By Dr. Gopinath S. Sunil –
As men age, we tend to experience a series of common issues. The “spare tire” around our mid-section, hair loss, and a decrease in sex drive to name a few. What is the common thread in all of these little presents that Father Time has given us? Hormones.
First, our thyroid is probably one of the most important pieces to our hormonal puzzle. What is the thyroid? The thyroid is a gland that is found below our Adam’s apple at the base of the neck. It is butterfly-shaped with the two “wings” hugging the sides of one’s windpipe and, not surprisingly, it can actually affect the quality of your voice. Its hormonal secretions also influence growth, body temperature, and metabolism. A slower metabolism is one of the leading causes of that extra weight that seems so hard to lose. As our thyroid produces less of these hormones, our bodies can’t seem to keep up with our caloric intake.
Obesity, Diabetes, and even high blood pressure have all been linked to low testosterone. There are still varying opinions on why the link exists, but the connections are undeniable. Recently, research has uncovered something fascinating when it comes to the relationship between low testosterone and these conditions. One group studied over two thousand men over the age of 45 and determined that certain associations appeared to exist. They discovered that if their subjects suffered from obesity or diabetes, their chances of having low testosterone increased more than 200%.
The fact is that growing older can be challenging. However, once it has been determined that a hormonal imbalance exists and is treated, it becomes more likely that we can halt or at least slow the progression of these disorders. Many researchers have ascertained that, by taking testosterone supplements, the subjects’ libidos improved significantly. Thyroid treatments have also been shown to help with some of these conditions; such as, weight management.
If you have any questions regarding the role of hormones and their connection to Diabetes, weight gain, or any of the other challenges related to aging males, you can contact Dr Gopinath Sunil at (321) 325-1111. He is the medical director for The Gland Center located at 11181 Health Park Blvd, Suite 3050 in Naples.
Gopinath Sunil, M.D.
Graduated in medicine from India (University of Kerala) 1987
Post graduate diplomate in Reproductive Endocrinology – University of Geneva, Switzerland, 1991
Research Associate in Reproductive Endocrinology, Stanford University, CA
Residency in internal medicine, Mayo Clinic and Maricopa County Hospital, Phoenix, AZ
Fellowship in Endocrinology, Diabetes and metabolism – University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
Consultant, Endocrinology – Cleveland Clinic, Naples, FL 2001-2003
Chief of Endocrinology, Physicians Regional Medical Center 2003-2007
Medical Director, Arizona Endocrinology & Diabetes, Scottsdale, AZ
Appointments: Member, Nutrition committee, American Association of Clinical Endocrinology (2011 – current)
Research: Obesity, Diabetes, thyroid disorders.
Dr. Cheryl Robinson
Graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma with a Degree in Dietetics and Nutrition & a minor in Chemistry. President of the
Chemistry Club.
Graduated From the Advanced Practice Program (AP4) from Oklahoma State University.
Residency at Mercy Hospital in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Graduated from Oklahoma State University with a Master’s in Public Health Care Administration.
Graduated with a Doctorate in Human and Environmental Science from Oklahoma State University.
Registered Dietitian and recognized by (CDR)
Certified Diabetes Educator and recognized by (AADE)
Active Member with the American Dietetic Association (ADA)
American Diabetes Association (ADA)
American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE)
National Kidney Foundation (NKF)
Research: (PCOD) Polycystic Ovarian Disease in Type II Diabetes.
Beta Cell transplant in the Type 1 Diabetic
Diabetes, Obesity, Renal Disease