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Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a group of conditions that affect the gastrointestinal tract - namely, the stomach and intestines.
It is characterized by symptoms like excess bloating and gas, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal cramps.
Suma Magge, MD, a gastroenterologist at Norwalk Hospital, says that IBS can be subdivided into diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel versus constipation-predominant irritable bowel or even a mixed picture.
Scientists still don’t know exactly what causes IBS.
Food intolerances, stress, certain medications, genetic predispositions, and even gut bacteria imbalances are all possible culprits.
There’s also a growing consensus that nerve endings in the gut may be extra sensitive in people with IBS.
Wearable devices track various physiological metrics that can indicate changes in health status.
Four in particular caught the Mount Sinai team’s attention:
Taken together, these measurements can offer a window into your overall inflammation status.
Subtle changes in any of these metrics, even weeks before you feel any discomfort, might suggest that your body is heading toward a flare.
Mount Sinai researchers conducted this study on 309 participants across 36 states, all of whom had either ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease.
The participants were made to wear an Apple Watch, Fitbit, or Oura Ring and answer daily symptom surveys.
They also provided periodical blood and stool samples for assessment.
The wearable devices collected information on HR, HRV, SpO2, and activity levels.
The study was conducted from December 2021 until June 2023.
Up to seven weeks before people showed any indication of a flare — whether an inflammatory marker in blood tests or actual GI symptoms — these four wearable measurements had already started drifting from their baseline values.
| Phase | Heart Rate | Resting Heart Rate | Daily Steps |
| Inflammatory flares | Higher | Higher | Lower |
| Normal periods | Normal baseline value | Normal baseline value | Normal activity |
IBS often goes undiagnosed for an estimated 75% of cases.
And even if you do know you have it, there hasn’t been a great way to anticipate a flare.
Typically, you just start feeling abdominal discomfort right before the flare hits, leaving little to no time to intervene.
Early warning signals from wearables could change that.
If you know a flare is likely in a week or two, you (and your care team) might adjust your diet or medication before symptoms actually strike.
Dr. Hirten told Medical News Today that this method could potentially be applied to other chronic inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. He also added that their goal is to develop AI-powered algorithms that crunch your wearable data in real-time to warn you — and your doctor — that trouble’s brewing.
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This report is not a diagnostic tool but a resource to help you better understand your genetic tendencies. Combined with advice from a healthcare professional and other diagnostic methods, it can guide more informed lifestyle and dietary choices. Xcode Life doesn't ship out DNA kits.
“Everyone’s IBS triggers are as unique as a fingerprint,” explains Christine Lee, MD, a gastroenterologist at the Cleveland Clinic.
Maybe it’s stress, a missed night of sleep, a new medication, or one of countless possible diet tweaks.
Start a simple journal (or use a symptom-tracking app) to note what you eat, how you feel, and any stressors or schedule changes. Patterns often emerge faster than you think.
Beyond triggers, experts also emphasize a few key lifestyle tips:
Exercise is considered the best medicine for IBS management because regular movement improves circulation, supports digestive function, and helps reduce stress.
Dr. Magge says, “If you don’t have enough sleep, the effects of that could accentuate the symptoms of IBS.”
Maintaining a regular bedtime, avoiding late-night screen time, and making your bedroom as comfortable as possible can help calm an irritable bowel.
Staying hydrated throughout the day promotes normal bowel function.
Inadequate water intake can lead to constipation and other digestive issues, so make sure you’re drinking enough fluids.
While some people can sip coffee without a problem, others find that caffeine aggravates their symptoms.
Track how you feel after consuming caffeinated beverages. If you notice a pattern of discomfort, consider reducing or eliminating caffeine.
Dr. Bedford recommends eating plans along the lines of the Mediterranean diet as a good choice for people with IBS.
Dr. Magge suggests the low FODMAP diet—fermentable, oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols—that can help reduce bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
Note: For those with IBS, any changes to their diet should be done only under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
While your smartwatch can’t diagnose you or cure you, it might soon be able to offer a heads-up before your gut decides to revolt. That could be the difference between catching a flare early — with small, strategic lifestyle or medication tweaks — and dealing with a full-blown, day-ruining attack.
