What Is Steroid Induced Gynecomastia?

What Is Steroid Induced Gynecomastia?

man weight lifting dumbbells

Steroid induced gynecomastia can be caused by drugs such as Anadrol and Dianabol (used for medical conditions) and anabolic steroids taken by bodybuilders. Men taking steroids for medical reasons should consult their prescribing physician if they notice any changes in nipple size and tenderness or swelling in the chest area. 

There are various ways to resolve man boobs caused by steroid induced gynecomastia. Here are the options available if you are concerned about steroid use and gynecomastia.

What Is Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is the medical term for the growth of breast glandular tissue in men’s chest area. Breast enlargement in men is often unknown, although steroid use is a known cause of bodybuilder gynecomastia. Gynecomastia symptoms can present as puffy nipples and a slight increase in chest size, through to full, feminine-looking breasts or man boobs. 

Do Steroids Cause Man Boobs?

The leading cause of gynecomastia is hormonal imbalance. Steroid use disrupts hormonal balance and may cause higher estrogen levels, which can lead to gynecomastia symptoms. Longer-term steroid use may worsen the symptoms, which is why many bodybuilders develop man boobs. 

When steroid use is stopped, gynecomastia will not simply go away. The breast glandular tissue growth is permanent. The only recognized way to resolve bodybuilder gynecomastia is with surgery.   

Can I Prevent Gynecomastia?

The only way to prevent steroid induced gynecomastia is to not use steroids. If you require steroids for medical conditions, speak to your physician about your concerns. 

Do Antiestrogens Prevent Man Boobs?

Bodybuilders often use antiestrogens to prevent man boobs, including Tamoxifen (Nolvadex® or Soltamox®) and Arimidex®. These drugs are not FDA-approved gynecomastia medications and although they do work for some men, when they don’t work, it’s too late to do anything as the  breast glandular tissue will have already started to grow. Bodybuilders who take steroids should also consider that antiestrogens have a range of side effects, including weight gain and erectile dysfunction, and some more severe side effects such as reduced bone density, leading to bone fractures and stroke.

Can Supplements Prevent Man Boobs?

Numerous companies advertise supplements as estrogen blockers. However, not only are they extremely unlikely to make any difference, supplements have been found to contain dangerous ingredients. Supplements are not regulated by the FDA and are usually produced in countries with little or no regulations.

Gynecomastia Surgery For Steroid Induced Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia surgery is a fast and safe way to eliminate man boobs caused by steroid use. Gynecomastia symptoms are divided into four grades that determine how severe the symptoms are. Grade 1 and some grade 2 gynecomastia can be treated with surgery requiring only a small incision at the edge of the periareolar, called the pull-through technique.

Grade 2 gynecomastia that can not be effectively treated with the “pull through” technique can be treated with standard gynecomastia surgery. This only requires a slightly larger incision at the edge of the areola. Both types of surgery leave small scars that are well hidden by the change in skin color from the areola to the surrounding skin. Once healed (within a few months), the scar will start to fade. After around six months, the scar will be difficult to detect.

Grade 3  gynecomastia can sometimes be resolved with a two-stage procedure which involves the pull-through technique, followed by standard gynecomastia surgery four to six months later. This is the preferred gynecomastia surgery option for men who are concerned about scars and all incisions are made at the outer edge of the periareolar. This means that once healed the scars will be well hidden and hard to see.

In the case of more severe grade 3 and 4 gynecomastia symptoms, a double incision mastectomy is usually recommended. This will create larger scars across the chest. Most men prefer scars that fade and become less evident over time than living with man boobs. The patient satisfaction rate is high for all types of gynecomastia surgery, and unlike medications, results are reliable and always permanent (as long as steroid use is avoided).

Why Choose a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon for Gynecomastia Surgery?

Gynecomastia surgery can be performed by any physician with a medical license. Gynecomastia surgery cost may be a consideration. However, many plastic surgery companies offer reduced rates by employing surgeons without appropriate training or experience. Unfortunately, the revision rate for gynecomastia surgery is high, and poor results may not be reversible.

