded its national footprint. The online Telemedicine portal additionally provides the latest in-depth information on sexual performance solutions and best options for men with ED, discreetly addressing their individual needs and associated issues. BMG’S revolutionary treatments in ED have included: The Boston Method®; Low-T and Regenerative Therapy with exclusively featured BostonPRP, RejuvaPulse Therapies, Cardiovascular Neo-Genesis; and Stem-Cell EVS with Exosomes. For patients who don’t respond to the common ED pills (Viagra/Cialis), BMG also has available a range of combination pills for erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation sourced from a registered FDA 503B compounding pharmacy.

Many patients know the treatment, Rx they are looking to refill. This includes ICP/ED shot refills. Boston Medical Group Telemedicine makes it easy to talk to a doctor via telemedicine to renew prescriptions. You may fill out a request here. Please note, there are certain medical regulations, starting with a simple patient authorization to release records (when moving from one provider to another).

The prostate is normally about the size of a walnut. Once men hit their 50s and beyond it’s very common for their prostate to grow. The prostate gland is located between the bladder and the penis. The prostate is just in front of the rectum. The urethra runs through the center of the prostate, from the bladder to the penis, letting urine flow out of the body. The prostate secretes fluid that nourishes and protects sperm.

“The value of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) for older men is currently a topic of intense debate. While US testosterone prescriptions have tripled in the past decade (9), debate continues over the risks and benefits of TRT.

TRT is currently prescribed for older men with either low serum testosterone (T) or low T plus accompanying symptoms of hypogonadism. The normal range for serum testosterone is 300 to 1,000 ng/dl. Serum (less than) 300 ng/dl is considered to be low, and T (less than) 250 is considered to be… hypogonadism. Most experts support TRT for older men with… hypogonadism and symptoms.

Treatment for men who simply have low T remains somewhat controversial. TRT is most frequently administered by intramuscular (im) injection of long-acting T esters or transdermally via patch or gel preparations and infrequently via oral administration. TRT produces a number of established benefits in hypogonadal men, including increased muscle mass and strength, decreased fat mass, increased bone mineral density, and improved sexual function, and in some cases those benefits are dose dependent. For example, doses of TRT administered by im injection are typically higher than those administered transdermally, which results in greater musculoskeletal benefits. TRT also produces known risks including development of polycythemia (Hct > 50) in 6% of those treated, decrease in HDL, breast tenderness and enlargement, prostate enlargement, increases in serum PSA, and prostate-related events and may cause suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.

“I thought this is just a part of aging. I asked my friends it they felt the same way and some of them said that they had experienced the same issues around the age of 50. One of my friends suggested it might be low testosterone.”

-Boston Medical Group Telemedicine Patient 

Importantly, TRT does not increase the risk of prostate cancer. Putative risks include edema and worsening of sleep apnea. Several recent reports have also indicated that TRT may produce cardiovascular (CV) risks, while others report no risk or even benefit…”

* https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25898953/

Hormone Therapy and Prostate Cancer

It was in the early 1940s when it was discovered the male hormone testosterone can feed the growth of prostate cancer. This can also be further proved by the fact that hormone therapy for prostate cancer is a treatment that stops the male hormone testosterone from being produced or reaching prostate cancer cells. Androgens stimulate prostate cancer cells to grow, and testosterone is one of the two main androgens in the body. And if you’re receiving or thinking of getting hormone replacement therapy, it can be spooky to learn while testosterone is vital to the development of generally masculine characteristics in males, it also stokes the growth of prostate cancer cells. It can even make you worried if might increase your risk of developing prostate cancer.

Research has challenged the link between testosterone and prostate cancer in recent years. While there is still a lot that needs to be studied on whether testosterone therapy is safe for men with a history of prostate cancer, there have been studies that found testosterone treatment does not increase a man’s risk of developing prostate cancer. For example, if a person is diagnosed with prostate cancer while taking testosterone, it’s not a cause-and-effect relationship. In fact, a new study published in European Urology found that men with the lowest levels of testosterone had a 23% reduced risk of developing prostate cancer. While, again, further studies are needed regarding the link between hormone therapy and prostate cancer, existing evidence suggests that testosterone therapy can be safe in some men who not only have low testosterone but have completed prostate cancer treatment and are therefore at lower risk for recurrence.

A Preeminent Medical Expert on TRT & Cancer Risks

“Abraham Morgentaler, MD, explains new concepts that could subvert the long-held belief that high levels of testosterone exacerbate prostate cancer growth. He discusses the androgen saturation model, as well as the benefits of testosterone therapy for patients’ quality of life.

General attitudes in the urologic community have long maintained that high testosterone exacerbates prostate cancer (PCa), low testosterone is protective, and raising testosterone levels in men with PCa will enable tumor growth. However, these assumptions may be flawed.

