Will Quitting Alcohol Increase Testosterone in Men?
Alcohol does not raise testosterone in men as some myths suggest. In fact, research shows that heavy or long-term drinking disrupts hormone balance by lowering testosterone and increasing estrogen.
This shift can affect sexual function, energy, and overall health. Because alcohol can harm the liver and alter hormone production, many men wonder if quitting will restore testosterone levels.
This article explores what science says about the connection between alcohol use and male hormones, and whether stopping drinking may help support healthier testosterone balance.
Before exploring further, please read the disclaimer located at the end of this webpage.
Key Takeaways
- Heavy drinking lowers testosterone by disrupting the HPG axis and increasing estrogen through liver damage [1, 2].
- Quitting alcohol can naturally restore testosterone and improve related hormones such as FSH and SHBG [3].
- Sobriety helps reduce belly fat and oxidative stress, lowering aromatase activity and supporting healthier hormone balance [1, 4].
- Better sleep after quitting alcohol enhances hormone stability and boosts testosterone production [3].
- Long-term heavy drinking may cause lasting testosterone deficiency, making safe quitting and medical supervision essential [5, 6, 7].
How Does Alcohol Affect Testosterone in Men?
Heavy alcohol consumption disrupts the HPG axis (hypothalamus–pituitary–gonadal). Specifically, ethanol and acetaldehyde (a toxic byproduct of alcohol metabolism) inhibit testosterone production in Leydig cells in the testes and also suppress the brain’s release of key sex hormones like LH and FSH (Koh et al., 2022).
As a result, circulating testosterone levels drop significantly. Additionally, when the liver is burdened with alcohol metabolism, the activity of the aromatase enzyme increases, converting more testosterone into estradiol (a form of estrogen).
A study in rats (Gordon et al., 1979) found that chronic alcohol intake increased aromatase activity in the liver, leading to elevated estradiol and reduced testosterone [2]:
“Chronic alcohol ingestion in the rat resulted in increased hepatic aromatase activity, elevation of plasma estradiol, and a decrease in plasma testosterone levels.” — Gordon, G. G., Southren, A. L., Vittek, J., & Lieber, C. S. (1979)
However, this finding comes from an animal study, and results in rats may not fully translate to human physiology, so further clinical research is needed.
This hormone imbalance—lower testosterone and higher estrogen—affects not only sexual function (e.g., reduced libido, fatigue, weakness) but also contributes to long-term risks for cardiovascular, metabolic, and bone health problems.
Note: People who flush when drinking (due to ALDH2 enzyme deficiency) retain acetaldehyde longer, making them more vulnerable to alcohol’s harmful effects. Even moderate intake (as little as 112g ethanol/week) may increase the risk of testosterone suppression in these individuals [1].
Will quitting alcohol increase testosterone?
Quitting alcohol can increase testosterone in men. Stopping alcohol eliminates ethanol’s suppressive effects on the HPG axis and liver function, allowing testosterone to recover naturally.
In a study of 29 alcoholic men, testosterone and SHBG levels increased after 3 weeks of sobriety; FSH recovered, while LH remained low; oestrone steadily declined.
This shows that hormone recovery takes time, but testosterone begins to rise within just a few weeks of quitting alcohol [3]. FSH and SHBG recovery also signals healthier endocrine function. Rising testosterone improves energy, mood, and overall vitality.
Testosterone Increases Naturally After Quitting Alcohol
In a longitudinal study by Ruusa et al. (1997), 29 alcoholic men undergoing detox showed significant testosterone recovery after 2–4 weeks of abstinence.
Both testosterone and SHBG were low during the early detox period but rose toward normal levels after 3 weeks of sobriety [3].
FSH (which supports sperm production) fully recovered, suggesting that the HPG axis had largely normalized. As a result, the men experienced increased energy, mood improvements, and better well-being—thanks to restored testosterone.
