Latest news with #ShellseaPortilloCanales
NDTV
14 hours ago
- Health
- NDTV
High Blood Sugar Can Affect Your Sex Life, Research Reveals
A recent research presented at the ENDO 2025 revealed that high blood sugar levels can impact men's sexual health. The research, which has not yet been peer-reviewed, found that even slight elevations in blood sugar levels, below the diabetic threshold, can lead to a decline in sperm movement and erectile function. The researchers analysed the health records of 110 adult men with obesity or type 2 diabetes being treated with weight-loss medications and who were not on testosterone or hormonal therapy. Along with 10% weight loss, the proportion of men with normal levels of both total and free testosterone rose from 53% to 77%. As per the preliminary research presented this week at the Endocrine Society's annual meeting in San Francisco, high blood sugar can lower testosterone levels, which are crucial for male sexual function. Testosterone levels don't directly impact erectile function but rather correlate with libido assessment. The research found that high glucose levels can damage nerves and blood vessels, which are essential for achieving and maintaining erections, leading to erectile dysfunction. Lifestyle Changes And Prevention A balanced diet rich in whole foods and fibre can help stabilise blood sugar and reduce inflammation. Regular physical activity helps in improving insulin sensitivity, and it supports weight loss. Meditation and yoga can enhance mental and emotional well-being, playing a role in sexual performance. Medications like semaglutide, liraglutide and tirzepatide can help regulate blood sugar. "While it is well known that weight loss from lifestyle changes or bariatric surgery increases testosterone levels, the impact that anti-obesity medications may also have on these levels has not been widely studied," said Shellsea Portillo Canales, M.D., endocrinology fellow at SSM Health St. Louis University Hospital in St. Louis, Mo. "Our study is among the first to provide compelling evidence that low testosterone can be reversed with the use of commonly prescribed anti-obesity medications."
Perth Now
16 hours ago
- Health
- Perth Now
Weight-loss jabs improve men's sex lives
Weight-loss jabs can improve a man's sex life. Research has revealed that injections such as Wegovy and Mounjaro are able to raise low testosterone levels in males. The hormone is a huge factor in male sex drive but levels typically decline with age or when a person is obese or has type 2 diabetes. Experts at St Louis University Hospital in Missouri, USA, tracked 100 men aged in their 40s, 50s, and 60s who were being treated with semaglutide - fat jabs such as Ozempic and Wegovy. At the beginning of their treatment, only 53 per cent of the men had normal testosterone levels. After 18 months of having the jabs, the proportion of men with healthy levels of the hormone increased to 77 per cent. Dr. Shellsea Portillo Canales, the author of the study, said: "Our study is among the first to provide compelling evidence that low testosterone can be reversed with the use of commonly prescribed anti-obesity medications. "Doctors and their patients can now consider this class of medications not only for the treatment of obesity and to control blood sugar, but also to benefit men's reproductive health."
