Lack of sleep can reduce sex drive in men, according to a new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. A large percentage of workaholic men who find little time for sleep and rest lose interest in having sex, say experts. Scientists from the University of Chicago found that men who slept less than five hours a day for a period of one week had relatively lower testosterone levels. Men who lack restful, healthy sleep have lower levels of the male sex hormone, testosterone, the study found. Scientists are finding more and more evidence that lack of sleep has a negative effect on hormone levels. This can seriously reduce libido and sexual interest. Low testosterone levels are associated with a variety of metabolic problems that increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. Men with low testosterone levels have reduced muscle mass and bone density, leading to a lack of energy, fatigue and poor concentration. NEWS_MORE_BOX Lack of sleep and poor sleep quality in general are increasingly emerging as endocrine disruptors, says study leader Prof. Eva Van Cauter. 10 young men, with an average age of 24, who are in good health, took part in the study. The volunteers are subjected to various analyzes to detect possible endocrine and mental disorders and sleep problems. The men spend three days under the supervision of experts, and their sleep duration is 10 hours. After the three days, they were observed for another eight days, but the sleep was 5 hours less. During the last 24 hours of the three and eight days, the medics conducted blood tests on the volunteers. The results showed that testosterone levels were significantly lower in the eight-day experiment, that is, with sleep deprivation. In order to regain libido and the ability to arouse, it is recommended to emphasize normal and healthy sleep, experts remind.