Are My Testosterone Levels Low?

There are a lot of guys out there who are feeling depressed, tired and unhappy with their bodies. This could be down to low testosterone. The problem is the issue either gets ignored or guys are getting scammed seeking a boost. In the worst case scenario they venture into the black market to self medicate.. I discuss Testosterone, what it is, some of the symptoms of low levels and some sensible advice about what you can do about it...
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[@MensGroomingAdvice]

One of the biggest challenges in the UK is that the reference range is so wide that even if you have clinical symptoms, GPs will dismiss discussion of TRT as you are 'within range'. I had a test at 50 and my level was a few points from the bottom of the range and therefore it was 'not needed' for me to have treatment - however comparing my level to peer-reviewed literature showed my level was at the average for a 65-year-old! I went to a private clinic and got treatment which was a game changer. TLDR - if your GP brushes you off, then look for a specialist clinic who are more likely to help.

[@justtango4741]

NHS doctors will tell an 18 year old with the T levels of an 80 year old man that his levels are "within normal range"! Would you mind telling me, once you go to an NHS clinic and get a prescription, do you have to continue paying per for the duration you take trt?

[@jaylove3487]

I had a full medical when I was about 50. My testosterone level was very low. My doctor prescribed testosterone which I took, I noticed no difference. I ended up tripling the dose. Still nothing. I went for a retest and my testosterone level was extremely high. Had a discussion with my Dr. and decided the juice wasn’t worth the squeeze, it wasn’t doing anything and side effects would start to come into play. That was my experience. I should add that I work out every day and I am extremely fit. I was expecting something, better gains or better mood, sleep etc. I felt nothing. That said I’m not a placebo kind of guy, and for some folks I imagine saline water would do wonders for them.

[@JimmyChangE16]

Did you do any exercise?

[@Chancer]

​@@JimmyChangE16you could always read his post

[@brianmeen2158]

Yeah trt is strange. I know quite a few guys on it and most claim it helps them feel better and perform better at work and in the gym. I’m feeling sluggish although I’m in great shape but I’m not about to get on Trt unless the benefits are well worth it. I just having to keep up with doctor visits and tests etc etc

[@letsdothis9063]

Yup. I have buddies that say TRT has been awesome. I have been on it for a month now, and I haven't noticed any difference.

[@philipcox5041]

I've been on testosterone for about four years. But I truly don't feel any better.

[@MrLetmein2011]

I had a testosterone test in my early 40s , I was very fit but feeling depressed and anxious for no particular reason. My GP suggested testing my testosterone levels. I was sent to a specialist and put on a testosterone gel. Not a high level. It was amazing for me , it increased my sex drive , made me feel like a young man again. I gained muscle albeit through a lot of work at the gym… It certainly worked for me , I’m in my late 50s now . Still fit and have a spring in my step ;) One down side if my testical’s have become smaller. I’m not sure why that is , the boost it gives you lessens over the years so I’m seeing a specialist soon, I may need to up my dose . Get tested 👍🏼

[@thatgearguy]

@@MrLetmein2011 your testicles get smaller because adding exogenous testosterone shuts your natural production down. A good clinic will supply a cycle of HCG, a drug which will help with this.

[@gizmou11]

I am 36 and I had the exact symptoms as described in the video, extreme tiredness, brain fog, fat retention, 0 sex drive, anxiety, strenght decrease, 0 motivation.. Went to GP, asked for endocrinal blood test, they refused on numerous occasions. Then i decided to self-medicate. Now I take 100mg of testosterone propionate a week and feel fantastic since I started. I know it is not ideal to take short estered testosterone only once a week, but it works for me.

[@Scouse.Malinois]

Not shitting on you mate but that's not the best of ideas. Just go private, couple hundred quid for the tests then take that to your doctor or just stay private and get a legal subscription, you can get creams and all kinds or quarterly jabs. Jabbing yourself every week is daft

[@Chancer]

​@@Scouse.Malinoisif he can do it himself for 90% cheaper and read his own blood tests etc he should be fine.

