Constipation is a common condition that affects people of all ages. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help prevent constipation. But what about low testosterone? Can it cause constipation? This article explores the connection between low testosterone and constipation and other causes of this uncomfortable symptom in men.
Testosterone Is A Vital Hormone For Men
Testosterone is a hormone that is produced in the testes and adrenal glands and promotes the development of male characteristics. Although females also produce some testosterone, it’s a far less amount than that of men and doesn’t play as big a role in their bodies. On the other hand, testosterone plays a very important role in maintaining muscle mass, bone strength, sex drive, and sperm production in men, making it evident that men with low testosterone can develop undesired symptoms.
Low testosterone is associated with the following:
- Lack of energy
- Decreased sex drive
- Trouble sleeping, including insomnia or waking up early and being unable to fall asleep again
- A decrease in strength and muscle mass (a condition known as sarcopenia)
- Depression
- Hot flashes
Low T and Constipation
Low testosterone can cause many unwanted and uncomfortable symptoms. In addition to the ones mentioned earlier, low testosterone can also result in constipation. A deficient level of this important hormone slows your whole metabolism, essentially affecting your intestinal motility. This means your colon will move less throughout the day, making it difficult to pass stool through the system and outside of your body.
What You Can Do To Improve Constipation
Low testosterone isn’t the only cause of constipation. Your diet and lifestyle can also affect whether you experience this problem. In general, eating more fiber and getting more physical activity can help prevent constipation. Including these habits in your daily routine can help:
- Eat fruits, vegetables, and whole grains daily, and include at least one or two of these with every meal.
- Reduce your intake of “white” carbohydrates such as white bread and pasta, white rice, crackers, etc.
- Reduce the amount of saturated fats you eat in your regular diet (butter, heavy cream, sour cream, red meat, bacon, etc.).
- Drink at least 8 cups of water throughout the day. This will help with the transit of stool through your digestive system.
- Get enough sleep. It is ideal to get 7-9 hours of sleep every night.
- Have a workout routine and exercise at least 4 times per week. Include both cardio and strength training for optimal results.
Some medications can contribute to decreased bowel motility (movement), such as opiate painkillers, antidepressants, anxiety disorder medications, anticonvulsants, and antiarrhythmics. If you’re taking any of these medications and have difficulty going to the bathroom, make sure to mention it to your doctor.
Can TRT Help Relieve Constipation?
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is one of the most common and effective treatments for men with low testosterone. Undergoing TRT will increase your metabolism, therefore improving bowel movements and making it easier for you when it comes to going to the bathroom.
Supplementary testosterone can be administered through an injection, pill, or pellets. Once you get tested and confirm a low testosterone diagnosis, your doctor will guide you through the treatment that best suits your needs.
If You Suspect You Have Low T, Get Tested and Treated
Although there are many causes for constipation, including other conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, food intolerances, and medications, low testosterone is a possible culprit. If you’re experiencing symptoms of low testosterone and are constipated, it is best to get a blood test and speak to your doctor about your results. Low T levels in men can cause more serious conditions such as depression and erectile dysfunction if left untreated.
Now, even with treatment for low testosterone levels, following a healthy lifestyle, as we mentioned previously, is important to improve your bowel movements and prevent further constipation episodes.
Conclusion
One of the symptoms of low testosterone in men is constipation. However, constipation can have multiple causes which include unhealthy lifestyle habits. If you suspect you have low testosterone, it is best to get tested and treated to alleviate your symptoms! The correct treatment and healthy habits can change your life completely for the better.
Key Takeaways
- Low testosterone can cause constipation due to a slower metabolism and reduced bowel motility.
- Constipation can have other causes such as an unhealthy diet, a sedentary lifestyle, and medication use.
- Leading a healthy lifestyle, including eating more fiber and increasing physical activity, can help with constipation.
- TRT is an effective treatment for men with low testosterone levels and can help alleviate constipation.