Testosterone can do amazing things; helps build muscle, bone strength, affects red blood cell production and regulates sex drive.
It can also do a lot in our minds. There is this myth that testosterone is like kale or IQ and that more is better. This hormone is actually more like motor oil: having a tank three-quarters full doesn’t make your car run any better than if it’s two-thirds full. But you definitely don’t want to be short.
Nowadays there are many companies that want to test your T. Some companies also want to sell you testosterone. Some want to help you increase your levels naturally. Some want to sell you supplements that supposedly increase your levels, even if your numbers are already in the normal range. There are (and always have been) testosterone suppliers who will push it to guys who haven’t even had their T tested to check their levels.
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And there’s this big, lingering idea that somehow, even if your levels are completely within the normal range and you’re not in danger of being low, that a little more T than you have now somehow it will give you the energy, libido, body fat percentage, muscle, recovery time and life you really want. (The documents say it won’t.)
But yes really they are Low testosterone, which many men are, hormone therapy can bring it back to a healthy level and can also help reduce the risks of low bone density and insulin resistance. And it could also restore your libido and energy.
Because you subscribe to Men’s Health MVP, you have access to our library of challenges, including this guide to healthy testosterone.
So how do you know if your T is okay, if you need more, and how to make the most of what you have right now? Use this 4-week guide to know what to do with your testosterone right now.
What should you do with your testosterone right now? Download our 4-week guide.
Marty Munson, currently the health director of Men’s Health, has served as health editor at properties including Marie Claire, Prevention, Shape and RealAge. She is also certified as a swimming and triathlon coach.
Erica Sweeney is a writer who primarily covers health, wellness, and careers. He has written for The New York Times, HuffPost, Teen Vogue, Parade, Money, Business Insider and many more.
