Plant protein linked to higher testosterone

An observational analysis of 2,500+ middle‑aged Finnish men (Kuopio study, 1984–89 dietary recall and hormone assays) found that men who got more protein from vegetables had slightly higher total testosterone and sex‑hormone‑binding globulin than men who ate more meat and dairy, with dairy most strongly associated with lower testosterone. The authors note possible mediation by inflammation (C‑reactive protein) and stress that the cross‑sectional design prevents causal claims. — If robust, this pattern challenges the cultural and policy equation of meat‑eating with male hormonal health and could influence dietary guidance, masculinity debates, and public health messaging about protein sources.