In the 1940s, Huggins and Hodges found that giving men with bony metastases testosterone caused acid phosphatase levels to rise. They concluded that high testosterone was dangerous for PCa patients. However, this study only reported results for 2 men, one of whom was castrated. This means that the prohibition against T therapy in men with prostate cancer originated from observations in one non-castrated patient. Later, many researchers looked for a link between high testosterone and PCa, but found no conclusive results. However, data does show that low testosterone does not protect men from developing PCa.

One concept subverting this long-standing assumption is a saturation model. This concept dictates that PCa growth is sensitive to variations in testosterone levels at the low levels, but this sensitivity lessens at higher testosterone levels. According to this model, depriving PCa of testosterone can cause tumor death. However, testosterone only exerts a prostatic effect by binding to the androgen receptor (AR). Once serum testosterone concentrations reach maximal androgen-AR binding, or a saturation point, increasing testosterone will not cause tumors to grow.”

** https://grandroundsinurology.com/testosterone-therapy-in-men-with-advanced-prostate-cancer

https://player.vimeo.com/video/340896194

An Oncologist on TRT & Cancer Treatments

“Testosterone is usually viewed as a fuel for prostate cancer. Consequently, most researchers are reluctant to explore it as potential therapy. However, Johns Hopkins cancer researcher, Dr. Samuel Denmeade, took a page right out of cancer’s playbook, and figured out what prostate cancer cells were doing to survive hormonal therapy and then beat them their own game. After prolonged treatment with testosterone-blocking drugs, prostate cancer cells adapted to living with low levels of the hormone by ramping up the activity along with the amount of receptors within the cell surface to suck up every bit of testosterone available.

With prostate cancer cells in this state, adapted to an environment with low levels of testosterone, Denmeade wondered what would happen if he flooded the cancer cells with a short burst of high-dose testosterone, using the hormone like a drug. “If we give testosterone acutely through injection to cause a sharp rise in the hormone, prostate cancer cells won’t like that, and some will die,” says Denmeade. “Prostate cancer cells might be killed by the hormone shock, and the cells that survived would make fewer receptors, making prostate cancer cells vulnerable once again to hormone-lowering therapies.” At first glance, it seems paradoxical to give testosterone to a prostate cancer patient, but Denmeade and Isaacs say this approach is very different from the chronic, ongoing supply of testosterone that naturally occurs in men or testosterone replacement therapy. “It’s pharmacologic testosterone, not physiological testosterone,” says Isaacs.

Prostate cancer cells are not expecting an intense dose of testosterone, and they don’t know that it’s a short burst. Cancer cells that survive will adapt again, this time turning down the activity of those cell surface testosterone receptors. “They will downregulate their receptors at a time when the drug is wearing off, so we will see a period of low testosterone, low receptor, and that’s not good for cancer cells,” says Denmeade. As the cells are continually challenged with these short bursts of testosterone, they are constantly adapting levels of cell surface receptors up and down. “We are taking the cancer cells’ options out of play by making the testosterone levels rise and fall rapidly,” says Denmeade. Denmeade turned the idea in a clinical trial of testosterone as a prostate cancer drug therapy.”

*** https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/articles/testosterone-as-a-drug

Boston Medical Group Telemedicine has TRT Programs

“At first I was skeptical about this whole testosterone idea. I was not prepared for what was in store for me…It has taken some time to get the levels adjusted but there is no denying the effects of testosterone has had a huge positive effect on my life.”

-Boston Medical Group Telemedicine Patient

Testosterone is the key hormone produced by the Leydig cells of the testicles and is responsible for the normal growth and development of male organs and for maintenance of other sexual characteristics. Aside from sexuality, it also contributes to some essential body functions such as embryological development, facial hair development, brain function, body muscle mass, bone strength, red blood cells function and even mood and energy levels.

The range for normal testosterone level is 300-1100 ng/dL. It is optimal for a man to get around 800- 1100 ng/dL. When a man reaches his mid 30’s, production of testosterone declines an estimate of 1% each year – 10% in 10 years or even more. Greater decline in testosterone level can happen due to obesity, infectious diseases, excess of blood iron and inflammatory diseases.

Low testosterone level can post significant health risks and physical limitations such as decreased energy, low libido, decreased mental quickness and depression. If left untreated, it may lead to more serious health problems such as osteoporosis, muscle atrophy, alopecia and erectile dysfunction.

*** http://altiusatcardinia.com.au/?big=low-testosterone

Click here to read Part I: It’s Not Just About Muscles

Click here to read Part II: A Man’s “Time of the Month?”

This Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Do men have hormonal cycles too? Some hormones researchers say no, men don’t cycle. Others say yes, but their cycles are less studied and less dramatic than women’s. Men’s testosterone cycles fluctuate from higher in the morning to lower each evening, and, according to some Australian, Russian and Dutch studies, the hormone level fluctuates seasonally as well, peaking in October and ebbing in April, notes psychologist Jed Diamond, PhD, author of several books on men and hormones.

