What Is ‘T-Maxxing’? Social Media Health Trend Worries Doctors
Men are getting social pressure to take a trendy supplement without doctor's supervision.
A new social media trend known as "T-maxxing" or "testosterone-maxxing" is gaining popularity among men, particularly on platforms like TikTok. This involves both natural and artificial methods to raise testosterone levels. A TikTok user, @learningwliam, has garnered over 177,000 views for a video discussing research showing a decline in testosterone among men over the past decade.
Factors such as obesity, poor lifestyle habits, and alcohol consumption have been linked to lower testosterone levels. However, doctors warn that the trend is leading to a rise in men seeking artificial means to boost their testosterone, which can pose potential health risks.
Alexander W. Pastuszak, MD, PhD, a urologist and associate professor at the University of Utah School of Medicine, and the Chief of the Section for Surgical Innovation, has expressed concern over the trend. According to Dr. Pastuszak, exogenous testosterone—testosterone produced outside the body—can lead to various problems if used without a deficiency.
In his video, @learningwliam mentioned cardio exercise, good sleep hygiene, and avoiding social media scrolling as ways to increase testosterone, all of which are endorsed by medical professionals. However, the claim that cold showers can boost testosterone remains unproven, though cold showers are generally healthy regardless of their impact on testosterone levels.
Pastuszak emphasizes that the fixation on testosterone in men's health is a significant concern. Testosterone therapy can lead to dependence if not medically indicated, and addressing symptoms like fatigue, low libido, or poor mood without addressing underlying issues such as sleep, weight, or stress can be counterproductive. He notes that testosterone therapy can mask actual health problems.
Dr. Pastuszak stresses that more is not always better when it comes to hormones, and the goal should be maintaining a physiologic level rather than a supraphysiologic one. Over-the-counter supplements often provide doses higher than the body would naturally produce, which can be problematic.
Social media has turned testosterone into a proxy for masculinity and vitality, leading to an ecosystem of clinics and supplement brands capitalizing on this increased anxiety. Many healthy men are now seeking treatment for levels within the normal range and without symptoms, which can be confusing for individuals and healthcare providers.
The primary concerns with testosterone supplements include the lack of regulation in over-the-counter products and the need for monitoring to prevent potential health risks. Unsupervised use can lead to complications such as blood thickening, increased estrogen levels, worsening sleep apnea, and suppressed fertility. These risks are heightened when doses are supraphysiologic.
If testosterone supplementation is deemed necessary, it should be prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare professional.
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