Men who stay youthful as they get older — witness Dorian Gray and Benjamin Button — are often portrayed as sinister or unnatural. But we've been telling you, and new research backs us up, that guys can keep their sexual strength well into their 70s and even 80s. Declining testosterone levels are NOT a natural part of aging. Unfortunately, 20 percent of men 60 plus, and 30 percent to 40 percent of men 80 plus, have lowered testosterone levels.

We want you to know how to reap the benefits of normal testosterone levels — strong bones and muscles, a sharp mind, an upbeat attitude and enjoyable intimacy.

Maintain a healthy weight your whole life. That takes regular physical activity, like walking 10,000 steps a day and not sitting down for hours on end. If you have a desk job, walk around every hour or two and don't plop down for an Ice Age on the couch at home. Eat a wide range of colorful veggies and fruits; plenty of lean protein; a moderate intake of monounsaturated fats to help your body absorb veggies' nutrients; no, nada, zilch trans fats; 100 percent whole grains; and no added sugars or sugar syrups. Can you feel the T rising?

Get and stay happy. Depression and the conditions associated with it — including diabetes — depress testosterone. Find a hobby or a job you really care about, think about others and embrace intimate relationships, and you'll extend your longevity and your sex life! You probably don't need pills or creams, just great habits.


© 2012 Michael Roizen, M.D. and Mehmet Oz, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.