It’s not clear whether hormones dip and rise over months, as women’s do. Some researchers believe that male hormones vary with the seasons. One study found that testosterone levels of men bottomed out in summer and reached a high in late fall.

Testosterone also declines as men age, and as their levels drop, they experience increases in moodiness and irritability, says Diamond, who in 1977 published the book “Male Menopause,” one of the first U.S. works to raise awareness that, during the midlife period of what he calls “andropause,” men’s hormones change, just as women’s do.
“The whole idea that men show hormonally based changes or change of life has not been studied much in this country, or has been seen as a joke, but in fact there is a lot of research on this happening outside the United States,” says Diamond, a Northern California psychotherapist who most recently published “Mr. Mean: Saving Your Relationship from the Irritable Male Syndrome.” (Vox Novus, 2010).

The complex effects of testosterone, investigators found, depend partly on its conversion in the body to a type of estrogen. The insights will help guide the development of better ways to diagnose and treat men who don’t produce enough natural testosterone.

Testosterone is thought to regulate sex drive (libido), bone mass, fat distribution, muscle mass and strength, and the production of red blood cells and sperm. A small amount of circulating testosterone is converted to estradiol, a form of estrogen. As men age, they often make less testosterone, and so they produce less estradiol as well. Thus, changes often attributed to testosterone deficiency might be partly or entirely due to the accompanying decline in estradiol.

What Science Says About Testosterone

“Testosterone was first used as a clinical drug as early as 1937, but with little understanding of its mechanisms. The hormone is now widely prescribed to men whose bodies naturally produce low levels. But the levels at which testosterone deficiency become medically relevant still aren’t well understood. Normal testosterone production varies widely in men, so it’s difficult to know what levels have medical significance. The hormone’s mechanisms of action are also unclear.”

A team led by Dr. Joel Finkelstein at Massachusetts General Hospital investigated testosterone and estradiol levels in 400 healthy men, 20 to 50 years of age. To control hormone levels, the researchers first gave the participants injections of a drug that suppressed their normal testosterone and estradiol production. The men were randomly assigned to 5 groups that received different amounts (from 0 to 10 grams) of a topical 1% testosterone gel daily for 16 weeks. Half of the participants were also given a drug to block testosterone from being converted to estradiol.

The participants were seen every 4 weeks. Blood was taken to measure hormone levels, and questionnaires were given to assess physical function, health status, vitality, and sexual function. Body fat and muscle measurements were also taken at the beginning and end of the 16 weeks. The study was funded in part by NIH’s National Institute on Aging (NIA) and National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Results appeared in the September 12, 2013, issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.

The researchers found that the dose of testosterone required to produce different effects in the body varied widely. The influence of testosterone and estradiol also differed. As the testosterone gel dose was reduced, the scientists showed, reductions in lean mass, muscle size, and leg-press strength resulted from decreases in testosterone itself. In contrast, increases in body fat were due to the related declines in estradiol. Both testosterone and estradiol levels were associated with libido and erectile function.

This study establishes testosterone levels at which various physiological functions start to become impaired, which may help provide a rationale for determining which men should be treated with testosterone supplements,” Finkelstein says. “But the biggest surprise was that some of the symptoms routinely attributed to testosterone deficiency are actually partially or almost exclusively caused by the decline in estrogens that is an inseparable result of lower testosterone levels.”

The researchers are conducting follow-up clinical trials to address the effects of testosterone replacement both on the measures in this study and others, such as bone and prostate health.”

— by Harrison Wein, Ph.D.

**  https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/understanding-how-testosterone-affects-men#:~:text=Testosterone%20is%20a%20sex%20hormone,red%20blood%20cells%20and%20sperm

Note: The Endocrine Society publishes clinical practice guidelines with recommendations for who should and shouldn’t receive testosterone therapy. See “Endocrine Society recommendations summarized.” For a complete copy of the guidelines, visit https://www.endocrine.org

What A Simple Blood Test Can Reveal

“I was advised to start testosterone treatment due to a low red blood cell count in several blood tests. After testosterone treatments I started to have occasional, spontaneous rigidity (so-to-speak). I also seemed to have more energy and in general, a better mood.”

-Anonymous

Testosterone is the key hormone produced by the Leydig cells of the testicles and is responsible for the normal growth and development of male organs and for maintenance of other sexual characteristics. Aside from sexuality, it also contributes to some essential body functions such as embryological development, facial hair development, brain function, body muscle mass, bone strength, red blood cells function and even mood and energy levels.

The range for normal testosterone level is 300-1100 ng/dL. It is optimal for a man to get around 800- 1100 ng/dL. When a man reaches his mid 30’s, production of testosterone declines an estimate of 1% each year – 10% in 10 years or even more. Greater decline in testosterone level can happen due to obesity, infectious diseases, excess of blood iron and inflammatory diseases.

