Since 1975, did you know that we’ve seen a three-fold increase in worldwide obesity rates?

Four years ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that out of the 1.9 billion overweight adults aged 18+, 650 million were obese; within this number, 11% of men were obese.

It’s true that the primary cause of obesity is the imbalance between the calories consumed versus calories burned, but it’s also critical to know the other causes of obesity. In fact, research suggests that there is a relationship between low testosterone and obesity. The exact mechanism by how testosterone can cause a change in weight is unknown, though professionals say that low testosterone levels result in a decrease in muscle mass.

Unfortunately, testosterone levels decrease with age. This usually occurs when men reach roughly 40 years old. For this reason, adult men diagnosed with testosterone deficiency may want to learn more about testosterone replacement therapy.

Can Testosterone Replacement Therapy Help You Lose Weight?

If you’re experiencing signs and symptoms associated with testosterone deficiency, and blood tests have confirmed low testosterone levels, you may be a candidate for testosterone therapy.

While the main goal is to regain or maintain the highest quality of life, this therapy may also help prevent major illnesses and assist in fat loss. Researchers from the Boston University School of Medicine tested this link between weight loss and obesity. In their journal “Testosterone and weight loss: the evidence”, they noted that long-term testosterone therapy in men with testosterone deficiency produced significant and sustained weight loss. Besides marked reduction in waist circumference, results showed BMI reduction and improvement in body composition.

Other Benefits of Testosterone Replacement Therapy for Men

The body’s ability for fat metabolism is not the only thing that declines as we age. Adult men also lose the ability to maintain stronger bones, experience reduced sexual function, and more. Testosterone replacement therapy may help to alleviate these problems, especially if the cause is decreased testosterone levels. With that, here are some of the benefits that may arise from testosterone replacement therapy for men:

1. May improve bone strength

Bone density has been linked to low levels of testosterone. As men age, the risk for osteoporosis and weak, brittle bones also rises. The National Institutes of Health (Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases) categorized this type of osteoporosis as secondary osteoporosis. Research shows that bone mineral density increases with increased testosterone levels. However, further research is warranted to determine all of its benefits, including possible side effects.

2. Has been shown to improve libido

Recent studies have explained the role of testosterone replacement therapy on erectile function and improved libido. In research published in the Endocrine Society’s Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, it was noted that men who underwent testosterone therapy demonstrated consistent improvement in libido. This improved libido was measured in terms of sexual activity measurements, including nighttime erections, masturbation, and intercourse frequency.

3. Found to help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease

In a study published in The Journal of Neuroscience, testosterone-based hormone therapy was shown to be useful in the prevention and management of Alzheimer’s disease in adult men. Although the experiment tested mice as subjects, it contributed valuable information to help us understand the benefits of hormones in Alzheimer’s disease. 

4. Testosterone replacement therapy may boost serotonin levels

Some studies have shown that as testosterone levels drop, they are more likely to cause depressive symptoms. However, as a neuroactive hormone, testosterone may reverse these effects and influence mood. But how?

Testosterone can boost the production of serotonin (known as the “happy” hormone). In a randomized placebo-controlled trial, it was noted that men with low testosterone levels reported improved mood. Also, researchers found that fatigue and irritability were reduced after testosterone replacement therapy.

Next Steps

Is testosterone replacement therapy right for you? Please contact Toronto Functional Medicine Centre to learn more about this treatment. We offer a fully integrative and functional medicinal program to patients. Our testosterone replacement therapy program is designed to help men balance testosterone to optimal levels. Click here to book your appointment today.

 

References

“Obesity and Overweight” by the World Health Organization (WHO), posted on February 16, 2018, viewed on February 25, 2020.

Rizk PJ, Kohn TP, Pastuszak AW, Khera M. Testosterone therapy improves erectile function and libido in hypogonadal men. Curr Opin Urol. 2017;27(6):511–515. doi:10.1097/MOU.0000000000000442

Spitzer M, Basaria S, Travison TG, Davda MN, DeRogatis L, Bhasin S. The effect of testosterone on mood and well-being in men with erectile dysfunction in a randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Andrology. 2013;1(3):475–482. doi:10.1111/j.2047-2927.2013.00075.x

“Testosterone, Aging, and the Mind” by Harvard Men’s Health Watch, Harvard Health Publishing, posted on January 28, viewed on February 25, 2020.

“Testosterone therapy may prevent Alzheimer’s Disease”, news released on December 20, 2006 and viewed on February 25, 2020. 

Traish AM. Testosterone and weight loss: the evidence. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes. 2014;21(5):313–322. doi:10.1097/MED.0000000000000086

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