For some men, getting older can be an exciting time where years of hard work culminate into a fun, fruitful transition into retirement. It's a time to cross off bucket-list items and live life to the fullest, without the stress kids or business getting in the way. However, aging is a scary prospect for other men, filled with exhaustion, depression, and inability to perform in the bedroom.
If you're over the age of 40 and have noticed increased irritability and low sex drive, the world is not ending; chances are, you have low testosterone. Fortunately, advances in male health medicine mean you don't have to settle for a lackluster life with low T. If you're among the 39% of men that suffer from hypogonadism, don't lose hope - contact Better Life Age Management Wellness Center to discover the amazing benefits of TRT in Ballantyne, NC.
At Better Life, we help men just like you decide how they want to address the aging process. Will you settle for a slow decline or enjoy a fulfilling, normal life? If you wait too long, the choice will be made for you, and you might not like the results.
At Better Life, we believe you can influence your genetic potential through lifestyle. Whether you want to keep up with your teenagers on the basketball court or rediscover passion with your partner, our team of testosterone replacement therapy experts can show you the way.
Better Life was founded to give men with low testosterone a new lease on life - one that includes less irritability, less body fat, and more energy. If you're ready to look and feel younger, it's time to consider testosterone replacement therapy. Our TRT treatments are safe, effective, and personalized to your body and your goals. That way, you can keep loving life as you age, on your own terms.
For many men, TRT bridges the gap between their old, unsatisfying life and the more vibrant one they experience with hormone therapy. After all, you deserve to be in charge of your health and wellness, especially during middle age and beyond. With Better Life by your side, you have the chance to fight back against low testosterone with tools backed by science and research.
Unlike some other TRT clinics in the Carolinas, we aren't trying to treat our clients like they're on an assembly line. We don't cater to the masses - we help heal men who are serious about reclaiming their lives. Our patients choose Better Life because we:
If you're ready to live a more energetic, youthful life, know that it's never too late or too early to do so. But, how do you know you are a candidate for testosterone replacement therapy? Like most things in life, your body will do its part in letting you know.
Over the years, researchers have discovered that the prevalence of low testosterone in men increases from about 20% of men older than 60 to 50% of men older than 80.
To make matters worse, about 40% of men with high cholesterol and blood pressure levels also have low T. Additionally, about 50% of obese men experience low testosterone. If you fall into any of these categories, you should begin to think about ways to change your life, like diet, exercise, and TRT.
If erectile dysfunction has put a cold blanket over the spark between you and your partner, it's time to make a change. About half of men between 35 and 65 deal with erectile dysfunction and its frustrations daily. Fortunately, at Better Life, we have effective solutions to get you back to a place where spontaneity is welcomed and peak performance is common.
Better Life Carolinas provides the most advanced, non-invasive ED treatments available, like testosterone replacement therapy in Ballantyne, NC. Our TRT treatments have the potential to correct underlying changes in your body instead of just treating symptoms. We feel this approach is a more realistic option rather than taking a pill every time you need to perform. Check out the reviews on our website - Better Life patients with ED couldn't be happier with our treatments.
Testosterone has a role in many body functions, including the production of hair follicles. Many men lose hair and begin balding as they age; however, men with low testosterone can also suffer from loss of body hair. While there is an inherited component to balding, you should be wary of hair loss, especially if hair loss is not common in your bloodline.
Let's be honest here: a man's sex life can be thrown into ruin when they get fat. This is especially true when a man has low T and develops symptoms like gynecomastia or large breasts. Of course, getting fatter means you're looking at a litany of new health problems like high cholesterol and diabetes. It seems like middle-aged men just accept the fact that they're going to get fat. But, it doesn't have to be that way. Men who find themselves developing more fat around their stomachs can correct their testosterone imbalance with TRT from Better Life.
Have you noticed that you feel sluggish, tired, or apathetic on your days off? Men with low testosterone have reported lower energy levels and extreme fatigue, even when not working full time. You might have low T if you're constantly tired despite getting eight hours of sleep or more.
