Eating More Live Microbes May Boost Testosterone: What a New Study Found

A new study published in Scientific Reports (Nature Publishing Group) has found a potential link between eating foods rich in live microbes—like those found in yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and other fermented foods—and higher testosterone levels in men1.

Why Testosterone Matters​

Testosterone is a crucial hormone for men’s health. Low testosterone can lead to a range of problems, including:

• Reduced libido (sex drive)
• Erectile dysfunction
• Loss of muscle mass
• Fatigue
• Mood changes

Maintaining healthy testosterone levels is important for overall well-being, sexual health, and even organ function1.

What Did the Study Do?​

Researchers looked at the diets and blood test results of a large group of men. They focused on how much “live microbe” food—foods containing beneficial bacteria—each person ate. Examples include:

• Yogurt with live cultures
• Kefir
• Kimchi
• Sauerkraut
• Other fermented foods

They then compared these dietary habits to the men’s testosterone levels measured in their blood.

Key Findings​

• Men who ate more foods with live microbes tended to have higher testosterone levels.
• This association remained even after accounting for other factors that can affect testosterone, such as age, body weight, and lifestyle habits1.
• The study suggests that regularly eating fermented foods containing live bacteria might help support healthy testosterone levels.

How Might Live Microbes Help?​

While the study didn’t prove exactly how live microbes could influence testosterone, scientists have a few ideas:

• Gut Health Connection: The bacteria in fermented foods may improve gut health, which in turn could affect hormone production.
• Reduced Inflammation: Healthy gut bacteria might lower inflammation, which is known to negatively impact testosterone.
• Better Nutrient Absorption: A healthy gut helps the body absorb nutrients that are important for hormone production, like zinc and vitamin D.

What Does This Mean for You?​

If you’re concerned about your testosterone levels or just want to support your overall health, adding more fermented foods with live cultures to your diet could be a simple and natural step. Examples include:

• Yogurt (look for “live and active cultures” on the label)
• Kefir
• Kimchi
• Sauerkraut (unpasteurized)
• Miso
• Tempeh

A Note of Caution​

This study shows a link, not a direct cause-and-effect. Eating more live microbe foods might help, but it’s not a guaranteed cure for low testosterone. If you have symptoms of low testosterone, talk to your healthcare provider for proper testing and advice.

Bottom Line​

A diet rich in fermented foods with live microbes may be linked to higher testosterone levels in men. While more research is needed, adding these foods to your routine is a tasty way to support your health—and possibly your hormones1.