How Does Sugar Affect Testosterone Levels? What Does Science Say

Sugar is bad for health; we still like to indulge in sugary stuff. But what if I tell you sugar is more than just bad, it’s toxic, addictive, and works like any other drug. 

Apart from being the primary reason behind the increasing American waistline, some evidence highlights the negative relationship between sugar and testosterone. 

That’s right sugar affects your exercise, drive, and testosterone levels, at least that’s what the science claims. 

However, does sugar lower testosterone levels for real?

Considering the impact of high sugar consumption on other hormones, the claims might be true. 

So men should avoid consuming sugar and sugary stuff? Keep reading to find out if sugar lowers testosterone and how much of it can affect the male hormones. 

Key Insights

• High sugar intake is found to lower testosterone levels due to the release of insulin to balance sugar metabolism. 
• Even young and healthy adults with high sugar intake have experienced a rapid decline in testosterone levels. 
• Don’t consume more sugar than 10% of the daily calorie consumption. 

Does Sugar Lower Testosterone?

Yes, sugar lowers testosterone and we are not saying this, it is the research and experts who claim sugar to be the testosterone-killing food. 

In a study published by Clinical Endocrinology, men underwent the screening to examine the physiological impact of glucose load on testosterone levels.

For this 74 men between 19-74 years of age underwent a standard 75-gram oral glucose tolerance test at baseline as well at 30, 60, 90, and 120 minutes later. 

Several biomarkers namely, insulin, fasting serum glucose, insulin, total Testosterone, and calculated free T, LH (luteinizing hormone), SHBG, leptin, and cortisol were measured. 

As per the reports, glucose ingestion was associated with a 25% decrease in mean testosterone levels. This remains suppressed at 120 minutes in comparison to the baseline. 

Adding to it, out of 66 men with normal circulating testosterone at the beginning of the experiment witnessed a reduction in testosterone levels below the hypogonadal levels. 

In another study by Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology, high sugar intake is associated with low testosterone levels among young adults. 

The study included 545 male participants 20 to 39 years of age. Notably, men who consumed more SSBs have a greater risk of low sperm motility. 

Also, those who consumed SSBs had an increase in low testosterone levels with the odds of an increase in low testosterone levels with an increase in SSB consumption. (source)

Clearly, there is a dramatic decline in testosterone levels in most of the research. However, what remains unanswered is… 

What Does Sugar Do to Testosterone?

Two theories clarify how does sugar lower testosterone. 

Theory 1: Insulin Spike

Regular or white sugar belongs to the category of simple carbohydrates which is made of glucose and fructose. 

It easily breaks down to glucose and reaches the bloodstream leading to a sudden spike in blood glucose levels.  This triggers the rapid hormonal response to bring it back to normal. 

For this, the body releases the insulin hormone which makes the function of other hormone-producing organs like testes difficult to interact with.  As a result, there is a decline in testosterone levels. 

Theory 2: Release of Estrogen

To cope with excess sugar consumption, the body starts storing it in the form of fat cells. 

Notably, visceral fat or mid-section belly fat releases estrogen which lowers the testosterone levels. 

It is now clear that sugar does lower testosterone levels. Nonetheless, can considering the quantity of sugar make the difference?

How Much Sugar Does Lower Testosterone?

As per the recommendations of the American Heart Association, men must not consume more than 36 grams or 9 teaspoons of sugar per day. 

Notably, if your daily sugar intake is more than 10% of your daily calorie consumption, it’s considered dangerous. 

Therefore, someone consuming 2500 calories, should focus on consuming less than 64 grams of sugar (248kacls). 

So, Does Quitting Sugar Increase Testosterone?

Yes, however, don’t expect any dramatic upsurge in testosterone levels once you stop consuming sugar. 

The impact of quitting sugar on testosterone levels is more significant in men with weight-related issues. 

Those who fulfill their daily calorie requirement from simple carbohydrates, sugary foods, and beverages can witness an increase in their testosterone levels after limiting or quitting their consumption. 

However, this does not mean you should completely stop eating sugar. 

Rather you can switch to healthy sources, improve your lifestyle, and do plenty of exercise to boost your testosterone. 

Adding to it, there are also testosterone-boosting supplements that work wonders when it comes to skyrocketing t-levels. 

Effective Testosterone Boosting Supplement

Testosterone boosters are one of the most conventional methods to boost testosterone these days. 