As technology advances, combining wearable data with tried-and-true IBS management strategies may give you a proactive edge. In the meantime, keep listening to your body, stay on top of stress, and team up with your healthcare professionals to get ahead of (and maybe even outsmart) those IBS flare-ups.
https://www.gastrojournal.org/article/S0016-5085(25)00013-7/abstract
The popularity of at-home testing services and telehealth has grown massively since the COVID-19 pandemic. This year, it could grow to a $2 billion industry. EverlyWell is a company offering at-home testing for several conditions and disorders. While these tests are undoubtedly convenient, are they accurate? This article explores EverlyWell reviews, their tests, and their accuracy.
EverlyWell provides at-home testing for several conditions.
They have a range of tests to choose from.
Samples need to be self-collected and sent over by customers to their labs, which will test the samples.
While many have found their tests helpful, some have found them inaccurate.
EverlyWell is an Austin, Texas-based company that offers at-home testing.
The company was founded in 2015.
They offer more than 30 types of tests, including tests for:
Customers must take the samples and send them using prepaid expedited packaging.
The company delivers the results quickly through an online app.
You can also purchase EverlyWell test kits from Amazon, Walmart, and CVS.
EverlyWell tests are great for those who:
EverlyWell tests samples their customers provide through test kits mailed to laboratories.
These samples could be saliva, blood, etc.
The laboratory retrieves the results and provides them to the customers.
EverlyWell also offers free doctor consultations to help evaluate the test results and provide diagnoses if required.
The EverlyWell Food Sensitivity Test is a blood test that measures the body's immunoglobulin G (IgG) response to 98 different food items.
They have another comprehensive test that compares your sample against 204 items.
This test helps you identify food items that can cause an allergic reaction in your body.
However, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAI) has stated that IgG levels alone do not equal an allergy.
You can have IgG in your blood due to exposure to certain foods.
EverlyWells's Women's Health Test is a comprehensive test that evaluates hormones and biomarkers covered by the Women's Fertility Test, Postmenopause Test, and Perimenopause Test.
The hormones and biomarkers tested include:
This test requires blood and saliva samples, which you should provide at different times of your menstrual cycle.
You will receive two blood collection cards and four saliva collection tubes with this test kit.
The EverlyWell Men's Health test examines four hormones using saliva.
It tests for Testosterone, Cortisol, DHEA, and Estradiol.
These hormones are associated with sex drive, muscle mass, weight balance, and energy levels in men.
Also, measuring their levels can indicate a problem with the glands that secrete them.
EverlyWell also has a testerorone test for men that measures the total testosterone levels in the body.
It requires a blood sample.
EverlyWell's STD test bundles test for six STIs:
For men, a blood and urine sample is required, while for women, a blood sample and vaginal swab is collected.
If you test positive for any of the STDs, a physician will contact you for free consultation and further treatment.
EverlyWell's Metabolism Test detects the levels of three hormones in your body: cortisol, free testosterone, and thyroid-stimulating hormone.
However, this test cannot determine the cause of the abnormal levels.
That's why it's best to consult your doctor about the results if you have an abnormally high level of any of these hormones.
This test is priced at $99.
EverlyWell's thyroid test analyzes three thyroid hormones: thyroid stimulating hormones T3 and T4 and thyroid peroxidase antibodies.
This test requires a blood sample and costs $149.
Hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism can cause fatigue, dry skin, brittle nails, hair loss, and weight loss or gain.
Some conditions, like Hashimoto's disease, don't cause noticeable symptoms.
You can only learn about the condition by the presence of thyroid peroxidase antibodies in your blood.
EverlyWell also has tests to check cholesterol and lipid profiles, colon cancer screening tests, indoor and outdoor allergy tests, and heart health tests.
Getting started with EverlyWell is straightforward.
When reviewing EverlyWell's reports, it's important to consider:
EverlyWell tests cost $15 to $299, and membership is available for $24.99 monthly.
This membership, named Control, allows customers to get one free test and a 20% discount on every subsequent test.
Here's a more detailed overview of EverlyWell's test price range:
Pros of EverlyWell:
Cons of EverlyWell:
EverlyWell has an average rating of 2 out of 5 on Trustpilot.
Customers complain that the test results are sometimes inaccurate.
They also point out that the test results aren’t clinically valid until a doctor has ratified them and made a diagnosis.
Users on Reddit aren’t very convinced of EverlyWell’s tests.
