Let’s begin by answering this personal question: How’s your sex life?
If it’s not as great as you’d like, low testosterone might be the culprit. Not to worry, though; Craft Medical can help you fix that. Also, if you have a satisfying sex life and want to keep it that way, you need to watch what you eat to keep your testosterone levels up. This is because your diet plays a significant role in regulating your body’s hormones
So, what food kills your testosterone, and how do they manage to do that?
Today, we’ll discuss foods that interfere with normal testosterone function and explain how testosterone affects your sex life.
What is Testosterone?
Testosterone is a hormone primarily produced in the testes in males, which explains why it’s so important and referred to as the male sex hormone.
It plays an important role in developing and maintaining male sex characteristics. This includes muscle mass, body hair, and a deep voice. Testosterone is also responsible for sperm production in men.
Apart from its contributions to sexual function, testosterone also affects bone density, overall physical strength, mood, energy levels, and the production of red blood cells. So even if you’re not super concerned about your sexual health, you still need to pay attention to your testosterone levels.
Testosterone levels naturally decline with age. But despite this natural decline, foods that kill testosterone can cause a premature drop and abnormally low testosterone levels. This will cause symptoms such as low sex drive, fatigue, and depression.
So, one way to maintain a healthy testosterone level is to avoid foods that kill your testosterone. In some cases, testosterone replacement therapy may be used to treat low testosterone levels.
Effects of Testosterone on Sex
As a man, it is important to maintain healthy testosterone levels even as you age, as this can help reduce the risk of diseases and other complications.
Testosterone has the following effects on sexual performance:
Libido
The implications of testosterone levels on sex desire can differ from one man to another, as other factors like stress, mental health, and sex opportunities can also lead to low libido.
However, testosterone is the key driver of male sexual desire. Men with higher testosterone levels typically report higher sex drive and greater interest in sexual activity.
In fact, there is a significant, research-backed association between libido and testosterone levels; when testosterone levels are low, it can lead to a decrease in sexual desire and a variety of sexual dysfunctions.
So, if you want to avoid low testosterone levels, increase your libido, and have a healthy sex life, avoid foods that kill your testosterone.
Erectile Function
Testosterone plays a crucial role in achieving and maintaining erections. It works by stimulating the production of nitric oxide, which helps to relax blood vessels in the penis and increase blood flow.
Hence, low testosterone levels can contribute to erectile dysfunction (ED), the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity.
One study recommends that men who have erectile dysfunction should first be tested for testosterone levels because there is a close relationship between testosterone and erectile dysfunction.
Remember, foods that kill your testosterone can interfere with your body’s ability to produce this important sex hormone, leading to erectile dysfunction.
Ejaculation
Testosterone levels can also influence the timing and intensity of ejaculation.
Men with higher levels of testosterone may experience more intense orgasms and greater control over the timing of their ejaculation.
On the other hand, men with low testosterone may experience premature ejaculation, which can greatly hinder a satisfying sex life.
Foods That Kill Your Testosterone
Now that you know how important testosterone is to sexual and overall health, what foods kill testosterone?
To maintain healthy testosterone levels, you need to adopt a balanced and healthy diet. This includes avoiding or limiting the consumption of the following foods:
Soy Products
Soy products are rich in phytoestrogens, compounds that mimic estrogen in the body. When consumed in large amounts, these compounds can disrupt the balance of hormones in the body, leading to a decrease in testosterone levels.
Studies have shown that men who consume high amounts of soy products may have lower testosterone levels than those who do not.
Alcohol
When you ask, what foods kill testosterone? Don’t be surprised to find alcohol on the list, as it is associated with several adverse health effects.
Excessive alcohol consumption can have detrimental effects on testosterone levels. According to this study, alcohol, causing the inability of Leydig cells to produce testosterone, can lead to low testosterone production and shrink the testes.
Processed Foods
Processed foods are often high in sugar, trans fats, and other unhealthy ingredients. These foods can contribute to weight gain, which can affect testosterone levels.
This study shows that obesity is linked to lower testosterone levels, as excess body fat can convert testosterone into estrogen. The study states that unhealthy dietary habits like high consumption of dairy products and processed foods like bread, pastries, desserts, and noodles are all contributory factors.
Licorice Root
People have utilized licorice root in traditional medicine to treat various health conditions. This unique root can also act as a flavoring agent and breath freshener.
But despite this widespread use, it is one of the foods that kill testosterone. According to one study, consuming high amounts of licorice root can decrease testosterone production. The study states that “men with decreased libido or other sexual dysfunction, as well as those with hypertension, should be questioned about licorice ingestion.”
In one 2003 study, 25 men saw a 26% drop in testosterone levels after only one week of consuming 7 grams of licorice root daily.
Aspartame
Aspartame is an artificial sweetener that you’ll commonly find in many low-calorie or sugar-free products. One study on mice found that long-term consumption damaged the reproductive organs and diminished testosterone production.
Flaxseed
Flaxseed is a source of heart-healthy fats, fiber, essential vitamins, and minerals, but it is also one of the foods that kill testosterone.
This study shows that flaxseed may lead to a decline in testosterone levels due to its high lignan content. Lignans are plant-based compounds that attach to testosterone and eliminate it from the body. Furthermore, omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseed may also be associated with lower testosterone levels.
In a small study of 25 men with prostate cancer, reducing fat intake and supplementing with flaxseed significantly decreased testosterone levels.
Trans Fat
Trans fats come with an increased risk of heart disease, inflammation, and type 2 diabetes. It is also one of the foods that kill testosterone.
One particular study found that men who consumed the most trans fats had a 15% reduction in testosterone levels compared to those who consumed the least. They also experienced a decrease in testicular volume and a 37% decrease in sperm count — this can link to decreased testicular function.
Furthermore, animal studies have revealed that a high intake of trans fats could reduce testosterone levels and even impair reproductive performance.
Craft Medical: Helping You Ensure a Satisfying Sex Life
Now that you know the role of testosterone and what foods kill testosterone, you have the information to make healthy dietary choices.
Here at Craft Medical, your sexual health comes first, and we can help you regain control of your sexual health and improve your confidence today!
Have you noticed any drop in your sex drive? Do you suffer from any sexual dysfunction?
