Testosterone, often called the “male hormone,” plays a vital role in the body beyond developing male traits. Testosterone influences your sexual well-being, mood, energy, muscle strength, and bone health. Because your testosterone levels fluctuate with age and lifestyle choices, it’s important to know what to expect in all phases of your life. Here’s everything you need to know about testosterone levels.
What Exactly Is Testosterone?
Produced predominantly in the testes for men and, to a lesser extent, in the ovaries and adrenal glands for women, testosterone does more than just bulk up muscles or deepen your voice. It’s critical for your sex drive, bone strength, fat distribution, red blood cell creation, and mental health.
How Much Testosterone Should I Have?
A total testosterone level is an all-inclusive measurement of the amount of testosterone in your body. Typically, the laboratory measures total testosterone levels in nanograms per deciliter (ng/dl). Not only does your total testosterone change quite a bit throughout your different life stages, they also fluctuate significantly every day.
Infants and Children (0–9 years)
Except for a boost seen early on in infants, testosterone levels are low between 7 and 20 ng/dl.
Adolescence (10–19 years)
During puberty, you’ll see a big change in testosterone levels. For males aged 10–19 years, levels range from 7–1200 ng/dL.
Young Adults (20s and 30s)
In your 20s and 30s, your testosterone ranges from 300–1000 ng/dL. This period is critical for maintaining muscle mass and overall vitality.
Middle-Aged Men (40s and 50s)
As you enter your 40s and 50s, your testosterone levels start to gradually decline. You might see them between 200 and 900 ng/dL. These lower levels can change your energy levels, mood, and physical health.
Older Men (60s and beyond)
In your 60s and beyond, testosterone continues to decline at a slower rate, generally falling between 200–800 ng/dL. This reduction can impact your bone density, muscle strength, and cognitive abilities.
What Do These Levels Tell Us?
First, it’s important to understand that the normal ranges for testosterone are quite broad, so nailing down the perfect testosterone level for your age takes a lot of factors into consideration.
What we do know is that your age plays a big part in your testosterone levels. Also, keep in mind that if your testosterone dips too low, you might start feeling the effects of what’s commonly called “low T.”
What Factors Affect Testosterone Levels?
Lifestyle choices, medical conditions, and certain medications can influence your testosterone levels. Additionally, diet, exercise, stress, and sleep all play roles in maintaining healthy testosterone levels.
What Are the Health Implications of Low Testosterone?
If your testosterone levels fall below a certain threshold, you may experience a variety of symptoms related to Low Testosterone (Low T), such as:
- Reduced libido. A noticeable decrease in sexual desire is often linked to low testosterone levels.
- Increased fatigue. Lower testosterone levels may cause you to feel more tired than usual.
- Weight gain. Insufficient testosterone production can also contribute to weight gain.
How Can I Measure My Testosterone Levels?
Blood tests are the most reliable way to check your testosterone. Since your testosterone level fluctuates throughout the day, laboratory testing is usually done in the morning when the testosterone count is highest.
Lifestyle Strategies to Maintain Healthy Testosterone Levels
Here are a few things you can do to keep your testosterone level balanced:
- Eat a balanced and nutritious diet that fuels your body and helps you lose unwanted pounds.
- Regularly exercise to give your levels a natural boost.
- Manage stress and get quality sleep to improve your overall hormonal health and well-being.
Learn More About Your Testosterone Levels
Staying informed about your testosterone levels as you age is key to managing your overall health. Having enough testosterone in your body is not just about physical growth; testosterone impacts many aspects of your physiology. Keeping tabs on how your body changes over time and being proactive can help you lead a healthy and energetic life, no matter your age.
Do you feel like your levels might be off? Don’t keep wondering – call us today at 843.347.2450 to schedule a consultation with our specialists.