Testosterone Deficiency Related to Weight Gain in Men

Testosterone, a sex hormone that is found in both men and women, but that is primarily responsible for male sexual function and development, and has a number of overall health and wellbeing roles, as well.  Deficiencies in this hormone can occur as a result of a congenital issue, certain types of illness or medical condition, or simply as a result of age.  Most men will find that their testosterone levels begin to decline at around the age of forty.  Along with a decrease in this hormone comes a decline in the libido, a greater risk of depression or anxiety, and an increased amount of abdominal fat as muscle tone shrinks.

Some have compared this experience to the female menopause, calling it “andropause”.  Though the organ that produces testosterone doesn’t entirely shut down, as is the case in women, and the differences and changes aren’t quite as dramatic, there are still a number of challenges that must be faced by men as a result.  These problems can be difficult enough physically, sexually, and emotionally that they cause many men to consult their doctors to help to overcome the deficiency.

One of the most important issues that occur as a result of testosterone deficiency is the increased fat on the body.  When the levels of this hormone are too low, there is a much greater chance of weight gain and a higher body mass index (BMI).  This can lead an individual to become overweight or even obese, and place him at risk of many other related conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or even some cancers.

The reason that testosterone can cause men to gain weight when its levels are too low are that the hormone has an impact on many different parts of the body, including the distribution of fat, and the overall weight maintenance of the body.  The “pot belly” or “beer belly” look is often associated with declining levels of testosterone. 

Testosterone is also important to the way that cholesterol is metabolized.  Therefore, when the hormones levels are lower, the metabolic rate falls, meaning that fewer calories can have a greater impact on weight.

If low testosterone levels have caused weight gain, there are many therapies and techniques that can be easily and naturally worked into the daily lifestyle to make sure that the weight can be properly maintained, and that any excess fat can be lost so that it won’t lead to additional health problems.