Viking Alternative Medicine: Natural Approaches to Testosterone

Last Updated: OCTOBER 2023

Low serum testosterone levels are associated with increased all-cause mortality. Men with total testosterone levels below 250 ng/dL had a significantly increased risk of death from all causes and cardiovascular causes over an 18-year follow-up period, demonstrating an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.83 (95% CI 1.10–3.04) for all-cause mortality compared to those with levels >500 ng/dL, as reported in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism in 2014 [1]. This data underscores that TRT isn’t just about symptom relief; it’s about robust health outcomes. For men seeking to optimize their health beyond just addressing deficiencies, clinics like Viking Alternative Medicine offer comprehensive, performance-oriented hormone therapy and peptide protocols designed for a holistic approach to well-being.

Viking Alternative Medicine: A Performance-Oriented Approach to TRT

Viking Alternative Medicine distinguishes itself by focusing on a “performance protocol” rather than merely symptom management. This approach integrates Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) with advanced peptide therapy, weight management strategies, and nutritional guidance, all under physician oversight. It’s geared towards individuals who appreciate a well-designed experience and demand more than a basic prescription. They aim for optimal health, not just acceptable levels.

Beyond the Baseline: Challenging Outdated Standards

The conventional lower bound for “normal” testosterone, often cited around 264–300 ng/dL, is frequently misleading. This threshold was largely calibrated from a 1970s population that included a significant number of sick and elderly men, skewing what constitutes a healthy young male reference range. Many men experience debilitating symptoms of low testosterone well above these outdated thresholds. A truly optimal range for total testosterone on TRT often sits between 600–1000 ng/dL, with free testosterone typically in the 15–25 pg/mL range, reflecting robust endocrine function and symptomatic relief. Viking Alternative Medicine’s philosophy aligns with this progressive understanding, aiming for optimization rather than just ‘normalizing’ against a flawed standard.

Comprehensive TRT Protocols at Viking Alternative Medicine

Viking Alternative Medicine offers individualized protocols using a range of medications to achieve comprehensive hormonal balance. Their focus is on ensuring all aspects of male endocrine health are addressed.

Testosterone Cypionate and Enanthate

These are the most common forms of injectable testosterone due to their long half-life, allowing for less frequent injections.

• Typical Dosing: Protocols often start in the range of 100–200mg testosterone cypionate or enanthate per week.
• Administration: This dosage is typically divided into two or three subcutaneous or intramuscular injections per week (e.g., 50–100mg twice weekly) to maintain stable serum testosterone levels and minimize peak-and-trough fluctuations.
• Goal: To achieve total testosterone levels consistently between 600–1000 ng/dL, with corresponding optimal free testosterone and symptom resolution.

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG)

HCG is a crucial component for many men on TRT, especially those concerned with testicular atrophy or fertility. It mimics Luteinizing Hormone (LH), stimulating the testes to produce their own testosterone and maintain size.

• Typical Dosing: Common HCG protocols involve 500–1000 IU per week, usually divided into two or three injections (e.g., 250–500 IU twice weekly).
• Benefits: Preserves testicular function and size, and helps maintain endogenous testosterone production, which can simplify post-cycle therapy if TRT is ever discontinued.

Aromatase Inhibitors (AIs) - Anastrozole

While not always necessary, anastrozole may be prescribed to manage elevated estradiol (E2) levels, which can sometimes occur as testosterone converts to estrogen in the body. However, the emphasis is on judicious use.

• Dosing: If needed, a conservative approach is taken, often starting with 0.25–0.5mg anastrozole once or twice weekly. Overuse of AIs can crash E2, leading to joint pain, libido issues, and mood disturbances.
• Monitoring: E2 levels are carefully monitored, with an optimal range on TRT typically falling between 20–40 pg/mL. Symptoms of high E2 (e.g., water retention, gynecomastia, emotional sensitivity) guide treatment decisions alongside lab values. As Dr. Abraham Morgentaler states in his paper “Testosterone and the Heart” (2007), “Optimal estradiol levels are important for bone, brain, and cardiovascular health. Lowering estradiol too much can be detrimental.” [2] This emphasizes the nuanced approach required.

Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) - Enclomiphene

Enclomiphene is a newer option, particularly for men with secondary hypogonadism who wish to preserve fertility or avoid exogenous testosterone injections initially.

• Mechanism: It works by blocking estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus and pituitary, leading to increased release of LH and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH), thereby stimulating natural testosterone production in the testes.
• Dosing: Typical dosages range from 12.5–25mg daily or every other day.
• Benefits: Maintains endogenous testosterone production and fertility, avoiding direct testosterone administration. It can also be used in conjunction with lower doses of exogenous testosterone in specific protocols to optimize fertility or maintain endogenous production.

Optimized Lab Monitoring & Target Ranges

Effective TRT requires rigorous and intelligent lab monitoring. Viking Alternative Medicine focuses on a comprehensive panel to ensure not just symptom improvement but overall health and safety.