Testosterone is a male sex hormone that promotes the development of male physical and mental features in the body. It is secreted mainly by testes (male sex gonads), in small amounts by ovaries (female sex gonads) and adrenal glands. It remains in both males and females both in different levels. Its normal levels in males range from 300-1000 nanograms per deciliter. If its levels drop in males, it causes hypogonadism in males which interferes with the normal masculine development in males. Consumption of certain food may drop the levels of testosterone in the males and is discussed below.
Which Foods Kill Testosterone?
The foods that can kill testosterone are-
Soy – a type of phytoestrogen named as isoflavones is found in soybeans and soy products. Isoflavones increase the level of estrogen in the body, which inversely lowers the testosterone levels. Soy products also have the potential to invariably increase the levels of cortisol (stress hormone) in the body. Many scientific studies reveal that soy reduces sperm count by reducing testosterone.
Alcohol – chronic alcohol consumption kill testosterone in many ways. It leads to release of endorphins which makes you feel good but they constantly kill testosterone. It damages the liver and promotes weight gain in long run. The alcohol cannot be metabolized in the damaged liver. Secondly, the high consumption of beer promotes the production of estrogen reducing the levels of testosterone. Thirdly, excess alcohol consumption from a long time increases the conversion of testosterone into estrogen by excess production of an enzyme.
Low Carb Meals- according to a study by a University of North Carolina, when exercise and low carb diet adopted together in daily routine, then it can cause an increase in the cortisol levels and reduction in lower free testosterone. A recent study has suggested that low-fat diet with high content of carbohydrate has increased the levels of testosterone and other globulin hormones that can bind sex hormone levels.
Microwave Popcorns- popcorn cooked in the microwave is more likely to be contaminated with a chemical found in its packing bags. This chemical is called PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid). It can reduce the levels of testosterone and increase the cortisol levels in the body. However, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has banned the use of these bags. But still, it is used in certain countries.
Hormones And Antibiotics- some animal food products such as eggs, milk, meat, and other dairy products may contain hormones and antibiotics that are usually given to animals for protection against diseases. When these food products are included in the diet, they invariably increase the levels of estrogen inversely reducing the testosterone levels.
Flaxseeds– flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, but it also contains a chemical contains lignin. Lignin is known to lower down the levels of testosterone.
Sugary Drinks- a research was done in Oxford university states the drinks which contain a high content of sugar has the potential to lower down testosterone levels in the males.
Testosterone is a sex hormone whose normal levels determine the masculine features and sexual growth in the males. The normal levels of testosterone in the blood of males range from 300-1000 nanograms per deciliter. It stimulates the production of sperm and sexual desire in the man. It is secreted majorly by testes and trace amount by adrenal cortex and ovaries. This hormone is secreted most in adolescence and early adulthood. With the increasing age, its levels reduce 1 to 3 % every year from the age of 40 years.
Conclusion
Testosterone is a sex hormone responsible for the development of masculine features in human. It should be present at normal levels in puberty and adulthood for proper masculine development. Soy products, alcohol, flaxseeds, sugary products, and hormones, antibiotics found in animal products reduce the levels of testosterone if consumed chronically.
- Medical News Today – Low Testosterone: 12 Signs and Symptoms: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322647
- Harvard Health Publishing – Testosterone: What It Does and Doesn’t Do: https://www.health.harvard.edu/drugs-and-medications/testosterone–what-it-does-and-doesnt-do
- Mayo Clinic – Testosterone therapy: Potential benefits and risks as you age: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/sexual-health/expert-answers/testosterone-therapy/faq-20420000
Also Read:
- Link between Testosterone and Hair Loss
- Testosterone Deficiency: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Side Effects of Testosterone Replacement Therapy
- What Is The Best Testosterone Treatment?
- What Causes Low Testosterone Levels In Males?
- What Is A Normal Testosterone Level For A Man In His 50’s?
- Can A Man Have Too Much Testosterone?
- Can Low Testosterone Be Treated?