[@brianmeen2158]

@@Chancercorrect but he won’t know if his estrogen or other hormones get out of whack - only a doctor could tell him that. I get where he is coming from Though - having to deal with a doctor and constant visits/tests is annoying

[@twistedassisted3474]

Thanks for doing this vid Paul, I'm 45 and have some of the symptoms of low testosterone, I've sorted my diet out, low carb, no ultra processed foods, so we'll see if that improves things. If not I'll get my levels checked.

[@thatgearguy]

@@twistedassisted3474 Thanks bud, glad you enjoyed it! I think guys are getting a pretty bad deal when it comes to treatment. Luckily there are plenty of clinics emerging with reasonable prices.

[@ActionGeekUK]

Im 46 and been on TRT for 6 years now. Biggest improvement for me was mental health. It didnt cure my problems but gave me the drive and energy to address them. Ive found working out optimises the benificial effects.

[@FromEssextoMaine]

56 yr old Brit living in US.On 5% versabase scrotal daily applied testosterone cream.Prescribed through my urologist at local compounding pharmacy. Raised my levels from 225ng/dl to 700ng/dl.Works for me,no AI or HCG just the cream.Zero side effects except a little testicular atrophy.I feel normal again.

[@DreweTube]

started TRT at 32 it changed my life , had levels of around 7nmol -pretty miserable existence having been right at the top end in my 20's. Any UK lads interested i can give you a few pointers to a great UK provider having been with a few now - some not so great.

[@Steven-jn2cw]

Let me know bud I'm a UK lad

[@justtango4741]

Hello. Yes please! How did you get a prescription? Mine was not as low as yours but I have long complained to the nhs that i suffer all the symptoms of low T.

[@janakain5354]

I personally avoid hanging onto test results numbers (as these are guidelines, and everyone is individual) but rather how my body feels, reacts, flourishes or malfunctions. To me, it's more precise then numbers. Test results are very good to confirm changes felt within/out. I've met interesting lady Dr. Eva Mouckova RIP (check out her videos) in Prague, who helped many "infertile" couples conceive babies. She always put couples on diet, to detox, balance emotionally/ hormonally etc and talked about chakras - yes, as a Western medicine trained doctor, she discusses chakras. It is because, All hormonal glands are within physical body, and energy centres= chakras, are located on the outside of physical body, at levels of hormonal glands. So imbalance in one chakra centre/ hormonal gland, can throw out endocrine system out of balance. In healthcare, "correct one level, and all above levels correct themselves automatically" (usually, but not always, and it may depend on multiple factors and the cause. This relates to spinal levels, but I managed to do it with my chakras=glands also. So rebalancing one chakra on the outside, will improve corresponding hormonal gland it's connected to... it's all interconnected. I will describe how I rebalanced mine, over some time of practicing iceman technique.... The rest of chakras should improve automatically, overtime, meaning the whole endocrine system works more effectively, so testosterone should improve too (Interestingly, a male GP (Dr) told me, that men go through menopause too. I also must mention Vladimir Kafka, who prolonged and improved health and lives of thousands of people, because he considered all aspects of human life, including male/female aspects within one human being. Yes, he looked "within" as did Dr Eva Mouckova: "I look and I can see what's wrong with the person." Vladimir Kafka lived 40+ years longer, despite given 1or 2 years due to diabetes, as a child). Anyway, finally getting to my point- I tried Wim Hof method of breathing and cold and surprisingly, I felt warmth in chakra centres, where I know from biology lessons, are hormonal glands located. I did it in summer time and my health improved, was less tired, more focused and emotionally more resilient within myself. I also notice, that meeting certain people drains me, whilst being in nature and doing things I enjoy re-charge me (or when I get moody, negative, down, I drain myself!). Also if I don't drink plenty of fluids but regularly THROUGHOUT the day, I feel tired in the evenings - dehydration can deplete kidneys (adrenals/noradrenals located in area) and low blood volume, low blood pressure/headaches - it's complicated... Barbara O'Neill (ex nurse) has useful videos on hormonal balance. I like her teachings, but please be picky and choose only what benefits you (for example I disagree with certain diets, as everyone needs to always listen to their body, because diet often helps, but also can damage for life - so everyone must observe how their body reacts to what food/ drink/ environment/ even own or others' thoughts, and be GENTLE & KIND WITH YOURSELF). Because thoughts can damage too, like John Lydon (Johnny Rotten from Sex Pistols) wrote book on Anger is an Energy (but sucking energy, unlike Joy, Happiness, which uplift, repair - Dr David Hawkins writes about low energy emotions versus high energy thoughts/ emotions). Also, Wayne Dyer mentions, as we fall asleep, imagine ourself happy, healthy, strong - as brain waves change, this can re-programme old damaging repetitive though patterns, it's worth trying. Happy days and lots of self-compassion to all 🌞 Please remember to focus on positive good things within without, especially if tired, low, desperate, there's so much beauty around.. And "Just because you burn it's doesn't mean you gonna die, you've gotta get up and try and try and try" (Pink)

