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Can Genetically Modified Food And Pesticides Deplete Testosterone Levels?

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Posted on Fri, 20 Jun 2014
Question: What is your opinion on GMO foods and pesticides? Can either of the two deplete testosterone levels and/or increase estrogen levels, in people? Also, do the plastics that confine the foods and water bottles that we consume release estrogen or unhealthy chemicals? Finally, how can one naturally increase testosterone levels and naturally decrease estrogen levels?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Binu Parameswaran Pillai (8 hours later)
Brief Answer:
ENDOCRINE DISRUPTERS

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Good day.
Very good question.

Many of pesticides and plastics contain chemicals called as endocrine disrupters. These chemicals interfere with endocrine gland and hormone signaling and cause many problems like child hood obesity, poly cystic ovary syndrome, infertility, reduced male hormones in males, increased male hormones in females, diabetes etc.

Even though DDT , which is a pesticide banned in USA many decades ago, it is still present in the food chain and may take long time to go away from environment.
Plastics (PVC) contain a chemical called as Bisphenol-A which is a prominent endocrine disrupter which was identified few years ago. This can cause hormonal problems and effects are more pronounced in kids and females than in males.

Yes, these compounds can cause low hormone levels. It is advisable not to store water in plastic bottles in fridge. Never re use a pet bottle. As far as possible, do not use plastic containers to store hot foot and never cook / re heat in plastic containers in microwave.

Obesity and diabetes are two main causes of low testosterone levels in young men.
Fat cells in abdomen contain a powerful enzyme called as AROMATASE. This convert testosterone to estrogen. Hence, having less fat cells is beneficial.

If you do regular exercise and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol, they are good ways to naturally increase testosterone. Green tea contain excellent antioxidants and it is good too. Finally, testes need a cooler temperature compared to body ( that is exactly the reason it is outside the body). Avoid hot water bathing and tight under wears.

Regards
Binu


Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Binu Parameswaran Pillai (37 minutes later)
Thank you Dr. Banu!

Excellent answer and very informative. Thanks for your time!
doctor
Answered by Dr. Binu Parameswaran Pillai (13 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Wish you good health

Detailed Answer:
Thank you
Wish you good health
Regards
B
Note: For more information on hormonal imbalance symptoms or unmanaged diabetes with other comorbid conditions, get back to us & Consult with an Endocrinologist. Click here to book an appointment.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Binu Parameswaran Pillai

Endocrinologist

Practicing since :2003

Answered : 1439 Questions

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Can Genetically Modified Food And Pesticides Deplete Testosterone Levels?

Brief Answer: ENDOCRINE DISRUPTERS Detailed Answer: Hello, Good day. Very good question. Many of pesticides and plastics contain chemicals called as endocrine disrupters. These chemicals interfere with endocrine gland and hormone signaling and cause many problems like child hood obesity, poly cystic ovary syndrome, infertility, reduced male hormones in males, increased male hormones in females, diabetes etc. Even though DDT , which is a pesticide banned in USA many decades ago, it is still present in the food chain and may take long time to go away from environment. Plastics (PVC) contain a chemical called as Bisphenol-A which is a prominent endocrine disrupter which was identified few years ago. This can cause hormonal problems and effects are more pronounced in kids and females than in males. Yes, these compounds can cause low hormone levels. It is advisable not to store water in plastic bottles in fridge. Never re use a pet bottle. As far as possible, do not use plastic containers to store hot foot and never cook / re heat in plastic containers in microwave. Obesity and diabetes are two main causes of low testosterone levels in young men. Fat cells in abdomen contain a powerful enzyme called as AROMATASE. This convert testosterone to estrogen. Hence, having less fat cells is beneficial. If you do regular exercise and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol, they are good ways to naturally increase testosterone. Green tea contain excellent antioxidants and it is good too. Finally, testes need a cooler temperature compared to body ( that is exactly the reason it is outside the body). Avoid hot water bathing and tight under wears. Regards Binu