Low testosterone level can post significant health risks and physical limitations such as decreased energy, low libido, decreased mental quickness and depression. If left untreated, it may lead to more serious health problems such as osteoporosis, muscle atrophy, alopecia and erectile dysfunction. Let us know if you have any questions regarding testosterone or your sexual health.

Click here to read Part I: It’s Not Just About Muscles

Click here to read Part III: The Key to Prostate Health?

*** http://altiusatcardinia.com.au/?big=low-testosterone

This Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Boosting Sexual Desire with Bremetide

Bremetide (BRE-me-tide), also known as Bremelanotide PT 141, is a synthetic peptide hormone used to treat sexual dysfunction in both men and women. In more specific terms, it’s a nonselective agonist that binds to and activates a cellular receptor in the hypothalamus. As it is known that sexual excitement involves neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, to help process sexual stimulation, this hormone treatment may be just the thing to help one experience a fulfilling sex life.

The hypothalamus is a region of the forebrain that controls a multitude of bodily functions including: body temperature, thirst, appetite and weight control, emotions, sleep cycles, blood pressure and heart rate, production of digestive juices, balancing of bodily fluids, and most relevant to our discussion – sex drive.

“It works so well that I felt like I was back in my early 20’s.”

–Michael M.

How was Bremetide Discovered?

Bremetide, the first ever FDA-approved aphrodisiac, was previously found to be a tanning agent after experimenting with its “parent” melanocortin receptor, Melanotan II. After test subjects experienced increased arousal and erections, the aphrodisiac was sold as a treatment for female sexual dysfunction (specifically, to treat Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder), by the name brand Vyleesi. Today, it is used by both men and women to treat sexual dysfunction and low libido.

How is this different?

There are plenty of ED pills and medication that target blood flow to induce erections. Needles, pills, and suctions all can create erections through increasing blood flow to the penis. But let’s think back to when you were young and vibrant. It’s the stimulation from your environment that first got you excited; your body created a chain-reaction from thoughts in the brain to an erection. Bremetide can help men achieve that same kind of excitement through the receptors in your brain.

Furthermore, the common oral medications used to treat male sexual dysfunction, PDE5 inhibitors (phosphodiesterase type 5), oftentimes, result in side effects such as headaches, flushing, and priapism (an erection lasting more than 4 hours). These include Viagra (sildenafil), Cialis (tadalafil), Levitra & Staxyn (vardenafil), and Stendra (avanafil). On the other hand, Bremetide elicits a natural response, and affects one’s sexual arousal. Rather than directly acting on the blood vessels in the penis, Bremetide reacts in the hypothalamus in the brain, which sends signals to the nerves. Your nerves regulate the constriction and flow of blood to the penis to create your erection. Thus, Bremetide is a safe and efficacious alternative for treating male sexual dysfunction, while also helping women increase their level of sexual desire.

“Great treatment as a standalone, it works amazingly well in conjunction with some of the other treatments.”

–Michael M.

Unlike other assumed aphrodisiacs such as ginseng and yohimbine, which depend on placebo effects, Bremetide activates “hypothalamic and limbic emotional structures, the parts that naturally flares when you’re turned on” (Men’s Journal). Some plants, spices, and foods classify as aphrodisiac substances mainly due to their historical contexts. In many cultures, aphrodisiacs were important substances in reassuring reproduction, and their popularity grew as generations after generations passed down knowledge of miracle performance enhancers. Who’s to say if these actually work?

Where can I get Bremetide and what can I expect from it?

Bremetide is available as orals, nasal sprays, and subcutaneous injections. If you are already on a treatment plan with Boston Medical Group Telemedicine, ask us how you can start on Bremetide in conjunction with ICP or Rejuvapulse. While ICP and Rejuvapulse help to boost blood flow, Bremetide will simultaneously increase your sexual appetite. As a secondary effect, Bremetide can help to increase blood flow too. Here’s what you can expect:

• increase in sex drive and sexual desire
• increased sexual frequency
• treatment of erectile dysfunction and impotence
• higher natural energy levels
• relief from lethargy or tiredness

While subcutaneous has been shown to have the highest efficacy, if you are hesitant about using these types of low-invasive injections, you can opt for alternate deliveries via nasal spray or orals.

Bremetide is a BRAND NEW treatment and has been personally pre-evaluated by Regional Manager Mike Moss with BMG. Read his story below:[ps2id id=’testimonial’ target=”/]

“My name is Michael Moss, and yes, I do work for Boston Medical Group Telemedicine, but don’t let yourself believe for one minute that my opinion is any less valid than someone who does not.

I started with BMG when I was 35 years old, and like most men that age, everything was working just fine – if you know what I mean. But with the passage of time, things do begin to start slowing down. As a matter of fact, over 52% of all men will have to deal with it.

