The Rise of Low Testosterone in Young Men

Posted: September 15, 2023

Alarmingly, it is becoming increasingly common for men under the age of 40 to have lower-than-normal testosterone levels. This often translates to problems such as a decrease in sex drive, an increase in body fat, and lower energy and motivation. These symptoms are significantly debilitating for men at this age as this is a busy and demanding time of life, often focused on growing a career or raising a family. 

Many people associate low testosterone levels with aging and often end up overlooking its impact on younger men. However, we are currently witnessing a concerning trend where young men are experiencing low levels of testosterone. Though there is no one direct and clear reason for the rise of low testosterone in young men, there are a number of possible causes behind it. Three of the most likely factors that are contributing to this growing condition amongst younger men are weight gain due to a sedentary lifestyle; the prevalence of endocrine-disrupting toxins in our environment; and ongoing stress or mental health conditions.

With each decade, men’s testosterone levels drop, leading not only to aggravating symptoms but to potentially serious health concerns such as hypertension and diabetes. If you are a young man and are facing the future with already unusually low testosterone levels, it is crucial to address these issues as soon as possible to avoid long-term health complications.

Although we may not have all the answers to exactly why more and more younger men are experiencing low T, we do have a solution. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can help restore normal levels so men can continue to enjoy a full quality of life. If you suspect you may have low testosterone, book an appointment with us today to get started on a treatment plan.

Sedentary Lifestyles Lead to Weight Gain, Which Reduces Testosterone

Men under 40 can experience low testosterone due to lifestyle impacts and environmental factors.

The way we live has changed considerably over the last century. Technology has made many parts of our lives much easier, from transportation to communication. Yet it has also come with some trade-offs that affect our health. With many spending the majority of their day sitting, weight gain and obesity have become major concerns. 

It can be challenging to balance a busy schedule with maintaining an active lifestyle. For example, a man who commutes to work, sits in his office, goes out to dinner, takes a seat in the bleachers for his son’s football practice, and comes home to watch tv has just spent almost the entire day being sedentary. It is estimated that up to 25% of American adults spend about 70% of their waking hours sitting, 30% in light activities, and little or no time in exercise.  

Statistics show that a sedentary lifestyle is strongly linked to a higher obesity rate. Obesity and testosterone are interconnected. It is a frustrating cycle that can be hard to break—low testosterone causes weight gain, and increased weight reduces testosterone. 

Fat tissue is a highly active hormone regulator. It contains aromatase, an enzyme that converts testosterone into estrogen. The higher percentage of fat in the body, the greater amount of testosterone is converted to estrogen. These increased levels of estrogen in men can lead to erectile dysfunction and depression.

By prioritizing physical activity in your schedule, you can help counter the damaging impact of a sedentary lifestyle on your weight and help maintain hormonal balance.

Increased Environmental Toxins Impact Testosterone

Our environment is becoming more and more polluted with various toxins, from the air we breathe to the food we eat. Though some of these substances are generally harmless, many of them are endocrine-disrupting chemicals, which can seriously impact our hormonal systems on a fundamental level. Over 800 products are classified as EDCs, making it extremely difficult to avoid exposure to these toxic substances.

Bisphenol A (BPA), Phthalates, and Atrazine are some of the most common chemicals that find their way into our day-to-day lives.

• Bisphenol A (BPA): The production of BPA has steadily grown in recent years on account of its multiple applications in the plastic and manufacturing industries, such as food packaging. BPA is an endocrine disruptor that binds to hormone receptors.
• Phthalates: This is a large group of chemical compounds frequently used in plastic coatings and cosmetics. These chemicals are banned in the EU but are legal in the US. They alter the development and function of the hormone-dependent structures of the reproductive system.
• Atrazine: This chemical is largely used in agriculture as a herbicide to reduce the growth of leaves and weeds in wheat, soy, and sugar cane. Atrazine alters how the central nervous system produces hormones.

Wherever possible, take steps to reduce your exposure to these toxins and mitigate the risk they pose to your long-term hormonal health. Limiting the use of plastic in your home whenever possible is a simple yet effective way to limit exposure to harmful BPA and phthalates. Eating organic food can help reduce your exposure to atrazine. You can also purchase natural personal care products that are chemical-free.

Higher Stress and Mental Health Challenges Affect Hormonal Balance

Mental health concerns have become a serious issue in the United States. The number of adults grappling with various mental health conditions has been rising steadily each year. The unprecedented circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic, such as isolation, uncertainty, and fear, saw a corresponding spike in mental health issues that many men are still wrestling with to this day. 

The burden of untreated mental health can lead to significantly increased stress levels. Stress causes a hormonal imbalance in the body when it ramps up the amount of cortisol produced. 

Cortisol is a catabolic hormone that blocks anabolic hormones, such as testosterone. That is why it is critical that these two hormones remain in balance. When stress makes cortisol levels rise rapidly, more testosterone is blocked, causing your overall testosterone level to drop. 

Because your mental health can have such a significant impact on your physical health, it is more important now than ever before to seek effective support that will help you manage your mental health and any corresponding stress. 

Symptoms of Testosterone Deficit in Younger Men

Unfortunately, low testosterone can have serious long-term effects, such as decreased bone density, increased risk of depression, and infertility. It is important for you to be aware of the warning signs of low testosterone and to seek medical attention if you suspect you may be suffering from this condition. These symptoms may include:

• Fatigue or low energy
• Low sex drive
• Unexplained weight gain, particularly around the midsection
• Difficulty concentrating or remembering details
• Anxiety or irritability

These symptoms may develop over time due to various factors such as lack of physical activity, environmental impacts, and living under constant stress. Fortunately, you can find relief with targeted and regular TRT treatment. It is an effective solution to restore hormone balance and alleviate many of the symptoms associated with low testosterone.

Restore Normal Testosterone Levels with Low T Center

We can help restore your testosterone levels so you can keep up with your busy pace of life. Contact us now to schedule an appointment to retain your sense of vitality and overall well-being. Reclaiming your life starts the moment you reach out—take that step today!

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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.