Normal Testosterone Levels in Males (ng/mL) — Complete Guide to Ranges, Symptoms & Ways to Improve Levels

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone. It is produced mainly in the sex organs (testes) and is responsible for the development of male reproductive organs and for maintaining overall male health. Testosterone significantly affects mood, libido, and energy levels in men. Testosterone levels are a primary indicator of male health and vitality. Imbalances can contribute to low bone density, reduced muscle strength, and mental health issues such as depression.

Testosterone is a male hormone that is responsible for body growth and overall hormonal health. Male testosterone production primarily occurs in the testes and is regulated by hormonal signals. It significantly controls bone strength, energy levels, body hair, sexual health, and mood. So basically, testosterone is the one that helps males appear, feel, and function like a male.

The pituitary gland releases luteinizing hormone, which stimulates the testes to produce testosterone. Testosterone, the masculine hormone, has various crucial roles in the male body, including:

• The growth and development of male features, such as face and body hair, reproductive organs, and a masculine voice.

• It boosts bone density, muscle growth, and strength.

• It regulates sexual function, such as sex drive and sperm production.

• It influences mood and energy levels.

• It controls fat distribution in the body.

• It supports red blood cell (RBC) production.

Total testosterone is the overall level of the hormone in the blood. It includes the testosterone that is freely moving in the blood, and that is bound to proteins. Free testosterone is the amount that is biologically active and freely exists in the bloodstream without binding to any proteins. Free testosterone can freely enter the cells in the body and perform its function.

So the prime difference between these two types of testosterone is that total testosterone is the overall amount in the body, while free testosterone is the amount that the body is using. In case a person’s total testosterone is normal but free testosterone is low, they may experience the symptoms associated with low testosterone.

Generally, for an adult male, the total testosterone normal level in the morning is 300 ng/dL. Although the exact ranges may vary, adult testosterone levels can differ based on age and individual health. It is important to use testosterone reference ranges established by laboratories to define the healthy range for testosterone, as these reference values help determine what is considered normal for different age groups.

Total Testosterone: 300-1000 ng/dL (3-10 ng/mL) in adults

Free Testosterone: 5-21 ng/dL (0.05-0.21 ng/mL) in adults

Various laboratories may have slightly different normal ranges because of various testing methods and equipment used. Some tests involve measuring total testosterone, and others free testosterone.

It is important to note that age-specific normative values should be considered when interpreting testosterone results. Different testosterone reference ranges are used for various age groups to calculate age-specific cutoffs, as normative testosterone levels can vary significantly with age.

Testosterone levels in men naturally fluctuate throughout the day. Usually, the highest levels are found in the morning between 7 am and 10 am. Then the hormone levels may gradually drop during the afternoon and evening. For that reason, healthcare providers usually recommend morning testing for higher accuracy.

Go through the table mentioned below showing the normal testosterone ranges:

Testosterone levels naturally decline with age, a process known as age-related decline, which typically starts around the early 30s. This gradual decrease can impact libido, energy levels, physical strength, and overall well-being. Age-specific reference ranges are important, especially when evaluating young men presenting with symptoms of testosterone deficiency, as their normal levels differ from those of older adults.

Here’s the table showing age-related testosterone decline:

Testosterone levels also vary in male children and female children, with much lower reference ranges compared to adults. These differences are important for interpreting test results accurately across different age and sex groups.

Here’s how clinicians define low testosterone:

Total Testosterone: Typically, T levels below 300 ng/dL in adults assessed in the morning are considered low levels.

Free Testosterone: Below 5 ng/dL is considered low T even when total T levels are normal.

According to the American Urological Association definition, total testosterone levels below 300 ng/dL are used as a diagnostic cutoff for low testosterone and to identify male hypogonadism, emphasizing the importance of age-specific reference ranges and standardized guidelines in clinical assessment.

Here are symptoms of low testosterone levels:

• Reduced sex drive or libido

• Sexual performance-related issues

• Erectile dysfunction

• Low energy levels and tiredness

• Reduced muscle mass and muscle strength

• Mood swings, irritability, or depression

• Decreased bone density

• Concentration problems

Risk Factors include:

• Age (decline begins after 30)

• Obesity (Excess body fat = lower testosterone)

• Chronic illnesses (diabetes, liver, and kidney conditions)

• Hormonal disorders (testicular issues)

• Medications (certain opioids, steroids, or chemotherapy medications)

• Lifestyle habits (stress, poor sleep, excessive alcohol consumption)

• Abnormal testosterone levels (hormonal imbalances due to issues in the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, or gonads)

• Medical conditions (such as hypogonadism or other health-related concerns requiring synthetic testosterone)

• Hormonal medications (use of hormone-related treatments can affect testosterone levels)

Here’s the comparison table of Low Testosterone vs Normal Testosterone levels in adult males:

High testosterone means your body is producing excessive levels of testosterone, usually above 1000 ng/dL. Too much testosterone can have negative health effects, impacting the body in various ways depending on age and sex. High T levels may significantly influence the reproductive, physical, and mental health of males.

