Protein foods are indispensable when it comes to building muscle mass. That's because these nutrients are very important to hypertrophy the muscles. However, recently, research done at an American university indicated that excess protein-rich foods can lower testosterone levels.
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The relationship between excess protein and decreased testosterone levels
The study done by the University of Worcester indicated that consumption of eggs, fish and protein-rich supplements can reduce testosterone levels in men. For this, these foods need to be consumed excessively, which can lead to a reduction of up to 37% of this hormone.
This hormonal loss can have several consequences for the individual, such as erectile dysfunction, dysregulated mood, fatigue and even depression. These low levels of testosterone can also lead to infertility and increase the risk of developing some diseases in old age, such as Alzheimer's.
Therefore, nutrition and health experts recommend a daily consumption of 140 grams of protein for an adult. In addition, this value must be balanced with an average of 2,500 calories, which must be composed of fruits, grains, fat and the protein itself. Even this balanced diet should be done with great care, especially by those looking to lose weight.
This is because it is common to read articles that recommend a drastic reduction in carbohydrates accompanied by an increase in protein foods. However, these diets can be a real time bomb, as they can increase the amount of cortisol in the blood, which greatly reduces the body's immunity.
Including this was the reason why many bodybuilders were so vulnerable during the pandemic caused by Covid-19. Therefore, it is always important to consult a nutritionist before starting a diet in search of muscle mass. Also, seeking information with an endocrinologist can help you understand your hormone levels and look for healthy solutions to any problems.