Key Points
Testosterone levels are one of the major sex hormones seen in males. It levels hit a peak when you are 20 years old and gradually decline during your 30s
If you encounter low testosterone levels, your caregiver will recommend Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)
Your endocrinologist might recommend that you undergo another form of treatment known as androgen replacement therapy. These therapies work to improve your testosterone levels
It levels tend to fluctuate due to your body weight, alcohol consumption, your stress levels, diet, and exercise regime; all can affect your It levels.
What is testosterone?
A male hormone, also called the chemical messenger, is produced primarily in the testicles. It is responsible for the growth of male-specific characteristics or functions. The testosterone hormone helps men in their normal sexual development and function. It plays a huge and much wider role in men’s systems.
The testosterone levels and their effectiveness can influence male health to a broader extent. It influences their erectile function, sex drive (i.e., performance in sex), fat distribution, bone density, bone mass and strength, muscle mass, and the functioning of their brain. Testosterone also influences sperm production in men.
The normal testosterone level in men is between 270 and 1,070 ng/dL. For women, the normal testosterone level is between 15 and 70 ng/dL.
What does testosterone do?
It plays multiple roles and has many functions in humans. Testosterone is largely responsible for the development of male reproductive tissues that include the prostate and testicles. Testosterone is also responsible for promoting secondary sexual characteristics in men, like the growth of body hair and increased muscle and bone mass.
The physical and psychological well-being of men also depends on their testosterone level. Testosterone influences red blood cell creation. It also alters your energy levels and enhances your overall mood.
Where is testosterone produced?
The production of testosterone specifically by Leydig cells primarily occurs in the testes in men. In addition, the male adrenal glands also produce testosterone, but in minimal quantities. However, in women, the same applies (adrenal glands produce testosterone), and the production of testosterone takes place in smaller volumes even in their ovaries as well.
How to naturally increase testosterone levels?
There are several ways you can follow to increase your testosterone levels in a natural way. If you feel that you are low on testosterone, before visiting your healthcare provider or taking any medications, you can follow some simple home remedies that would help.
You can eat healthy foods, i.e., follow a balanced and nutrition-rich diet. You can prioritize whole foods that include fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, saturated fats, unprocessed meats and fish, nuts, seeds, and highly processed products.
You can limit or avoid consuming excessive alcohol, smoking and tobacco products, and medications that treat opioid pain; prevent yourself from becoming diabetic, etc. Regular, adequate, and timely sleep is essential and would help increase your testosterone levels.
What causes low testosterone levels in young males?
Low testosterone levels—also known as hypogonadism—could be the result of various factors. It can include any underlying medical condition you have, injuries in your body, certain medications you take that your system may not tolerate, and your personal lifestyle choices. These conditions can disrupt the normal production of testosterone, either at the level of the testes (where testosterone is produced) or through problems with the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, which regulate hormone production.
Moreover, low testosterone levels could also be the result of a specific disorder of your thyroid or pituitary glands, or problems in your testicles. It also fluctuates depending on your age. Inadequate sleep, i.e., intermittent or disturbed sleep at night, is another reason for encountering low testosterone levels.
Do women have testosterone levels?
Testosterone’s significance is relatively crucial for women when compared to men. Women do produce testosterone through their system. However, it may not be as high as it is produced in men, but is significantly lower in quantity than in men. Testosterone is not a male thing; it even plays a critical role in women’s health and function.
Does Ashwagandha increase testosterone levels?
Regular intake of Ashwagandha can increase your testosterone level. This is according to many research reports. However, is there any clinical evidence backing this data?
FAQs
1. Does testosterone make you horny?
If your testosterone levels are high, there is are chance that it will increase your sexual feelings. High levels of testosterone increase your libido in general, and they heighten your sex drive to a fair extent. This happens for both men and women.
2. Does testosterone levels make you taller?
There is a possibility that testosterone can indirectly influence your height growth. During puberty, testosterone functions to stimulate the production of growth hormones. The production of these growth hormones contributes to bone development and the growth spurts.
Sam is a health writer at MedMaxim.com with a focus on men’s wellness and sexual health. With years of experience in simplifying complex topics, Sam is passionate about helping readers make confident, informed choices.