Debunked: one of the main myths about testosterone

Scientists from the University of Gothenburg have established that fatigue and depression in men have no direct link to testosterone levels. The results of the study are presented on the Göteborgs universitet website.

In recent years, testosterone has become almost the primary explanation for men's health problems. Many believe that its deficiency specifically causes loss of energy, low mood, and decreased vitality. However, an analysis of data from large studies in the United States and Sweden showed that the actual link between the hormone and well-being is much weaker than commonly believed.

According to physician and researcher Amar Osmancevic, the most noticeable correlation is indeed observed in the area of sexual health — with decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and reduced sexual activity. But even here, the link to testosterone levels turned out to be unexpectedly weak.

"At the same time, the hormone does affect certain aspects of health. Higher testosterone levels are associated with greater muscle mass and less fat within muscles — especially in the abdominal, lower back, and hip areas. This is important not only for appearance but also for metabolism," the expert explained.

The study also showed that low testosterone levels may be associated with chronic inflammatory processes in the body. However, the scientists emphasize that symptoms such as fatigue, apathy, or depression are more often explained by other factors — age, lifestyle, comorbidities, and the amount of abdominal fat.

"High testosterone alone does not guarantee good well-being, and low testosterone is not necessarily the cause of fatigue or low mood," the researchers concluded.