Not all board-certified plastic surgeons specialize in gynecomastia, and many will only perform a few gynecomastia procedures each year. Board-certified plastic surgeon and gynecomastia specialist Dr. Miguel Delgado has been providing gynecomastia surgery for all grades of gynecomastia for over 30 years. Over 40% of his patients come to him unhappy with the results of gynecomastia surgery performed elsewhere. Whether you are considering initial gynecomastia surgery or gynecomastia revision surgery following unsatisfactory results, Dr. Miguel Delgado always discusses your concerns and explains the surgical options available. All gynecomastia surgery is performed at the Gynecomastia Center of Excellence — Marin Cosmetic Surgical Center*, with the highest level of patient safety and care.

*Federal and state-accredited surgical facility.

 

For personalized information about gynecomastia plastic surgery procedures, please complete Dr. Delgado’s inquiry form

 

Miguel Delgado, M.D, F.A.C.S is a world-renowned Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon granted by the American Board of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery and Aesthetic Society. Dr. Delgado has a surgical practice solely dedicated to cosmetic plastic surgery. He specializes in gynecomastia surgery and is the medical director of Gynecomastia.org, the oldest and largest gynecomastia forum dedicated to supporting, educating, and providing solutions for men with breast enlargement. Dr. Delgado celebrates 30 years of practice in San Francisco, California. He was voted the “Best Plastic Surgeon of 2017-2021.” 

 

Does Steroid Use Cause Man Boobs/Gynecomastia?

Does Steroid Use Cause Man Boobs/Gynecomastia?

man using steroids

Often referred to as man boobs, this medical condition is called gynecomastia by the medical community, and is usually caused by a hormonal imbalance. Research has shown that a high level of estrogen found in men is usually the cause of gynecomastia symptoms. Hormonal imbalance can happen for various reasons, including anabolic steroid use. The high associated risk that steroids cause gynecomastia is a huge concern in the bodybuilder community.

What Is Gynecomastia?

The medical term for man boobs is gynecomastia, which causes excess growth of breast glandular tissue in the male chest. Gynecomastia symptoms are often a combination of glandular tissue and fatty tissue. Another condition, pseudogynecomastia, is the growth of only fatty tissue in the chest area in overweight and older men. This is not true gynecomastia and is rarely experienced by men who are not overweight.

Women and men produce estrogen and testosterone. In women, the estrogen levels are higher than the testosterone levels, and in men, the testosterone levels are higher than the estrogen levels. This is why estrogen is often referred to as the female hormone and testosterone as the male hormone. 

Causes of Gynecomastia 

There are various known causes of gynecomastia symptoms, and it is crucial to have an accurate diagnosis. Dr. Miguel Delgado can diagnose gynecomastia with a physical examination and the gynecomastia pinch test. When there is no known cause of gynecomastia symptoms, blood tests may be requested, to check for any other underlying medical problems.  

The Male Menopause or Andropause

Men between 50 and 60 years old will typically experience the male menopause or andropause. When this occurs, testosterone levels naturally start to decrease, which may cause glandular tissue growth. During the menopause, the body ratio of muscle to fat will normally change. Both of these developments can cause gynecomastia symptoms and man boobs

Pubertal Gynecomastia

During puberty, estrogen levels are higher than testosterone levels, which often causes glandular tissue to grow and results in man boobs. This is likely to be more pronounced if an adolescent is overweight. Pubertal gynecomastia will usually resolve within two to three years, although occasionally, it will remain.  

Cancer 

Medical Conditions and Medications

Steroids and Gynecomastia 

Bodybuilders can rarely achieve significant size using exercise, diet and weightlifting, to produce the muscle mass needed to compete professionally. This has led to a high incidence of anabolic steroids use in the professional bodybuilder community. Steroids help men increase muscle mass faster and induce larger muscles when combined with weightlifting.   

