Sugar and Testosterone

A report from the USDA places our consumption of added sugars (ranging from table sugar to  high fructose corn syrup) up 43% since the 1950′s.  A large amount of that sugar is in processed, savory foods rather than desserts.  It's being added to tomato sauces, salad dressings, processed meats and many other items where you wouldn't think to look for sugar. 

The obvious detriment is to our waistlines, our energy levels, complexion etc.  but sugar consumption may be affecting other areas of our lives as well.  Research from Massachusetts General Hospital shows that a large dose of sugar in the bloodstream immediately lowers levels of testosterone.  They gave 74 men a solution with 75 grams of glucose.  After drinking that solution the men experienced up to a 25 % drop in testosterone levels.  The level remained low for a full two hours.

That suggests that our diet has a measurable affect on our hormone levels.  Just one more reason to be aware of how much sugar you're consuming.    You might be skipping desserts and sweets only to have the sugar sneaking in through other foods. 

The labels on the food you buy can make for some interesting reading.  Be a smart consumer and know what's in your food.