Testosterone is usually produced in the testes and is in charge of most typical male characteristics. Additionally, the testosterone hormone promotes the growth of muscles in men and women. Most men have a lot of testosterone, but some are deficient in this hormone, and it’s important to keep in mind that every supplement works differently.
A testosterone deficit can lead to too much fat gain. Continue reading to understand better how increasing testosterone levels and weight loss are connected.
Testosterone Deficiency Could Result in Gaining Weight
As mentioned, testosterone plays a role in muscle growth. It can also prevent gaining fat. That’s why men who are deficient in this hormone tend to gain more fat easily compared to others.
Fat tissue burns fewer calories compared to muscles. Therefore, a lack of muscle can result in excessive storage of calories in the form of fat. Many researchers also think that low muscle mass is the main reason why testosterone deficiency results in gaining weight for men.
How Is Obesity Connected with Low Levels of Testosterone?
Obese men have 30% lower testosterone levels compared to men who have normal weight on average. More than 70% of severely obese men have hypogonadism or deficiency in testosterone.
Experts aren’t sure why testosterone levels are lower in men who suffer from obesity. But most studies indicate that too much belly fat can affect testosterone levels negatively. Fortunately, this can be managed by losing weight.
The Effects of Testosterone Supplements on Weight Loss
If you have low testosterone levels, there are several things that you can do to boost them. This includes eating healthily, getting enough sleep, exercising, getting therapy, and taking testosterone supplements.
Generally, testosterone supplements can help alleviate the symptoms of testosterone deficiency, including reduced sex drive, erectile dysfunction, loss of muscle growth, reduced ejaculation, and more.
Here are different types of testosterone supplements that can help with weight loss.
Illicit Anabolic Steroids
Anabolic steroid is a collective term for synthetic steroids associated with testosterone. Some bodybuilders abuse this to boost their muscle growth and testosterone level above normal levels. It’s important to take note that abuse of these supplements is illegal in most countries, such as the US.
Men who don’t have issues with their testosterone levels shouldn’t take them since misuse of this in the long term can have adverse effects. This includes liver problems, heart disease, sexual dysfunction, and aggressive behavior.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy
This approach is legally used in treating hypogonadism and other medical issues. It can be given in the form of supplements, creams, injections, or skin patches. Some evidence shows that testosterone replacement therapy can aid in weight loss for obese patients who are testosterone-deficient.
In a study done for 56 weeks in 100 obese male participants on a limited caloric diet, it was discovered that the injected form of the therapy aided a 6.4-pound weight loss compared to those who didn’t have the injection. It prompted a notable muscle recovery and the number of calories burned.
Testosterone Boosters
Testosterone boosters are known as natural supplements since they boost the production of testosterone naturally in the body. These don’t have testosterone and are usually derived from plants. Though most of the claims for these supplements are not backed up by research, some are believed to lessen body mass.
Finally
Now you better understand the connection between boosting testosterone levels and gaining weight. It’s best to consult a health professional if you think you’re deficient in this hormone. Nevertheless, you can try boosting testosterone levels by losing weight, getting quality sleep, taking testosterone boosters, and doing strength exercises.