Less Body Fat, Lower Estrogen – Higher Testosterone
Heavy drinking is often associated with weight gain and belly fat in men (the so-called "beer belly") [8].
Excess fat, especially around the waist, is a rich source of aromatase, the enzyme that converts testosterone into estrogen—thus contributing to higher estrogen and lower testosterone levels. Additionally, alcohol-related inactivity and oxidative stress can damage Leydig cells and disrupt hormonal balance [1].
When men quit alcohol, they often improve their lifestyle (diet, exercise) and lose visceral fat. This leads to reduced aromatase activity, lower estrogen, and higher natural testosterone [1, 4].
Better Sleep Supports Hormonal Balance
Low testosterone levels in men can lead to sleep disturbances, reducing both the quality and depth of sleep, which in turn causes fatigue and impaired cognitive function. Alcohol, on the other hand, disrupts sleep cycles, increases nighttime heart rate, and reduces REM sleep, limiting the body’s ability to fully recover [1].
Moreover, alcohol lowers testosterone levels, especially with long-term and heavy consumption, by suppressing the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and increasing aromatase activity (which converts testosterone to estrogen).
This creates a negative cycle: alcohol → reduced testosterone → poor sleep → declining overall health [1].
In contrast, quitting alcohol can lead to a noticeable improvement in sleep quality. Getting sufficient and restful sleep (7–8 hours), especially at night, helps stabilize the hormonal axis and boosts natural testosterone production.
Testosterone Therapy Works Better When Sober
For individuals undergoing testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), avoiding alcohol is crucial. Heavy drinking damages the liver—the main organ responsible for processing external hormones—thereby reducing the body’s ability to absorb testosterone from injections or topical applications.
Drinking heavily while on TRT not only diminishes treatment efficacy but also poses serious health risks, as the liver is hit with a “double dose” of toxins from both alcohol and the hormone.
Quitting Alcohol Improves Libido and Appearance
Long-term alcohol abuse reduces libido, impairs erectile function, and decreases sperm quality. Specifically, alcohol increases estrogen and lowers DHT (dihydrotestosterone), leading to erectile dysfunction, lower sexual desire, and reduced sperm count [8].
After quitting alcohol, many men report feeling more confident, achieving orgasm more easily, and enjoying a more satisfying sex life. Testosterone and DHT levels tend to recover, resulting in healthier skin, firmer muscles, and improved sperm count and fertility—factors that help maintain a youthful edge [8].
Many users in the Reddit community have shared that after quitting alcohol, they experienced significantly improved libido, stronger erections, and greater stamina—comparable to what they had in their younger years.*
Sleep becomes deeper, and mental clarity improves as hormone levels and testosterone normalize. While some experience a temporary dip in sexual desire, most report noticeable improvements after a few weeks to a few months.*
Long-Term Effects of Hormonal Imbalance in Men
Prolonged low testosterone and elevated estrogen levels in men can lead to a range of chronic health issues. Studies have highlighted several risks:
Type 2 Diabetes: Low testosterone is an independent risk factor for diabetes in men [5]. Men with testosterone deficiency are more prone to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
Weakened Immunity: Both testosterone and estrogen affect immune function. Hormonal imbalance is often accompanied by chronic inflammation, which weakens the body's defense system and increases susceptibility to infections, arthritis, and other inflammatory diseases [10].
Bone Loss: Testosterone plays a key role in maintaining bone density. Numerous studies confirm a strong link between low testosterone and increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures in men [6].
Liver Damage: Chronic heavy drinking can cause liver fibrosis. Hormonal imbalances similar to those seen in liver cirrhosis (elevated estradiol) often occur in these cases [2]. As liver function deteriorates, hormone regulation worsens, creating a vicious cycle.
Cardiovascular Disease: Long-term alcohol use contributes to high blood pressure and heart damage. Research shows that regular alcohol consumption increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Hormonal imbalance (low testosterone, high estrogen) further weakens cardiovascular health. One report noted that heavy drinking causes clear, progressive heart damage over time [8].