Recognized by the world as one of the top professional bodybuilders, seven-time Mr. Olympia winner and four-time Mr. Universe winner Arnold Schwarzenegger admitted he used steroids when competing. Although at the time he was competing, steroids were legal, the lack of testing is still a controversial issue for many bodybuilders. The International Federation of Bodybuilding Professional League (IFBB) rules state that steroid use is not allowed, and all competitors are subject to IFBB random drug testing. Yet tests do not routinely take place. Even though steroids are now illegal in the US, it is generally accepted by the bodybuilding community that bodybuilders who want to compete in more challenging competitions, will take steroids

Anabolic steroids cause gynecomastia by disrupting the endocrine system that regulates hormones, increasing the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone into estrogen. In many men, this leads to the growth of breast glandular tissue and man boobs. One of the main issues caused by anabolic steroid use is gynecomastia. In the bodybuilding community, gynecomastia symptoms are often referred to as “bitch tits” and are a real problem for many men. Even when steroids are no longer used, gynecomastia will not go away.

Gynecomastia Symptoms

The most obvious gynecomastia symptoms are the appearance of man boobs or moobs, which vary in size. The difference is defined by gynecomastia grades, a system adopted by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. 

grades 1 to 4 of gynecomastia

There are five gynecomastia grades:

  • Grade 1 gynecomastia symptoms refer to a slight increase of glandular tissue and often cause the appearance of puffy nipples. 
  • Grade 2 gynecomastia symptoms cause a more significant growth of glandular tissue, resulting in small man boobs and a more feminine appearance of the male chest.
  • Grade 3 gynecomastia symptoms will produce feminine-looking breasts with a slight mammary (breast) crease.
  • Grade 4 gynecomastia symptoms are the most severe and result in extremely feminine-looking breasts that are full and noticeable, with a significant drop and mammary crease. 

Treatment for Gynecomastia 

Treatments for gynecomastia fall into three types: natural supplements, medications, and gynecomastia surgery. Numerous companies sell a range of supplements they claim will inhibit estrogen production, which prevents and reduces gynecomastia. There is no scientific research to back up these claims, and supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 

Treatment for Gynecomastia With Tamoxifen (Nolvadex® or Soltamox®) 

Tamoxifen (Nolvadex® or Soltamox®) is widely used by bodybuilders to prevent and reverse gynecomastia. Research shows that men only experience a partial reduction of gynecomastia with tamoxifen, and the associated severe side effects of tamoxifen include stroke, vision impairment, and liver disease. To date, the FDA has not approved any medications for gynecomastia treatment. 

Gynecomastia Surgery for Steroid Induced Gynecomastia 

Gynecomastia surgery is the only guaranteed way to eliminate man boobs from steroid use. It is highly advisable that bodybuilders wait until they have stopped using steroids before having gynecomastia surgery. Otherwise, the symptoms are likely to return. Grade 1 and some grade 2 gynecomastia symptoms will usually require standard gynecomastia surgery, with gland excision to remove the excess breast tissue. This requires a small incison on the edge of the areola of around 2.5 to 3 cm. Once healed the scar will normally be well hidden by the change in skin color between the areola and chest skin. Another type of gynecomastai surgery that is often referred to as scarless gynecomastia surgery is the pull-through technique.

The pull-through technique is normally only suitable for grade 1 gynecomastia and only requires a small incision of around 5 to 10 mm cm in length, made at the edge of the periareolar, which means the scar  will be almost invisible when it has healed.  

Dr. Miguel Delgado performing the pull-through gynecomastia surgery technique

Grade 3 and grade 4 gynecomastia symptoms will generally require a double incision mastectomy or a two stage procedure. This is due to excess skin that needs to be removed for tight, masculine chest contours, as well as glandular and fatty tissue. Patient satisfaction for gynecomastia surgery is high, with research showing that 98% of bodybuilders receiving gynecomastia surgery are pleased with the results

 

For personalized information about gynecomastia plastic surgery procedures, please complete Dr. Delgado’s inquiry form. 