[@EtienneLeBoeuf]

The truth about testosterone. TRT is not the only solution. I went from 334 to 960 in around 3 months all natural no TRT. Now, just over 3 months after getting that result I tested at 947. The results are consistent. This book should be essential reading for all men. Written by a 50s guy with natural T levels higher than most 20s guys Complete guide to testosterone by james Francis

[@thatgearguy]

I never suggest that TRT is the only option for everyone but for some it might be.

[@EtienneLeBoeuf]

@@thatgearguy I was considering TRT at one point. Thought it was the only option and many guys think the same now. Doing it naturally is not easy and requires a lot of work. Sorting out your T naturally is a complete lifestyle choice in reality.

[@JanSonnemann]

Very clear informations. I'm a medical doctor and I have to add, that lots of the symptoms of low testosterone are the same as in burn-out, depression and exhaustion because of too much training. So, you should always know your testosterone level before substitution. Not only because of side effects from testosteron level that is too high because of substitution. But also because you will only have a benefit from trt, when the level is low. I myself had the same symptomes you talk of in your video, but my testosteron was near the upper limit (age of 55). So it comes out, that I was in a depression and needed psychotherapy and antidepressive medication.

[@thatgearguy]

Thanks for your input. Getting a blood test is vital which is why I am so against the self medication route (among other reasons). I hope you are feeling better.

[@JanSonnemann]

@@thatgearguy Thanx. I do. Still not perfect, but much better!

[@bpark222]

I think to that low testosterone levels and age are relative, in other words we should expect to have a lower amount as we age, it’s actually a leveling process that keeps our aging body in balance, if we were maintaining our (normal) levels at 25 at my age (61) most of us would experience other symptoms because we just aren’t designed to maintain those high levels. So you kind of have to have a baseline and range that considers your age and your historic personal levels as well. And glad you mentioned at the end that there could be numerous things that affect us that are synonymous with low t to consider before going straight to trt. And staying active and motivated before you let yourself get lax, even just routinely walking your dog or doing reairs about the house, whatever, keeping yourself from getting sedentary helps keep the body reproducing t, when you get lazy and unmotivated that has physical effects as well as how mentally difficult it is to get out of mode and then other chemical imbalances it causes that exasperate the problem.

[@thatgearguy]

@@bpark222 Very true. Inactivity is a huge factor. When I was younger I worked in a nursing home. Those that chose to stay sat in a chair all day developed psychological and physical disease relatively rapidly. Those that had active lives on the whole did not. This is seen in a number of scientific studies who have identified muscle mass in the elderly as a key indicator of longevity. Those with more muscle have better ability to remain active and have longer lives on average. I truly believe that the old saying regards idol hands holds water. Nothing good comes from sitting around on your ass all day whatever your age.

[@janx8695]

Studies have found married men have lower testosterone levels than unmarried men, and that married men with children have the lowest levels. These results suggest that partnered men, and in particular fathers, are hormonally primed to invest more time and energy into parenting rather than mating effort. Testosterone is an androgenic steroid hormone that supports many aspects of male mating effort, including the development and maintenance of sexually dimorphic musculature and bone structure as well as courtship and male-male aggression. Levels of circulating testosterone in males are thus reasoned to reflect the evolved hormonal regulation of investment in mating vs. parenting effort.

