Not A Decreased Hormone Testosteron, Doctor Explains This Change Is The Cause Of Erective Dysfunction

Illustration of husband and wife (Freepik)

JAKARTA - Over the years, the decrease in testosterone levels was considered a scapegoat for men's sexual performance as they got older. However, recent studies show that the main cause is not testosterone, but mild metabolic changes such as rising blood sugar levels.

This was revealed by Dr. Michael Zitzmann, a professor and sexologist from University Hospital in Munich, Germany.

"Although the age and levels of testosterone have long been considered a trigger for a men's sexual health decline, our study shows that these changes are more closely related to increased blood sugar levels and other mild metabolic changes," said Dr. Michael, quoted from the New York Post page.

The study, which took place from 2014 to 2020, involved 200 healthy men aged between 18 and 85 years. At the end of the study, 117 participants remained active, and all were free from diabetes, heart disease, or cancer. This allows researchers to focus analysis on mild metabolic changes without the influence of chronic diseases.

The results were surprising. Although the hormone levels and sperm quality remain largely normal, the erectile function decreases sharply, especially in men who experience mild increase in blood sugar levels, although it is still below the threshold for diabetes.

"We found that the erectile function worsened markedly in line with the increase in blood sugar levels which were only slightly above normal. However, testosterone levels did not show any correlation with erectile abilities, although they were still associated with the level of sexual arousal," explained Zitzmann.

The results of this study were presented at the 2025 ENDO annual meeting hosted by the Endocrine Society in San Francisco, California.

Zitzmann emphasized that erectile dysfunction is not an irreversible destiny. With a healthy lifestyle and appropriate medical intervention, men can still maintain their sexual health in the elderly.

"We hope that the results of this study can help doctors and patients prepare an effective man's sexual health care plan," said Zitzmann.

"Now we know that keeping the sexual and reproductive function in men within reach, even as we get older," he continued.

This discovery comes amid widespread use of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), which has become popular among middle-aged men despite the risk of long-term side effects. These findings provide new alternatives for men who are worried about their decline in sexual performance.

In addition, another study even shows that wine juice can significantly increase libido. This is a reminder that nutrition and lifestyle play an important role in sexual health.

Experts suggest some simple but effective steps, including:

- Avoid consuming excess sugar - Maintain ideal weight and avoid obesity- Quit smoking- Limit alcohol consumption-Regular exercise- Check blood sugar levels regularly

Doing a healthy lifestyle, men not only maintain sexual health, but also avoid the risk of more serious metabolic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.