Testosterone Levels In Men

Testosterone is a hormone that affects almost every aspect of a man’s physical and mental well-being, from muscle mass to mood. In this article, we’ll break down what testosterone is, how it changes over time, and what you can do if your levels are too low or too high.

Testosterone is a hormone produced mainly in the testes in men, although women also produce small amount in ovaries. In men, it’s responsible for primarily for muscle growth, bone strength, body hair, and sex drive.

It’s not solely responsible for physical traits, though. Testosterone can also influence energy levels, mood, and even sleep quality. In women, it plays a smaller but similarly important role, particularly with regards to bone strength and muscle mass.

As mentioned already, the effects of testosterone are wide-ranging. Physically, it helps build muscle, burn fat, maintain bone strength, and even boost the production of red blood cells. Mentally and emotionally, testosterone can impact mood and energy levels, which is why low testosterone is sometimes linked to issues such as depression, fatigue, and irritability.

Testosterone also plays a key role in sexual health. Low levels can cause issues such as reduced sex drive or erectile dysfunction. It’s also crucial for sperm production, making it a major factor in fertility. 

A simple Testosterone blood test offers a comprehensive analysis of the overall testosterone levels present in the bloodstream.

Hormones like Testosterone work together in complex ways to regulate biological function. A Male Hormone Blood Test analyses levels of key hormones, including Testosterone, to assess masculinity, energy, and fertility. 

For a more comprehensive review of male health, an Ultimate Healthy Man Blood Test provides an in-depth understanding of various facets of male well-being. Testing 45 different biomarkers, the test monitors testosterone, cholesterol, micronutrients, full blood count, Thyroid, liver and kidney function. 

Testosterone levels in men naturally start to decline once you hit your 30s, dropping about 1% per year. Some men notice a dip in energy, sex drive, and even muscle mass as they get older.

It’s not simply related to aging, however. Other factors such being overweight or having a chronic health can speed up this decline. If you’re noticing more pronounced symptoms, it could be worth exploring your testosterone levels.

Testosterone levels in men can vary from person to person.

It’s also worth noting that your testosterone levels in men fluctuate throughout the day. They’re usually highest in the morning and decline as the day goes on, which is why blood tests to measure testosterone are often done early in the day.

Generally, testosterone levels may look something like this:

Men By Age Range  (nmol/L):

• 11 to 15 <0.24–26.25
• 16 to 17 7.92–27.0
• 18 to 49 8.7–29.0
• 50+ 6.7–25.7

Common symptoms of low testosterone include:

• Low sex drive or erectile dysfunction
• Feeling tired all the time
• Loss of muscle mass and increase in body fat
• Mood swings, irritability, or depression
• Difficulty concentrating or issues with memory
• Thinning body hair
• Weaker bones, making fractures more likely

It’s worth noting that many of these symptoms are non-specific and can be due to numerous causes, but testosterone levels in men may still be worth considering.

There are a several ways in which to boost testosterone levels in men.

1. Exercise, Especially Weight Training: 
   Regular exercise, particularly resistance training and high-intensity interval training (HIIT), has been shown to naturally boost testosterone. Staying active also helps keep body fat in check.
   
   
2. Eat a Balanced Diet: 
   Diet plays a huge role in your hormone levels. Focus on a diet rich in proteins, healthy fats, and essential nutrients like zinc and vitamin D, both of which are important for testosterone production. Steer clear of sugary and overly processed foods—they can adversely affect your hormone levels.
   
   
3. Reduce Stress: 
   High levels of stress cause your body to release cortisol, a hormone that actually lowers testosterone. Finding ways to manage stress, whether it’s through meditation, yoga, or simply taking time for yourself, can make a difference.
   
   
4. Get Enough Sleep: 
   Sleep is critical for testosterone production. Most of the hormone is released during deep sleep, so aim for 7-9 hours each night.
   
   
5. Maintain a Healthy Weight: 
   Carrying extra body fat, especially around your abdomen, has been linked to lower testosterone levels. Losing weight through a combination of healthy eating and regular exercise can help balance your hormone levels.
   
   
6. Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT): 
   If your levels are extremely low and lifestyle changes aren’t helping, your doctor might consider testosterone replacement therapy. This can come in the form of injections, patches, or gels that help bring your levels back to normal. However, TRT does come with potential risks, so it’s important to discuss it with your doctor before starting.
   
   
7. Supplements: 
   Certain herbal supplements may help boost testosterone. There is limited evidence on the effect of these though, so it is worth discussing these with a doctor.