 

Miguel Delgado, M.D, F.A.C.S is a world-renowned Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon granted by the American Board of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery and Aesthetic Society. Dr. Delgado has a surgical practice solely dedicated to cosmetic plastic surgery. He specializes in gynecomastia surgery and is the medical director of Gynecomastia.org, the oldest and largest gynecomastia forum dedicated to supporting, educating, and providing solutions for men with breast enlargement. Dr. Delgado celebrates 30 years of practice in San Francisco, California. He was voted the “Best Plastic Surgeon of 2017-2021.” 

Gynecomastia.org does not provide medical advice, treatment, or diagnosis. 

 

You Don’t Have to Live with Man Boobs (Gynecomastia)

You Don’t Have to Live with Man Boobs (Gynecomastia)

man holding his hair back, worried

Man-boobs are a very common condition, and worldwide gynecomastia symptoms affect approximately one in three men. This condition causes excess breast glandular tissue, which is often combined with fatty tissue, causing the appearance of female breasts. For many men, living with man boobs causes embarrassment and low confidence. This can lead to avoiding activities that involve going shirtless, such as swimming and trips to the beach, and missing out on spending time with family and friends. Men often feel too uncomfortable to visit the gym or exercise, which can result in weight gain and increase the size of man boobs.

Although the cause of gynecomastia is not always known, some of the more common causes include weight gain and obesity, anabolic steroid abuse, and male menopause. Whatever the cause, if enlarged male breasts are destroying your confidence, there is usually no need to continue living with man boobs.

Having plastic surgery may seem drastic or daunting, but with modern surgical options, getting rid of man boobs has never been safer. For the best possible outcome, the most important thing you can do is choose a plastic surgeon that specializes in gynecomastia surgery.

 

How to Check Your Surgeon Is a Plastic Surgeon

In the U.S., the only requirement to practice plastic surgery is a medical license from a state medical board. This can be obtained once a medical degree and postgraduate training are completed. However, this does not mean the physician has experience in any form of surgery.
There is a lot of confusion around board certification and how to check if a plastic surgeon is qualified. The first thing to be aware of is a Board Certified Surgeon is not always a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. The American Board of Medical Specialties recognizes 14 individual surgical specialties. This is why you need to check that your surgeon is not only board-certified but is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Another issue is understanding the difference between a cosmetic surgeon and a plastic surgeon. Many people wrongly assume that if a surgeon is certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS), they will have received the same training and passed the same exams as a plastic surgeon. This is not the case. To apply for board certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery, a surgeon must have completed at least six years of training and passed an accredited residential training program, with three years committed entirely to plastic surgery procedures. They are also subject to continuous assessment and exams.

A surgeon certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery only needs to complete one year of surgical training, and there are no continuous assessments once they are certified. In California, the Medical Board of California has prohibited ABCS diplomates from calling themselves “board-certified.”

 

Common Gynecomastia Surgery Questions

1. Is gynecomastia surgery permanent?

Gynecomastia surgery is the fastest and most effective solution to permanently get rid of gynecomastia. Usually, this is a one-time surgical procedure with a high patient satisfaction rate.

2. What happens during gynecomastia surgery?

Gynecomastia surgery involves the removal of glandular tissue and/or fatty tissue. Liposuction sculpts the chest area for a smooth and contoured masculine-looking chest.

3. Can gynecomastia surgery be performed under local anesthetic?

Gynecomastia surgery can be performed under a local anesthetic. However, Dr. Delgado prefers to use a light general anesthetic for standard gynecomastia surgery. This gives him more control and also provides a more comfortable experience for the patient.

4. When can I shower after gynecomastia surgery?

You can shower the day after the drains are removed normally within 3 days of gynecomastia surgery. Dr. Delgado advises to gently pat incisions and then put your compression garment back on.

5. When will I be able to return to work after gynecomastia surgery?

Most men return to non strenuous work and light daily activities within 5 days of having gynecomastia surgery. For more strenuous work you will need to wait between 7 to 10 days before returning to work. Lower body light aerobic exercise can be started four weeks and full workouts six weeks following surgery.

