Testosterone is a hormone that plays many important roles in the human body. In men, testosterone regulates sex drive, boosts muscle mass and strength, improves sexual function and regulates the production of red blood cells and sperm. There are several ways to regulate testosterone levels, including consuming a healthy diet. However, several food types can lower testosterone levels if you consume too much of them. Here are two examples that you should watch out for.

Alcohol

Alcohol has many effects on the body, such as interfering with the brain’s communication pathways and can cause damage to the liver and heart. While one or two drinks every once in a while won’t cause much biological harm, excessive consumption of alcohol may deplete testosterone levels. Heavy consumption of alcohol may lead to elevated levels of the female sex hormone estrogen and increased levels of the stress hormone cortisol, all of which can destroy testosterone. Excessive drinking can also result in poor sleep quality and duration, which can also decrease your body’s ability to produce testosterone.

Trans Fat

Trans fats are present in most frozen, pre-packaged and processed foods because they are easy to use, inexpensive to produce and last a long time. Unfortunately, trans fats are considered the worst type of fat you can consume because it raises your “bad” cholesterol and lowers your “good” cholesterol. Too much trans fat can result in low testosterone levels. According to a study, researchers found that men who consumed the highest amounts of trans fats had 15% lower levels of testosterone than those with the lowest intake. Trans fat also raises cortisol levels, which can decrease testosterone.

Getting started with testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)

It’s important to remember that lower testosterone is natural as you age. Completely cutting these foods out of your diet may help maintain testosterone levels, but it is not guaranteed. Some men may require testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) to feel like their younger, stronger, healthier selves. ReEnvisionMD utilizes a comprehensive approach to men’s sexual health. In addition to TRT, we provide complete wellness coaching through lifestyle changes to help increase testosterone naturally. If you believe you may have low testosterone or are interested in increasing your testosterone levels, contact us today to get started.