[@crsantin]

General fatigue could also come from poor sleep and your body not getting properly oxygenated during rest. Heavy snorers don’t get enough oxygen. I’m 56 and I’ll be getting my levels tested soon. My interest in sex has all but vanished. Honestly I’d rather enjoy a good meal and have a quiet evening at home. My wife was hit hard with menopause and she feels the same way. It’s a work in progress for sure. And getting old really does suck.

[@thatgearguy]

@@crsantin very true but I tested for those. I monitor my sleep closely with a watch and even recorded myself in case of snoring.

[@raymanvermillionare2962]

Atleast y'all are on the page, im 26 and by the time I get old I kinda hope I can stop bein H**ry all the time

[@brianmeen2158]

@@raymanvermillionare2962bro you want to stay at 26.. trust us on that.

[@petewatson9866]

Low testosterone is a big thing in USA, with the private health sector behind them , they can get tested. What they get prescribed is a cream that is just rubbed on the skin everyday. As you said the NHS here will not test you, I have asked already. Will give this company a shot

[@michaelbevan1081]

Thank you for covering this. My question is, I don’t have a great interest in the Gym; can boxing, MMA help? I’m not against lifting weights and I have admiration for body builders time and commitment. But can boxing help?

[@thatgearguy]

Sure, it is regular excercise which is important so anything will help. Just be careful not to overtrain as it can reduce levels.

[@michaelbevan1081]

@@thatgearguy thank you mate

[@JanSonnemann]

Boxing or every competetive sort of sport, even soccer, will increase your testosterone more than just go to the gym. Big effect has a cold shower every day (3 min. or more), regular sex with your wife/partner (masturbation has no effect, neither sex with constantly changing partners) and splitting wood (for whatever reason). This is prooven in serious studies, but the reason for this are still not clear, as much other medical phenomena.

[@michaelbevan1081]

@@JanSonnemann link to those studies

[@brokens1097]

Great insight, touches on a few angles Andrew Huberman spoke on, he has an excellent breakdown on the effects on a neurological level if it's of any interest.

[@ianarn]

I took the optimal route but couldn’t draw the necessary amount of blood myself so they sent me another set and i booked the test at Superdrug and the nurse took the blood out and i then sent it to Optimale. The results came back in the upper range of average so they refused to give me any testosterone replacement but said i could have another test another time as it could fluctuate. I thought I’m not going to pay out any more money I’ll just leave it but it was good to know what my levels were.

[@mmraike]

I heard a doctor on a recent podcast say that women actually have more testosterone than estrogen, though a lot less than men. It appears that women's bodies utilize it differently, so a little goes a long way.

[@tomr2982]

I was finding that i was simply exhausted all the time, when i did go to the gym i didn't make the progress that i used to be able to and was getting fat(ter) by the day. I thought that this was just a natural byproduct of pushing into my 40's, but it wasn't until the doctor decided I had testicular cancer, and removed one, that endocrinology got involved and, sure enough, I was off the bottom of the chart low. Have been on gel TRT for 7 years now and it was a bit of a change at first 😅

[@Eighteen19]

Good content

[@Chili-Tom]

I was looking at getting this tested myself. I had a load of bloods done earlier in the year because my Dr and I thought I had Lyme disease as I got nailed by a tick while out shooting - I asked him about testosterone testing and He said the tests for testosterone are expensive for the NHS and a long and painful process. He suggested getting a kit and if levels were low then it would help speed everything up.

[@thatgearguy]

Yes that seems to be the NHS stock answer. The reality is they are neither difficult or expensive but they do not get priority in an overburdened health service.

[@Chili-Tom]

​@@thatgearguy My thoughts exactly, especially if you can get tested anywhere from around £30-50 from what I have seen. One company I looked at even offered a full refund if your levels were all in the normal range!

[@killerbeed01]

For your doorman work did you have any protective gear or "tools" with you? Hopefully they didn't have you running around with a whistle.

[@thatgearguy]

No tools really other than a flashlight!

