A new study suggests metabolic factors, including minor blood sugar increases, are the primary drivers of changes in aging men’s reproductive systems and sexual function, challenging the traditional focus on age and testosterone.
The groundbreaking study presented at the Endocrine Society’s annual meeting, ENDO 2025, in San Francisco, has shed new light on the factors that impact aging men’s sexual function.
Led by Michael Zitzmann, M.D., Ph.D., a professor at University Hospital in Muenster, Germany, the study emphasizes the importance of metabolic changes in determining men’s sexual health.
Historically, age and testosterone levels have been blamed for declines in sexual function, but this research suggests that modest increases in blood sugar levels are more closely correlated with these changes.
The Study’s Methodology and Findings
The long-term study tracked 200 healthy men aged 18-85, beginning in 2014, with 117 participants remaining by 2020. Researchers monitored progressive changes in semen and hormonal profiles, erectile functioning, and metabolic health, assessed via BMI and blood sugar levels (HbA1c test).
The findings revealed that while hormone levels remained largely normal, significant declines were observed in sperm movement and erectile function in men with slightly elevated blood sugar levels, below the 6.5% HbA1c diabetes threshold.
The Impact of Blood Sugar on Reproductive Health
The study’s findings highlight the critical role of blood sugar levels in maintaining reproductive health.
Even modest increases in blood sugar levels, below the diabetes threshold, were associated with declines in sperm movement and erectile function.
This suggests that maintaining normal blood sugar levels is essential for preserving reproductive health.
Testosterone’s Role in Libido, but Not Erectile Function
The study also investigated testosterone’s role in men’s sexual health. While testosterone levels did not directly impact erectile function, they did correlate with participants’ libido assessment. This suggests that different factors influence libido and erectile function, and that testosterone’s role in men’s sexual health is more complex than previously thought.
Implications for Men’s Health
The study’s findings offer valuable information for doctors and their patients, empowering men to retain sexual and reproductive wellbeing. Dr. Zitzmann expressed hope for the study’s impact, stating, “We’re hopeful that the information gleaned from this study will help doctors and their patients formulate effective male sexual health maintenance plans.”
Maintaining Metabolic Health
Men can take proactive steps to preserve their reproductive health by:
- Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise
- Monitoring blood sugar levels and managing insulin sensitivity
- Engaging in regular physical activity to improve cardiovascular health
- Making informed lifestyle choices, such as quitting smoking and reducing stress
- Considering medical interventions, such as medication or counseling, if necessary
By focusing on metabolic health, men can reduce their risk of declines in sexual function and reproductive health, regardless of age. As the study’s findings suggest, it’s time to shift the focus from age and testosterone to metabolic health, empowering men to take control of their sexual and reproductive wellbeing.
A New Perspective on Men’s Health
The study’s findings have significant implications for men’s health, highlighting the importance of metabolic health in maintaining reproductive and sexual function.
By prioritizing metabolic health, men can take proactive steps to preserve their wellbeing and reduce their risk of declines in sexual function. As Dr. Zitzmann noted, “Our research indicates that these changes more closely correlate with modest increases in blood sugar, and men can preserve reproductive health through lifestyle choices and medical interventions.”
Conclusion
The study’s findings offer a new perspective on men’s health, emphasizing the critical role of metabolic health in maintaining reproductive and sexual function.
By prioritizing metabolic health and making informed lifestyle choices, men can take control of their wellbeing and reduce their risk of declines in sexual function.
As the study’s findings suggest, metabolic health is the key to maintaining men’s sexual and reproductive health, regardless of age.
