Guest Expert: Dr. Colleen Hartwick, Naturopathic Doctor

In recognition of Men’s Health Awareness Month, this compelling episode of The Tonic dives deep into a growing—and frequently overlooked health crisis: low testosterone in younger men. Hosted on Zoomer Radio and featuring special guest Dr. Colleen Hartwick, a leading naturopathic doctor specializing in male hormonal health, this conversation brings clarity to a complex issue affecting millions.

Once thought to be an age-related concern, low testosterone is now being seen in men in their 20s, 30s, and 40s. These are levels previously seen in 60 and 70 year olds. Dr. Hartwick shares her clinical insights into why this trend is accelerating—and what natural and lifestyle-based strategies can help correct the imbalance. She enlighten listeners on how sex hormones affect neurotransmitters such as dopamine which lend motivation and vigour to a man’s constitution.

🎯 Key Topics Covered:

• The biological role of testosterone in libido, energy, mental health, muscle mass, and metabolism
• The surprising link between testosterone and dopamine, motivation, and mental well-being
• Common causes of low testosterone in younger men, including:
• Chronic stress
• Poor sleep and sleep apnea
• Sedentary lifestyles
• Excess body fat and aromatization, the process where white body fat turns testosterone into estrogen.
• Endocrine-disrupting toxins in plastics and personal care products, even fragrances can contain hormone disrupting compounds.
• Alcohol overuse and dietary deficiencies

Dr. Hartwick breaks down the most reliable testing methods, including total testosterone, free testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), and cortisol levels—to help men get a clearer picture of what’s going on hormonally. She also highlights common symptoms men shouldn’t ignore, low libido, fatigue, loss of muscle mass, belly fat gain, lack of concentration, and depression-like mood drops. She stresses the fact there is a natural age related decline in testosterone measuring approximately 1% annually.

🏋️‍♂️ Natural Ways to Boost Testosterone:

• Prioritize sleep—your hormone cycle depends on it
• Lift weights & strength train—build muscle to trigger hormone release
• Engage in friendly competition—even a game night or debate can spark hormonal upticks
• Reduce alcohol and avoid xenoestrogens in plastics and body care
• Eat a testosterone-boosting diet:
• Healthy fats: avocado, olive oil, nuts & seeds
• Crucial minerals: zinc (pumpkin seeds, oysters), magnesium (dark chocolate), Vitamin D
• Cruciferous vegetables: broccoli, kale, cauliflower to balance estrogen
• Supplement strategically under professional guidance, with:
• Zinc, Vitamin D, Magnesium, Omega-3s
• Herbal adaptogens like ashwagandha, rhodiola, fenugreek, and Tongkat Ali

✅ First Steps If You Suspect Low Testosterone:

Dr. Hartwick emphasizes that if you suspect your testosterone is low, the first step is getting tested. SHBG is among the most important markers to get tested as it tends to gobble up free testosterone. In the meantime, two key changes you can make today are: get better sleep and strength training, lift something heavy! Moderation of alcohol consumption is also suggested as it contributes to channeling testosterone down an estrogen pathway. She also touches on the importance of incorporating healthy fats into your diet to supply testosterone building blocks.

🔍 Why This Episode Matters:

In a culture which often discourages men from seeking help, this episode encourages proactive care and highlights how hormonal health is foundational to quality of life, productivity, and emotional well-being. Whether you're a man experiencing symptoms or someone who supports one, this episode is a must-listen. She encourages visiting a health care practitioner as a great first step for digging a little deeper and getting some testing done to see where you stand.

🔗 Listen now and share this episode to raise awareness about low testosterone in younger men—and help normalize the conversation around men’s hormonal health.