Obese men often show different symptoms of hormonal imbalance. Understand the relationship between obesity and testosterone
Obesity affects about 1 in 5 Brazilians, or 19.8% of the population, as shown by data from Abeso (Brazilian Association for the Study of Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome). WHO also estimates that, in 2025, 2.3 billion adults worldwide will be overweight, with 700 million individuals with obesity, i.e. with a body mass index (BMI) above 30.
There are many causes for obesity. It can be the result, for example, of genetic factors, poor eating habits or lack of exercise. Likewise, there are many consequences for the body and health as a whole. Obesity affects men and women equally, but men carry a particular burden. This is because it has a particular impact on sexuality, prostate health and male hormones, especially testosterone.
“In addition to posing significant social and environmental challenges, obesity is associated with a myriad of adverse health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, increased risk of some cancers, and, in men, decreased levels of testosterone,” warns nutritionist and endocrinologist Dr. Ronan Araujo.
What is the relationship between obesity and testosterone?
Ronan explains that visceral fat is directly associated with testosterone production and vitality. That is, people with higher amounts of visceral fat tend to have hormonal imbalances and a lower quality of life.
The expert links this to the fact that many obese people have symptoms of testosterone deficiency, such as lower physical endurance, decreased muscle mass, sexual disinterest, gynecomastia (breast enlargement in men), hair loss and poor sleep quality. These factors can arise regardless of age on some occasions.
One of the most plausible explanations for this mechanism is the increased conversion of testosterone to estradiol, a process called aromatization, which actually takes place inside adipocytes (fat cells). Both visceral fat and subcutaneous fat are associated with changes in hormone profile in men and women. While obese women have excess male hormones, obese men have increased levels of estrogen (female hormone).
Moderate obesity is related to a significant decrease in total testosterone due to increased resistance to insulin, linked to sex hormone binding globulin. The more severe condition is also associated with low free testosterone levels due to suppression of the HPT axis (set of reactive interactions involving the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal gland). Furthermore, testosterone deficiency leads to an increase in body fat, creating a vicious cycle of metabolic problems.
Treatment of obesity and hormone replacement with testosterone
Treatment of obesity can be done with a diet to lose weight and regular exercise. Medications prescribed by your doctor to help reduce cravings and binge eating may help in some cases.
Hormonal replacement with testosterone, for example, regulates the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Testosterone therapy in men with testosterone deficiency leads to normalization of glucose utilization and increased lipid oxidation. In addition, hormone therapy improves erectile function, increases vigor and reduces fatigue, promoting a better willingness to exercise, explains the nutritionist.
Importantly, any obesity treatment must have a medical follow-up. Hormone replacement, for example, can help with weight control, but it’s important that it’s done under supervision to ensure the best possible results. “Furthermore, treatment must be tailored to each patient’s individual needs, as what works for one person may not work for another. It is important to seek professional guidance to ensure treatment success,” concludes Dr. Ronan Araujo.
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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.