Many men experience changes in concentration, focus, and productivity as they age. Though it's not a serious medical condition, brain fog is usually a symptom of other medical problems, like low testosterone. Men with brain fog experience a lack of mental clarity, problems with memory, lack of focus, and poor concentration. This problem interferes with everyday tasks at work and home, but with hormone therapy, it doesn't have to be an ongoing problem in your life.
Before we dive into the many benefits of testosterone replacement therapy from Better Life, it's important that you understand how TRT works.
Testosterone was initially lab synthesized way back in 1935. Since then, it has been used in clinical settings to help address low test levels. Over the last couple of decades, testosterone has become one of the most common medications in the U.S.
TRT works by restoring healthy testosterone levels in men that suffer from low T. TRT is not too different from insulin needed by diabetics. Essentially, the body lacks a healthy production of a necessary hormone, so it needs to be "replaced" with an exogenous source - in this case, testosterone.
While most men start taking TRT after 50, more men in their 30s and 40s are having their testosterone levels checked at clinics like Better Life Carolinas. If you think you're "too young" to try testosterone replacement therapy but find yourself suffering from symptoms like ED, it wouldn't hurt to have a doctor measure your T levels.
If you're looking for TRT in Ballantyne, NC, it's easy to understand why. Hundreds of thousands of men have reclaimed their vigor and youth with regular testosterone replacement therapy. With Better Help to guide the way, you too can experience the many benefits of TRT.
A healthy heart pumps blood throughout your body, giving organs and muscles the oxygen they need to perform. Testosterone helps red blood cell production through the bone marrow. When you have low T levels, your muscles and organs will often suffer. Low T levels have been attributed to a number of cardiovascular problems, which is cause for concern.
However, a study of 83,000 men found that males whose testosterone levels returned to normal were 36% less likely to experience a stroke 24% less likely to experience a heart attack. This promising sign shows that TRT can actually help keep your heart and blood healthy.
Testosterone plays a crucial role in bone density. Bone mineral density decreases as men get older and T levels drop. This drop in testosterone raises the risk of developing osteoporosis. Strong bones help support your organs and muscles, boosting quality of life and even athletic performance. Research shows that bone density increases with higher doses of TRT. Some clinical trials recently found that testosterone also increases hip and spinal bone density.
One of the most popular reasons why men choose TRT from Better Life Age Management Wellness Center is to enjoy increased libido. Testosterone levels rise in response to sexual activity and arousal. It's well known that men with higher levels of testosterone have more sexual activity. However, older men need more testosterone for healthy erectile function and libido. TRT is often a viable solution for older men who are looking to reignite that special spark with their spouse.
Additional benefits of using TRT can include:
A: Testosterone is a hormone found in both men and women. Also referred to as an androgen, testosterone is a hormone that helps the formation of male body characteristics. Normal testosterone levels for men are between 300 to 1,010 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). As men and women age, they can expect their testosterone levels to decrease naturally. However, conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes and injuries to the testicles can affect T levels. Whether from natural causes or injury, testosterone levels can become abnormally low in some individuals, which is often when TRT is the most helpful.
A: Clinical trials show that TRT is both safe and effective for men with hypogonadism and abnormally low levels of testosterone. When prescribed by a doctor, TRT is very safe so long as there are no external risks present. Clinics like Better Life offer comprehensive health plans that include TRT and other revolutionary treatments to improve quality of life. These treatments are only conducted after rigorous testing to ensure treatment is necessary. However, TRT is not for everyone. Generally speaking, testosterone replacement therapy is not a good idea for people with diabetes, prostate cancer, and cardiovascular diseases.
A: There are several TRT options on the market today, including injections, gels, implants, pills, and patches. After your free consultation and testing, the Better Life team of doctors and specialists will speak with you about the best options for your unique needs.
The days of "living with it" are over. Today, we're able to treat most symptoms of low testosterone with non-surgical, pain-free solutions like TRT in Ballantyne. There's never been a better time to reclaim your life and face the issues preventing you from being the best you.