6. How soon can I swim after gynecomastia surgery?

You should avoid exercise and swimming for six weeks following gynecomastia surgery. This is to prevent contaminants causing infection and arm movements pulling on the incision sites.

7. How long does it take to see the results of gynecomastia surgery?

You will see results immediately after surgery. Swelling and bruising will decrease over the following 10 days and by six months, the final bit of swelling will have gone, and the final results will be evident.

 

Boost your confidence and feel free to enjoy life with gynecomastia surgery. Dr. Delgado provides free virtual consultations so that you can share your goals and expectations. If you have any questions, feel free to get in touch !

 

For personalized information about gynecomastia plastic surgery procedures, please complete Dr. Delgado’s inquiry form.

 

Miguel Delgado, M.D., F.A.C.S is a world-renowned Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon granted by the American Board of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery and Aesthetic Society. Dr. Delgado has a surgical practice solely dedicated to cosmetic plastic surgery. He specializes in gynecomastia surgery and is the medical director of Gynecomastia.org, the oldest and largest gynecomastia forum dedicated to supporting, educating, and providing solutions for men with breast enlargement. Dr. Delgado celebrates 30 years of practice in San Francisco, California. He was voted the “Best Plastic Surgeon of 2017-2021”.

Gynecomastia.org does not provide medical advice, treatment, or diagnosis.

Get Rid of Man Boobs Fast. The Quickest Ways to Hide Your Moobs (Gynecomastia)

Get Rid of Man Boobs Fast. The Quickest Ways to Hide Your Moobs (Gynecomastia)

man walking outside dressed smartly

Man boobs are often joked about, but living with man boobs can be distressing. Surgery for man boobs is the fastest way to get rid of enlarged male breasts. However, if you are unable to have surgery for man boobs, there are ways to hide your moobs. 

Man boobs can range in size significantly. Some men with gynecomastia symptoms will only have a small degree of enlargement, while others can have enlarged male breasts similar to female breasts. Surgeons separate gynecomastia into four grades based on the amount of fatty tissue and breast gland enlargement present.

Types of Man Boobs and Grades of Gynecomastia

Grades of gynecomastia as per the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS) classification system are:

  • Grade 1 – Small amount of breast glandular tissue with or without puffy nipples.
  • Grade 2 – Mild to moderate enlargement of breast glandular tissue, often with fatty tissue, which causes male breast enlargement with a feminine appearance.
  • Grade 3 – Moderate to significant enlargement of breast glandular tissue with fatty tissue, resulting in fuller male breasts.
  • Grade 4 – Significant breast enlargement, with breast glandular tissue, fatty tissue, and excess skin, causing larger male breasts with a deep breast crease.

The Best Men’s Shapewear to Hide Man Boobs

The quickest way to hide man boobs, or moobs, is with male compression vests, also sold as men’s shapewear. Male vests for man boobs compress the glandular and fatty tissue to make the chest look flatter. You can also buy men’s shapewear to compress your stomach area for an overall improved upper-body appearance. 

The style of compression vest you choose will depend on the size of your enlarged male breasts and the amount of compression required. Some men might find a compression vest that looks like a “normal” men’s vest is sufficient. However, if you have moderate to large man boobs, you may need to consider a compression garment that is more like actual underwear.

Three Popular Brands of Men’s Shapewear 

Men’s shapewear has become increasingly popular, and the good news is many brands now produce good quality men’s compression garments. Below are five top brands that offer various styles of compression shapewear to wear underneath your clothes.

1. Spanx

Spanx range for men has a range of stylish vests and t-shirt style tops that no one would know are compression garments. 

Spanx shapewear, compression vests, and tops for men include:

  • Compression crew neck style t-shirt
  • Compression vest
  • Compression tank top.

Now that you know which body shapers are the best shapewear for men, you can cut a svelte physique underneath your clothes.

2. Underworks

Underworks offer a choice of tops and vests marketed as medical-grade compression garments available as vests and high-power chest binders designed specifically to hide larger man boobs.

