Does Alcoholic Intake Effect Testosterone Levels
Reputable sources are convinced that the effects of alcohol on testosterone levels are highly negative when alcohol is consumed heavily. Substantial alcoholic intake has a great effect on lowering testosterone levels, according to experts in the field of endocrinology. This is why those who engage in heavy drinking and become intoxicated will most often develop testosterone deficiencies. They may then have difficulty performing sexually, lose their inhibitions and decrease their strength and stamina.
Studies claim that mild to moderate alcohol consumption will not have much of an effect on testosterone levels. However, irresponsible drinking most often will. Those who drink heavily on a daily basis will certainly notice a major decrease in their sexual desire and ability to perform. They may notice that they have a decrease in their ability to keep an erection and they may experience depression and anxiety issues.
Although many people will use alcohol to numb feelings of sadness or anxiety, they may not be aware of the repercussions of alcohol and testosterone levels. Alcohol is not condoned by any medical expert as positive self treatment for personal problems and issues, including emotional distress or physical pain. However, many people will still turn to this testosterone decreasing agent without looking at the long term effects of alcohol use and testosterone levels.
- What are alcohol effects on testosterone levels?
Heavy alcohol consumption will decrease testosterone levels, according to many experts in the medical field and published journal articles. If you are a person who drinks heavily, you will know firsthand that the effects of this habit on your body can be very noticeable. This can include lower sexual libido and the inability to gain or maintain an erection for any long period of time. You may notice you will become sluggish, lethargic and because alcohol is a depressant, it can cause depressed mood.
- How does alcohol and testosterone production relate?
Major alcoholic consumption will decrease the production of testosterone in the testes in a man and in the ovaries in a woman. It will also slow production of testosterone from the adrenal glands in both genders. Studies have suggested that not only does heavy alcoholic consumption decrease testosterone, but it can also increase estrogen in men. This can cause other problems.
In conclusion, it is never wise to be irresponsible with alcoholic intake. Drinking too much can only lead to more problems than one originally had. It will most likely cause low testosterone levels that can lead to even more issues.
An Alcohol Testosterone Study: The Results
There is much alcohol testosterone study related information that has been published in prestigious medical journals. What they all have in common is that they prove that excessive alcohol consumption will cause a decrease in testosterone levels. In other words, alcohol and testosterone levels do not mix well.
- Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD) is a coenzyme that has great power over the production of testosterone within the testes. When too much alcohol is consumed, this will lower the amount of NAD in the body and therefore reduce the production of testosterone.
- Oxidative damage of leydig cells in the testicles can be caused by overconsumption of alcohol. They can destroy testosterone in the scrotum and the testosterone which is already in circulation throughout the body.
- The endorphins called Beta-Opioid Endorphins have an unhelpful effect on testosterone production. When too much alcohol intake stimulates the brain to release the endorphins, they damage testosterone.
- When a man assumes too much alcohol, this can lower testosterone levels and increase estrogen levels. Alcohol has the power to increase the aromatase enzyme which has the main responsibility of converting testosterone into estrogen. This can lead to many problems, including gynecomastia (enlargement of the breasts in men) and other issues.
Learning how alcohol affects testosterone levels may give those who consume too much alcohol a different outlook on how damaging it can be. Sources say that one to two drinks per day can actually increase testosterone levels slightly; however, overconsumption can be extremely detrimental to testosterone levels and how the body functions.
National HRT Staff
Please note that the information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.
- Testosterone increases in men after a low dose of alcohol.Alcohol Clin Exp Res. 2003 Apr;27(4):682-5 Sarkola T1, Eriksson CJ.
- AlcoholTreatment.net
- Male Ultracore Blog
- The effect of alcohol and smoking on testosterone function and aggression in chronic alcoholics Sarkola T, Eriksson CJ Published Online:1 Apr
- Controlled study on the combined effect of alcohol and tobacco smoking on testosterone in alcohol-dependent men MARC WALTER URS GERHARD MANFRED GERLACH HEINZ-GERD WEIJERS JOBST BOENING GERHARD A. WIESBECK