What You Need to Know about Testosterone and Weight Loss

The new year is upon us. With that in mind, It’s time to start working on your resolutions. Weight loss is often at the top of the post-holiday resolution wish list. Did you know that your testosterone levels can have a huge impact on your weight-loss journey? 

Testosterone is a hormone that is most commonly associated with the development of male secondary sexual characteristics. While it is associated with men, it is also found in smaller amounts in women. In addition to this primary role, testosterone has also been shown to play a role in weight loss and gain.

Metabolic Benefits

Because testosterone helps to build muscle mass, it also increases insulin sensitivity which helps to maintain metabolism. Because of this important function, if you suffer from lower levels of testosterone, you are also at risk of becoming obese. It also can contribute to insulin resistance which makes it difficult to properly metabolize carbohydrates, turning them instead, into fat. 

Dieting and Testosterone

While a balanced diet is an important part of weight loss, some diet plans can actually reduce the production of testosterone thereby making it nearly impossible to lose weight. One key reason for this is that many diets restrict fat intake and increase fiber. While reducing bad fats can be beneficial, removing all fat from the diet can sabotage reaching your weight loss goals. Instead, choose a diet that is healthy mix of saturated and monounsaturated fats.  

Muscle Mass and Testosterone

One of the key ways to lose weight is to consume less calories than you burn. While this will help to reduce a few pounds, it also will result in an energy deficit which can lower your testosterone levels. This is because if you are simply trying to lose weight, and are not working to gain muscle, your body will take from both fat and muscle reserves to create the energy that is depleted due to the lack of caloric intake. In order to keep your testosterone levels up, it is crucial to do some sort of resistance or strength training that will continue to build muscle. In addition, it is important to consume protein to help maintain muscles. 

Can testosterone replacement therapy help you with your weight loss resolution? Contact the team at Invigorate Men’s Health to learn more.