Better Life offers several customized health plan options catered to your needs. We make it easy to supplement your testosterone treatments with our in-house scans, peptides, pharmaceutical-grade supplements, and IV hydration services. Don't delay - schedule your free consultation today!
843-737-2597The whole city’s exploding now, but the far southern part has been a magnet for people, money, and restaurants since Johnny Harris and Smokey Bissell developed Ballantyne in the early ’90s. Through the decades, dining options have gotten better and more diverse: breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks, and everything in between. —Taylor Bowler14819 Ballantyne Village Way, 16th FloorThis sleek rooftop restaurant serves a range of Asian cuisines, including omakase menus, oysters, maki rolls, A5 W...
The whole city’s exploding now, but the far southern part has been a magnet for people, money, and restaurants since Johnny Harris and Smokey Bissell developed Ballantyne in the early ’90s. Through the decades, dining options have gotten better and more diverse: breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks, and everything in between. —Taylor Bowler
14819 Ballantyne Village Way, 16th Floor
This sleek rooftop restaurant serves a range of Asian cuisines, including omakase menus, oysters, maki rolls, A5 Wagyu, and Tomahawk steak.
14815 Ballantyne Village Way, Ste. 170
The sister restaurant of Copper has contemporary decor and a menu of Indian, Thai, Chinese, and Latin fare.
10000 Ballantyne Commons Parkway
Inside The Ballantyne Hotel, you’ll find Southern-inspired, white-tablecloth dining with ingredients sourced from local farmers.
2127 Ayrsley Town Blvd., Ste. 103
This Steele Creek favorite is modeled after a New York gastropub. It serves burgers, steaks, and sandwiches you can pair with a craft beer—or a Manhattan if you’re feeling fancy.
16646 Hawfield Way Drive
Find comfort food like Spaghetti & House Meatballs and Lasagna or savor some Squid Ink Linguine and a glass of pinot grigio on the patio.
2135 Ayrsley Town Blvd., Ste. C
Play a few rounds of pool, foosball, or yard Yahtzee and celebrate your win with Pretzel Dippers, wings, or sliders.
7417 Waverly Walk Ave.
This member of the Rare Roots Hospitality Group (Dressler’s, Dogwood) is known for thick-cut steaks, modern sides, and craft cocktails.
8410 Rea Road, Ste. 100
This Asian fusion restaurant serves nigiri and sashimi platters, noodle dishes, and a variety of specialty rolls.
7416 Waverly Walk Ave., Ste. H-2
Toscana’s sister restaurant serves rustic Italian fare on white tablecloths in the elegant dining room or on the patio.
7416 Waverly Walk Ave., Ste. H-1A
Enjoy wine by the glass, charcuterie, small shareable plates, or a full dinner at this wine bar and restaurant with additional locations in Dilworth and SouthPark.
9855 Sandy Rock Place, Ste. A
Head here for Eastern-style pulled pork, St. Louis Style Ribs, Grilled Salmon, and a No Pig Sandwich for vegetarians.
15235 John J Delaney Drive, Ste. P
The Pittsburgh-based restaurant serves a Southwest-inspired menu with burgers, entrée salads, street tacos, and barbecue.
11641 Waverly Center Drive, Ste. K2
This Japanese restaurant with a second location in SouthPark serves sushi, hibachi, and Asian-inspired entrées.
8128 Providence Road, Ste. 1200
This upscale gastropub, with locations in South End and Huntersville, is a fun place to grab a burger or lobster roll and linger over a cocktail. Celebrate a special occasion with a steak dinner and splurge on the 7-Layer Chocolate Cake, or come for date night and build your own Artisanal Cheese & Charcuterie spread.
8036 Providence Road, Ste. 900
Feast on jambalaya, po’ boys, fried chicken, and more than 35 varieties of hot sauce in a casual, colorful setting.