I had the opportunity to try this new treatment called Bremetide. I was given all kinds of information about this treatment; and to be honest, I had to read it a few times before I understood it. To me, all the talking in the world does not really matter. All I am concerned with is, DOES IT WORK FOR ME? Well let me tell you this – it really does work. It works so well that I felt like I was back in my early 20’s. Let us just say that when I finally got to sleep, I really slept. And my wife, well, she made me my favorite breakfast in the morning. After more than 35 years of marriage, you know that that does not happen every weekend.

So, if you get the chance, check out Bremetide. Not only is it a great treatment as a standalone, but it also works amazingly well in conjunction with some of the other treatments. You too can feel that youthfulness again. Let’s face it, it’s all about having fun again.”

– Michael Moss

Sources Cited:

1. https://www.mensjournal.com/features/the-libido-drug-20120807/
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31893927/
3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/bremelanotide-subcutaneous-route/side-effects/drg-20466805?p=1
4. https://abcnews.go.com/Nightline/Sex/story?id=2692533&page=1
5. https://northamptonintegrativemedicine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/PT-141-Monograph.pdf

This Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

In short, testosterone is a hormone that helps make a male human, a man. Indeed, it plays a significant role in a man’s body, regulating bone mass, fat distribution, the production of red blood cells and sperm. And yes, it significantly aids in inducing muscle mass and strength development. Not the least, it definitely affects a man’s sex drive – or libido.

As with many bodily functions, testosterone production is a complex process. It’s instrumental in the development of male reproductive tissues such as testes and the prostate gland. It promotes secondary sexual characteristics such as the growth of body hair. In addition, testosterone is involved in an individual’s health and well-being, and in the prevention of osteoporosis. Insufficient levels of testosterone in men may lead to abnormalities including frailty and bone loss.

“I thought this is just a part of aging. I asked my friends if they felt the same way and some of them said that they had experienced the same issues around the age of 50. One of my friends suggested it might be low testosterone as he had the same issue a year before. He recommended that I book an appointment with Boston Medical Group Telemedicine.”

–Anonymous

Testosterone is a steroid that’s biosynthesized in several steps from cholesterol. It’s converted in the liver to inactive metabolites (small molecules). In humans, testosterone is secreted primarily by the testicles of males and, in small amounts, the ovaries of females. Men, on average, have levels of testosterone 7 to 8 times as great as adult females. Daily production is about 20 times greater in men than in females (who are also more sensitive to the hormone).

Testosterone’s Big Role In The Body

Testosterone is the major sex hormone in males and performs some major roles, including:

• Penis and testes development
• Voice deepening during puberty
• Facial and pubic hair starting at puberty and possibly a role in balding
• Muscle size and strength
• Bone growth and strength
• Sex drive (libido)
• Sperm production

Adolescent boys with too little testosterone may have abnormal masculinization. For example, the genitals may not enlarge, facial and body hair may be scant and the voice may not deepen normally.

Testosterone may also help maintain normal mood. There may be other important functions of this hormone that have not yet been discovered.

Signals sent from the brain to the pituitary gland at the base of the brain control the production of testosterone in men. The pituitary gland then relays signals to the testes to produce testosterone. A “feedback loop” closely regulates the amount of hormone in the blood. When testosterone levels rise too high, the brain sends signals to the pituitary to reduce production.

Women Need Testosterone Too

If you thought testosterone was only important in men, you’d be mistaken. Testosterone is produced in the ovaries and adrenal gland. It’s one of several androgens (male sex hormones) in females. These hormones are thought to have important effects on:

• Ovarian function
• Bone strength
• Sexual behavior, including normal libido (although evidence is not conclusive)

The proper balance between testosterone (along with other androgens) and estrogen is important for the ovaries to work normally. While the specifics are uncertain, it’s possible that androgens also play an important role in normal brain function (including mood, sex drive and cognitive function).

https://www.health.harvard.edu/drugs-and-medications/testosterone–what-it-does-and-doesnt-do

Testosterone and Sexual Arousal

Testosterone isn’t the only fuel for a man’s sex drive and performance. But low testosterone can lower your ability to have satisfying sex. Lack of sex drive and erectile dysfunction are sexual problems that can result from low testosterone. If low testosterone is the cause, treating it can help.

“From that point on, I sleep better, I have loads more energy, and my wife tells me I have a new spark in my eyes”

–Anonymous

There’s a rhythm to Testosterone levels, with peaks early each day, regardless of sexual activity. Men do go through hormonal cycles, with testosterone levels tending to peak in the early morning, and diminishing over the course of the day.

Positive correlations exist between orgasm experience in women and testosterone levels where relaxation was a key perception of the experience. There is no correlation between testosterone and men’s perceptions of their orgasm experience, and also no correlation between higher testosterone levels and greater sexual assertiveness in either sex. Sexual arousal and masturbation in women produce small increases in testosterone concentrations. The plasma levels of various steroids significantly increase after masturbation in men and the testosterone levels correlate to those levels. Healthy testosterone levels are important in maintaining fulfilling sex lives in both men and women.