Most said the results were vague and didn't reveal anything useful.
One user even claims that samples collected at home rarely provide accurate results.
EverlyWell keeps the DNA samples of customers who take their DNA tests.
Unless you explicitly request them to destroy your data, the company will indefinitely keep your data.
The company claims that they will never sell their customer's data.
EverlyWell uses bank-grade encryption to safeguard its customer's data.
They also don't host any data or servers themselves.
They use a HIPAA-compliant platform named ClearData to do this.
EverlyWell is a CLIA-certified company.
This certification means their laboratories regularly undergo inspections, and all testing is done under strict regulations.
Their tests can provide you with an overview of your health in an easy, convenient way.
However, their tests are by no means a replacement for doctor consultations.
If you test positive on any of EverlyWell's tests, a qualified physician will contact you at no extra cost to discuss your symptoms and further treatment options.
New York has stringent laws when it comes to at-home testing.
In addition to a complex billing system, NY has a law requiring the state health department to validate and approve every biomarker tested.
This process usually takes around 12-18 months, preventing at-home testing companies like EverlyWell from operating in NY.
Here are two alternatives to EverlyWell:
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https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9035352
Acid reflux can be quite painful, but it's bound to happen to many of us from time to time. The right diet is essential to soothe your digestive tract and prevent further flare-ups. We've prepared a 7-day acid reflux diet plan that can help ease the symptoms of this disease. Read on to learn what's right and what you should avoid if you're struggling with acute or chronic GERD.
The American College of Gastroenterology defines GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) as a chronic condition where stomach acids flow back into the esophagus.
Most people will experience occasional discomfort from stomach acid reflux.
However, if the symptoms occur at least twice a week and cause significant discomfort, a doctor can diagnose you with chronic GERD.
The most common symptom of acid reflux is heartburn, a burning sensation in your chest.
Other symptoms of acid reflux are:
If you experience several of these symptoms, particularly nausea and vomiting, you should contact your healthcare provider.
Though GERD has different triggers for different people, some common triggers of GERD include:
Here is a list of foods that don't trigger acid reflux:
No specific food can help you get rid of acid reflux symptoms immediately.
However, an over-the-counter antacid or baking soda mixed with water can help ease symptoms immediately.
Peanut butter is rich in healthy fats.
Sometimes, doctors recommend creamy peanut butter to soothe esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus).
Esophagitis has links to acid reflux, meaning peanut butter might help with GERD.
Eating too much peanut butter at once could trigger or worsen acid reflux.
Until studies determine the right amount of peanut butter for GERD, follow your healthcare provider’s advice.
Here are some drinks that can neutralize acid reflux:
Taking probiotics may help reduce symptoms of GERD by keeping harmful gut bacteria in check.
Probiotics aid digestion and can speed up the treatment of certain intestinal infections.
However, the application of probiotics to GERD needs further research.
After consulting a doctor, you can give probiotic foods a try.
The best meal for acid reflux includes low-fat, whole foods.
Consider including green vegetables, lean protein, and healthy foods.
Besides focusing on a balanced diet, here are a few more things to keep in mind when you have acid reflux:
Here’s a helpful 7-day acid reflux diet plan that could help manage GERD symptoms effectively.
| Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner | |
| Monday | Whole grain bread, hard-boiled egg, and a pear. | Whole grain roasted chicken tortilla and a salad. | Brown rice, grilled salmon with asparagus. |
| Tuesday | Oatmeal in low-fat or plant-based milk, bananas. | Brown rice, sauteed vegetables, and roasted chicken. | Zucchini noodles and baked potatoes. |
| Wednesday | Scrambled egg white with whole grain bread, a melon. | High fiber whole grain pasta, roasted chicken. | Baked potatoes and papaya. |
| Thursday | Oatmeal and bananas. | Tuna salad and pita bread. | Brown rice, roasted chicken, and carrot salad. |
| Friday | Low-fat yogurt and berries. | Whole tortilla with roasted turkey and broccoli. | Whole wheat pasta with grilled shrimp. |
| Saturday | Whole grain bread and scrambled egg whites. | Brown rice with grilled salmon. | Grilled salmon with baked potatoes. |
| Sunday | Oatmeal with bananas and apples. | Tuna salad with pita bread. | High-fiber pasta with roasted chicken. |
Here is a list of common GERD triggers to avoid if you currently have the disease:
If you suffer from acid reflux, consider consuming foods high in good fats and protein.
