Average testosterone levels
As anyone who has spent time online researching what normal or average testosterone levels for men knows, there is an excessive amount of bewildering and sometimes contradictory information to sort through.
Different websites will often cite different numbers when classifying what average testosterone levels in men by age are; even among medical testing labs, the use of non-standardized methodologies and measures adds to a lack of consensus regarding what really constitutes average testosterone levels in men.
Fortunately for all concerned, several years ago the CDC undertook the project of getting labs to agree to use standardized hormone testing procedures, in order to provide more accuracy in the steroid hormone tests that are utilized for research and patient care. Since compliance is voluntary, this project remains ongoing; meanwhile, where can any adult find reliable information on the average testosterone levels in men by age? Many labs use what is called a “reference range,” which typically illustrates the variations among the test results of healthy patients.
Average Testosterone Levels in Men by Age
In order to see the big picture regarding average testosterone levels in men, it is necessary to realize that the body actually contains three various types of testosterone that factor into average testosterone levels in men:
- Free testosterone, which is usually measured in picograms per milliliter
- SHBG-bound testosterone, which can easily be converted to free testosterone
- Total testosterone, meaning the total contained in the blood at the time of testing; typically measured in ng/dl (nanograms per deciliter)
Most of the general information that is currently available regarding average testosterone levels references total testosterone. While the majority of labs do not break down the reference ranges they use by age, there have been a number of studies completed which are based on average testosterone levels in men by age that are much more helpful as a means of comparison to the average man who wants to see if his levels fall within the range that is considered normal or average. Many men want this information to help with making a decision about receiving a prescription for Low T therapy from their doctor.
Low Testosterone Levels
Once a diagnosis of clinically low testosterone levels has been determined, what is the best course of action to restore them? The most impelling means for many adults is to receive a course of prescription testosterone replacement therapy. Both research and actual results consistently indicate that the most effective form of therapy is the implementation of a bio-identical hormone replenishment program for individuals whose levels fall well below the average testosterone levels in men by age. The use of these injections, which must be prescribed and supervised by a licensed physician, can fastidiously increase an adult’s deficient hormonal levels over a specific period of time.
Average Testosterone Levels in Men
One of the studies referred to above which measured average testosterone levels in men by age, was performed in 1996. It produced the following data:
Average Testosterone Levels in Men (shown in ng/dl)
| Age | Number of subjects | Total Testosterone | Free Testosterone |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 45 | 617 | 12.3 |
| 35-44 | 22 | 668 | 10.3 |
| 45-54 | 23 | 606 | 9.1 |
| 55-64 | 43 | 562 | 8.3 |
| 65-74 | 47 | 534 | 6.9 |
| 75-84 | 48 | 471 | 6.0 |
| 85-100 | 21 | 376 | 5.4 |
While a differential of ~2-3% is usually considered to be within the average testosterone levels in men by age, levels that are substantially lower than the ones shown here will often be accompanied by definitive symptoms. In order to receive medically prescribed replenishment therapy, a diagnosis of insufficient levels, not average testosterone levels, must first be determined by the treating physician.
Benefits of Increasing Testosterone Levels
So what are some of the more noteworthy benefits of increasing testosterone levels that have declined to the level of causing symptoms? By boosting the supply to above those indicated on the chart that shows average testosterone levels in men by age, a man can expect to receive a diverse and stimulating range of unequivocal results.
Experiencing a surge in energy and libido as well as experiencing the loss of excess fat stores are just the beginning of the list of benefits that gaining above average testosterone levels in men produces. Maintaining optimal hormonal levels can also enhance future healthiness, by reducing the risk for developing myriad diseases and conditions that frequently accompany the later stages of adulthood.
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