Time of India
a day ago
- Health
- Time of India
Need a testosterone boost? New study suggests trying weight-loss drugs like Ozempic
We're circling back to the age-old idea of hitting two birds with one stone! The medication that's widely prescribed to manage diabetes and used for weight loss as well – is now showing promise to offer some more exceptional health perks. Recent research suggests that GLP‑1 receptor agonists, like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Trulicity, might offer an unexpected hormonal benefit. A recently presented ENDO 2025 study tracked 110 men over 18 months, revealing a remarkable rise in testosterone from 53% to 77% of normal levels, alongside about 10% average weight loss. These findings hint that by targeting fat reduction, insulin resistance, inflammation, and estrogen-to-testosterone conversion, these drugs could offer a dual boost for metabolic and men's health. Read on to know more. The GLP‑1–Testosterone breakthrough GLP‑1 receptor agonists – such as semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy), dulaglutide (Trulicity), and tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound) – work by mimicking the gut hormone GLP‑1 to suppress appetite, slow digestion, and improve insulin secretion. Now, testosterone is a hormone that fuels male sex drive and erectile function and influences everything from bone density and muscle mass to fat distribution, red blood cell production, mood, and energy levels. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like นี่อาจเป็นโอกาสทองที่ดีที่สุดในรอบ 5 ปีสำหรับการเทรดทองคำ IC Markets อ่านเพิ่มเติม Undo Unfortunately, testosterone levels naturally decline with age. Older men may feel more tired and grouchy, and less interested in sex. Not to mention the hair loss, bone fractures, and weight gain around the waist that often accompany low T. Luckily, there are ways to naturally boost testosterone. Exercise, especially strength training, a healthy diet, stress reduction, adequate sleep, and weight management, particularly for those who are overweight, are just a few. This new study highlights another tool that may help elevate these levels — Ozempic and other GLP-1 drugs. Endocrinology fellow Dr. Shellsea Portillo Canales and the research team analyzed the records of 110 adult men with obesity or Type 2 diabetes taking the weight-loss medications semaglutide (Wegovy), dulaglutide (Trulicity), or tirzepatide (Zepbound) but not participating in testosterone or hormonal therapy. These three drugs mimic the effects of GLP-1, a natural hormone in the body that regulates blood sugar and appetite, often leading to lower blood sugar and weight loss. At the ENDO 2025 conference , the team shared data showing men on these drugs experienced ~10% weight loss and significant testosterone increases (from 53% to 77% of normal) over 18 months. Mechanisms include reduced aromatase in shrinking fat, improved insulin sensitivity, and lower systemic inflammation – key drivers supporting testosterone production. The convincing evidence A 2025 meta-analysis (n=680) of seven GLP‑1 RA trials found a pooled increase in total testosterone of 1.39 ng/mL, with parallel gains in free testosterone, LH, FSH, weight loss, and HbA1c reduction. Liraglutide (Saxenda) was observed to restore gonadotropin signaling and improve testosterone in obese men, without the hormonal axis suppression typical of testosterone replacement therapy. However, a 2021 cohort in men with type 2 diabetes (n=51) showed only modest testosterone increases, primarily in men whose baseline testosterone was under 320 ng/dL or had ≥1% HbA1c reduction, reinforcing the importance of weight loss and insulin control. How does weight impact testosterone levels in males? In men, weight, particularly excess body fat, is inversely related to testosterone levels. Increased body fat, especially around the abdomen, is associated with lower testosterone, while weight loss, particularly through lifestyle changes, can lead to increased testosterone levels. As per research , weight loss can enhance testosterone levels because excess body fat contains the enzyme aromatase, which converts testosterone into estrogen. As reported by the NY Post, Dr. Shellsea Portillo Canales, an endocrinology fellow at SSM Health St. Louis University Hospital in Missouri, said, 'While it is well-known that weight loss from lifestyle changes or bariatric surgery increases testosterone levels, the impact that anti-obesity medications may also have on these levels has not been widely studied,' adding, 'Our study is among the first to provide compelling evidence that low testosterone can be reversed with the use of commonly prescribed anti-obesity medications. ' Portillo Canales also said, 'Results from this study show that there is a direct correlation between the use of anti-obesity medications and testosterone levels,' adding, 'Doctors and their patients can now consider this class of medications not only for the treatment of obesity and to control blood sugar, but also to benefit men's reproductive health.' The way ahead Although initial findings from ENDO 2025 and earlier trials are encouraging, longer randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are essential to confirm direct effects on fertility, muscle mass, mood, and safety of GLP‑1 therapies. If you're considering a testosterone boost without traditional hormone therapy, GLP‑1 agents like Ozempic may offer a compelling path: addressing weight, metabolic health – and testosterone – together. Talk to your endocrinologist to explore whether this novel approach fits your needs and goals. Always approach treatment under medical guidance – monitoring weight, hormones, metabolic health, fertility, and side effects. Study suggests digital apps can help chronic pain sufferers
