What is testosterone and how does it work in the body?
Testosterone is a steroid hormone belonging to the androgen group. Although it is known as the "male hormone," it is also produced, in smaller quantities, by women. In men, it is primarily synthesized in the testicles.
Testosterone is essential for the development of male sexual characteristics, for sperm production and libido, increased muscle mass and strength, maintenance of bone density, red blood cell production, and it influences energy levels, motivation, and certain brain functions.
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How does testosterone affect the immune system?
Women mount more robust immune responses to pathogens and vaccines, making them less susceptible to certain infections. However, this same immune "hyperactivity" makes them more prone to developing autoimmune diseases. Men, thanks in large part to testosterone, tend to have a more "tolerant" immune response, which protects them from autoimmunity.
Testosterone as an immune system modulator
Interaction between sex hormones and immunity
Immune cells possess receptors for androgens and estrogens; both hormone families can directly influence their function. Testosterone generally exerts a suppressive effect on certain cellular components.
Immunosuppressive vs. immunoregulatory effects
Testosterone has immunoregulatory effects, helping to keep the immune system in balance and preventing autoimmune diseases, but immunosuppression could theoretically compromise the fight against aggressive infections.
Influence on T lymphocytes and adaptive response
Testosterone promotes the differentiation of T lymphocytes towards an anti-inflammatory profile (regulatory T cells) and reduces the activity of cytotoxic and helper T cells (Th1), which are involved in intense inflammatory responses and in attacking self-tissues in autoimmune diseases.
Does testosterone strengthen or weaken the immune system?
It neither strengthens nor weakens the immune system, but rather changes its focus.
In terms of defense against pathogens, an environment with high testosterone may be associated with a somewhat slower or less intense initial response.
In terms of inflammation control and autoimmunity, testosterone demonstrates its "strengthening" aspect by preventing an overreaction. Its immunoregulatory effect is crucial for maintaining immune tolerance and preventing the body from attacking itself.
Low testosterone levels and inflammatory response
Association with chronic systemic inflammation
Low testosterone levels are associated with increased inflammatory markers in the blood, such as C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). This creates a state of chronic inflammation that affects the entire body.
Relationship with metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance
Low testosterone promotes the accumulation of visceral fat, which is metabolically active and pro-inflammatory. Inflammation worsens insulin resistance, creating a vicious cycle that makes weight control and glucose metabolism more difficult.
Increased cardiovascular risk
The combination of chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, and high cholesterol resulting from a testosterone deficiency increases the risk of atherosclerosis, hypertension, and other cardiovascular events.
Fatigue, weakness, and slow recovery
Systemic inflammation also contributes to feelings of profound fatigue and lack of energy. And without the anabolic effect of testosterone, plus an inflammatory environment, the body's ability to repair tissues and recover after exercise or injury is significantly diminished.
Testosterone, inflammation, and chronic diseases
Influence on cardiovascular diseases
Low testosterone promotes atherosclerosis. Inflammation damages the endothelium, facilitating the formation of cholesterol plaques that can obstruct blood flow.
Relationship with obesity and metabolic dysfunction
Obesity increases the conversion of testosterone to estrogen via the aromatase enzyme, which reduces levels of free testosterone. This low testosterone facilitates greater fat storage and worsens insulin sensitivity.
Role in chronic inflammatory diseases
Low testosterone levels have been observed in patients with chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Although sometimes a consequence of the disease, hormonal deficiency can contribute to perpetuating the inflammatory state and worsen the prognosis.
Testosterone and autoimmune diseases
Lower prevalence in men: protective hormonal role
Approximately 80% of people affected by autoimmune diseases are women. This difference suggests that testosterone may be a protective factor in men.
How testosterone modulates autoimmunity
Testosterone exerts its protective effect by inhibiting the production of B cells and autoantibodies, reducing the activity of autoreactive T cells, decreasing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines that cause damage in diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, and promoting the generation of regulatory T cells, which "turn off" the immune response.
