Lactobacillus reuteri is a species of bacteria that has been shown in some studies to potentially increase testosterone levels in men. Testosterone is an important hormone that regulates muscle mass, bone density, fat distribution, and sex drive in men. Decreasing testosterone levels are a natural part of aging, but certain lifestyle factors like stress, lack of sleep, and poor nutrition can accelerate this decline. This has led to interest in natural ways to boost testosterone like probiotics.
Several small studies have indicated that supplementing with L. reuteri may increase testosterone levels in men. In one placebo-controlled trial, healthy men took a probiotic with L. reuteri or placebo daily for 4 weeks. The probiotic group had significantly increased testosterone levels compared to placebo. Another study in resistance-trained men found that taking an L. reuteri probiotic for 6 weeks increased testosterone levels while reducing estrogen levels.
Researchers believe L. reuteri may increase testosterone by:
- Reducing inflammation. Chronic inflammation is linked to lower testosterone. L. reuteri has anti-inflammatory effects that may reduce inflammation and preserve testosterone.
- Lowering cortisol. High cortisol can suppress testosterone. L. reuteri may reduce cortisol levels, lifting this suppression.
- Improving gut health. Poor gut health is associated with lower testosterone. As a probiotic, L. reuteri may optimize the gut microbiome and improve gut function.
- Increasing luteinizing hormone. Luteinizing hormone signals the testes to produce more testosterone. L. reuteri may naturally increase LH levels.
While these initial findings are promising, larger and longer studies are still needed. Most existing research on L. reuteri and testosterone is limited by small sample sizes and short study durations. More rigorous, high-quality clinical trials are required to conclusively demonstrate a testosterone-boosting effect. There is also a lack of research on optimal dosing and strain of L. reuteri to use.
It's also important to have realistic expectations. While L. reuteri may give a slight boost to testosterone, it's unlikely to increase testosterone dramatically on its own without other lifestyle changes. Strategies like strength training, high-quality sleep, stress management, and nutrition likely play a bigger role. L. reuteri may provide an additional benefit when combined with these healthy habits.
In summary, early research indicates the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri may potentially increase testosterone levels in men. However, larger and longer clinical studies are still needed to confirm this effect. L. reuteri is likely most effective when combined with a healthy lifestyle, rather than used in isolation. Speak to your doctor to find out if trying an L. reuteri supplement makes sense for your individual health and lifestyle. Balance Hormone Center offers comprehensive hormonal testing and personalized treatment plans to help patients optimize hormones like testosterone. Contact us today to learn more about evidence-based ways to support healthy testosterone levels and overall men's health.