Daily Mail
a day ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
The unexpected Ozempic side effect that has men rushing to get their hands on it
A new study suggests that drugs like Ozempic may do more than lower blood sugar and aid weight loss, they could also raise testosterone levels in men. Researchers from S. Louis University Hospital found that men taking GLP-1 medications, including semaglutide (Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro), saw their testosterone levels increase by 24 percent after 18 months of treatment. Testosterone is a vital hormone responsible for male sexual development, muscle mass, bone density, red blood cell production, and fat distribution. Low testosterone is common in men with obesity or Type 2 diabetes and is linked to fatigue, reduced libido, and decreased quality of life. The new findings suggest that GLP-1 drugs may also improve reproductive health in men affected by these conditions. Researchers say the results open the door for further investigation into how anti-obesity medications can impact hormone levels and overall well-being. Lead author Dr Shellsea Portillo Canales, an endocrinology fellow at SSM Health St Louis University Hospital said: 'While it is well known that weight loss from lifestyle changes or bariatric surgery increases testosterone levels, the impact that anti-obesity medications may also have on these levels has not been widely studied.' 'Our study is among the first to provide compelling evidence that low testosterone can be reversed with the use of commonly prescribed anti-obesity medications.' The researchers analyzed existing medical records of 110 adult men with obesity or Type 2 diabetes. All of the participants were being treated with semaglutide (Ozempic or Wegovy), dulaglutide (Trulicity) or tirzepatide (Zepbound) for one and a half years. All three drugs are known to mimic the effects of GLP-1, a natural hormone in the body that regulates blood sugar and appetite, often leading to lower blood sugar and weight loss. None of the men were on testosterone or hormonal therapy before or during the experiment. Some risks of testosterone therapy include worsening sleep apnea, acne, enlarging the prostate or breasts, increasing the growth of prostate cancer, reducing sperm counts, causing the testicles to shrink and increasing the risk of clots, according to the Mayo Clinic. The researchers measured the participants' total and free testosterone levels before and during their treatment. Results showed that the participants experienced 10 percent of weight loss and saw their testosterone levels rise from 53 percent to 77 percent. The scientists are yet to discover how GLP-1 drugs can increase testosterone. However, previous research has shown that excess fat can force the body to convert testosterone into estrogen, a female hormone. But when obese individuals start to lose weight, they reduce their body fat stores, which can improve insulin sensitivity in the body and reduce overall inflammation. Both decreased inflammation and weight loss can help the body produce more testosterone and prevent the conversion of the male hormone into estrogen. Talking about the preliminary results, Dr Portillo Canales said: 'Results from this study show that there is a direct correlation between the use of anti-obesity medications and testosterone levels. 'Doctors and their patients can now consider this class of medications not only for the treatment of obesity and to control blood sugar, but also to benefit men's reproductive health.' But despite clear results, the study authors noted that further research is needed to establish a clear link between the drugs and an increase in testosterone. However, seeing how beneficial the discovery is, Dr Fatima Cody Stanford, an obesity medicine physician scientist at Massachusetts General Hospital who was not involved in the study, told NBC News: 'The findings from this study highlight an important intersection between metabolic health and hormonal balance. 'This dual benefit underscores the potential of these medications to enhance overall health outcomes, including reproductive health, in this population.' Average testosterone levels in men are between 300 to 1,000 nanograms per deciliter. Testosterone tends to decline gradually with age, starting around the late 30s to early 40s. By the age of 75, the average male testosterone level drops to about 65 percent of the average level seen in young adults, Dr Portillo Canales said. The findings were presented today at ENDO 2025, the Endocrine Society's meeting in San Francisco.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Weight loss drugs can boost testosterone in men, study finds
