Testosterone declining in young men — watching porn may be to blame

Testosterone is plummeting among young men — and their X-rated digital sexcapades could be the kinky culprit.

The hormone helps maintain and develop sex organs, muscle mass, red blood cells, bone density and more, but it may be in short supply in some men.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, low testosterone affects about 2% of men, with symptoms ranging from depression, loss of body hair and reduced libido to erectile dysfunction and low sperm count.

According to The Sun, the level of testosterone in young men is declining, and watching porn or gaming excessively could be to blame.

A 2017 study found that men who played video games had lower libidos than those who didn’t. In fact, the researchers suggested that engaging with video games released dopamine — the same “pleasure hormone” released during orgasm — which could contribute to lack of interest in intimacy.

Playing video games is pleasurable — but it’s also stressful, potentially leading to an increase in the prolactin hormone and a decrease in testosterone, according to The Sun.

High prolactin levels in men can cause impotence. 

Likewise, watching pornography incessantly could contribute to lower sex drives as well, although the jury’s still out on that theory.

A 2016 study found that “chronic Internet pornography use resulted in erectile dysfunction and delayed ejaculation.”

But some experts have found that the X-rated indulgence isn’t necessarily lowering testosterone levels, it’s curbing desire.

“Porn addiction can lead to desensitization to sexual stimuli, which can decrease arousal and lead to difficulties achieving and maintaining an erection,” Dr. Rob Weiss, a clinical sexologist and psychotherapist, told The Post last month.

A few young men told The Post about their sexual woes — they couldn’t get an erection with a woman after years of watching porn. In fact, a 2020 study found a link between watching adult videos and taking longer to climax with a partner.

According to The Sun, pornography and video gaming could impair the sleep cycle, which could, in turn, lower testosterone levels.

Diet can also affect testosterone levels — namely, bread, pastries, dairy and desserts. A 2018 study found that those foods, in addition to dining out, contributed to lower testosterone levels and an unhealthy body composition.

But fret not, carb lovers. There are ways to boost hormone levels and reap the benefits, such as increased libido, excellent career performance and improved cooperative behaviors.

Healthline recommends exercising, weightlifting, minimizing stress, increasing vitamin D intake, getting some shut-eye, avoiding alcohol and eating a balanced diet of fats, proteins and carbs.