Gynecomastia As a Sign of Low T in Men

Gynecomastia is usually a benign (noncancerous) condition that causes an increase in the amount of breast tissue (in one or both breasts) in boys and men. While it isn’t a serious problem, it can be difficult to cope with as it often results in breast pain and, in many cases, embarrassment.

If you or a loved one is struggling with symptoms of gynecomastia, you may be relieved to know it’s surprisingly common, affecting between 40-50% of all males at some point in their lives. It is most common in teenagers who have gone through puberty and older men who are experiencing a natural decline in testosterone levels.

Causes of Gynecomastia 

Gynecomastia is triggered by a hormonal imbalance between estrogen and androgen (testosterone) hormones. Along with testosterone, men normally produce small amounts of estrogen (the hormone that controls breast growth) to support the body’s overall function. Men whose bodies overproduce estrogen and underproduce testosterone may experience unwanted breast enlargement known as Gynecomastia.

Higher than normal estrogen levels in men may be caused by several factors, including:

• Aging
  As a man grows older, his body naturally produces lower levels of testosterone and higher levels of estrogen.
• Aromatase enzyme
  Aromatase is an enzyme that converts androgens into estrogens. Men who are overweight or experience chronic stress are more likely to overproduce this enzyme.
• Nutrition
  Men who consume a diet high in refined carbohydrates (e.g., white bread, pasta, pastries, white flour, white rice, and sweet desserts) are more likely to have excess body fat. Body fat contains the aromatase enzyme, which can lead to increased estrogen.
• Stress
  Physical and emotional stress causes the body to overproduce cortisol, which suppresses other hormones like testosterone. As testosterone levels decrease, estrogen levels increase along with your risk of gynecomastia.
• Xenoestrogens
  Toxic chemicals from plastics, heavy metals, and body care products often contain endocrine disruptors (chemical compounds that interfere with the normal functioning of the hormone system), which increase the production of estrogen in the body.
• Diseases and disorders
  Gynecomastia may also be caused by certain diseases and disorders like liver diseases, kidney disease, lung cancer, testicular cancer, adrenal or pituitary glands tumors, congenital disorders, thyroid disorders, injury or trauma, and obesity. This condition is not linked to breast cancer, however, your provider may run some tests to rule it out.

How to get rid of Gynecomastia 

Gynecomastia often goes away on its own and usually does not require treatment. However, if a certain disease or disorder is causing abnormal breast enlargement, the illness or condition must be treated first.

Talk to your doctor about what could be causing your breasts to enlarge and find out if altering the dosage on your medications or making healthy lifestyle changes can help you get rid of gynecomastia. Hormone replacement therapy may also be used to treat this condition if you’re experiencing symptoms of Low T. 

SynergenX can help you get to the root cause of your unwanted breast growth and help you eliminate it. Call 888.219.7259 to schedule an appointment.