Gastroenterologist Explains How Liver Health Shapes Male Hormones and Vitality
A leading gastroenterologist, Guzel Evstigneeva, recently shared insights on how the liver influences men’s health, emphasizing the link between liver function and hormonal balance. The expert spoke with socialbites.ca to shed light on how liver conditions can ripple through the body, particularly affecting testosterone levels and overall well-being.
The doctor explained that liver cells produce a protein known as globulin, which plays a key role in maintaining normal levels of sex hormones, especially testosterone. When liver function is impaired, the production and regulation of this hormone can falter. As a result, a man may experience shifts in his hormonal landscape that impact energy, mood, and physical performance. The underlying message from the specialist is clear: liver health matters for hormonal stability and, by extension, male health in general.
According to Dr. Evstigneeva, about one in three men of reproductive age encounter some form of testosterone deficiency. This statistic highlights a broader pattern where hormonal health can be influenced by metabolic and hepatic factors, underscoring the importance of recognizing subtle signs that may point to an imbalance.
Visual indicators aside from laboratory tests can also signal issues with hormone production. Signs associated with reduced androgen levels include lower libido, reduced energy, diminished stamina, mood fluctuations, increased irritability, weaker morning erections, a tendency to nap during the day, and a noticeable decline in physical performance. These symptoms can be interconnected with liver health, as metabolic processes and hormonal signals often share a common set of inputs and feedback mechanisms that operate within the body.
In discussing the broader patterns of liver-related health, the specialist notes that fatty liver disease, also known as fatty hepatosis, remains one of the most prevalent liver conditions. This disease involves excess fat accumulation within liver tissue and can quietly progress without noticeable symptoms until it advances. Early recognition and lifestyle adjustments can play a decisive role in reversing or slowing its course.
The physician points out that diagnosing fatty hepatosis mainly relies on imaging, particularly ultrasound. Beyond the medical tests, there are practical cues in everyday life that can raise concerns. A noticeably expanding waistline, the appearance of belly fat around the midsection, and the development of characteristic folds across the back beneath the ribs can serve as visual hints that warrant medical evaluation. When these physical changes appear, they may prompt healthcare providers to investigate possible hormonal disruptions and liver-related complications as part of a comprehensive assessment.
Ultimately, the message from the gastroenterologist is straightforward: maintaining a healthy liver supports hormonal balance and overall vitality in men. The relationship between liver function, fat metabolism, and testosterone is intricate, but awareness of the signs and the proactive steps to protect liver health can lead to meaningful improvements in quality of life. Regular checkups, a balanced diet, physical activity, and moderation of alcohol intake are practical measures that align with sustaining both liver health and hormonal well-being.
For individuals concerned about testosterone levels or signs of hormonal imbalance, consulting a healthcare professional remains essential. A thorough evaluation can clarify whether changes in liver health, body composition, or other metabolic factors are contributing to symptoms, guiding effective management strategies that support long-term health and energy.
Note: Information provided by the expert reflects clinical observations and commonly recognized connections between liver health and hormonal regulation. Individual results may vary, and medical advice should be tailored to personal health history.