Beta-sitosterol is a plant steroid with a similar structure to cholesterol. It is found in various plants and vegetables, including rice bran, wheat germ, peanuts, corn oils, and soybeans. Beta-sitosterol has been suggested to have several health benefits, including lowering cholesterol levels and improving prostate health.
However, there has been some concern that beta-sitosterol may lower testosterone levels in men. Testosterone is an important hormone that regulates many functions in men, so anything that significantly lowers testosterone could have negative effects.
- Some research on beta-sitosterol and testosterone:
- A few small studies have found that taking beta-sitosterol supplements over 4-6 weeks resulted in 15-35% decreases in blood testosterone levels in men. However, these studies had limitations in their design.
- Other studies have found no effect of beta-sitosterol from food sources on testosterone levels. Consuming beta-sitosterol naturally from foods like vegetables, seeds, nuts, and plant oils does not seem to affect testosterone.
- One analysis concluded that beta-sitosterol only seems to affect testosterone levels when taken in isolated supplement forms at higher doses. Eating regular amounts of beta-sitosterol from natural food sources is unlikely to cause changes in testosterone.
- Potential mechanisms:
- Beta-sitosterol may inhibit the enzymes involved in testosterone production in the testes.
- It may also displace testosterone from binding sites on blood proteins, leading to higher excretion and clearance from the blood.
So in summary, evidence suggests supplemental beta-sitosterol may moderately lower testosterone levels when taken regularly at higher doses over weeks to months. However, eating foods naturally containing beta-sitosterol does not appear to affect testosterone.
If you are concerned about low testosterone, I recommend having your levels properly tested by a medical professional. Symptoms of low testosterone can include low energy levels, reduced muscle mass,
erectile dysfunction, and
mood changes.
If clinically low testosterone is diagnosed, testosterone replacement therapy may be an option under medical supervision. This involves taking testosterone directly, via injections, gels, patches or pellets. This will restore testosterone levels back to normal physiological ranges.
Renew Hormone Center provides individualized testosterone therapy programs for men with low testosterone. Our specialists will analyze your hormone blood tests, symptoms and medical history to determine if you are a candidate for testosterone replacement. We use cutting edge therapies like testosterone injections, gels and pellets to get your levels optimized and relieve troublesome low T symptoms. Contact us today for a consultation.
In summary:
- Beta-sitosterol supplements may moderately lower testosterone levels when taken regularly at higher doses
- However, eating foods naturally containing beta-sitosterol does not appear to affect testosterone
- If concerned about low testosterone, have your levels tested properly and discuss treatment options with a medical professional
- Testosterone replacement therapy can effectively restore testosterone levels if clinically low levels are diagnosed
