Posted: July 8, 2025
Many view weight gain as a simple part of aging, along with reduced testosterone levels. But are the two related or independent of each other? If you’ve been suspicious about a hormonal link between testosterone and weight gain, you’re correct: low testosterone does cause weight gain.
Testosterone isn’t just about sex drive or muscle strength. It plays a major part in regulating body composition, metabolism, and energy. Here’s how low testosterone (also called Low T) can contribute to weight gain, and what you can do about it.
Testosterone supports:
Muscle mass – more muscle burns more calories, even at rest
Fat distribution – keeps fat from concentrating around the abdomen
Metabolism – helps your body process calories efficiently
Energy and motivation – makes it easier to stay active
When testosterone levels drop, these systems slow down. You might notice:
Loss of muscle mass
Increased belly fat
Feeling tired or sluggish
Less motivation to exercise
Combined, these changes lower metabolism, making it easier to gain weight and harder to lose it.
Less Muscle, Slower Metabolism
Lower testosterone leads to muscle loss, which reduces calorie burn.
More Fat Storage
Your body stores more fat, especially around the belly and chest.
Insulin Resistance
Low T can increase blood sugar and insulin resistance, making fat loss even harder.
Low Energy and Motivation
Fatigue and low drive make workouts and meal prep feel impossible.
Constant fatigue or low energy
Decreased sex drive
Mood swings or irritability
Difficulty building or keeping muscle
Poor sleep
✔️ Get Tested
A simple blood test can measure your testosterone levels. Low T Center offers fast, easy testing to give you clear answers.
✔️ Explore Treatment Options
If your levels are low, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can restore them to healthy ranges, improving energy, metabolism, and body composition.
✔️ Support Weight Loss Holistically
Combining TRT with a structured weight loss plan and lifestyle changes can help you achieve lasting results.
It’s common to see a slight increase in weight during the first months of TRT. This is usually from increased lean muscle mass and temporary water retention as your body adjusts. Over time, this stabilizes, revealing a leaner, stronger physique.
Men on TRT often report:
More energy and stamina
Leaner body composition
Improved sleep
Greater motivation to stay active
Q: Can low testosterone make you gain weight?
A: Yes. Low testosterone reduces muscle mass, slows metabolism, and increases fat storage, especially around the belly.
Q: Does TRT help with weight loss?
A: Testosterone replacement therapy can help restore muscle mass and improve metabolism, supporting healthy weight loss when combined with diet and exercise.
Q: Why am I gaining weight in my stomach as I get older?
A: Hormonal changes, including declining testosterone levels, can shift fat storage to the abdominal area in men over 35.
If you’re over 35 and frustrated by unexplained weight gain, your hormones may be the missing piece. Low T Center offers personalized testosterone therapy and weight loss solutions designed for men’s unique needs.
Find a Low T Center near you and schedule your testosterone test today.
Disclaimer: This article is made available for general, entertainment and educational purposes only. The opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of Low T Center. You should always seek the advice of a licensed healthcare professional.