Does Intermittent Fasting Increase Testosterone?

February 13, 2024

Intermittent fasting (IF) has gained widespread popularity in recent years, not only for its well-known weight loss benefits but also for its potential impacts on overall health and hormonal balance.

Testosterone – referred to as the "male hormone" – plays a crucial role in muscle growth, libido, and overall vitality. 

Understanding the relationship between intermittent fasting and testosterone levels is essential for those considering adopting this dietary approach. 

Need a testosterone solution?

Elevate your vitality and supercharge your life with Rex MD.

Get Started

What is Intermittent Fasting?

Intermittent fasting is not a diet per se, but rather an eating pattern that cycles between periods of eating and fasting. 

There are several methods of intermittent fasting.

The 16/8 method consists of fasting for 16 hours and  eating during an 8-hour window. Alternate-day fasting entails fasting for one day, and eating regularly the next. 

The core principle behind intermittent fasting is to extend the period of time between meals. This allows the body to tap into its fat stores for energy during the fasting period.

What is Testosterone?

Testosterone is a sex hormone primarily produced in the testes in men. Specialized cells within the testes – called Leydig cells – are responsible for synthesizing and secreting testosterone in response to hormonal signals and then distribute it throughout the body. 

Testosterone levels typically peak during adolescence and early adulthood and gradually decline with age. Low testosterone levels can lead to a variety of symptoms – including reduced muscle mass, decreased libido, fatigue, and mood changes.

The Relationship Between Fasting and Testosterone

The idea that intermittent fasting could boost testosterone levels according to various studies suggesting that fasting may enhance hormone production and sensitivity. 

Some researchers propose that the stress response triggered by fasting stimulates the production of hormones – including testosterone. 

Additionally, intermittent fasting has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, which is closely linked to testosterone production. Insulin resistance – often associated with obesity and metabolic disorders – can impair testosterone synthesis.

Clinical Studies

In human studies, the evidence is less consistent compared to animal studies but still suggestive of a potential link between intermittent fasting and testosterone. 

A small-scale study involving young men found that fasting for 24 hours resulted in a significant increase in circulating testosterone levels. 

Another study observed that men following a time-restricted feeding pattern experienced improvements in testosterone levels.

Intermittent fasting has also been shown to reduce levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) – a hormone that inhibits testosterone production when present in excess. By lowering IGF-1 levels, intermittent fasting may indirectly promote testosterone production.

Considerations

Despite these findings, not all studies have reported a significant effect of intermittent fasting on testosterone levels. 

Some research indicates that any increase in testosterone following fasting may be short-lived and return to normal levels once the fasting period is over. 

Additionally, individual factors such as age, sex, and overall health status may influence the response to intermittent fasting. For example, older people or those with preexisting hormonal imbalances may not experience the same testosterone-boosting effects as younger, healthier people.

The effects of intermittent fasting on testosterone levels may depend on how you fast.

While some people may thrive on intermittent fasting, others may experience hormonal disturbances or adverse effects. That’s why it’s important to take note of how your fast affects you, so that you can change it (or not!) accordingly.

Alternative Options to Boost Testosterone Levels

While aging naturally leads to a decline in testosterone levels, certain lifestyle factors and interventions can help support healthy testosterone production. 

In addition to intermittent fasting, there are several alternative options you can explore to boost testosterone levels such as:

• Regular exercise

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Get sufficient sleep

• Manage stress

• Optimize nutrient intake

• Limit exposure to endocrine disruptors

• Consider taking supplements

• Maintain hormonal balance

For those who are clinically diagnosed with low testosterone level, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can also be an option, but it should be approached cautiously and under medical supervision.

Can You Take Supplements While Fasting?

While it's possible to take supplements while on intermittent fasting, it's essential to consider the type of supplement, timing of intake, and individual health needs. Consulting with a healthcare professional and monitoring your body's response can help ensure that supplement use is safe and effective for you.

Certain supplements may disrupt the fasting process or cause gastrointestinal discomfort when taken on an empty stomach. Here are some supplements to consider avoiding while on intermittent fasting:

Caloric supplements: Supplements such as protein powders, meal replacement shakes, and energy bars often contain calories that can break your fast and trigger an insulin response. 

Sugary supplements: Avoid supplements that contain added sugars, such as vitamin gummies or chewable tablets. These products can spike blood sugar levels and disrupt the fasting state by triggering an insulin response.

Fat-soluble vitamins: Fat-soluble vitamins like vitamins A, D, E, and K are best absorbed when consumed with dietary fat. Taking these supplements on an empty stomach during fasting periods may reduce their effectiveness and absorption.

Mineral supplements: Certain mineral supplements, such as iron, zinc, and potassium, can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, an upset stomach, or nausea when taken without food. It's advisable to avoid these supplements during fasting periods to prevent digestive issues.

Pre-workout supplements: Supplements designed to enhance athletic performance, such as pre-workout formulas containing caffeine or other stimulants, are best consumed before exercise during the eating window. Taking these supplements on an empty stomach may lead to digestive discomfort or jitteriness.

Fiber supplements: While fiber is essential for digestive health, fiber supplements may cause bloating or gastrointestinal discomfort when taken without food. It's preferable to obtain fiber from whole foods during eating periods rather than relying on supplements during fasting.

How Rex MD Can Help

While intermittent fasting holds promise as a potential strategy for enhancing overall health and metabolic function, it should not be viewed as a panacea for optimizing testosterone levels.

As with any dietary intervention, consulting with a healthcare professional is advisable, particularly for those with underlying health conditions or hormonal imbalances.

With the Rex MD TestoRx program, you’ll have access to quality care from a team of licensed clinicians and testosterone solutions, if appropriate.

To find out if the program is right for you, just answer some about your symptoms and medical history. Your provider will order lab work for you to help determine if you’re eligible for testosterone injections or another treatment option.

Then, you’ll be able to schedule a virtual call with the Rex MD care team to further discuss your results, eligibility, and which treatment option would be most suitable for you, if any.

Get started today.