Feeling a Little Down in The Winter, Gentlemen? You’re Not Alone

Do you feel a little different when the temperature drops? Do the layers of clothing and shorter days suck your energy and motivation?

There are definitely psychological effects associated with cooler, darker temperatures. But they might be affecting you guys physically too. It’s possible that when temperatures drop, testosterone goes with it.

A study published in the Central European Journal of Urology found a correlation between testosterone and the season. The small study found testosterone levels were higher in the summer and dropped in the winter.

The study really highlights how relative testosterone levels can be. For example, testosterone remained in the “normal” range for participants throughout the year, but relative drops elicited differences in sexual thinking, behavior, and mood.

If you lack energy and your typical vigor since temperatures have fallen, and have noticed a trend in the past, you can work to stay ahead of it.

Keeping testosterone levels from dropping in the winter involves maintaining activity levels and finding ways to workout despite the temperature.

Being that we’re caught up in a pandemic, working out at home is essential. Lifting with resistance bands and dumbbells a few times per week can help maintain muscle and stabilize testosterone. If you have the space for more heavy-duty equipment, consider it a smart investment.

Doing cardiovascular activity may help too. This could involve getting out for fall hikes or winter snow-shoeing expeditions. You could also shovel your neighbor’s driveway.

Exercise can do double-duty for testosterone levels because it can also help minimize and control stress. Stress can contribute to lower testosterone, so find ways to keep in check. Better sleep, exercise, and mindfulness can all help with stress management.

Your diet plays a role too. Keep eating healthy, and put a little bit of focus on getting plenty of protein—about 1 gram per pound of body weight per day—and include healthy fats from places like fish, avocado, nuts, and olive oil.

Vitamin D supplements may play a big role in maintaining stable testosterone levels, and zinc might help too. Consider a multivitamin for the winter months to help top up any additional nutrient requirements.

Don’t let testosterone’s potential seasonal wave suck your life away as the temperatures trend downwards. Try these natural methods to keep it steady and make the most of the season.