Hormones
Gynecomastia (man boobs): causes, hormones and what helps
Enlarged breasts in men are more common than most realise and can affect confidence deeply. Understanding gynecomastia causes helps you know whether diet and exercise will help, or whether you need assessment.
In short: Gynecomastia is the growth of real breast gland tissue in men, usually due to an imbalance between oestrogen and testosterone. It differs from pseudogynecomastia, which is chest fat. Common causes include puberty, ageing, excess weight, some medicines, anabolic steroids, heavy alcohol and cannabis use, and liver or kidney disease.
Gynecomastia vs chest fat
- True gynecomastia: a firm, rubbery disc of tissue directly under the nipple, sometimes tender.
- Pseudogynecomastia: soft fat spread across the chest, with no firm disc. This responds well to weight loss.
Many men have a mix of both.
Common causes
Hormone imbalance
Anything that raises oestrogen or lowers testosterone can trigger breast tissue growth. See high estrogen in men.
Puberty and ageing
Temporary gynecomastia is common in teenagers. In older men, falling testosterone and rising body fat play a role.
Excess weight
Fat tissue converts testosterone into oestrogen.
Medicines
Some medicines for heart failure (spironolactone), prostate conditions, ulcers, anxiety and HIV, among others, can cause breast growth. Do not stop medicines without advice.
Anabolic steroids
Steroid use, and the hormone crash afterwards, is a common cause in gym-goers. See steroids and erectile dysfunction.
Alcohol and cannabis
Heavy use is linked with gynecomastia. See dagga and erectile dysfunction.
Medical conditions
Liver disease, kidney disease, thyroid problems and, rarely, tumours.
When to get checked
See an appropriately registered medical professional if you notice:
- A hard or fixed lump, especially on one side
- Nipple discharge or skin changes
- Rapid growth or pain
- Small or changing testicles
Breast cancer is rare in men but does happen.
What helps
- Weight loss and exercise reduce chest fat and improve hormone balance. See weight loss and erectile dysfunction.
- Strength training builds chest muscle and supports testosterone.
- Limit alcohol and avoid steroids and recreational drugs.
- Review medicines with your prescriber.
Longstanding true gynecomastia may not shrink with lifestyle changes alone.
How we can help
Our naturopaths can support hormone balance, weight loss and confidence with a natural plan, and refer you for assessment when needed.
Why men choose our natural approach
Walk in or consult remotely
Walk in at Buccleuch, Sandton, with parking available, or consult by phone or video from anywhere in South Africa.
Natural and non-surgical
Herbal remedies and practical guidance, with no injections or surgery.
Faster appointments
Enquiries answered 24/7, with same-day appointments often available.
Transparent pricing
Consultations are R2,500, with any remedy costs confirmed before you commit.
Private self-check: 5 quick questions
Answer these honestly before you try anything new or book. They help you describe what is happening and get more from your first consultation.
- Has your interest in sex dropped noticeably over the past year?
- Do you feel tired most days, even after a full night in bed?
- Has your weight around the middle increased?
- Have stress, low mood or poor sleep become more common?
- Have you noticed weaker erections or fewer morning erections?
Two or more yes answers suggest that energy, sleep, stress or weight may be affecting your drive. These are areas where natural, practical support often makes a real difference, and a naturopath can help you work out where to start.
What happens at your first consultation
- Walk in or book online, call +27 10 205 9855 or WhatsApp +27 81 823 1313. In Gauteng, walk in at 199 Vanessa Street, Buccleuch, Sandton, where parking is available. Outside Gauteng, choose a confidential phone or video consultation. Enquiries are answered 24/7.
- Talk privately with a naturopath about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle and goals.
- Receive a personalised natural plan, with any remedy costs confirmed upfront.
- Follow up in person or remotely so your progress is reviewed and your plan adjusted.
Your health and safety
Our naturopaths use natural remedies and lifestyle support, and always check your health history and current medicines first. If anything needs medical attention we tell you honestly and refer you to an appropriately registered medical professional. Avoid unregistered “enhancement” products sold online or at markets, as SAHPRA has warned that some contain hidden ingredients.
Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, an erection lasting more than four hours, sudden weakness or other sudden symptoms.
Consultation price
A consultation is R2,500, in person or remote, and your naturopath confirms any further costs before you go ahead. See our men’s clinic prices for details.
Frequently asked questions
What causes man boobs?
Hormone imbalance, excess weight, some medicines, steroids, alcohol, cannabis and certain medical conditions.
Can man boobs go away with exercise?
Chest fat responds well to weight loss and exercise. True gland tissue may not disappear with lifestyle changes alone.
Is gynecomastia dangerous?
Usually not, but a hard, one-sided lump or nipple discharge should be checked.
Can steroids cause gynecomastia?
Yes. Anabolic steroids are a common cause in men who train.
How much does a consultation cost?
A consultation is R2,500, and any remedy costs are confirmed with you before you go ahead.
Book your consultation today
Get personalised, natural support from a naturopath. Walk in at our Sandton practice, or book a remote consultation if you live outside Gauteng.
References and further reading
Reviewed by George Mulaudzi, Naturopath. This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. If you have chest pain, sudden symptoms or a medical emergency, seek urgent medical care.