8200 Providence Road, Ste. 100
This fast-casual eatery serves over-the-top biscuit creations like its namesake, The Vicious—a fried chicken breast in a jalapeño and cheddar biscuit, smothered in maple sausage gravy, and topped with candied jalapeños, aka “cowboy candy.”
6414 Rea Road, Ste. C2
Owners Barry and Jennifer Horton brought their eat-healthy-and-do-good ethos from California to south Charlotte with this all-vegan, gluten-free, and organic menu.
11212 Providence Road W., Ste. B
Sit at the eight-seat sushi bar to watch the chefs torch specialty rolls and garnish sashimi with edible flowers.
Entrepreneur Robert Russo brings a Philly original to Charlotte“A lot of people like Cheez Whiz and just dump it on,” Robert Russo tells me as our server, Sandy, delivers my cheesesteak with a side of bright yellow cheese sauce. I’ve known Robert for approximately 12 minutes, but I let him order for me because he seems like someone who knows the proper way to eat Philadelphia’s signature sandwich. “You have to drizzle it while it’s still hot, because once it settles, it’s not as good,...
“A lot of people like Cheez Whiz and just dump it on,” Robert Russo tells me as our server, Sandy, delivers my cheesesteak with a side of bright yellow cheese sauce. I’ve known Robert for approximately 12 minutes, but I let him order for me because he seems like someone who knows the proper way to eat Philadelphia’s signature sandwich. “You have to drizzle it while it’s still hot, because once it settles, it’s not as good, and the bread gets soggy,” he says. “That’s the route I go.”
Robert grew up going to Lee’s Hoagie House in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania. (The original location, on Philadelphia’s Cheltenham Avenue, began serving its famous cheesesteaks in 1953.) It became a ritual to stop by the sandwich shop after his soccer games. The Blue Bell location closed two years ago, but 14 others remain open in metropolitan Philly. Now, Robert owns the first Lee’s franchise in North Carolina and only the second outside the Philadelphia area.
He never set out to be a restaurant owner. The 46-year-old is CEO of Independent Advisor Alliance, a Charlotte-based firm that works with more than 250 financial advisers in 25 states. He and his wife, Natalia, are parents to 11-year-old Chase and 9-year-old Tyler. Like their dad, both boys are avid sports fans, and Robert loves to coach their Little League and basketball teams.
Charlotte has been home since 2006, but Robert still cheers for the Philadelphia Eagles. Before his team won its first Super Bowl in 2018, he wanted to find an authentic Philly cheesesteak in Charlotte. “Hoagies and cheesesteaks were just a way of life growing up,” Robert says, “and they go hand-in-hand with cheering on your favorite team.” A Google search revealed a Lee’s Hoagie House in Lake Wylie that had opened the year before. They were willing to franchise in North Carolina, so Robert secured one for Charlotte.
Then COVID hit and delayed the project for more than two years. In early 2022, Robert signed a lease on a space in Old Lancaster Town Center in Ballantyne, steps away from his home and a few miles from his office. He interviewed close to 20 candidates before he hired General Manager Rob Hogya to lead the kitchen. Robert needed someone who shared his vision and could master those authentic Philadelphia flavors. “I run the financials,” he says. “Rob runs everything else.”
They opened in December with little fanfare and have relied on word of mouth to build their customer base. “This is more of a passion project than it is profit-focused,” Robert says. “I want both my boys to grow up coming here and working and going through that process. It’s good for them. Chase comes during football season, and we clear tables and greet people.”
Like the original, Lee’s serves hoagies, cheesesteaks, wings, burgers, and an array of sides like Cheese Bites, Onion Rings, and Old Bay Fries. Hogya spent three days in Philadelphia learning how to sling an authentic cheesesteak and selecting the ingredients he sources from local suppliers. He and Robert also agreed they’d need a special oven to bake their bread daily. “We set it to replicate the humidity levels (in Philadelphia),” Robert says. “It’s like when places bring in New York water for their bagels.”
