We all know marijuana has many benefits, but it has been found that keeping your testosterone up is not one of them.
The THC n marijuana affects testosterone levels by blocking the release of GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone). This eventually causes a decline in the levels of two important hormones (luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone), which in the long run will result in a reduced production of testosterone. Not we need to be clear that this is a long term effect and not something that will occur with occasional use. However, it is still good to know if one wants all the facts when maximizing their testosterone levels.
Another study found that prolonged use of THC (compound found in marijuana), decreased the production of HGH (human growth hormone - fountain of youth). The decrease was associated with he suppression of the HPA axis (hypothalamus, pituitary, adrenal), which is responsible for coordinated our endocrine system.
Lastly, THC is known to have an impact on fertility for men, so if offspring is something you are considering, this is something you should stop consuming. A 2015 study of 1200 healthy men showed they had a 28% lower sperm concentration and a 29% lower total sperm count among those who smoked marijuana more than once per week.
The study also went a step further, showing that the use of marijuana once a week in conjunction with other drugs reduced sperm concentration by 52% and sperm count by 55%. Other drugs considered fell under the following: anabolic steroids, cocaine, opioid narcotics, and methamphetamines.
There is just a little distinction i would like to make. Please note that we are specifically talking about the THC (psychedelic) compound of marijuana. The cannabinoid receptors in our brains (yes we have them) that bind with the myriad of cannabinoids in marijuana are actually very beneficial and have not psychedelic effects (CBD, CBN, CBC, CBG, CBDa to name a few).
Sharing this because there is not reason to demonize marijuana, but we should be vigilant.
See below for benefits of marijuana consumption:
Consume responsibly.
Image source: www.leafly.com
