Belly fat and testosterone hormone

12928A National Institute of Health (NIH) study reported in the September 2013 edition of the New England Journal of Medicine suggests that testosterone levels are associated with both superficial (subcutaneous) and deep (intra abdominal) belly fat accumulation as well as with a host of other factors.

For this study 198 men had their testosterone hormone levels suppressed with medication and another 202 men were additionally given a medication to suppress their body’s conversion of testosterone to estradiol.

The result of reducing the testosterone hormone level in these men was astounding:

  1. Muscle mass fell.
  2. Muscle size (thigh) diminished.
  3. Muscle strength diminished (as demonstrated by leg-press strength).
  4. Sexual desire declined.
  5. Deep abdominal fat (around the organs) increased.
  6. Subcutaneous fat (general fat under the skin) increased.

Often not only do hormonal levels affect strength and body fat accumulation, but in turn, fitness and body fat accumulation affects hormone levels.  This vicious cycle can often be addressed and for some will results in improvement of all of six of these factors, along with enhanced overall well-being and energy levels.  Most of us have seen ‘testosterone’ commercials on television, but many people are unaware of the potential benefits associated with modern all-natural treatment options.

Weight-loss or weight-gain is always associated with a cascade of hormonal effects within the body and this in turn has far reaching consequences.