Click here to read Part II: A Man’s “Time of the Month?”

Click here to read Part III: The Key to Prostate Health?

This Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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An underlying condition that increases the risk of erectile dysfunction is high cholesterol. Cholesterol is a lipid or “fat-like” substance that resides in the cells of an individual’s body. Cholesterol is carried through an individual’s blood along with proteins.

There are 2 types of cholesterol:
LDL (low density lipoprotein)
And
HDL (high density lipoprotein) cholesterol

LDL cholesterol is known as “bad” cholesterol; this type of cholesterol can obstruct the walls within the arteries due to development of excess fatty deposits within the blood vessels.

HDL cholesterol is known as “good” cholesterol; HDL takes excess cholesterol and delivers the excess back into the liver.

High cholesterol and low HDL cholesterol can contribute to adverse medical conditions such as heart disease which increases the risk of erectile dysfunction. High cholesterol can affect blood flow within the body which increases the likelihood of erectile dysfunction.

Before we dive more into the correlation between high cholesterol and erectile dysfunction let’s talk about how erections work.

During an erection, chemicals are released (such as nitric oxide) causing the arteries within the penis (corpora cavernosa) to relax resulting in the corpora cavernosa to be filled with blood. This allows the penis to become stiff as well as elongated.

How are Cholesterol and Erectile Dysfunction Related?

High cholesterol impairs blood flow, narrows vessels, and contributes to a higher risk for erectile dysfunction. In addition research articles such as Hypercholesterolemia-induced erectile dysfunction… recognizes that high cholesterol not only increases the risk of erectile dysfunction but also that high cholesterol can induce erectile dysfunction through the increase of oxidative stress, alteration of smooth muscle cell function, and reduction of nitric oxide signaling (US National Library of Medicine, Musicki, et. al). This reveals that high cholesterol causes a reduction in nitric oxide production. The activity to properly release nitric oxide within the bloodstream is needed in order to maintain an erection as the relaxation of penile tissues causes erectile engorgement. In addition, research indicates that high cholesterol causes the impairment of endothelial cells which is attributed to oxidative stress within the corpus cavernosum and can progress erectile dysfunction. The higher an individual’s LDL levels as well as cholesterol are, the more likely it is that they will develop erection dysfunction and in severe cases, can lead to impotence.

High Cholesterol and Blood Flow

The build-up of high levels of LDL cholesterol within the arteries can narrow blood vessels. High cholesterol can result in atherosclerosis (blood vessels that are not able to dilate properly) and a high density buildup of fats within the penile vasculature which can restrict blood flow. High cholesterol resulting in the build-up of cholesterol plaque is one of the leading causes of vasculogenic erectile dysfunction. The pathogenesis of atherosclerosis as well as the build-up of cholesterol involves plaque propagation, which can result in plaque rupture and the impediment of blood flow (US National Library of Medicine, Roy, et. al). The inadequate circulation of blood as well as the narrowing of arteries is a result of arterial plaque or the accumulation of fatty deposits caused by high cholesterol.

The Effects of Cholesterol

High cholesterol can lead to other physical health conditions that can further progress erectile dysfunction. High cholesterol increases the risk of obesity, and heart disease which are correlated with the progression of erectile dysfunction and further increases the risk of erectile dysfunction.

In general, high cholesterol leads to:

• The buildup fatty deposits in the arteries and blood vessels leading the formation of plaques
• Impairment in the dilation of blood vessels
• The narrowing or slowing down of blood flow

This in turn increases the risk of:

• Heart attack
• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Peripheral vascular diseases

This is in addition to the correlation between high cholesterol and the risk of erectile dysfunction.

Reversing Bad Cholesterol

Let’s talk about reducing bad cholesterol!

1.  Eating healthy foods

Changing your diet can reduce cholesterol

• Reducing saturated fat intake: Saturated fats, found in dairy products as well as red meats can increase cholesterol. Decreasing the consumption of saturated fats by limiting red meat and full-fat dairy products can reduce LDL cholesterol — the “bad” cholesterol.
• Eliminating “trans” fatty acids: Trans fats also listed as “partially hydrogenated vegetable oil,” can be used in butter and store-bought foods such as cookies and cakes. Trans fat raises cholesterol levels; eliminating trans fat from your diet through the reduction of unhealthy foods and substitution of healthy alternatives can help to reduce cholesterol level.
• Eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids: Incorporating healthy fatty acids can reduce cholesterol levels and have heart-healthy benefit such as the reduction of blood pressure. Omega-3 fatty acids foods include salmon, nuts, chia seeds, brussel sprouts, flaxseeds and more.
• Increasing soluble fiber intake: Soluble fibers can decrease the absorption of cholesterol into the bloodstream. Soluble fiber can be found in oatmeal, whole grains, avocados, apples, kidney beans, pears and more.

