Lifestyle/Nutrition
Exploring the Link Between Marijuana and Gynecomastia

As a man, having gynecomastia can be quite embarrassing. This form of excess breast tissue can occur in fit men and even those that are noticeably muscular.
Around 50 to 60 percent of boys and men deal with this condition, and it is a core reason for a lack of self-esteem. Not taking your shirt off at the beach or getting nervous before an intimate moment can be products of gynecomastia.
Many causes of gynecomastia have been linked to hormone imbalances. Now there is a new root cause that is taking many by surprise. Interestingly enough, it's a guilty pleasure of many nowadays, and it's marijuana. In states such as Colorado, where the psychotropic has been legalized, gynecomastia procedures have become much more common.
Relevant Information on Gynecomastia
It's important to note that gynecomastia is not caused by excess fat developed on a man's breasts. That would be pseudogynecomastia. The real gynecomastia we're talking about results from varying hormone levels that trigger breast tissue development.
That's because men are born with male and female hormones. Hormones such as testosterone are more common in men than estrogen, the female hormone.
When a man suffers a hormonal imbalance, their testosterone levels decrease, and estrogen levels can spike. Ergo, the development of breast tissue.
Marijuana And Gynecomastia: An Unexpected Link
Interestingly enough, marijuana can act as an estrogen stimulator. It has been linked to studies that demonstrate that pot increases the production of estrogen while simultaneously decreasing testosterone production.
While the exact reason for this occurrence is unknown, it is theorized that THC, marijuana's psychoactive component, blocks GnRH, the hormone that triggers hormones, including testosterone.
Here are some potential reasons explaining the link between gynecomastia and marijuana:
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Marijuana can increase estrogen levels: One of the active compounds in marijuana, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), has been shown to increase estrogen levels in the body. Estrogen is a hormone that promotes breast tissue growth, which can lead to gynecomastia.
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Marijuana can decrease testosterone levels: In addition to increasing estrogen, marijuana use has also been shown to reduce testosterone levels in men. Testosterone is a hormone that helps regulate the growth and development of male characteristics, including muscle mass, body hair, and a deep voice. Low testosterone levels can lead to a decrease in muscle mass and an increase in body fat, which can contribute to the development of gynecomastia.
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Marijuana can lead to weight gain: Another factor contributing to the development of gynecomastia is weight gain. Marijuana use has been linked to increased appetite and cravings for unhealthy foods, which can lead to overeating and weight gain. Excess body fat can increase estrogen levels and decrease testosterone levels, increasing the risk of developing gynecomastia.
While more research is needed to understand the link between marijuana and gynecomastia entirely, evidence suggests that smoking weed can increase the risk of developing this condition.
How To Stop Marijuana-Induced Gynecomastia
That is relatively simple nowadays, given the advanced technology that is now prevalent in the cosmetic fat removal market.
One prominent example is Gynecomastia AirSculpt®, developed by Elite Body Sculpture. It is a minimally invasive procedure that does not use a scalpel, needle, stitches, or general anesthesia while permanently removing stubborn fat in one easy treatment.
This gynecomastia treatment utilizes a combination of the AirPen, a device that administers numbing medication using air pressure differentials. It also uses the patented AirSculpt® cannula, specifically designed to simultaneously tighten the skin and safely pluck fat from the chest for gentle yet dramatic results.
Additionally, traditional gynecomastia treatments will have you under a recovery regimen that will require about two weeks of limited activity. That is because the technology used is less taxing on the body and guarantees symmetrical results.
With an AirSculpt®, you're able to return to your daily routine without limitations in about 48 hours.
Gynecomastia AirSculpt®: A Triumph For Men
The link between marijuana and gynecomastia is not entirely clear, but evidence suggests that smoking weed can increase the risk of developing this condition. Other factors contributing to gynecomastia include hormonal imbalances, obesity, medication side effects, and medical conditions. If you are experiencing breast enlargement or other symptoms of gynecomastia, it is essential to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Regardless of why enlarged male breasts appear, your image greatly affects your confidence. This is why at Elite Body Sculpture, our primary focus is to boost your confidence – sculpting your body is an essential part of the process but not our ultimate goal.
Elite Body Sculpture abides by the premise that making changes to your body shouldn't be risky, which is why our precise, versatile technology is handled by the most qualified staff in your region.
If you are interested in making decisions that won't have you slouching or wearing baggy clothes to hide your man boobs, call our Denver body sculpting office or the fat removal experts nearest you to schedule your complimentary consultation.
AIRSCULPT® YOUR DREAM FIGURE