Related autoimmune diseases
Some diseases where this sexual dimorphism is observed include Lupus, where the female/male ratio is 9:1, Sjögen's Syndrome, with the same proportion, and rheumatoid arthritis, which affects 2 or 3 times more women.
Immunological changes in hormonal therapies
In a study by Imperial College London, transgender men who started testosterone therapy began to develop immune profiles similar to those of cisgender men, with a decrease in inflammatory responses mediated by certain cytokines.
Factors that alter testosterone and affect immunity
- Age: From the age of 30-40, testosterone levels gradually decrease, increasing due to age-related inflammation.
- Obesity: Fatty tissue contains the aromatase enzyme, which converts testosterone into estradiol.
- Chronic stress: High levels of cortisol suppress testosterone production and inhibit its function, in addition to being immunosuppressant in the long term, but pro-inflammatory in certain contexts.
- Lack of sleep: Sleeping poorly or less than 5-6 hours a day drastically reduces testosterone production.
- Improper diet: Diets very low in healthy fats, and deficiencies in zinc, magnesium, and vitamin D can negatively affect hormone production.
- Sedentary: Lack of physical activity accelerates the loss of muscle mass and promotes fat gain, negatively impacting testosterone.
- Alcohol and drug use: Alcohol, opioids, and other drugs can damage the Leydig cells in the testicles, reducing testosterone production.
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How to optimize testosterone and strengthen the immune system
Anti-inflammatory diet
Prioritize healthy fats, consume enough quality protein to maintain muscle mass, ensure a good intake of zinc, magnesium and vitamin D, include plenty of antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruits to fight inflammation, and avoid excess refined sugars and ultra-processed foods, which promote inflammation and insulin resistance.
Strength training and physical activity
Resistance training and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) can also help prevent overtraining, as excessive exercise without recovery raises cortisol levels and can depress the immune system. testosterone.
Improvement in sleep quality
You should prioritize sleeping 7 to 9 hours a day, maintain a regular bedtime and wake-up time, create a dark, cool and quiet environment in the bedroom and avoid screens (mobile phone, computer) at least one hour before going to sleep.
Stress management
You can incorporate relaxation practices such as meditation, mindfulness, yoga, or simply spending time in nature. Managing chronic stress is also essential for keeping cortisol levels low and allowing testosterone to function properly.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is crucial for both testosterone production and immune function. Optimal levels are essential for immune regulation and infection prevention. Safe sun exposure is recommended, and supplementation is advised if necessary.
Clinical follow-up and appropriate hormone replacement therapy
If you suspect you have low testosterone levels, it's crucial to see a doctor. Only a professional can diagnose a condition. primary hypogonadism o secondary hypogonadism The diagnosis is made through blood tests and clinical evaluation. In justified cases, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) with testosterone may be an option. Well-managed HRT can help restore immune balance, reducing inflammation and improving quality of life.
It may interest you: 15 foods to increase testosterone.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do men with high testosterone have lower immunity?
Not exactly. They have a different immune response, more regulated and less prone to excessive inflammation; their system is not "weak," but rather calibrated differently, which protects them from autoimmune diseases.
Does low testosterone increase inflammation?
Yes. There is clear evidence that low testosterone levels are associated with an increase in inflammatory markers, contributing to a state of chronic low-grade inflammation.
Can hormone therapy improve immunity?
In men with a diagnosed deficiency (hypogonadism), testosterone replacement therapy can normalize their immune profile, reducing inflammation and potentially improving immune regulation.
Does exercise improve testosterone and the immune system?
Yes, exercise, especially strength training and HIIT, is one of the cornerstones of maintaining healthy testosterone levels. Furthermore, regular physical activity is a powerful modulator of the immune system, reducing chronic inflammation.
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Conclusion
Testosterone acts as an essential regulator of the immune system. Maintaining adequate levels through a healthy lifestyle, or, if necessary, through specialized therapy, is key to vitality and health, with an effective and resilient immune system.
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