Free testosterone is the amount of testosterone in the body that is available to the cells and tissues. It is considered the active form of testosterone and plays a key role in vital functions like bone density, muscle mass, fat distribution, mood, and libido. Having optimal levels of free testosterone is important for overall health and wellbeing in men.
Normal Range
There is no universal agreement on the optimal range, but generally healthy free testosterone levels for adult men are:
- Ages 20-40: 46-224 pg/mL (picograms per milliliter)
- Ages 41-60: 40-200 pg/mL
- Ages 61 : 35-190 pg/mL
However, keep in mind that normal ranges vary slightly between labs. It's best to see where you fall within the lab reference range.
Signs of Low Free Testosterone
Some
symptoms of low free testosterone include:
If you are experiencing any of those symptoms, getting a blood test to check your levels is advisable.
Causes of Low Levels
There are several potential causes for decreased free testosterone production:
- Normal aging
- Endocrine disorders
- Pituitary tumors
- Medications
- Obesity
- Chronic illnesses
- Inflammatory conditions
- Genetic conditions
Increasing Low Levels Naturally
Here are some tips to
boost free testosterone levels naturally:
- Lose weight if overweight - excess fat causes more testosterone to bind to proteins instead of staying free
- Do strength training and gain muscle - muscles raise T production
- Minimize stress - high cortisol reduces T
- Get enough vitamin D from sunlight and food
- Ensure adequate zinc, magnesium, and vitamin K2 intake
- Get enough quality sleep
- Limit alcohol and drug use
- Consider herbal supplements like tongkat ali and ashwagandha
When to Consider TRT
If levels remain low despite lifestyle measures and symptoms are significantly impacting quality of life,
testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) might be an option. This can take the form of gels, patches, pellets, or injections under close medical supervision.
However, TRT does have some risks like limiting natural production down the line, so pros and cons should be weighed carefully.
See an Endocrinologist
Rather than self-treating, it's best to have
free testosterone levels tested and
consult an endocrinologist who specializes in hormones. They can accurately diagnose any underlying condition causing deficiency and outline the best treatment options tailored to your unique health profile.
This includes closely monitoring your hormone levels and adjusting dosages as needed until ideal numbers are reached and symptoms subside. Ongoing follow-ups are key as well.
Hormone Harmony
- For those looking for comprehensive hormone-related care from endocrine specialists near the Los Angeles area, Hormone Harmony(https:///) is an excellent option.
- Their highly-experienced doctors take an integrative approach to treatment and offer a wide array of therapies like TRT, hCG therapy, and HGH using state-of-the-art testing and administration methods.
- Hormone Harmony incorporates nutrition, fitness, stress management and other aspects into care as well for optimal wellness.
- Contact them today to schedule an appointment! Tel: (323) 782-0448