Underworks compression vests and chest binders include:

  • Compression tank tops
  • Chest binder compression tank tops
  • Chest binder in a short, discreet low-neck vest. 

3. Leo

Leo men’s shapewear is made from a patented PowerSlim® fabric and SkinFuse® seamless compression fabric. Leo also offers a range of vests with different degrees of compression to provide extra strength depending on the amount of flattening required.

Leo compression vests include:

  • Body shaper vests with back support and maximum compression
  • Tank tops with moderate compression
  • Crew neck seamless tank tops with light compression.

How to Hide Man Boobs without Wearing a Man Boobs Vest

Men’s shapewear is not the only way to hide enlarged male breasts. If you have grade 1 or 2 gynecomastia, you may prefer to use tape to strap down your man boobs. Companies now make tape marketed for hiding man boobs. Another readily available option is surgical tape. You may also decide to use tape to provide extra pressure under a compression vest if you have larger man boobs for additional chest flattening.

Best Clothes to Hide Man Boobs

Some men find compression vests or garments and tape uncomfortable. The alternative is careful clothing choices. Here are three things to look for if you want your clothes to hide man boobs:

  1. Color is one of the best ways to hide man boobs. Darker colors like dark gray, dark blue, and dark red can work, as well as black, of course. 
  2. Fabric is essential. Clingy and thin fabrics will make man boobs more obvious. Choose structured fabrics such as linen and heavier fabrics.
  3. Style and fit can make a real difference. The best way to hide man boobs is to wear a t-shirt under a loose-fitting shirt. 

If you are fed up with trying to conceal enlarged male breasts, surgery for man boobs is the quickest, most reliable way to banish man boobs for good.

For personalized information about gynecomastia plastic surgery procedures, please complete Dr. Delgado’s inquiry form

 

 

Miguel Delgado, M.D., F.A.C.S is a world-renowned Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon granted by the American Board of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery and Aesthetic Society. Dr. Delgado has a surgical practice solely dedicated to cosmetic plastic surgery. He specializes in gynecomastia surgery and is the medical director of Gynecomastia.org, the oldest and largest gynecomastia forum dedicated to supporting, educating, and providing solutions for men with breast enlargement. Dr. Delgado celebrates 30 years of practice in San Francisco, California. He was voted the “Best Plastic Surgeon of 2017-2021.” 

Gynecomastia.org does not provide medical advice, treatment, or diagnosis. 

How to Lose Man Boobs: Top 4 Tips to Fight Moobs

How to Lose Man Boobs: Top 4 Tips to Fight Moobs

Man standing with Man-boobs

Young man with man-boobs

Four Ways to Get Rid of Man Boobs

The National Institute of Health defines gynecomastia, commonly referred to as man boobs, as a benign abnormal growth of male breast glandular tissue. It is typically caused by an increase in estrogen, a decrease in testosterone, or a combination of these factors. Gynecomastia symptoms can affect men of all ages, affecting one or both breasts.

When man boobs or moobs develop due to fatty tissue, this is called pseudogynecomastia. Typically, overweight or obese men are most affected by pseudogynecomastia, also referred to as “false gynecomastia.”

For support and constantly updated resources, join our gynecomastia forum. 

Here are some tips that will help you or someone you know to get rid of man boobs caused by pseudogynecomastia due to increased localized fat tissue.

 

1. Make an Appointment with Your Doctor

It is always advisable to consult your physician before implementing any new diet or exercise program. It is important that you communicate your concerns and objectives to your physician. This is so that diagnostic tests can be carried out to rule out any other underlying causes of your gynecomastia symptoms. 

