Yes, testosterone is known for increasing your appetite.
Higher levels of testosterone have been associated with an increase in lean body mass and a decrease in fat mass.
The hormone can also have effects on the central nervous system, including the areas of the brain that regulate appetite and satiety.
Some studies have suggested that testosterone therapy in men with low testosterone levels can lead to an increase in appetite and food intake.
Why Does Testosterone Increase Appetite?
The simplest explanation for why testosterone makes you more hungry is that the hormone increases your basal metabolic rate. Your basal metabolic rate is the number of calories that you burn when your body is at rest.
Because this “burn rate” is now higher, your body will signal increased levels of hunger. Additionally, as you stay on testosterone, your body will begin to accumulate higher levels of muscle mass.
This muscle mass needs calories in order to maintain itself, meaning that the more muscle you have, the more calories you need at rest.
Lastly, studies have shown that testosterone is responsible for increasing levels of ghrelin. Ghrelin is known as the “hunger hormone” and is responsible for the actual feeling of hunger.
Combining all of these factors together leads to a significant increase in hunger levels.
What Foods Should I Eat On TRT?
Maintaining a healthy diet while on TRT is extremely important. Many individuals believe that since they are on testosterone, they no longer need to watch their diet. While it is true that increased levels of testosterone can help with fat metabolism and help you stay leaner, eating junk will still have negative effects on your health.
To stay in the best health while on TRT it is a good idea to follow a balanced diet comprised of whole foods that encompass all three of the main macronutrients; carbs, proteins, and fats.
Here is a list of some foods you should incorporate into your diet:
- Fish
- Chicken
- Lean Beef
- Eggs
- Yogurt
- Minimally Processed Cheese
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Rice
- Minimally Processed Breads
Here is a list of some foods you should avoid
- Fast Food
- Junk Food
- Overly processed foods (white bread, American cheese)
- Sugary Drinks
- Overly Salty Foods
Remember, just because you are taking testosterone, it does not mean that you don't have to pay attention to your diet. If anything, you should be taking extra care of your health to optimize everything!
Will I Gain Weight On Testosterone?
hen individuals start testosterone therapy, particularly those who have been diagnosed with low testosterone levels, they might observe an increase in their body weight. Here’s a more detailed explanation:
Water Retention
Initially, some of the weight gain might be due to an increase in water retention, particularly in the muscles. Testosterone can lead to an increase in muscle mass, and muscles tend to hold onto water. This can result in a slight increase in body weight, but it is not necessarily a cause for concern as it is a normal physiological response.
Increase in Muscle Mass
Over time, with consistent resistance training and adequate nutrition, testosterone therapy can contribute to an increase in muscle mass. Muscles are denser than fat, so as muscle mass increases, it is possible to see an increase in body weight even if body fat is decreasing. This change in body composition is generally considered positive, as it leads to a leaner, stronger physique.
Bone Density
Testosterone plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density. An increase in testosterone levels can lead to stronger, denser bones. While this might contribute to an increase in body weight, it is beneficial for overall health, particularly in preventing conditions like osteoporosis.
It is important to note that while an increase in body weight due to muscle gain and increased bone density is generally positive, it is crucial to monitor overall health and body composition rather than just focusing on the number on the scale.
Takeaway
It is perfectly normal to experience increased hunger levels when you begin to take testosterone. The hormone is directly related to metabolism and will cause your body to burn more calories as well as signal to eat more.
For these reasons, it is important to eat a healthy balanced diet that gives your body the fuel it needs to run properly.