Those who don’t have much time to spend at the gym, don’t want to compromise too much with what they eat or are simply looking for affordable and easy ways to boost testosterone go for t-boosting supplements.

When it comes to buying testosterone boosters, go for the natural, legal, effective, and affordable ones. 

Adding to it, don’t forget to go through their ingredients list to avoid any food allergies. 

Based on what to look for in testosterone boosters, here are 3 best testosterone-boosting supplements to help revive testosterone levels. 

#1. Prime Male

It is one such test booster that has been around for more than a decade. 

The reason why it is still in the race is because it keeps upgrading its formula with the changes in time, research, and technology.  It has 12 clinically proven ingredients that are known to reverse the years of testosterone decline. 

The prime Male results review highlights three major benefits of choosing Prime Male: It enhances energy and libido, increases muscle mass, and raises testosterone levels. 

Prime Male claims to boost testosterone by 42% in just 12 days. 

Not to mention Prime Male testosterone booster also addresses estrogen and prolactin hormone. 

This makes it a perfect test booster for those looking to lower t-levels due to an increase in sugar. 

#2. Testogen

It’s impossible to not know about Testogen when looking for a testosterone booster that works. 

Testogen provides complete support to testosterone and is designed to naturally reverse the symptoms of low-t. It is 100% safe, natural, and backed by clinical studies. 

It is backed by 144,236 satisfied men and considering the Testogen user review, it improves energy and workout, builds muscles, burns fat, and reawakens youthful desire. 

Its high-quality ingredients make it an ideal solution for raising testosterone levels. 

Primary Testogen ingredients include DAA, fenugreek, and zinc, all of which are scientifically backed.  It is suitable for everyone including the common family man, bodybuilders, and athletes. 

#3. Testofuel

If you are looking for something that professionals and celebrities also use, Testofuel is the one. 

It is used by Mr. Olympia Master, Robby Robinson himself.

You heard that right, the icon of many young bodybuilders uses and even recommends using Testofuel for boosting testosterone.

The highlight of the supplement is oyster extract which boosts testosterone levels because of its high zinc content. Additionally, Testofuel ingredients also include DAA and vitamin D in their formulation. 

Testofuel is a great supplement for those looking for a testosterone booster to make improvements in their muscle-building process. 

It accelerates muscle growth, reduces body fat, and also improves strength.  These testosterone boosters are leading the fitness market. 

If you’re confused about selecting the ideal supplement to enhance your performance and well-being, go through Testofuel vs Testogen reviews for a detailed comparison.

If you can’t quit sugar, consider limiting its intake to boost the testosterone levels and manage the rest with the help of testosterone boosters. 

Boosting testosterone and limiting sugar is no rocket science if you are aware of the necessary points. 

FAQ’s

The more you are aware of the link between sugar and testosterone, the more it gets easier to handle them. 

So after understanding does sugar lowers testosterone, here’s a list of most of the frequently asked queries. 

#1. Do sugary drinks lower testosterone?

Yes, sugary drinks lower testosterone, and it’s proven by research and scientific evidence. Therefore, men must maintain distance from sodas, cold drinks, and other sugary beverages 

#2. Is testosterone affected by blood sugar?

Testosterone levels are affected by blood sugar levels. An increase in blood sugar levels lowers testosterone levels. 

#3. Does sugar give you stamina?

No, sugar cannot give you stamina. However, one may feel an upsurge in energy after sugar intake followed by a sudden drop in sugar level. Also, you can try out proven strategies if you’re looking to build stamina from zero at home.

#4. Do bodybuilders use sugar?

Bodybuilders only use sugar in the form of fruits and restocking glycogen. Refined sugar itself is harmful as well as unnecessary. 

#5. Is 200g of sugar a day too much?

Yes, 200g of sugar is way too much than the recommended intake. It can cause more than a decline in testosterone levels. It can result in heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. 

If your testosterone levels have declined too much, consider changing your diet and take the necessary steps on time. 

Conclusion

Who doesn’t like indulging in sugary treats, we all do. But we must know where to stop so that it doesn’t overpower our health and cause irreversible damage to it. 

Excessive intake of sugar can have a more damaging effect on men apart from increasing the weight.  It can alter their manliness by lowering their testosterone levels and research has proven the same. 

Even young adults can witness a dramatic decline in testosterone levels after using too much sugar. 

Therefore, make sure you consume a limited quantity of sugar, include supplements for faster results, and change your diet for long-term benefits.