[@rangerwhite7091]

Guy at our gym on roids most of his life has testicular shrinkage and he’s now going to have to be on trt for life. He’s in his 40s. Need to be very careful with supplementing test. Ne er touch steroids or PEDs

[@thatgearguy]

Well that is the nature of TRT. It is not a short term situation.

[@harrysahota4072]

Very helpful thank you

[@thatgearguy]

Glad it was helpful!

[@brucejensen3081]

Probably a psychological issue, if not a gut problem. If your free t has tanked, it would probably be a side effect, not the cause.

[@thatgearguy]

Are you a Dr?

[@brucejensen3081]

@@thatgearguy better than a Dr, a farmer. Lol. Long covid isn't covid sticking around, it's from the damage covid causes to the gut, that causes longer problems. Same way antibiotics will do that. If sleep is a problem, maybe low GABA, therefore low growth growth hormone. Which you could get get your growth hormone tested to see if you have low GABA, or try ashwaganda to see if that helps, or back off a bit for a while. Get your stool tested, itsca key indicator of health

[@aus1107]

Zinc is also good

[@apkidlafirm522]

i miss the times when gyms didnt have the rules aginst those crazy gym bros and all their wacky homegrown methods for various things

[@thatgearguy]

Bring back Agent Orange..

[@apkidlafirm522]

@@thatgearguy my favorite was a guy who claimed that the existence of gyms is a plot to lower folks fat tissue number so we are easier to starve :D

[@Scouse.Malinois]

I feel like test is a gateway drug to Trenbolone😂....which turns you into the worst mental version of yourself

[@thatgearguy]

@@Scouse.Malinois It may be for those in the black market side and seeking purely cosmetic effects. For those with low T levels seeking clinical help I don't think they will be dabbling in Trenbaloney Sandwiches..

[@Scouse.Malinois]

​@thatgearguy I would hope not, that'd be a disaster 😂

[@pootieputin2771]

Hopefully, you didn't take the Jonestown Jab. If so, this may explain the way you feel.

[@IDoBeSmarter]

Hey! Stop being so pootie!

[@VertexXander]

tongkat ali and fadocia agrestis have meta analyses

[@thatgearguy]

In humans?

[@Strangingness]

You can increase Your test naturally to some degree. But I find it hilarious when I see this videos like "TRIPLE YOUR TESTOSTERONE AND BECOME AN ALPHA SIGMA MALE WITH THIS WORKOUT" it's laughable

[@thatgearguy]

@@Strangingness agree. If you are clinically low then not much will help apart from a prescription... Nobody is tripling their levels with some superfoods and a workout..

[@Strangingness]

@@thatgearguy For sure mate also I think in terms of everyone including people who aren’t clinically low aswell most of the reason for lower t levels across the board is lack of sleep.

[@thatgearguy]

@@Strangingness Lack of sleep is huge. A lot of people wonder why they dont make gains on 5hrs sleep a night.. The body grows and repairs as we sleep. It cannot be negated.

[@Niko132]

Raw eggs always keeps up with T health

[@thatgearguy]

They have no effect on testosterone but please enjoy anyway!

[@DreweTube]

​@@thatgearguy look up Eden clinic un Plymouth mate. Dr Servis is great , she's very knowledgeable and easy to talk to..lots of experience in men's health being an ex army Dr. And the most cost effective - which is a bonus. I can also advise who i wouldn't use having been an ex "client"

[@Niko132]

@@thatgearguy Try it out! Raw oysters, goat's testicles, liver, raw eggs a couple times a week. You'll be waking up with woodies every morning. It works for me!

[@thatgearguy]

@@Niko132 Science already tried it and the answer was no.. Maybe you get a psychological boost but there is zero scientific backing to any of these foods. Maybe if you had a terrible diet and these prevented malnourishment would be about their vest effectivity claim.

[@Niko132]

@@thatgearguywhat studies are you following? Superfoods with micronutrients like liver keep brain fog away, etc. I agree that processed carbs destroy the gut which can lower T levels

[@28copland]

You've run gear befire I assume?

[@thatgearguy]

No, I am considering TRT as discussed in the video and dependant on my hormone levels.

[@Name-zd5fq]

More like "ThatEarGay"!

[@thatgearguy]

Very intelligent.