Lee’s is an anomaly in the stick-to-the-script restaurant franchising world. It allows its franchise owners leeway to make their locations their own. The kids menu includes Chase’s Famous Hot Dog and T’s Sweet Street, named for Tyler. “You’re basically buying their recipes and access to places that will send you the ingredients,” Robert says. “Our only restriction is the amount of meat we can put on a sandwich. So we let you order them ‘The Ballantyne Way’ and double the meat.”
Unlike those narrow, counter-serve eateries in Philadelphia, the Ballantyne location has space for tables, flat-screens, and a self-serve tap wall with beer, wine, and prosecco. The walls are lined with framed jerseys of Robert’s favorite sports teams, like the 76ers, Phillies, Tennessee Volunteers (his alma mater), and Hornets (after 17 years in Charlotte, he’s a fan).
Once I’ve polished off my sandwich, Hogya drops a basket of wings on our table. They’re not on the menu yet; he’s still tinkering with the parmesan-garlic sauce. I grab one for myself (they’re amazing) and offer one to Robert, who shakes his head. “I eat here a lot,” he says with a smile, “so I have to be careful.”
TAYLOR BOWLER is the lifestyle editor.
A second location of Azucar, a Cuban restaurant in Lake Norman, is opening in Ballantyne Village at the end of October.“We’re starting to grow,” co-owner Alex Gutierrez said.His family owned restaurant focusing on modern Cuban cuisine opened in Huntersville in February 2022, and things have taken off from there. They’re also owners of Tacos ...
A second location of Azucar, a Cuban restaurant in Lake Norman, is opening in Ballantyne Village at the end of October.
“We’re starting to grow,” co-owner Alex Gutierrez said.
His family owned restaurant focusing on modern Cuban cuisine opened in Huntersville in February 2022, and things have taken off from there. They’re also owners of Tacos & Tortilla Factory, which has been a hit since the fast-casual spot opened in Huntersville.
Both restaurants have led to happy customers wanting more.
“it’s been pretty good. Our chef is a very well knowleged chef — he’s from Cuba,” Gutierrez said of Azucar. “His vision of having this type of menu is because he believes if Cuba … was able to grow and explore culturally, they’d have this type of cuisine.”
The twists to Azucar’s modern approach include using cauliflower mash instead of rice in its Ropa Nueva take on ropa vieja and gnocchi made with yuca — one of the restaurant’s best sellers. The gnocchi, paired with rolled steak and a blue cheese sauce, is one of Gutierrez’s favorites, as well. Other popular dishes include its braised oxtail Rabo and Cuban rolls.
The restaurant’s new location, tucked between Main Street Coffee and Fiore Cocktails & Tapas in Ballantyne Village, will include a full bar. Look for mojitos, of course, along with sangrias, punchbowls and a Cuba libre.
“We just want them to try new stuff … the roots are traditional, but it’s not the same,” Gutierrez said.
Location: Ballantyne Village, 14825 Ballantyne Village Way, Suite A-150, Charlotte, NC 28277 (opening this fall)
Location: 15906 Old Statesville Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078
Cuisine: Cuban
Instagram: @azucar_cuban
This story was originally published September 7, 2023, 6:00 AM.
There are a variety of events coming up at The Amp and Ballantyne's BackyardCHARLOTTE, N.C. — Ballantyne has tons of great events coming up at The Amp and Ballantyne's Backayard!Live at The AmpEnjoy a local concert every Thursday night in October. Admission is $10 per person; ages 4 and under are free. Tickets are lim...
There are a variety of events coming up at The Amp and Ballantyne's Backyard
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Ballantyne has tons of great events coming up at The Amp and Ballantyne's Backayard!
Live at The Amp
Enjoy a local concert every Thursday night in October. Admission is $10 per person; ages 4 and under are free. Tickets are limited. Walk-ups are not guaranteed admission. Enjoy bites and brews from local vendors during the show. Doors open at 4 p.m.