Here are a few dinner ideas if you have acid reflux:
The best soups for acid reflux are:
Avoid the following kinds of soups:
Having your soup too fast could also set off acid reflux.
Eating out might seem daunting since it could trigger your GERD easily.
If you find yourself at a restaurant, here’s what to keep in mind:
The Ultimate Guide To Anti-inflammatory Diet + Food List PDF
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https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30381627
While most of us cannot even fully open our eyes without taking a sip of coffee first thing in the morning, a whole wave of online influencers have opposing views.
They recommend abstaining from coffee for 90-120 minutes after waking up to reap the full benefits of caffeine.
They’re calling it the “game-changing” way of drinking coffee since it lets your body awaken more naturally and prevents the afternoon slump.
The drowsy feeling that finally makes us want to put down our phones and pull up our blankets is all thanks to a hormone called adenosine.
It binds to certain receptors in the brain to induce sleep. Caffeine, structurally similar to adenosine, wards off sleep by binding to the same receptors, thereby blocking adenosine.
Caffeine starts working as quickly as five minutes and typically hits its peak around 45 - 60 minutes after consumption, said Largemon-Roth, a New York-based registered dietitian nutritionist.
But not all of us respond the same way to caffeine.
Approximately 95% of caffeine is metabolized by this one gene called CYP1A2 (pronounced sip-one-A-two).
CYP1A2 exists in many forms, each breaking down caffeine at different rates.
If you have the “fast-metabolizing” form, then you eliminate caffeine quickly and will likely reach out for a second cup shortly after the first.
On the other hand, the “slow metabolizing” variant pushes out caffeine slowly.
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This report is not a diagnostic tool but a resource to help you better understand your genetic tendencies. Combined with advice from a healthcare professional and other diagnostic methods, it can guide more informed lifestyle and dietary choices. Xcode Life doesn't ship out DNA kits.
Cortisol, the major stress hormone in your body, is not just involved in fight-or-flight but also helps you be alert.
“You naturally release cortisol in the morning to help you become more alert and aware of your surroundings as you wake from your slumber,” DiMarino, a registered dietitian, explains.
Later in the day, when cortisol levels slowly start to decline, having your first cup of coffee can help avoid the energy crash, as explained by Emma Lowe, who shared their “delayed coffee” experience on MBG.
Even after you wake up, adenosine molecules still remain bound to their receptors for a while. So, with less competition for caffeine, the rationale is that it might not give you the energy boost you need.
When people consume caffeine immediately after waking, they often experience a significant energy dip in the early afternoon, known as the "afternoon crash." This crash occurs because the effects of the morning caffeine start to wear off, revealing the accumulated adenosine, says Andrew Huberman, a prominent American neuroscientist and podcaster.
Despite the claims and buzz, there’s little evidence to prove caffeine’s disruptive effects on the “natural waking up process.”
A 2019 study that examined the effects of caffeine on sleep-wake regulation reported that “Neither the time course of melatonin nor cortisol was significantly affected by caffeine or withdrawal.”
According to the CDC, 1 in 3 adults do not get enough sleep.
Considering caffeine’s proven effect on mental alertness and physical performance, it can really help you spring up to alertness first thing in the morning.
Let’s also not forget that for many, coffee isn’t just about the morning kick - its ability to trigger bowel movement has become a dependency.
As Huberman describes, if you work out first thing in the morning, having a cup of coffee right after you wake up can give you the energy boost for working out.
While caffeine’s wakefulness effect is a boon in the daytime, consuming it later in the day can interfere with sleep, leading to restless nights and groggy mornings, which is far from enjoyable.
So, it is important to time your last cup of coffee for the day.
While 6-8 hours before bedtime is the recommended time, slow metabolizers of caffeine may need to give it a good 10-12 hour-gap.
For most, cutting off coffee consumption by 12 PM - 2 PM can help prevent caffeine-induced sleep disturbances.
