Based on the provided reference, cold exposure, such as from a cold shower, does not directly cause a sustained increase in testosterone levels immediately. Instead, it can cause a temporary decrease in testosterone but stimulate the production of a hormone that leads to testosterone production.
According to research, the effect of cold exposure on testosterone levels is not a simple direct increase. A study conducted at Japan's Hokkaido University provided specific insights into this relationship [1].
The study observed the following:
- Temporary Decrease in Testosterone: Cold exposure initially led to a temporary decrease in testosterone levels in the subjects.
- Significant Increase in Luteinizing Hormone (LH): Following the cold exposure, there was a notable increase in luteinizing hormone (LH).
- LH's Role: LH is a crucial hormone in men that plays a direct role in stimulating the testicles to produce testosterone.
This suggests a potential indirect pathway where cold exposure triggers the release of LH, which then signals the body to produce more testosterone later. Therefore, while cold exposure might cause a brief dip, it appears to activate the body's mechanism for boosting testosterone production via LH.
Key Takeaways from the Hokkaido University Study:
- Cold exposure results in a temporary drop in testosterone.
- Cold exposure significantly increases luteinizing hormone (LH).
- LH is the hormone that stimulates testosterone production.
In summary, based on this specific study, cold showers or cold exposure don't immediately increase testosterone; they first cause a temporary dip but significantly boost the hormone responsible for its production (LH).
