Weight gain affects men’s testosterone levels adversely and men who become obese experience a fall in this hormone.  This loss of testosterone may vary from mild to severe and can dramatically change the way a man feels and functions. Testosterone is found in far greater amounts in men than women.  It promotes the growth of muscle mass and maintains bone density.  Testosterone also keeps sex drive, motivation, stamina and physical energy at healthy levels.  Testosterone also promotes a positive mood and state of mind. In over weight men the levels of this wellness promoting hormone are often too low with a very negative effect upon their quality of life.

How do testosterone levels become so low in overweight men?

Testosterone levels naturally fall as men age; however they fall a lot more rapidly in overweight men.  Studies conducted at the New England Research Institutes have shown that if a 1.83meter (6 foot 1 inch) tall man gains as little as 13.6kg (30 pounds) he can lose testosterone production from his testicles to the equivalent of ageing 10 years.  Men who experience a traumatic event like the death of their wife experience a similar drop in testosterone. As men age their liver produces higher levels of a protein that binds with testosterone in the bloodstream and inactivates the testosterone.  This means that there is less free and active testosterone in the blood. Fat cells contain an enzyme called aromatase, which converts testosterone into female hormones (estrogens).  Estrogens promote the growth of fatty tissue in the breasts and hips. The more fat cells a man has, the more estrogen his body produces.  In some cases overweight men may experience the growth of breasts – sometimes called “man boobs”, that are a strong indication of Insulin Resistance. This can all be reversed with a low carb eating plan, as found in my book "I Can't Lose Weight!...And I Don't Know Why!" Other important things to improve testosterone levels are regular exercise and a good liver tonic. The liver tonic will help the liver to break down the excess estrogen. Many overweight men experience sleep apnea, a condition linked to snoring, where breathing stops many times throughout the night.  Sleep apnea is known to cause a fall in testosterone levels.

What are the side effects of low testosterone levels in men ?

  • Reduced sex drive
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Mood changes such as depression and anxiety
  • A loss of muscle mass