Does Olive Oil Increase Testosterone? (Science-Based)

Yes, olive oil consumption may boost testosterone levels, with some studies suggesting potential benefits.

Switching to a diet with monounsaturated fats like olive oil increased my energy and vitality.

Studies link low-fat diets to reduced testosterone in men. A study of 206 men found a 10–15% testosterone drop with low-fat diets [1].

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is tied to better male reproductive health [2].

Similarly, other research showed that oleuropein, a key compound found in olives and EVOO, can trigger increased testosterone production by 17.4% and luteinizing hormone by 42.6% [3].

However, further research is needed for confirmation. Olive oil's antioxidants may protect Leydig cells from oxidative stress, negatively affecting testosterone [4,5].

In Moroccan culture, where virgin oil is common, a study showed Moroccan men’s testosterone and luteinizing hormone levels increased after three weeks of EVOO use [6].

Extra virgin olive oil can potentially boost testosterone production by enhancing the activity of key enzymes involved in converting cholesterol into testosterone and increasing the number of Leydig cells in the testes.

Extra virgin olive oil boosts testosterone by enhancing two key enzymes: 3β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and 17-β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase.

These enzymes convert cholesterol into testosterone.

By increasing their activity, more cholesterol is converted into testosterone, leading to higher levels of the hormone in the body [7,8].

Additionally, EVOO also increases the number of Leydig cells in the testes.

Leydig cells convert cholesterol into testosterone. More Leydig cells mean more cholesterol conversion to testosterone, enhancing levels.

"The oil is rich in monounsaturated fat and vitamin E, an antioxidant. Similarly to fatty fish and fish oils, extra-virgin olive oil can help to increase a person’s overall fat intake, promoting testosterone production."

- Jared Meacham, Ph.D., RD, CSCS, Registered Dietitian, Fitness Professional and Educator

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Are There Any Risks Associated With Using Olive Oil?

Yes, there are some risks associated with using olive oil, particularly when consumed in excessive amounts, such as potential weight gain and negative effects on heart health due to its saturated fat content [9,10].

I learned that moderation is key, especially when focusing on weight loss. Each tablespoon packs 120 Kcal, so I had to balance enjoying the benefits of olive oil without overdoing it.

Although research has shown that the Mediterranean diet with EVOO outperforms low-fat diets for weight loss, monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) in virgin oil are proven to cause weight gain if used excessively [11].

It's also important to note that it is high in saturated fat, which can be bad for your heart health if eaten in large quantities.

To use extra virgin olive oil to boost T levels, consider consuming around 25 grams of it either in the morning or before bedtime.

Consuming the recommended amount may significantly improve your sexual health, blood pressure, and mood.

With that in mind, our dietitian recommends not cooking EVOO at a temperature higher than 400 °F. This way, you can enjoy the full taste and get the maximum out of its antioxidants.

Concerning storage, it should be kept in a cold and dark place to keep its compounds intact.

It contains several chemicals that are susceptible to degradation when exposed to heat and light.