In summary, hormone disruption caused by alcohol doesn’t only affect sexual health, but also raises the risks of diabetes, osteoporosis, liver disease, and heart problems as men age [5, 6, 8].
Don’t Quit Alcohol Suddenly if Heavily Dependent
For those with long-term heavy alcohol use, quitting suddenly can be dangerous. Acute alcohol withdrawal syndrome may lead to tremors, seizures, and even psychosis—conditions that can be life-threatening without timely medical intervention [7].
Common withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, hand tremors, insomnia, rapid heartbeat, nausea, sweating, and irritability. In severe cases, it can escalate to delirium tremens, seizures, or even death [7].
Therefore, if signs of dependence are present (daily drinking, inability to control intake), it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for a safe detox plan, which may include medication-assisted support.
Additionally, if you're undergoing testosterone therapy and plan to quit alcohol, inform your doctor to monitor liver function and adjust hormone dosage accordingly. Since alcohol withdrawal impacts both the liver and hormonal balance, medical supervision helps limit complications.
Conclusion
Quitting alcohol may be an effective step toward supporting male hormonal balance and overall well-being. Stopping alcohol intake has been associated with healthier testosterone levels, improved sleep, reduced stress, and greater vitality when combined with balanced lifestyle habits.
Start by gradually cutting back on daily consumption and adopting healthier lifestyle habits. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient rest can significantly boost the success of quitting. This approach not only supports testosterone recovery but also leads to a more fulfilling life in terms of both health and masculinity.
Testimonial Disclaimer
*The testimonials presented on this website are provided by individuals based on their personal experiences with our products. These testimonials represent individual opinions and experiences, which may not be typical or applicable to all users of our products. Results may vary depending on a variety of factors, including individual health, lifestyle, and adherence to product usage instructions.Frequently Asked Questions
1. What about SHBG changes?
After quitting alcohol, levels of SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin) typically increase along with testosterone.
In studies tracking patients in alcohol withdrawal, SHBG levels were initially low but recovered after three weeks of abstinence. An increase in SHBG indicates better hormonal regulation in the bloodstream and overall endocrine improvement [3].
2. Does moderate drinking vs binge drinking differ?
Moderate drinking is defined as up to 1 drink per day for women and 2 drinks per day for men. Heavy drinking exceeds this limit or involves binge drinking in short periods.
While even small amounts of alcohol can affect health, heavy consumption dramatically increases the risk of cancer, liver and heart diseases, and accidents. Alcohol also suppresses testosterone production—especially in men—leading to significant hormonal decline and slow recovery. Therefore, heavy drinking harms not only general health but also male sexual function [11].
3. Does alcohol increase testosterone in females?
In some cases, research shows that alcohol can temporarily increase testosterone in women. One study found that alcohol intake (0.5 g/kg) elevated total and free testosterone levels 45–90 minutes after consumption in premenopausal women, especially those on oral contraceptives.
This was accompanied by a decrease in androstenedione and an increased testosterone/androstenedione ratio [12]. However, this effect is temporary and may lead to side effects such as menstrual irregularities. In short, alcohol is neither a sustainable nor a healthy way to raise testosterone in women.
4. What are the benefits of 40 days of no alcohol?
Studies show that liver function, blood pressure, and weight can improve significantly after just one month of alcohol abstinence [13]. Many experts suggest that 40 days of sobriety gives the body time to recover more fully.
Within 2–4 weeks, liver function begins to improve, hormones start rebalancing, and many men report a noticeable increase in testosterone. Sleep and mood also improve, boosting energy levels. After 1–3 months, cardiovascular and sexual health typically show significant recovery.
5. How to increase testosterone levels quickly?
To boost testosterone quickly, focus on lifestyle changes: losing weight and exercising regularly. Numerous studies show that weight loss can increase testosterone levels by up to 30%. Strength training, squats, and high-intensity workouts help stimulate testosterone production.
