Lifestyle modification increases serum testosterone level and decrease central blood pressure in overweight and obese men.

Plain-language summary

This study looked at whether testosterone plays a role in lowering central systolic blood pressure (the pressure in the aorta, the main artery leaving the heart) in overweight and obese men after lifestyle changes. Forty-four overweight and obese men completed a 12-week program of aerobic exercise and dietary changes, with central systolic blood pressure and serum testosterone levels measured before and after. After the program, central systolic blood pressure dropped significantly, and testosterone levels rose significantly. The study also found that the increase in testosterone was linked to the drop in blood pressure, suggesting testosterone may help drive the improvement.

Key findings

• Central systolic blood pressure decreased significantly after the 12-week lifestyle program.
• Serum testosterone levels increased significantly after the program.
• The rise in testosterone was linked to the drop in central systolic blood pressure.