2. Increasing physical activity and exercising

Exercising can help raise HDL (good) cholesterol

Incorporate at minimum 30 minutes of exercise 5 times a week
Or
Engage in vigorous aerobic activities for 20 minutes 3 times a week.

Ways to incorporate daily exercise:

• Take a brisk walk during lunch break
• Ride a bicycle to work
• Play a sport
• Walk on the beach
• Outdoor events with friends
• Hiking in nature

A research study facilitated by Harvard found that just 30 minutes of walking a day was linked to
a 41% drop in risk for erectile dysfunction. (health.harvard.edu)

To stay motivated, find an exercise buddy or join a group!

3. Quit smoking

Quitting smoking improves HDL (good) cholesterol levels

• Find support groups and ask your physician about therapy options
• Upon 3 months of quitting smoking, blood circulation as well as lung function starts to improve and after a year of quitting, the risk of heart disease can be cut in half

4. Engaging in weight loss

Engaging in weight loss – exercise and intake 

• Incorporate more fruits and veggies into your diet
• Avoid sugary drinks such as soda, fast food and overly processed meats
• Incorporate or substitute with low fat foods such as leafy greens, mushrooms, tart cherry juice, ancient grains (like quinoa), legumes and sweet potatoes
• Incorporate more daily activity such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator and engaging in activities such as yoga.

5. Alcohol in moderation

Alcohol in moderation — research indicates that moderate consumption can raise HDL (good) cholesterol

• Too much alcohol can lead to serious health problems such heart failure, stroke and increased blood pressure.
• Research indicates individuals that drink more than three alcoholic drinks in one day, are at high risk of cardiac disease
• Moderation is key if you plan to drink

6. Statins as a treatment option

Statins are prescribed by physicians to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol

• Statins slow the production of cholesterol and block HMG-CoA reductase, a protein the body needs for cholesterol production within the liver.
• Statins inhibit the HMG-CoA reductase protein, allowing for the body to generate more receptors that remove cholesterol from the blood.
• Speak with a physician about Statins as a treatment option for high cholesterol

All of the small changes add up! It’s important to take a multi-faceted approach in the reduction of high levels of cholesterol.

How Can You Prevent High Cholesterol?

It’s important to maintain a healthy cholesterol level. A healthy cholesterol level depends on your level of HDL (good) cholesterol ratio with your level of LDL (bad) cholesterol. It’s essential to take into account risk factors for heart disease, age, activity and current health conditions when considering your healthy cholesterol level.

Healthy life-style changes for the prevention of high cholesterol can include:

• Eating a low sodium diet which emphasizes vegetables, fruits, and whole grains
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Exercising and engaging in daily physical activity
• Managing stress
• Quitting smoking

Boston Medical Group Telemedicine offers a comprehensive set of treatment options for patients with erectile dysfunction stemming from high cholesterol. Boston Medical Group Telemedicine offers treatment options that
won’t interfere with current lipid lowering medications our physicians recommend the best course of treatment for erectile dysfunction after a comprehensive assessment. Give us a call and we can help you set up an appointment today!

This Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

The Relationship between Sleep Apnea and Erectile Dysfunction

Oftentimes, erectile dysfunction and other sexual performance problems have underlying contributing factors. At Boston Medical Group Telemedicine, our focus is to identify these problem areas and their potential influences on overall patient health. Many treatment changes such as diet, exercise, excessive smoking, and alcohol behavior may be recommended. But did you know that your quality of sleep may be a bigger impact on your sex life as well as cause your ED?

Can Sleep Apnea Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

If you have ED, it is highly likely that you may also suffer from sleep apnea. To understand this relationship between sleep disorders and erections, we must first learn what sleep apnea is and how it affects our bodies.

Sleep Apnea is a sleep disorder in which sleep is interrupted because breathing is irregular. Obstructive sleep apnea is a respiratory disease that causes poor sleep, intermittent hypoxia, hypoxia-induced neurological difficulties, hormonal and psychological abnormalities, and insufficient nitric oxide synthesis. Sleep apnea can lead to reduced testosterone levels, which can, in turn, lead to ED; which is common in OSA patients. Erectile dysfunction and sleep apnea share multiple risk factors, including age, obesity, and underlying heart disease.

This could be either caused by blocked airways from relaxed throat muscles or a respiratory problem led by the nervous system. Those with sleep apnea wake up frequently in the night, often with a choke or gasp. A long list of symptoms may include loud snoring, daytime sleepiness, episodes of stopped breathing during sleep, dry mouth, sore throat, high blood pressure, nighttime sweating, mood changes, irritability, limited attention span, nocturia (waking up in the middle of the night to urinate), insomnia, and most importantly, decreased libido.