 

2. Gynecomastia Diet Changes

Gynecomastia diet - low in estrogen and high in testosterone

Gynecomastia diet – low in estrogen and high in testosterone

A healthy, low-calorie diet is one of the best things you can do for weight loss. Setting a goal and tracking your daily food intake is the first step. The majority of people are unaware of the amount of food they consume, so food tracking can be an eye-opener. In addition, if you are trying to lose weight, you may want to reduce the amount of these five food groups:

  • Sugar – Avoid sugary foods and drinks and check for hidden sugar. Sugar is hidden in a wide range of products, such as cereals, bread, grains, granola bars, juices, energy drinks, meal replacement bars, and powdered milk.
Sugar cubes

Sugar

 

  • Processed Foods – Ingredients used in processed foods, such as GMO ingredients, artificial sweeteners, soybeans, vegetable oils (like canola and sunflower), and inferior meats, pose serious health risks. The chemicals, antibiotics, and endocrine disruptors in these products can lead to hormonal imbalances, which will end up making weight loss more difficult.
Highly processed foods

Highly processed foods

 

  • Gluten – The Beyond Celiac website reports that approximately 18 million Americans have non-celiac gluten sensitivity. Consequently, even if you do not have celiac disease, gluten can still trigger an inflammatory reaction in your body. Such sensitivities or intolerances can prevent weight loss and cause various other health problems.
Gluten - bread, wheat and gains

Gluten

 

  • Dairy Products – Inflammatory effects of dairy products are similar to those of gluten. It is important to note that inflammation is the underlying cause of most diseases, including obesity and weight gain. Moreover, if you have lactose intolerance or a milk allergy, dairy products may result in uncomfortable symptoms such as bloating and digestive discomfort.
Dairy products

Dairy products

 

  • Food with low-fat content – Researchers have proved that high-fat diets can help burn more calories than low-fat diets, based on studies involving avocado, coconut products, butter, ghee, and extra virgin olive oil. In addition, low-fat food often has high amounts of sugar.
Foods low in fat

Foods low in fat

 

The Body Mass Index (BMI) and Weight Loss 

Using the body mass index (BMI), we can estimate body fat percentage. BMI can be calculated by dividing a person’s weight in kilograms (kg) by their height in meters squared, or there are several online tools to work it out for you. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), a BMI over 25 is classed as overweight. Chest fat (or fat in any area) can not be lost just by targeting that specific area of the body. This is why aiming for overall weight loss and a BMI under 25 is the most effective way to get rid of man boobs.

Many diet fads can trigger fast weight loss, but it is advisable to avoid crash diets and change your diet gradually for long-term sustained weight loss. A balanced diet should consist of protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Here is a simple food guide of what to eat and avoid if you want to lose weight.

Eat more:

  • Whole foods 
  • Vegetables
  • Lean meat 

 

Eat less:

  • Processed foods
  • Sugary foods and beverages
  • Alcohol 

 

More tips for weight loss:

  • Keep a food journal 
  • Realistic, long term weight loss goals 
  • Reduce  food portions

Exercise and Weight Loss 

Research has shown that high-intensity interval training takes less time and is more effective than moderate-intensity continuous exercise for weight loss.

Weight Loss Tip

Getting the hang of food tracking may take you one or two weeks, but do not give up! In no time, you will be a pro at calculating portion sizes. And when it comes to having a healthy and happy gut, don’t forget about prebiotics and probiotics!

 

3. Bodyweight Training

Body weight exercises

Body weight exercises

Bodyweight training targets various muscle groups, which leads to higher calorie expenditure. Therefore, do not limit yourself to chest area exercises alone.

Tip

Push-ups are an excellent example of bodyweight exercises for the chest that also require activation of your arms, shoulders, back, core, and glutes and require you to engage your legs. As you place your hands wider during a push-up, your chest is forced to work harder. You do not have to go very fast. It may be beneficial to change the tempo of the push-up and to do some slowly as well.

 

4. Weight Training

Weight training by lifting weights

Weight training by lifting weights

Building chest muscle will not only help to define your chest. A higher body percentage of muscle over fat means you will burn more calories, even when resting.

Tip

Chest muscle exercises to get rid of man boobs, chest presses and cable chest flies are excellent examples. Make sure you do more than chest exercises geared strictly to build chest muscles. Training with an all-body approach is crucial (to losing fat). Men’s testosterone levels can be boosted by exercise, which (among other things) helps to build and maintain muscle mass and reduce moobs.