Eating a nutritious diet with adequate protein and healthy fats (such as from fatty fish and olive oil), while limiting sugar intake, also supports testosterone levels. Getting 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night is crucial, as most testosterone is produced during sleep.
Lastly, reduce stress—since stress raises cortisol, a hormone that suppresses testosterone—and avoid alcohol and tobacco as much as possible [14].
6. How Long Does It Take to Restore Testosterone?
After completely quitting alcohol, testosterone levels can begin to rise within a few weeks [3]. However, full recovery depends on the amount and duration of prior alcohol consumption.
References
- [1] Koh K, Kim SS, Kim JS, et al. Relationship between Alcohol Consumption and Testosterone Deficiency according to Facial Flushes among Middle-Aged and Older Korean Men. Korean Journal of Family Medicine. 2022;43(6):381-387. doi:https://doi.org/10.4082/kjfm.21.0173
- [2] Gordon GG, A.Louis Southren, Jozef Vittek, Lieber CS. The effect of alcohol ingestion on hepatic aromatase activity and plasma steroid hormones in the rat. Metabolism. 1979;28(1):20-24. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/0026-0495(79)90163-x
- [3] RUUSA J, BERGMAN B, SUNDELL ML. SEX HORMONES DURING ALCOHOL WITHDRAWAL: A LONGITUDINAL STUDY OF 29 MALE ALCOHOLICS DURING DETOXIFICATION. Alcohol and Alcoholism. 1997;32(5):591-597. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/oxfordjournals.alcalc.a008300
- [4] Xu X, Sun M, Ye J, et al. The Effect of Aromatase on the Reproductive Function of Obese Males. Hormone and Metabolic Research. 2017;49(08):572-579. doi:https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0043-107835
- [5] Khalil SHA, Dandona P, Osman NA, et al. Diabetes surpasses obesity as a risk factor for low serum testosterone level. Diabetology & Metabolic Syndrome. 2024;16(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1186/s13098-024-01373-1
- [6] Kazuyoshi Shigehara, Izumi K, Yoshifumi Kadono, Mizokami A. Testosterone and Bone Health in Men: A Narrative Review. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2021;10(3):530-530. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10030530
- [7] Alcohol withdrawal: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. Medlineplus.gov. Published 2023. Accessed July 29, 2025. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000764.htm
- [8] Drinkaware. Drinkaware.co.uk. Published 2019. Accessed July 29, 2025. https://www.drinkaware.co.uk/facts/health-effects-of-alcohol/general-health-effects/alcohol-and-men
- [10] White AA, Lin A, Xander Bickendorf, et al. Potential immunological effects of gender-affirming hormone therapy in transgender people – an unexplored area of research. Therapeutic Advances in Endocrinology and Metabolism. 2022;13. doi:https://doi.org/10.1177/20420188221139612
- [11] Alcohol in moderation: How many drinks is that? Mayo Clinic. Published 2024. Accessed July 29, 2025. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/alcohol/art-20044551
- [12] T. Sarkola. ACUTE EFFECT OF ALCOHOL ON ANDROGENS IN PREMENOPAUSAL WOMEN. Alcohol and Alcoholism. 2000;35(1):84-90. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/alcalc/35.1.84
- [13] Dry January: The health benefits of going 31 days without alcohol | Diet and Nutrition | Prevention | UT Southwestern Medical Center. Utswmed.org. Published 2023. Accessed July 29, 2025. https://utswmed.org/medblog/no-alcohol-health-benefits/
- [14] Fisher J. Lifestyle strategies to help prevent natural age-related decline in testosterone - Harvard Health. Harvard Health. Published August 13, 2024. Accessed July 29, 2025. https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/lifestyle-strategies-to-help-prevent-natural-age-related-decline-in-testosterone
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