There isn’t a universal “best” time to have your morning coffee. Some people may find waiting 90–120 minutes after waking helps sustain energy levels into the afternoon. Others need that caffeine boost immediately to function—especially if they are not getting good nights' sleep, working night shifts, juggling a newborn’s schedule, or training for an early workout. Genetics, lifestyle, and individual tolerance play a significant role in how caffeine affects you. Regardless of when you take that first sip, be mindful of your last cup; cutting off caffeine 6–8 hours (or longer, for slow metabolizers) before bedtime can help ensure a good night’s sleep. Ultimately, the “right” timing is about balancing personal preference, daily demands, and healthy sleep practices.
Increasing awareness and wearable technology have expanded the potential of wellness journeys. However, achieving true well-being seems increasingly difficult. Across the world, the statistics tell the same story. One in four Americans struggles with depression, one in five is truly happy, and the rest are stuck in emotional limbo—neither happy nor depressed. Learning about the 12 dimensions of wellness and how to achieve them can transform every facet of your life, paving the way for true happiness and contentment.
Wellness in the modern age is an evolving concept shaped by technological advances, increased attention to mental health, and a deeper understanding of overall well-being.
Today, wellness extends beyond physical health to emotional, mental, and social aspects.
People now seek balance through mindfulness, meditation, and stress management, easily accessible through apps and online resources.
Diet and fitness routines have become more personalized, with technology providing insights into individual needs through wearables and health-tracking devices.
At the same time, there's a growing awareness of the importance of sleep, nutrition, and emotional connections contributing to a balanced lifestyle.
With the high productivity demands of modern routines, setting boundaries, nurturing supportive connections, and prioritizing self-care are more crucial than ever.
These trends suggest a more personalized, accessible, and sustainable approach to wellness, which would meet diverse needs and promote better living in today’s world.
In the 1970s, Dr. John Travis introduced the 12 dimensions of wellness, inspired by Dr. Halbert Dunn's ideas on wellness.
He opened the first wellness center in California and created The Wellness Inventory (1975) and The Wellness Workbook (1977).
These dimensions focus on different areas of life, helping individuals balance physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.
Below is an exploration of each dimension and its significance:
This dimension shows the importance of self-care and self-compassion.
Prioritizing personal needs, developing a positive self-image, and reducing negative self-talk are vital steps toward achieving a balanced and fulfilling life.
Recognizing personal needs and addressing them enhances motivation and overall wellness.
Breathing is fundamental for energy production and relaxation.
Mindful and intentional breathing practices can help reduce stress, calm emotions, and improve focus.
Becoming more aware of breathing patterns helps individuals stay present and focused.
Our senses—sight, touch, smell, hearing, and taste—shape how we experience the world. However, modern lifestyles can dull these senses.
However, mindful engagement with everyday activities, such as eating or walking, can restore sensory awareness and improve decision-making, relationships, and overall presence.
Nutrition fuels the body and mind. A fresh, whole, plant-based diet supports physical and mental health.
Practicing mindful eating enhances digestion, reduces overeating, and increases appreciation for the food we consume, making it a key part of self-care.
Movement is a natural expression of energy vital for physical and emotional well-being.
Engaging in fun physical activities and making them part of daily life helps avoid an inactive lifestyle, increase energy, and improve overall happiness.
Emotions are essential to the human experience. Developing emotional intelligence involves recognizing and managing personal emotions while understanding others' feelings.
This ability enhances relationships and equips individuals to handle challenging emotions like anger or anxiety effectively.
Thought patterns significantly impact overall wellness. Mindful thinking promotes positive choices and reduces the impact of negative or unwanted thoughts.
Understanding the brain's adaptability helps individuals reframe their thinking for personal growth and mental clarity.
Balancing work with fun and creative play boosts energy and well-being. Play helps spark creativity and excitement, making it an essential addition to organized work.
Achieving this balance is vital for leading a happy and fulfilling life.
Effective communication connects our inner thoughts with the outside world.
Improving listening skills and overcoming communication barriers strengthens relationships.
Positive self-talk is also key in supporting emotional and mental well-being.
Intimacy includes romantic relationships and deep connections with friends and family.
Trust and open communication are fundamental for building meaningful relationships.
Nurturing various forms of intimacy boosts personal and emotional well-being.
The search for meaning is at the core of human existence.
Reflecting on fundamental questions about identity and purpose provides clarity and strengthens our daily experiences.
When actions align with core values, individuals can lead more purposeful and satisfying lives.