• Peak developmental phase

• Intense muscle-building routine

• Testosterone supplements

• Anabolic steroids

• Certain endocrine disorders

• Adrenal glands or testes tumors

• Testicular cancer

• Oily skin or excessive acne

• Speedy muscle gain

• Excessive body hair

• Irritability

• Sleep disturbances

• Enlarged prostate

• Risk of heart disease

• Liver damage

• Fertility issues

• Behavioral changes

• Greater risk of prostate enlargement

• Increased risk of certain health complications, such as heart problems and kidney stones

A testosterone blood test assesses testosterone levels in the blood. A testosterone levels test, including the total testosterone test, is used to diagnose hormonal imbalances and guide testosterone therapy if needed. It helps detect high or low testosterone, which helps evaluate sexual dysfunction, fertility problems, and track hormone therapy.

Healthcare professionals usually recommend a testosterone test when a man is experiencing low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, or mood swings. It may be recommended as a part of routine health tests for males with chronic illness, diabetes, or obesity.

• Morning testing is considered best as testosterone levels are highest in the morning.

• Usually, fasting is not required.

• Avoid forceful stress or exercise before testing.

The morning sample is critical for the testosterone blood test because testosterone levels naturally decline during the day. Morning samples give the most precise picture of peak testosterone levels that help prevent misdiagnosis.

Testosterone levels can be significantly affected by age, health conditions, and lifestyle factors. According to studies, around 10-40% men have low testosterone levels worldwide. A massive assessment shows that more than 150 million men are suffering from testosterone deficiency globally. Moreover, around 10% males have low testosterone in their early 40s. These prevalence rates and normative ranges are established using nutrition examination surveys that survey nationally representative samples of United States residents.

• Sleep

• Diet

• Stress

• Obesity

• Thyroid issues

• Diabetes

• Pituitary conditions

Thinking about how to increase your testosterone levels? Here are the tips to increase your testosterone levels naturally:

• Eat zinc, vitamin D, magnesium, protein, and a micronutrient-rich diet including pumpkin seeds, fatty fish, nuts, and spinach.

• Limit intake of sugar and processed foods, as these may reduce testosterone levels.

• Strength and high-intensity interval training boost testosterone levels.

• Prioritize 7-8 hours of sleep every night for better testosterone production.

• Maintain a healthy weight (abdominal fat) to prevent testosterone suppression.

Here’s the table showing the best foods and nutrients that help increase testosterone levels naturally:

Here are the beneficial supplements that may help maintain healthy testosterone levels:

• Vitamin D: Boost testosterone production and hormonal balance

• Zinc: Vital for testosterone production

• Ashwagandha: Reduces stress-related cortisol and increases testosterone levels.

• Fenugreek: Boost testosterone levels and improve libido.

Supplementation is usually considered for men with low testosterone and deficiencies; however, the results may vary. Make sure you consult your healthcare provider before taking any supplementation, particularly if you have any health conditions.

Medical treatments for testosterone deficiency are important not only for restoring hormone balance but also for disease control, helping to prevent or manage health complications related to abnormal testosterone levels.

TRT is a medical treatment to restore testosterone levels in males with low testosterone levels who are experiencing symptoms. The treatment is focused on normalizing testosterone levels and improving associated symptoms such as low sex drive and muscle loss.

Clinical studies published in J Sex Med have evaluated the efficacy and safety of testosterone replacement therapy, providing important insights into its role in managing hypogonadism and related symptoms.

Gels and creams are applied externally to the skin.

Injections are administered subcutaneously or intramuscularly.

Patches are daily applied to the skin.

Males with clinically confirmed low testosterone levels and symptoms need TRT.

Males with normal testosterone levels and those with low levels without any symptoms don’t need TRT.

• Hair loss, oily skin, or acne

• Swelling or fluid retention

• Increased RBC count with risk of blood clots

• Prostate enlargement

• Mood changes

• Fertility issues

• Erectile dysfunction

• Low sex drive

• Low energy and fatigue

• Muscle mass and strength loss

• More body fat around the abdomen

• Unexplained mood changes

• Concentration difficulty

• Reduced bone density

If you have persistent symptoms of testosterone deficiency or low testosterone. If your symptoms become worse or influence your sexual health, physical performance, and life quality. It is recommended for men to monitor their age-associated testosterone decline regularly. Early diagnosis helps detect testosterone-related health issues and allows timely treatment.

***Medical Disclaimer - The following information is for educational purposes only. No information provided on this website, including text, graphics, and images, is intended as a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your doctor about specific medical advice about your condition(s).