Are you aware of the common hormone imbalance in men that can cause weight gain? Once a man gains some weight, the fat cells on his body worsen the hormone problem. It can be difficult to overcome if not recognised and addressed promptly.

Both men and women produce the hormone estrogen, however it is far more abundant in women’s bodies. In men, having too much estrogen in the body can promote weight gain around the torso and lower body. It can impair thyroid function, thus slowing down metabolism. Did you know that fat cells in men can start to behave like ovaries? They take in testosterone, convert it into estrogen, and release that into the circulation. A small amount of weight gain can begin a snowball effect, leading to more and more weight gain because of the negative effects estrogen can have on male metabolism. Estrogen is also present in the environment, and exposure to chemicals plays a significant role in the hormone levels of overweight men. It may also impair a man’s fertility by interfering with sperm production.

The benefits of testosterone in men:

  • Increased muscle mass and improved muscle strength. Testosterone triggers muscle growth and development, and men naturally have a lot more muscle on their bodies than women. This is one reason why men almost always lose weight faster than women and they are less likely to feel the cold weather than women. More muscle means a faster metabolic rate.
  • Stronger bones. Men are far less likely to suffer from osteoporosis than women.
  • Good mood and mental health. Testosterone increases motivation, determination, drive and competitiveness. Men with low testosterone often experience depression and loss of motivation.
  • Better sexual function. Testosterone increases libido and it strengthens erections. Men with a high blood testosterone level generally experience greater sexual satisfaction.

How to boost testosterone and reduce estrogen

Aim to maintain a healthy body weight. Usually, a man’s waist circumference should not be greater than 35 inches. Any more than that indicates there is probably too much fat accumulating around the abdominal organs and inside the liver. If you need to lose weight I recommend you follow my eating plan in my book I Can’t Lose Weight and I Don’t Know Why.

Adding more protein and zinc to your diet helps raise testosterone. Red meat is a rich source of both of those nutrients. Men who increase red meat in their diet can usually achieve a higher blood testosterone level. Red meat contains carnitine, which raises androgen receptor density in the body. That means you get more benefit from the same level of testosterone.

Magnesium helps to increase the strength of erections. Magnesium is a mineral with a calming and relaxing effect on the nervous system. It helps your body to cope with stress and it helps you achieve a deeper, better quality sleep.

Type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance can cause a drastic drop in testosterone in men. If you have type 1 or 2 diabetes, it is critical to try and get your blood sugar level as close to normal as possible. That means having a fasting blood glucose level less than 110mg/dL. Glicemic Balance capsules contain the herbs bitter melon and gymnema, along with the nutrients chromium, lipoic acid and carnitine, which all help maintain a healthy blood sugar. Ideally one capsule can be taken with each meal.

Exercise helps to raise testosterone; muscle strengthening exercise in particular. That means lifting weights or using your own body weight (push ups, lunges, squats).

Reference

The above statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease.