Many long-term male athletes I've trained over the years have complained about brain fog.
Given the purported relationship between testosterone and cognition, I always have them test their levels first.
To be absolutely sure whether cognitive decline can be due to hormone imbalance, I conducted a few days of detailed research and sought out an endocrinologist to review the literature with me.
In this article, I will explore whether low testosterone can cause brain fog, explain why this happens, and offer some solutions, so read on.
Quick Summary
- Low levels of testosterone can have a negative impact on brain function and may result to brain fog.
- Blood flow problems might occur due to low testosterone levels, which can reduce your energy levels and your ability to think clearly.
- Low testosterone levels, and mental fog can improve by taking testosterone boosters.
Do Low Testosterone Levels Reduce Mental Clarity?
Low testosterone levels can reduce mental clarity because this hormone can stimulate electrical activity in the brain by activating certain cortical networks [1].
It can be one of the reasons older people have difficulty concentrating and making logical connections.
If the condition worsens, it can cause more severe cognitive impairment and mental shutdowns, in which a person cannot recall basic facts or follow complex instructions [2].
Furthermore, a study found that men with prostate cancer treated with androgen deprivation therapy, a method of suppressing the production of androgen hormones, had lower cognitive functions [3].
However, it is important to note that the mental issues caused by low testosterone levels are not permanent and can be resolved once hormone levels are balanced.
How Does Deficiency Affect Brain Health?
Testosterone deficiency affects brain health by reducing the blood supply to the brain.
Research suggests that testosterone can dilate blood vessels, which may help keep blood flowing [4].
In addition, low T-levels can lead to heart problems and arterial damage, which can lead to a lack of blood flow throughout the body, including the brain.
When the brain lacks an adequate supply of blood, the brain cells are deprived of oxygen and nutrients.
As a result, confusion, difficulty speaking, and understanding speech might happen [5].
Related: Can Low Testosterone Cause Migraines?
What Happens if Low Testosterone Remains Untreated?
If low testosterone remains untreated, bones can deteriorate, sex drive may decline, skin can wrinkle, and circulation problems can develop [6].
"The main complaint I see as a urologist is a lack of interest in sexual functioning. But fatigue, changes in mental acuity, less stamina and very often mild degrees of depression are associated with falling testosterone."
- Dr. Gregory Broderick, Urologist
Furthermore, studies show that prolonged low testosterone can also increase the risk of heart problems like high blood pressure and stroke, as well as diabetes and erectile dysfunction [7].
It can also lead to reduced muscle mass, which can cause problems with walking and moving around, contributing to depression and anxiety.
Related: How Do I Know if My Testosterone Is Low?
Benefits of Healthy Levels in the Body
Benefits of having healthy testosterone levels in the body include maintaining a healthy weight, improving sex drive, and boosting mood [8].
It can improve your self-esteem, give you more energy and make you more productive.
It can even reduce your risk of certain diseases.
When you have healthy testosterone levels, you can have the vigor and enthusiasm to get things done and a positive outlook on life.
FAQs
What Is a Low Testosterone Level?
Low testosterone levels are defined as less than 300 ng/dL for men [11].
However, some research indicates that levels below 250 ng/dl are considered low.
Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may order a blood test to measure your testosterone levels and other blood tests to determine the cause.
Can Hormonal Imbalance Affect Your Memory?
Hormonal imbalance can affect your memory and contribute to several neurological conditions.
When the body doesn't produce adequate amounts of hormones, such as testosterone, the brain cannot function properly.
Common symptoms you might experience include difficulty focusing and memory loss [12].
Do Low Testosterone Levels Decrease Brain Function?
When brain fog interferes with your ability to function normally and perform tasks, it's time to take steps to learn what's triggering the condition and address it.
A doctor will have you tested and recommend the best course of action.
Adding natural testosterone supplements has never done harm to my clients while boosting their T-levels noticeably.
We have thoroughly tested the products on these lists, and we've learned that they are safe and effective at improving concentration and cognition while raising the level of training performance.
References:
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/computer-science/cortical-network
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17178554/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29410294/
- https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2010/08/101192/are-higher-testosterone-levels-associated-greater-heart-risk
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK53082/
- https://www.americanmalemedical.com/low-testosterone-symptoms
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5512682/
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/sexual-health/in-depth/testosterone-therapy/art-20045728
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/is-testosterone-therapy-safe-take-a-breath-before-you-take-the-plunge
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322508
- https://www.urologyhealth.org/urology-a-z/l/low-testosterone
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4330791/
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