This dimension reflects spiritual growth and the ability to go beyond limitations.
It includes moments of deep immersion, connecting with something more significant, and nurturing balance across all dimensions.
Transcendence leads to peak performance and a stronger sense of being fully alive.
Genetic wellness is a personalized approach to health that uses your unique genetic information to improve well-being.
Analyzing your DNA through genetic testing provides insights into how your body processes nutrients (nutrigenomics) and reacts to exercise (fitness genomics).
It also reveals your tendencies for traits like sleep patterns and stress response.
These tests can identify genetic risks for specific health conditions, allowing for early and proactive management.
Instead of general health advice, genetic wellness offers personalized recommendations for diet, exercise, and lifestyle based on your genetic profile.
These personalized insights help you make informed decisions to lower disease risks and refine your lifestyle for better health.
It’s important to note that genetic wellness testing focuses on identifying tendencies, not diagnosing conditions, and lifestyle decisions still significantly impact overall health.
The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) was founded in 1954 and represents over 7,500 professionals specializing in addiction treatment.
ASAM focuses on improving addiction care, educating healthcare providers and the public, supporting research, and promoting the role of physicians in treating addiction.
The ASAM dimensions provide a stepwise framework for biologically, socially, and psychologically assessing and treating individuals with addiction or substance use disorders.
The ASAM framework incorporates biological, psychological, and social factors into evaluations to create personalized treatment plans and improve recovery outcomes.
Achieving a work-life balance requires thoughtful strategy and planning. Here are some tips to get you started:
Balancing work and life is a constant effort that will require regular self-reflection and adjustment.
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https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/wellbeing
https://globalwellnessinstitute.org/what-is-wellness/history-of-wellness/
https://wvumedicine.org/wellness/programs/simple-steps-to-whole-person-wellbeing/
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/work-life-balance
We all know caffeine can give us the energy boost we need to power through our day, but could it also influence our hormones unexpectedly? Specifically, does caffeine impact testosterone levels, the hormone essential for muscle development, energy, and sexual well-being? The truth is that the relationship between caffeine and testosterone is more complex than you might think. While some studies suggest it could provide a slight boost, others indicate it might lower testosterone levels. This evidence-based review analyzes how caffeine affects testosterone, fertility, and erectile function, offering expert insights into its health and performance outcomes.
Caffeine has been studied for its impact on fertility, with mixed results across both male and female fertility studies.
In males, studies have shown that caffeine from coffee, tea, or cocoa drinks does not significantly affect semen quality, including sperm count or concentration.
Meanwhile, caffeine from cola and soft drinks has been linked to lower semen volume and concentration.
Caffeine consumption was also associated with sperm DNA damage, including aneuploidy and DNA breaks, which may negatively impact male fertility.
Additionally, male coffee intake was associated with extended time to conception for couples.
For females, higher caffeine intake, particularly between 300 mg and 600 mg daily, has been associated with an increased risk of miscarriage.
The risk rises by 37% at 300 mg and 132% at 600 mg daily.
However, no clear association was found between caffeine consumption and natural fertility or fertility treatment outcomes, such as clinical pregnancy or live birth rates.
The effect of caffeine on testosterone levels is complex and influenced by factors like dosage, duration of consumption, and individual differences.
Using data from 372 adult males in the 2013–2014 NHANES survey, the study investigated how caffeine affects testosterone levels in males.
It found that higher caffeine intake was linked to lower testosterone levels.
Some caffeine byproducts, such as 5-methyluric acid, were particularly associated with lower testosterone.
On the other hand, 7-methylxanthine seemed to raise testosterone levels.
These results indicate that caffeine could lower testosterone, but more research is needed to clarify the mechanisms behind this effect.
This study examined how caffeine affects testosterone and cortisol levels in professional athletes during exercise.
Rugby players took different amounts of caffeine (from 0 to 800 mg) before working out.
The results showed that caffeine caused a small increase in testosterone during exercise. At the highest dose (800 mg), testosterone went up by 21%.
However, this was also linked to a significant rise in cortisol, a stress hormone, which can work against the benefits of increased testosterone.
Higher cortisol levels lead to a reduced testosterone-to-cortisol ratio, which may limit the effectiveness of caffeine in boosting testosterone.
While caffeine can help with performance, the cortisol spike might limit these benefits.
