As physiological issues became evident, he surprisingly visited a men's health clinic. Test results showed a testosterone level of only 12 nmol/L, which was low for his age. Doctors determined the cause was not his physique, with a body mass index (BMI) of 18, but rather irregular eating habits, lack of physical activity, and prolonged stress. After three months of nutritional adjustments, muscle-building exercises, and adequate rest, his hormone levels increased to 17 nmol/L, and symptoms improved significantly.
In contrast, a 35-year-old patient with a larger build and a BMI of 27 sought medical advice. He was concerned that "being fat means being weak." Examinations revealed he had a regular gym routine, good cardiovascular endurance, stable testosterone levels at 20 nmol/L, and no sexual dysfunctions. The biggest factor affecting his performance was not his physical condition, but his self-consciousness about his appearance.
According to Doctor Tra Anh Duy, from Men's Health Center, the saying "thin men are often strong in bed" is common among men, treated as a form of anecdotal wisdom. Many assume a slender physique equates to flexibility and agility during sexual activity.
However, from a medical perspective, male sexuality is a complex biological activity influenced simultaneously by hormones, the cardiovascular system, nervous system, muscles, and psychology. Sexual ability depends on testosterone, blood circulation, physical fitness, psychological state, and lifestyle habits. Testosterone determines libido and erectile function, while endurance largely depends on physical fitness and blood circulation. A decline in any of these factors can affect performance, regardless of whether a man is thin or overweight.
Not all thin individuals are healthy. Some men fall into the "thin but high visceral fat" category, risking metabolic disorders and testosterone decline similar to overweight individuals. Research published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition indicates that about 20% of thin-bodied individuals actually accumulate high levels of visceral fat, leading to a risk of declining male sex hormones. Conversely, many slightly overweight individuals with good muscle mass, healthy cardiovascular systems, and regular exercise habits maintain a stable sex life.
Testosterone plays a crucial role in male physiological health. Individuals excessively thin due to malnutrition, prolonged stress, or inactivity often record sub-optimal hormone levels. Meanwhile, obesity also causes testosterone to decline because fat tissue converts this hormone into estrogen. Therefore, no body type guarantees performance if hormone levels are not kept stable.
According to Doctor Duy, sexual intercourse expends energy comparable to one light physical activity. Thin individuals with weak muscles and low activity levels often tire quickly, finding it difficult to maintain pace. Conversely, individuals with a larger build who exercise well possess considerable endurance.
Additionally, psychological factors play a significant role. Self-confidence helps maintain arousal and erectile reflex. Many thin individuals feel confident due to perceived flexibility, but many also harbor feelings of "frailty." Conversely, overweight individuals often worry about their appearance. These thoughts can directly impact sexual performance.
Le Phuong