There are 3 types of sleep apnea:

• Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) – physical blockage of the airway due to relaxed throat muscles.
• Central Sleep Apnea (CSA) – the brain fails to transmit signals to your respiratory system, and is unable to control your breathing.
• Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome (CompSAS) – having both OSA and CSA

Before, OSA is among the least studied risk factors for erectile dysfunction but in recent years researchers have found evidence that men who have obstructive sleep apnea are more likely to have ED, and vice versa. Sleep apnea has been linked to low testosterone, erectile dysfunction, and fatigue. Testosterone is the key hormone responsible for the normal growth and development of male organs. It maintains other sexual characteristics such as libido. Men restore most of their testosterone levels during sleep, as oxygen is needed to produce testosterone so you can imagine how being sleep deprived plays a significant role in testosterone levels and production. If one has irregular breathing because of sleep apnea, we can infer that their testosterone levels are negatively affected by the lack of oxygen supplied during sleep (oxygen deprivation). As testosterone levels decrease, so does men’s libido.

It is also important to note that common symptoms of lack of sleep are irritability, mood changes, and limited attention span, which could put a strain on your day-to-day relationship with your partner. Loud snoring and nocturia are symptoms that would disturb your partner’s rest as well. You may both suffer from sleep deprivation, and increase the likelihood of sexual dysfunction. As you get less sleep, you experience poorer moods and mental health problems. The more exhausted you are, you become less cognizant of your partner’s needs.

What Causes Sleep Apnea?

Most common risk factors for sleep apnea patients:

• Excess weight
• Narrowed airway
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Chronic nasal congestion
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Biological sex (males)
• Family history of sleep apnea
• Asthma

Can You Reverse the Effects of ED Caused by Sleep Apnea?

Because of how important sleep is to sexual health, it is possible that treatments for sleep apnea may also remedy ED. Those with sleep apnea may undergo treatments such as lifestyle changes, weight loss, reducing sedative use, and sleeping on one’s side. More advanced sleep medicine treatments may include Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines, which constantly pushes air to open the airways, and similar Bi-Level Positive Airway Pressure (Bi-PAP) mouthpieces, uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP- the removal of the uvula, tonsils, adenoids, and parts of the soft palate), and mandibular advancement devices (MADs).

Of all these, the Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine is the most used for cases of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome, the main cause of sleep apnea in the world.

What Are Other Effects of Sleep Apnea?

Having sleep apnea can even cause an increased risk of having complications such as:

• Daytime fatigue
• Cardiovascular problems (Hypertension and heart problems)
• Dyspnea (shortness of breath)
• Type 2 diabetes
• Metabolic Syndrome
• Complications w/ medicine and surgery
• Eye problems
• Immune response weakness
• Liver problems
• Sleep-deprived partners and a disrupted intimate relationship
• Insomnia
• Erectile dysfunction

Research finds that having sleep apnea can be a drag on your love life. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to sexual dysfunction in men and women. A recent study that was published in the Journal of Sleep Medicine in 2020 looked at 182 males who were recently diagnosed with sleep apnea and found that roughly 60% of them had a lower sex drive. The study also discovered a link between poor sleep quality and a lack of sexual function (one of the ED symptoms). Your partner’s sex drive may be affected by sleep apnea. If one spouse suffers from sleep apnea, neither partner is likely to enjoy a good night’s sleep.

Other ED Treatment Options

Here at Boston Medical Group Telemedicine, we have an array of non-invasive treatments available to retrieve your erectile function such as oral medication, RejuvaPulse Therapy,  BostonPRP, and Boston ReGen Therapy. These treatment options can help you with your sexual problems due to Erectile Dysfunction.

It is important to note that studies resulted in inconclusive diagnosis’. Although sleep apnea and erectile dysfunction share many common health complications, treating sleep apnea cannot ensure the treatment of erectile dysfunction. If you’re one of the ED patients that have poor sleep quality from sleep apnea and you want to treat it, please seek professional help.

If high blood pressure is the cause of ED, a doctor may prescribe statins or other blood pressure-lowering medications. Losing weight and other lifestyle modifications may also be beneficial. If the cause is due to the use of specific drugs, a doctor may recommend a different prescription that does not induce ED. Counseling or therapy may be beneficial when the cause is emotional or depression.

For more information about Boston Medical Group Telemedicine’s ED treatments, please read here:
Treatment Options (bostonmedicalgroup.com)

This Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Boston Medical Group Telemedicine – The ED and Low T Experts can help! With our customized treatment options, including our shockwave therapy (RejuvaPulse), Platelet-Rich Plasma treatment (BostonPRP), Stem Cell Products (BostonReGen) and other advanced technologies, you can regenerate healthy tissues and blood vessels safely and effectively.
Our doctors will develop a treatment plan specific to your condition and help you overcome your Erectile Dysfunction.

Boston Medical Group Telemedicine can be your secret weapon.