Das Best Oktoberfest
Celebrate the second annual Oktoberfest event by Drink.Eat.Relax. events in Ballantyne’s Backyard on Saturday, October 21. Sample over 120 beers, wines and Schnapps with food trucks, live music, traditional games and more.
Charlotte Concert Band: Movie Time
Relive the magic of the silver screen with Charlotte Concert Band at The Amp on October 21!
At this FREE family-friendly event, you'll hear over 90 musicians performing favorites from James Bond, Star Trek, The Lion King, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Star Wars and more. Plus, Broadway classics like 'Oklahoma,' 'The King and I,' 'Carousel' and 'The Sound of Music'!
BOOllantyne Halloween Experience
Kick off Halloween weekend at a SPOOKtacular family-friendly experience at The Amp in partnership with Charlotte Is Creative! The event will feature a children’s costume contest, an art scavenger hunt, hands-on creativity booths, roaming characters, DJs and classic spooky shorts.
Picnic blankets and lawn chairs are welcome. Costumes are encouraged. Food truck options, beer and wine will be available on-site for purchase.
Tickets are $10; kids ages 2 and under are free.
Eli Young Band
Country hitmakers Eli Young Band will perform at The Amp on November 11 at 7 p.m. with special guests Matt Stell and The Roads Below.
In honor of Veteran's Day, the concert will support the Wounded Warrior Project. Visit the event's fundraising page to donate and learn more.
Doors open at 6 p.m.Show starts at 7 p.m.
Charlotte Today is a local lifestyle and entertainment show where you'll learn everything about the Queen City with hosts Mia Atkins and Eugene Robinson on WCNC Charlotte live weekdays at 11 a.m.
From what’s trending to local restaurants, events and entertainment, you’ll find it all on this show.
Charlotte Today also features sponsored content by local and national businesses. Are you a business interested in advertising with us? Go to WCNC.com/advertise or call now (214) 977-6001
If you have a question for the Charlotte Today team, feel free to email them at charlottetoday@wcnc.com
Make sure to follow Charlotte Today on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Get to know hosts Mia and Eugene by reading their bio pages and following them on social media.
The large brewery concept in south Charlotte is expected to open in the spring of 2024.MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. — After breaking ground for its construction earlier this year, Olde Mecklenburg Brewery is making progress towards its newest location in Ballantyne. This location will be the largest brewery concept in south Charlotte, ...
The large brewery concept in south Charlotte is expected to open in the spring of 2024.
MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. — After breaking ground for its construction earlier this year, Olde Mecklenburg Brewery is making progress towards its newest location in Ballantyne. This location will be the largest brewery concept in south Charlotte, according to the press release.
There will be almost 14,000 square feet of indoor space, along with a 7,000-square-foot outdoor patio area with views of the Ballantyne development's main street. There will also be a second floor with bar seating, as well as a mezzanine balcony.
For kids, there will be a family zone and playground as a part of their one-acre biergarten.
Construction on the brewery is to be completed in August of this year with an estimated opening in spring 2024.
Click here to sign up for the daily Wake Up Charlotte newsletter.
This construction is part of a redevelopment project: Ballantyne Reimagined. It aims to evolve the Ballantyne area into a high-quality urban community. Construction on Stream Park was completed in 2022 with the goal to open in the summer of 2023 and there are plans to complete the greenway connection by the end of the year.
The Amp, an event space that will be used to hold ticketed and free events, was completed in April. They plan to open in the fall and already have plans to host the punk rock band All Time Low, along with Gym Class Heroes, on Sept. 26, 2023.
Wake Up Charlotte To Go is a daily news and weather podcast you can listen to so you can start your day with the team at Wake Up Charlotte. SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts || Spotify || Stitcher || TuneIn || Google Podcasts
All of WCNC Charlotte's podcasts are free and available for both streaming and download. You can listen now on Android, iPhone, Amazon, and other internet-connected devices. Join us from North Carolina, South Carolina, or on the go anywhere.
Copyright 2024 by Dr. Mickey Barber's Better Life