Headlines about a "testosterone crisis" among modern men have become increasingly common, sparking concern and a host of theories about the cause. Are testosterone levels really dropping, and if so, why? And what role, if any, do controversial topics like semen retention and masturbation frequency play?
In a recent discussion, Dr. Mike Israetel and a health expert tackled these questions head-on. They separate the science from the speculation to provide a clear, evidence-based look at what's really going on with men's hormonal health.
TL;DR: The Real Story on Low Testosterone
- Yes, average testosterone levels have been declining. Dr. Mike and the expert identify the primary cause as the rise in poor health, including obesity and metabolic syndrome.
- Key lifestyle factors—chronic stress, lack of sleep, and sedentary behavior—are also major contributors to lower testosterone.
- There is **no good scientific evidence** that practices like semen retention or "No Nut November" significantly boost testosterone levels.
- Frequent masturbation is not a hormonal issue but a psychological one. It only becomes a problem when it detracts from your life and is often a symptom of underlying issues like stress or depression, not the cause.
The Real Reasons Testosterone Levels Are Dropping
The decline in men's testosterone is not a mystery; it's a direct consequence of modern lifestyle trends. The experts identified several key drivers:
- Poor Health as the #1 Cause: The most significant factor is the increase in metabolic syndrome. As people acquire conditions like obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure, their testosterone levels subsequently fall.
- Chronic Stress: Modern life is filled with chronic stress, which leads to chronically elevated cortisol. Cortisol is a catabolic hormone that directly interferes with testosterone production.
- Lack of Sleep: Many people sacrifice sleep for work or "downtime," which is a huge mistake for hormonal health. Both experts highlight poor sleep as a major factor in lowering testosterone.
- Sedentary Lifestyles: Testosterone is boosted by movement and resistance training. A culture of sitting at desks and on couches naturally leads to lower levels.
- Environmental Factors: Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals in plastics and other products also plays a role, though the full extent is still being studied.
Debunking the Semen Retention Myth
A popular theory in online men's health circles is that abstaining from ejaculation (semen retention or "No Nut November") can dramatically increase testosterone. According to the expert, this is a myth unsupported by science.
The available research is extremely limited. One tiny study of 10 men found that testosterone increased by a negligible 50 ng/dL after 21 days of abstinence—an amount that falls within the normal daily fluctuation and could easily be explained by psychological anticipation. Ultimately, there is "really no evidence that... abstaining for like no nut November for example, or whatever, semen retention... is really gonna make a difference" for your testosterone levels.
The Psychology of Masturbation Frequency
If frequent ejaculation doesn't lower testosterone, is it a problem for other reasons? The experts reframe the issue away from hormones and toward mental health. The key question is not "how often," but "why."
"How much is too much" is entirely subjective and is defined by whether the behavior is detracting from your life, relationships, or responsibilities. For many who engage in compulsive behavior, the act is not the cause of their problems but a symptom. It's often used as a coping mechanism—
