Does Olive Oil Increase Testosterone? (Science-Based)

Yes, olive oil consumption improves testosterone levels.

Diets high in monounsaturated fatty acids, found in virgin oil, and other foods high in healthy fats like coconut oil, avocados, and nuts have been shown to boost androgens among healthy adult men.

In fact, low-fat diets appear to have a direct correlation with low testosterone levels in men.

A study that involved 206 male volunteers discovered that their testosterone levels fell by 10–15% when they switched from a high-fat diet to a low-fat diet [1].

The same source found that a high intake of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) can improve male reproductive health [2].

In the same line, other research showed that oleuropein, a key compound found in olives and EVOO, can trigger increased testosterone production by 17.4% and luteinizing hormone by 42.6% [3].

However, further research is necessary to support this.

In addition, high oxidative stress has been linked to negative testosterone effects. Olive oil contains antioxidants, which are thought to shield Leydig cells from oxidative stress-related damage [4,5].

Virgin oil is a common element in Moroccan culture for cooking and health-improving purposes.

So, a study was conducted to assess argan and olive oil benefits among healthy Moroccan men.

Researchers discovered significant increases in the hormonal profile of androgens. They found an increase in both testosterone levels and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels among healthy adult Moroccan men after consuming EVOO for three weeks [6].

Extra virgin olive oil can boost testosterone production by increasing the activity of two enzymes vital for testosterone creation; 3β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and 17-β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase.

These two enzymes are responsible for the conversion of cholesterol to testosterone.

By increasing their activity, more cholesterol is converted into testosterone, leading to higher levels of the hormone in the body [7,8].

Additionally, EVOO also increases the number of Leydig cells in the testes.

These cells are responsible for absorbing cholesterol and converting it into testosterone.

Therefore, by increasing the number of these cells, more cholesterol is available for conversion into testosterone, further boosting low testosterone levels.

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Are There Any Risks Associated With Using Olive Oil?

Yes, there are some risks associated with using olive oil in large doses, such as nausea, low blood pressure, headaches, and dizziness [9,10].

It is a calorie-dense food, with each tablespoon containing 120 Kcal. So people who are trying to lose weight should avoid including too much of it in their diet.

Although research has shown that the Mediterranean diet with EVOO outperforms low-fat diets for weight loss, monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) in virgin oil are proven to cause weight gain if used excessively [11].

It's also important to note that it is high in saturated fat, which can be bad for your heart health if eaten in large quantities.

To boost T levels using olive oil, simply take around 25 grams of extra virgin oil first thing in the morning or before sleep.

Consuming the recommended amount may significantly improve your sexual health, blood pressure, and mood.

With that in mind, our dietitian recommends not cooking EVOO at a temperature higher than 400 °F. This way, you can enjoy the full taste and get the maximum out of its antioxidants.

Concerning storage, it should be kept in a cold and dark place to keep its compounds intact.

It contains several chemicals that are susceptible to degradation when exposed to heat and light.