I have some bad news for you if you are someone who really loves sugar….. Dysregulated blood sugar can significantly impact your sex hormones.

When blood sugar levels are consistently high due to frequent sugar intake or a diet high in refined carbohydrates, the body’s insulin response goes into overdrive. This excess insulin can interfere with the ovaries in women and the testes in men, affecting the production of sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone.

In women, insulin resistance can disrupt ovarian function, leading to irregular menstrual cycles, infertility issues, and increased production of androgens (like testosterone), which are the hormones that cause a lot of uncomfortable symptoms when out of balance. This imbalance may cause symptoms like acne, excessive hair growth (hirsutism), and difficulties with weight management.

For men, high blood sugar and insulin resistance can lower testosterone levels, affecting libido, sperm quality, and even erectile function. It can also contribute to a condition called hypogonadism, which involves reduced testosterone production and fertility issues.

Conversely, low blood sugar caused by erratic eating habits or skipping meals triggers the release of stress hormones like cortisol. Elevated cortisol levels can interfere with the body’s ability to produce sex hormones, disrupting the delicate balance needed for optimal sexual health.

In essence, maintaining stable blood sugar levels is crucial for supporting healthy sex hormone production. It helps in preserving fertility, libido, and overall sexual wellness.

So the next time you reach for that cookie, consider how often you are consuming sugar and refined carbs. I suggest spending the first week each month evaluating the amount of sugar that sneaks into your body and making changes as needed 🙂