What are Normal Testosterone Levels in Men by Age? Rebalance Health

Male Testosterone Levels by Age: Whats Normal, Whats Not, and How to Check Yours

A recent study found that age-related testosterone deficiency was the most important factor of bone loss in elderly men. Normal testosterone levels in men stimulate the cells that contribute to bone formation which helps reduce the likelihood of getting stress fractures or other bone damage from everyday activities. Testosterone levels follow a diurnal rhythm, peaking in the early morning and declining throughout the day. For men, the best time for how to measure testosterone is between 7 a.m. This pattern is why morning blood draws are recommended for the most accurate assessment of testosterone range by age. Factors such as sleep quality, stress, and overall health can affect daily testosterone fluctuations. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule can help support healthy testosterone production.

It is possible to treat males for low testosterone levels with an injection or prescription gel. People using this treatment over the long term could experience potentially severe side effects, such as an increased risk of heart problems. Some research suggests a potential link between higher exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and lower testosterone levels, says Houman. This is likely because they can disrupt both endocrine function and healthy metabolism. A 2023 study in Environmental Research reports a link between EDCs and a decrease in serum testosterone.

According to the American Urological Association (AUA), healthy male beer lowers testosterone levels range between 450 and 600 ng/dL, and low testosterone is below 300 ng/dL. A healthcare provider will evaluate your symptoms, overall health, and specific testosterone levels to determine if TRT or other interventions are appropriate. Additionally, testosterone influences mood, energy levels, and overall physical and mental health. Produced mainly in the testes in men and the ovaries in women, with a small amount made by the adrenal glands, its levels can significantly impact one’s quality of life. In addition to these, having too-high testosterone levels put you at risk for health conditions including cancer, cardiac complications, and irritability (9).

As a practitioner who provides testosterone replacement therapy, I am often asked, "What is the normal testosterone level for men? Low testosterone can cause a lot of unpleasant effects, including a low sex drive, muscle loss, a tanking mood, and low energy. If that sounds like you, your doctor will likely rule out potential causes of low T, such as obesity, opioid use, and issues relating to the pituitary gland or testicles. Your doctor will then determine proper course of action, which could be anything from lifestyle style changes to hormone therapy. A normal testosterone level for adult men is around 8.7–29 nmol/L (250–836 ng/dL). These values don’t take your symptoms, baseline levels, or age-related decline into account.

Unlike total testosterone, which includes protein-bound hormones, free testosterone directly impacts muscle growth, libido, and cognitive function. Normal free testosterone levels ensure optimal performance in physical and mental health. Low free testosterone can lead to symptoms like brain fog, reduced strength, and increased body fat. Measuring free testosterone provides a clearer picture of hormonal health compared to just assessing total testosterone. First, we were unable to draw a causal relationship between SUA levels and T levels because of the cross-sectional nature of our study. Second, the dataset used in this study was obtained from a nationwide survey in the United States, so it is uncertain whether the findings can be generalized to populations of other racial backgrounds. Third, testosterone level was measured only once, whereas the diagnosis of low testosterone typically requires at least two recorded values taken on different days.

In addition to age-related decline, research shows testosterone levels have dropped 20 percent in young men compared to past generations (5). A level under 300 ng/dL is generally considered low, but many men experience symptoms well above that threshold. Hitting the gym can be another way to boost male testosterone levels naturally.

If the doctor does determine that you have a hormonal imbalance, the doctor will then work with you to create a plan that can help you get your hormones in balance. The balance of hormones is essential to ensure that your body is functioning as it should, so don’t hesitate to get tested if you have reasons for concern. In the same study, researchers also found that healthy, non-obese men tended to have a testosterone normal range that was higher than men who were overweight. Other studies found a similar correlation between weight and testosterone levels. For men with clinically low testosterone levels, medical treatments may be necessary. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a common option, available in various forms such as injections, gels, and patches. However, it is essential to weigh the potential risks and benefits of TRT, as long-term use may impact natural testosterone production, fertility, and cardiovascular health.

For those who want to grow their family, this can lead to high levels of emotional stress on the individual and family levels. "On a societal scale, this could exacerbate population challenges, particularly in countries already experiencing aging populations and workforce shortages," he says. The decline was observed across all age groups, but researchers said it raised particular concerns regarding younger populations. First, it also helps prevent you from gaining weight so you won’t become obese. It can also help you lose weight, improving your testosterone levels.

Meanwhile, a 2021 study in European Urology Focus compared the testosterone blood serum levels of young men ages 15 to 40 in 2016 to those of the same age from 1999. After controlling for confounding factors such as participant race, BMI, comorbidity status, alcohol and smoking use, and physical activity, the researchers found average testosterone levels were lower. Research published in Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology also had similar findings. Research finds that normal testosterone levels in men are affected by factors outside of your control such as ethnicity and chronic diseases. Other factors that impact levels that are within your control include tobacco smoking, exercise habits, living with a romantic partner, the amount and types of protein you eat, and your education status. Increased body fat may have a negative impact on hormone signaling between the brain and the testes, leading to decreased production of testosterone. Lower testosterone levels in larger men may also be related to the increased risk of other chronic conditions that can impact your hormones.