Obese men often have various symptoms of hormonal imbalance. Understand the relationship between obesity and testosterone
Obesity reaches about 1 out of 5 Brazilians, or 19.8% of the population, as demonstrated by Abeso (Brazilian association for the study of obesity and metabolic syndrome). The WHO also estimates that by 2025, 2.3 billion adults worldwide will be overweight, with 700 million people with obesity, that is, with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30.
There are many causes for obesity. It may be the result, for example, of genetic factors, bad eating habits or lack of exercise. In the same way, there are many consequences for the body and health as a whole. Obesity affects men and women in the same way, but men bring a particular burden. This is because it affects in particular on sexuality, on prostate health and male hormones, in particular testosterone.
“In addition to representing significant social and environmental challenges, obesity is associated with a plethora of adverse results for health, including cardiovascular diseases, night apnea, osteoarthritis, increased risk of some tumors and, in men, reduced testosterone levels”, Alert Doctor and endocrinologist Dr. Ronan Araujo.
What is the relationship between obesity and testosterone?
Ronan explains that visceral fat is directly associated with the production of testosterone and vitality. That is, people with more visceral fat tend to have hormonal imbalances and less quality of life.
The expert relates this to the fact that many obese present symptoms of testosterone deficiency, such as a lower physical resistance, reduced muscle mass, sexual disinterest, gynecomastia (increase in men’s breasts), hair reduction and poor sleep quality. These factors can arise independently of age on some occasions.
One of the most plausible explanations for this mechanism is the increase in the conversion of testosterone in estradiol, a process called flavoring, which occurs effectively within adipocytes (fat cells). Both visceral fat and subcutaneous fat are associated with hormonal profile changes in men and women. While Obese women have an excess male hormone, obese men increase their levels of estrogen (female hormones).
Moderate obesity is related to a significant reduction in total testosterone due to the increase in insulin resistance, linked to the bonding glove of the sexual hormone. The most serious image is also associated with low testosterone levels free due to the suppression of the HPT axis (set of reactive interactions that surround the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland and the adrenal gland). In addition, the lack of testosterone leads to an increase in body fat, creating a vicious circle of metabolic problems.
Treatment against obesity and hormonal replacement with testosterone
Treatment of obesity can be done with the diet to lose weight and regular exercise. The remedies indicated by the doctor to help reduce appetite and compulsive foods can help in some cases.
The hormonal replacement with testosterone, for example, regulates the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Testosterone therapy in men with testosterone deficiency causes normalization of the use of glucose and the increase in oxidation of lipids. In addition, hormonal therapy improves erectile function, increases vigor and reduces fatigue, promoting a better availability to exercise, explains the nutrologist.
It is important to highlight that any treatment against obesity should have followed a doctor. The hormonal replacement, for example, can help in weight control, but it is important to be performed under the supervision to guarantee the best possible results. “In addition, the treatment must adapt to the individual needs of each patient, because what works for one person may not work for another. It is important to look for a professional guide to ensure the success of the treatment”, concludes Dr. Ronan Araujo.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