Popular weight loss medications like Ozempic can help reverse low testosterone levels in men with obesity or Type 2 diabetes, according to new research. Building on previous studies that show weight loss surgery or lifestyle changes can increase testosterone levels in the body, researchers at SSM Health St. Louis University Hospital analyzed the electronic health records of 110 men with obesity or Type 2 diabetes to monitor changes in the hormone while taking GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semgalutide and tirzepatide. They measured testosterone levels before taking the medications and for 18 months after starting the treatment. Roughly half of the men had low to low-normal testosterone at the start of the study and most reached normal levels after treatment. The mean age of the participants was 54. 'The increases we observed were more modest than what you would typically see with testosterone replacement therapy,' said lead author Dr. Shellsea Portillo Canales, endocrinologist at SSM Health St. Louis University Hospital, via email. 'However, they occurred naturally, without testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), and likely reflect the body recovering its normal hormone production as weight and insulin resistance improved.' The study highlights the need for men already on testosterone therapies to closely monitor their levels after starting weight loss medications, Portillo said. In some cases, men may need to have their testosterone supplement doses lowered or discontinued, especially if their testosterone normalizes while on weight loss medications. There are limitations to the new study. The findings don't prove the increase in testosterone levels was caused by the drugs semaglutide or tirzepatide. It was a retrospective study, meaning the researchers analyzed existing medical records over time, rather than conducting a randomized clinical trial. And they didn't check testosterone levels after the men stopped the drugs. 'If weight is regained, testosterone levels could potentially drop again,' Portillo said. The study findings were presented this Monday at ENDO 2025, the Endocrine Society's annual meeting in San Francisco. The researchers are planning to submit it to a medical journal for peer review. Dr. Susan Spratt, professor of medicine at Duke University School of Medicine, said many men are overtreated with testosterone therapy when they have levels on the lower normal side. 'It would be better to treat obesity or diabetes and naturally increase testosterone than to prescribe testosterone — which has known risks,' said Spratt, who was not part of the study. Some risks of testosterone therapy include worsening sleep apnea, acne, enlarging the prostate or breasts, increasing growth of prostate cancer, reducing sperm counts, causing the testicles to shrink and increasing the risk of clots, according to Mayo Clinic. The study shows the dual benefit of weight loss medications in men, said Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford, obesity medicine physician scientist at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School. 'The findings from this study highlight an important intersection between metabolic health and hormonal balance,' Stanford said. 'This dual benefit underscores the potential of these medications to enhance overall health outcomes, including reproductive health, in this population.' Normal testosterone levels are between 300 to 1,000 nanograms per deciliter. Testosterone tends to decline gradually with age, starting around the late 30s to early 40s. By age 75, the average male testosterone level drops to about 65% of the average level seen in young adults, Portillo said. 'Improving testosterone can enhance quality of life and possibly reduce health risks associated with low levels,' Portillo said. Spratt said it's important to distinguish between normal testosterone levels that increase but remain in the normal range, versus low testosterone levels that increase to normal. Testosterone levels that are truly low are most concerning because low testosterone can lower bone density (which increases the risk of fracture), reduce muscle mass, lower hemoglobin (red blood cells) levels and decrease libido, experts say. 'However, treating low normal testosterone without a known cause is controversial and has increased in the past decade likely due to direct-to-consumer marketing,' Spratt said. The researchers only included men in the study, because they didn't expect weight loss drugs to raise testosterone levels in women. 'In general, we don't routinely measure testosterone in women, unless there are signs of a hormonal imbalance, like excess facial hair (hirsutism), irregular periods, infertility or signs of masculinization,' Portillo said. In those cases, testosterone testing can help diagnose conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, adrenal disorders or rare tumors. Some studies in women with PCOS, a condition which raises testosterone levels, suggest GLP-1 therapies may help slightly lower testosterone by improving metabolism and reducing insulin resistance. Certain conditions are well known to decrease testosterone in men, including excess fat, especially around the abdomen, which interferes with hormone signals from the brain to the testicle, experts say. 'Fortunately, weight loss, whether through lifestyle changes or medications, can reverse it in many cases,' Portillo said. This article was originally published on
