A study of 74 men found that an increase in blood sugar levels, after drinking a solution of 75 grams of glucose, could lower a man’s testosterone levels by as much as 25%. 15% of the men with normal testosterone levels before the test had low testosterone at some time during the test.
The men were made up of 42 with normal blood sugar, 23 pre-diabetic and 9 with type 2 diabetes. According to the researchers, changes in insulin levels, or any other hormones, didn’t appear to affect the findings.
Testosterone is an important hormone for recovery and muscle building. Spikes in blood sugar usually cause fat storage with an increase in insulin. A decrease in testosterone would certainly encourage fat storage.
Avoid blood sugar spikes by eating protein, fiber and even fat when consuming carbohydrates. These other nutrients will help slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. Even post workout, 10-20 grams of protein should be included in a recovery snack along with about 50 grams of carbs to restore glycogen.
The Endocrine Society, news release, June 13, 2009
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