Researchers have found that higher levels of testosterone may help lower the risk of type 2 diabetes for men under the age of 65 who are overweight or obese. However, this benefit does not seem to apply to men over the age of 65. The study, which was presented at ENDO 2024, aimed to better understand the relationship between testosterone and type 2 diabetes risk across different age groups. The researchers analyzed data from the MAILES Cohort, a group of men ages 35 to 85 living in urban Adelaide, and found that men with higher blood testosterone levels had a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes before the age of 65.
The study participants did not have testosterone treatment, diabetes, or cancer at the beginning of the study, and after five years, 110 of the men had developed type 2 diabetes. The researchers took into account various factors that could affect the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, age, waist circumference, family history of diabetes, blood sugar levels, medication use, and physical activity. They reported that blood testosterone concentration was associated with the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, with higher testosterone levels linked to a lower risk of diabetes before the age of 65. However, there were no significant effects of testosterone levels on diabetes risk in men over the age of 65.
Experts emphasize that even though testosterone may help younger men lower the risk of type 2 diabetes, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is still crucial for diabetes prevention. Research suggests that testosterone plays a significant role in metabolic processes related to glucose and fat metabolism, and higher levels of testosterone can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce fat mass, both of which are important factors in preventing type 2 diabetes. Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, an urologist at Orlando Health, advises against taking testosterone supplements unless clinically diagnosed with low testosterone levels and experiencing symptoms of deficiency, as it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider who follows guideline-based care to determine the appropriate course of action for each patient.
As men age and testosterone levels decline naturally, the risk of type 2 diabetes may increase due to age-related metabolic changes affecting insulin sensitivity. Therefore, it’s essential to focus on lifestyle factors such as maintaining a healthy weight, regular physical activity, and avoiding excessive alcohol intake to prevent type 2 diabetes. These holistic approaches not only help offset the increased risk of diabetes as testosterone declines after age 65 but also help maintain normal testosterone levels, creating a beneficial cycle. Ultimately, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with activities like staying active, eating a balanced diet, getting regular check-ups, and managing stress is key to overall well-being and diabetes prevention for men at any age.
