Testosterone usually falls slowly as men age, often by about 1% a year from the late 30s or 40s. Common signs of low levels include lower sex drive, less energy, more body fat, low mood and trouble concentrating. These signs have many possible causes, so only a blood test and a doctor's visit can tell you what is going on. Healthy sleep, weight, exercise and drinking habits are the best-supported first steps.
How testosterone changes with age
Testosterone is the main male sex hormone. It supports sex drive, muscle, bone, red blood cells and mood.
Levels drop gradually over adult life. Mayo Clinic says the decline is "typically about 1% a year after age 30 or 40" (Mayo Clinic). Cleveland Clinic gives a similar figure, starting in the late 30s (Cleveland Clinic).
For many men, this slow change never causes problems. A drop becomes a medical concern when levels are clearly low and symptoms appear together. Doctors call that condition male hypogonadism or testosterone deficiency.
Common signs of low testosterone
Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic describe several groups of possible signs.
1. Lower sex drive and sexual changes
Cleveland Clinic calls sexual symptoms the most specific signs. These include low libido and fewer morning or spontaneous erections. Some men also have trouble getting or keeping an erection.
2. Low energy and less strength
Men may feel tired more often or have less stamina. Mayo Clinic also lists reduced muscle mass and strength. Lower bone density is another possible change.
3. More body fat
Increased body fat is a listed sign. The link also runs the other way. Harvard Health notes that excess belly fat can contribute to lower testosterone (Harvard Health).
4. Mood and focus changes
Mayo Clinic lists sadness or depression, lower motivation and trouble concentrating or remembering. If you feel persistently down or hopeless, talk to a doctor soon. Mood symptoms deserve care in their own right, whatever the cause.
5. Lower self-confidence and other physical changes
Mayo Clinic includes reduced self-confidence among the emotional signs. Physical signs can include body hair loss and breast swelling or tenderness. Cleveland Clinic adds hot flashes and shrinking testicles as signs that strongly suggest hypogonadism.
Why these signs are not enough on their own
Every sign above can have other causes. Mayo Clinic names medication side effects, sleep apnea, thyroid problems, diabetes and depression. Some of these can also lower testosterone directly.
That is why guessing is risky. A man who assumes "it's just low T" may miss a treatable condition. The American Urological Association says a man has testosterone deficiency only when he has both low levels and related symptoms (American Urological Association).
How low testosterone is diagnosed
A blood test is the only way to measure testosterone. Timing matters, because levels are highest in the morning.
- Test in the morning. MedlinePlus says the best time is between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. (MedlinePlus).
- Expect a repeat test. Cleveland Clinic says diagnosis usually requires two separate morning blood samples. Mayo Clinic says doctors typically measure levels at least twice.
- Mention recent illness. Being sick can lower testosterone for a while, according to Cleveland Clinic.
- Know the rough cut-off. Cleveland Clinic says providers treat adult levels under 300 ng/dL as low. Lab ranges vary, so your doctor will interpret your result.
Lifestyle habits with the best evidence
Harvard Health says doctors often recommend intense lifestyle changes first for men with low testosterone. Cleveland Clinic also lists nutrition and physical activity as first steps.
Sleep
Harvard Health notes that most testosterone release happens during sleep. It suggests seven to nine hours of quality sleep a night. Sleep apnea can affect hormone levels, so loud snoring or gasping at night is worth raising with a doctor.
Weight
Extra abdominal fat is linked with lower testosterone. Mayo Clinic suggests weight loss as a natural way to support levels in men without a medical cause.
Exercise
Harvard Health calls regular activity one of the best ways to maintain healthy levels. It reports the largest gains with moderate- or high-intensity resistance exercise using large muscle groups.
Alcohol
Heavy drinking can lower testosterone and affect sexual function, says Harvard Health. It suggests no more than one drink per day.
Stress and diet
Chronic stress raises cortisol, which can interfere with testosterone production. A balanced diet with healthy fats, protein, fruits and vegetables supports overall health.
Where herbal supplements fit
Some men add an herbal product to a healthy routine for general energy and libido support. One example is Virility EX, an herbal blend of seven ingredients, including tribulus, elk velvet antler and oat straw. The suggested use is about two capsules a day.
To be clear, it is not a testosterone treatment and does not replace a medical evaluation. If you have symptoms, see a doctor first. You can browse more options in our men's health collection. Check with your doctor before starting any supplement, especially if you take medication.
Testosterone therapy is a medical decision
Testosterone replacement is a prescription treatment. It comes as gels, injections, implanted pellets and other forms, according to Cleveland Clinic. It is meant for men with confirmed hypogonadism.
Mayo Clinic says treating normal aging with testosterone therapy is not advisable. Possible risks include worsened sleep apnea, prostate enlargement, reduced sperm production and excess red blood cells, which can raise the risk of blood clots. A doctor weighs these risks against the possible benefits for you.
When to see a doctor
Make an appointment if symptoms bother you or last. Bring a list of your medicines and supplements.
- Lower sex drive or erection changes
- Ongoing fatigue that sleep does not fix
- Low mood, loss of interest or trouble concentrating
- Breast swelling, hot flashes or loss of body hair
- Loud snoring or pauses in breathing during sleep
Frequently asked questions
At what age does testosterone start to drop?
For most men, levels begin a slow decline in the late 30s or 40s. Mayo Clinic puts the typical rate at about 1% a year. Many men never develop symptoms from this change.
What is considered a low testosterone level?
Cleveland Clinic says providers treat adult levels under 300 ng/dL as low. Lab ranges differ, and symptoms matter too. Your doctor will interpret your result in context.
Why do I need more than one blood test?
Testosterone levels change through the day and can dip during illness. A second morning test confirms whether a low result is real. Mayo Clinic says doctors typically measure levels at least twice.
Can lifestyle changes help?
Yes, for many men they are the first step. Harvard Health highlights good sleep, weight loss, resistance exercise and limiting alcohol.
Can a supplement raise my testosterone?
No supplement we sell is intended to raise testosterone or treat low testosterone. Some men use herbal blends for general energy and libido support. If you think your levels are low, see a doctor for testing.
Should every older man take testosterone?
No. Mayo Clinic says treating normal aging with testosterone therapy is not advisable. Therapy is a prescription decision made with a doctor after testing.
Sources
- Mayo Clinic: Testosterone therapy: Potential benefits and risks as you age
- Cleveland Clinic: Low Testosterone (Male Hypogonadism)
- Harvard Health Publishing: Lifestyle strategies to help prevent natural age-related decline in testosterone
- MedlinePlus: Testosterone
- American Urological Association: Evaluation and Management of Testosterone Deficiency (2024)
This article is for general information and is not medical advice. Statements about dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.