This 8-week randomized controlled trial examined how caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee affects hormones in healthy adults.
After the 8 weeks, no significant changes were found in any of the results, including testosterone levels, from coffee consumption. However, at the 4-week mark, there were some notable differences:
Thus, further research is needed to clarify these associations and understand the underlying biological mechanisms.
Caffeine withdrawal's impact on testosterone levels is generally minimal and indirect.
Although some studies indicate that caffeine may temporarily boost testosterone, quitting coffee is unlikely to cause a significant decrease in levels.
The primary way withdrawal could affect testosterone is through increased stress, as the symptoms can raise cortisol levels.
Prolonged high cortisol can interfere with testosterone production, but this effect is usually temporary and fades as the body adapts to being caffeine-free.
Insights from healthcare professionals reveal how caffeine impacts testosterone levels.
| Andrew Huberman, Ph.D. (neuroscientist and podcaster at Stanford) |
| "Caffeine can slightly raise SHBG, which may reduce free testosterone levels. However, the impact is minor and doesn't exceed the benefits of proper caffeine consumption, enhancing mental and physical performance." |
| Dr. Jolene Brighten, NMD (naturopath and women's hormone expert) |
| "While studies on men suggest caffeine may lower testosterone levels, the impact on women is less clear. Some studies show caffeine could reduce testosterone in women but increase it in men. Overall, the results are mixed, and whether caffeine lowers testosterone likely depends on the individual." |
| Dr. Sam Robbins (anti-aging and hormone specialist) |
| "Caffeine can trigger a rise in stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which decreases testosterone and can result in a decrease in erections." |
Caffeine's influence extends to several other hormones, including:
Enjoying coffee doesn't have to come at the cost of your health—simple strategies can help you optimize its intake:
Note: These are general tips, and caffeine’s effects may vary from person to person. For any concerns, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider.
Caffeine may have a minimal effect on testosterone levels. Some evidence suggests a slight increase during exercise, with a 21% rise at high doses.
However, other findings indicate that caffeine's byproducts could decrease testosterone.
The overall effect varies between individuals, and more research is needed to understand its precise influence on testosterone.
Quitting coffee is not likely to cause a significant decrease in testosterone levels.
The connection between caffeine and testosterone is complex, with studies like the NHANES study by Lopez et al. showing non-linear associations.
This means the effect of caffeine on testosterone can vary depending on factors like consumption levels and individual variations.
Caffeine may enhance erectile function by improving blood flow to the penis.
Studies suggest that moderate coffee consumption—about 2 to 3 cups a day—can help males get and sustain an erection.
Drinking 85-170 milligrams of caffeine each day is linked to a 42% lower risk of erectile dysfunction (ED).
Males who consume 171-303 milligrams daily have a 39% lower chance of ED compared to those who don’t drink caffeine.
This positive effect could be due to caffeine’s ability to relax the arteries and smooth muscles in the penis, which boosts circulation.
Additionally, caffeine may increase testosterone levels, an essential factor since low testosterone is often linked to ED.
However, some recent studies have found no clear connection between caffeine and ED, indicating that the effects may vary from person to person.
Caffeine doesn't directly block hormones in the way a medication might. Instead, it interacts with your body in ways that can influence hormone levels.
Some hormones that caffeine can affect include:
Several factors can significantly lower testosterone, including:
Caffeine’s impact on testosterone is complex, with studies showing mixed results.
Some evidence suggests it can temporarily boost testosterone during exercise, while other findings indicate caffeine’s byproducts may lower testosterone in males.
Caffeine can negatively affect male fertility by reducing sperm quality and DNA health. In females, high caffeine intake elevates the risk of miscarriage.
Moderate caffeine consumption may improve erectile function and lower the risk of ED.
Caffeine withdrawal can cause temporary stress and elevated cortisol but doesn’t significantly lower testosterone.
The overall effects of caffeine on hormones vary based on individual factors, dosage, and lifestyle.
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https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5482951
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5733907
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9112543
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18458357
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3502342
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2257922
https://ai.hubermanlab.com/s/848d01de-6c88-11ef-a5a9-2b312bd75228
https://drbrighten.com/how-coffee-affects-your-health-and-hormones
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https://www.healthline.com/health/testosterone-killing-foods
