Testosterone is a key male hormone responsible for producing male sex characteristics, sperm production, and fertility.
Alcohol consumption has become a common part of the day to day life. There is a growing concern among men about the effects of alcohol on overall health.
Drinking too much can cause Erectile Dysfunction or low libido. It can also disrupt Testosterone levels in the body.
This article will attempt to answer the question: ‘Does alcohol lower Testosterone?’ We will also discuss what to do if you have low Testosterone.
Does Alcohol Lower Testosterone
Drinking alcohol can negatively impact all aspects of your health, including hormonal balance.
Alcohol can affect the production of Testosterone in the body by damaging the Leydig cells. These cells in the testicles are responsible for producing and releasing Testosterone.
Alcohol consumption can also interfere with the functioning of the hypothalamus, testicles, and pituitary gland. It may disrupt Testosterone production in the body.
A study also shows that heavy drinkers have a higher risk of low Testosterone. More than 15 drinks a week is considered heavy drinking for men.
Moderate drinking, i.e., two or fewer drinks a day, does not seem to have long-term effects.
Although, consumption of alcohol in the short run can still cause low Testosterone.
Testosterone levels can drop as early as 30 minutes after consuming alcohol.
In a 2019 study involving healthy males were given a pint of whiskey for 30 days. Their Testosterone levels started declining by the third day.
By the end of the month, their Testosterone levels were similar to those who had alcoholism issues.
Overall, alcohol consumption in the short run can cause a significant decline in Testosterone levels.
Low Testosterone Symptoms
Source: txking_from_Getty ImagesAlcohol consumption can cause low Testosterone levels commonly. You can identify it with the help of the following low T symptoms:
- Low libido
- Mood changes, including irritability, stress, and Depression
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Reduced bone density
- Decreased lean body mass
- Increased body fat
- Fatigue
- Increased Anxiety
- Excessive sweating
- Anemia
You should note that this is not a complete list of all low T symptoms. Further, it is not necessary for you to face any or all of these symptoms to have low T.
It is best to consult a medical professional for a proper diagnosis.
What to Do if I Have Low Testosterone
Alcohol consumption can cause low T by causing damage to the brain or testicles. Generally, quitting drinking can help you reverse the effects of alcohol.
Though in some cases, this damage may be permanent.
It is advisable to seek medical advice if you suspect low T. They may conduct blood tests to measure Testosterone levels in the body and give a proper diagnosis.
The American Urological Association considers low T as less than 300 nanograms of the hormone per deciliter (ng/dL).
The doctor may recommend Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) to treat low T. TRT generally involves the use of skin gels, nasal gels, or oral Testosterone pills like Cernos.
Summing Up
Alcohol consumption can negatively affect all aspects of our health, including physical, mental, and hormonal.
But, does alcohol lower Testosterone?
Consuming alcohol can disrupt the hormonal balance and affect the production of hormones like Testosterone.
In the short-term, alcohol can cause sudden and significant drops in Testosterone levels.
Chronic consumption of alcohol can cause damage to the Leydig cells in the testicles. This can result in permanent disruption of Testosterone production in the body.
It can be distressing to have low T as it can lead to Depression, Anxiety, ED, and low sex drive.
Quitting drinking may help you reverse these effects. Yet, in some cases, the damage may be permanent.
It is advisable to talk to a doctor if you experience low T symptoms for a proper diagnosis. They may suggest Cernos as part of TRT to help you restore Testosterone levels.
Frequently Asked Question
How much alcohol is considered moderate?
For men, moderate alcohol consumption typically means up to two drinks per day. However, it’s important to consider individual health factors.
Can occasional drinking affect testosterone levels?
Occasional and light drinking is less likely to impact testosterone levels in the long run significantly.
However, alcohol consumption can lead to a drop in Testosterone levels as early as 30 minutes.
How quickly can testosterone levels change due to alcohol consumption?
Testosterone levels can be affected within 30 minutes after alcohol consumption. Though this may vary from person to person.
But significant and lasting changes usually occur with prolonged heavy drinking
Does age play a role in how alcohol affects Testosterone?
Yes, as men age, testosterone levels naturally decrease. Excessive alcohol consumption can further contribute to this decline.
Can one night of heavy drinking significantly lower Testosterone?
A single night of heavy drinking might temporarily affect testosterone levels. They typically return to normal within a few days if drinking is not a consistent pattern.
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