Myth or Fact

The amount of fat tissue and the degree of elasticity in the skin really determine the degree of man boobs or the grade of gynecomastia. Losing weight may also result in your losing your man boobs. The skin might also hang loosely when a lot of fat needs to be lost. If you have lost weight, there are surgical procedures to remove excess skin, but you need to take a moment to appreciate your accomplishment! It’s not easy to lose weight. You must be dedicated to your health and to yourself. Ultimately, if you still have excess skin, the surgical procedure is up to you.

 

Conclusion

Is It Really Possible to Fully Get Rid of Man Boobs?

The amount of fat tissue and the degree of elasticity in the skin contribute to the size of man boobs or the grade of gynecomastia. In cases of pseudogynecomastia, weight loss may result in losing your man boobs. Following excessive weight loss, the skin might be loose and hang away from the body. When this happens, a surgical procedure to remove excess skin will be necessary if it is causing concern.

Can Moobs Go Away?

Enlarged male breasts may remain if hormones are not in balance. As many as 30% of male adolescents and boys suffer from this condition. As a result of the hormonal changes in boys, it is not uncommon for adolescent males to have gynecomastia symptoms. In up to 90% of gynecomastia cases during puberty, the symptoms will resolve within two years.

If the gynecomastia breast tissue does not resolve within two years, it is usually permanent. Man boobs caused by fat build-up called “fake gynecomastia” or pseudogynacomastia can be reduced with weight loss and disappear completely. Reviewing prescription medications associated with gynecomastia, and stopping them where possible, may also reverse gynecomastia symptoms that developed after starting the medication. 

It is important to remember that gynecomastia is primarily caused by hormonal imbalances rather than anything men can control. Every man’s endocrine system produces both estrogen (the “female hormone”) and testosterone (the “male hormone”). When hormones are not balanced, this can lead to excess breast tissue in men. Mild cases of gynecomastia may be successfully treated with appropriate hormonal medicine. However, this is not always effective. Gynecomastia surgery is by far the most effective way to permanently get rid of man boobs.

Can I Reduce My Chest Fat?

Most men can reduce chest fat by following a healthful diet and exercising regularly. This is not always the case and sometimes a medical condition may need to be resolved.

Can Certain Food Cause Man Breasts?

Certain foods contain chemicals that mimic estrogen’s effects; these include:

  • Processed foods, ‘diet’ food, and ready-made meals, usually contain high amounts of sodium, sugar, and preservatives. 
  • Soy alternatives to dairy products such as edamame, tofu, and tempeh are high in protein but contain phytoestrogens or plant estrogens which may mimic the effect of estrogen.
  • Dairy Products and eggs all include estrogen from the hormones found in chickens and cows, identical to human hormonal production. (Dairy products such as milk and eggs that claim they are hormone-free simply do not have extra hormones added to the ingredients).
  • Beer is made from grain containing phytoestrogens, or plant estrogens, making it naturally estrogenic.

More information about food and Gynecomastia diet.

Gynecomastia Summary

To achieve a more sculpted and healthy physique, it is crucial to understand the causes of gynecomastia and consult an experienced and knowledgeable healthcare professional to determine the cause of your gynecomastia symptoms. 

Non-surgical options such as gynecomastia diet, gynecomastia exercise and chest muscle development can make a difference in both pseudogynecomastia and grade 1 or 2 gynecomastia.  A physician can also prescribe certain medications to help reduce or eliminate man boobs.

If all other treatments fail, then male breast reduction surgery has a high rate of patient satisfaction.  

 

For personalized information about gynecomastia plastic surgery procedures, please complete Dr. Delgado’s inquiry form. 

 

Dr. Delgado is a world-renowned Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and a recognized expert in the field of gynecomastia surgical procedures. Dr. Delgado is the medical director of  Gynecomastia.org — the largest international forum providing unprecedented resources about gynecomastia treatments and surgical options.