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Weed May Boost Testosterone in Young Men
1 Jun
Summary
- Cannabis use linked to a 23% testosterone increase in men.
- Testosterone rise is specifically connected to the testicles.
- New biomarkers for cannabis use identified in the study.
A new study conducted in Switzerland has revealed a potential link between cannabis consumption and elevated testosterone levels in young men. Researchers observed an average increase of about 23% in testosterone among male cannabis users compared to non-users.
Analysis of sex hormones indicated that this increase is specifically associated with the testicles, particularly the Leydig cells responsible for testosterone production. The study utilized blood samples from 94 Swiss males drafted for military service, comparing users and non-users.
Beyond testosterone, the research also identified two novel biomarkers for cannabis use: hydroxyprogesterone and dihydroprogesterone. These progesterone derivatives could potentially serve to monitor endocrine disruptions from regular cannabis exposure.
Despite the observed rise in testosterone, the implications for male fertility remain unclear. Previous research has suggested cannabis may negatively affect sperm count and motility, necessitating further investigation into how these hormonal changes relate to semen quality.
