Hypogonadism and testosterone issues

Low Testosterone and Men’s Health

Testosterone is often thought of as the male sex hormone, but it is naturally produced by all bodies in varying amounts. The higher levels of testosterone in typical male bodies is responsible for many of the features we tend to associate with masculinity that emerge during puberty – increased body hair, deeper voice, and a more muscular body shape.

The Role of Testosterone in the Body

Testosterone production increases during puberty, peaking around 20–30 years of age in well-nourished male bodies. Testosterone contributes to:

Supporting bone strength across the lifespan

Maintaining sexual and reproductive health

Supporting muscle growth and maintenance

Contributing to mood and psychological wellbeing

Playing a role in metabolic health (although this relationship is still being researched)

There is increasing evidence that low testosterone levels are linked to a higher risk of developing metabolic conditions such as Type 2 Diabetes. The reverse is also true — people with untreated metabolic health conditions may be at higher risk of developing low testosterone.

What Happens When Testosterone Levels Drop?

Unlike menopause, there is no male equivalent where hormone levels drop suddenly. However, testosterone levels often gradually decline with age. Testosterone production is also sensitive to nutrition status — bodies that are undernourished may experience a decline in testosterone levels.

When testosterone drops quickly or falls very low (hypogonadism), it can impact physical and mental health, including:

Decreased libido or difficulty getting or maintaining erections
Difficulty gaining or maintaining muscle mass
Low mood or reduced sense of wellbeing
Loss of bone strength and increased risk of fractures
Increased risk of developing metabolic conditions

Can Testosterone Be Too High?

More testosterone is not always better. While low testosterone can negatively affect health, excessively high levels also carry risks. Some people use anabolic steroids to artificially boost testosterone levels, which can increase the risk of heart disease. Steroid use can also suppress the body’s natural testosterone production, leaving people vulnerable to low testosterone levels when they stop using them.

Who Is Most at Risk of Low Testosterone?

Factors that increase the risk of low testosterone include:

High-level athletes who are not adequately fuelling their bodies
People with metabolic health conditions such as Type 2 Diabetes
Current or former users of anabolic steroids
People experiencing eating disorders or malnutrition

Seeking Support for Low Testosterone

If you suspect you may have low testosterone, it is important to see your GP, who can assess hormone levels and guide you through appropriate treatment options.

Lifestyle and nutrition interventions play a key role in supporting testosterone production. The Dietitians at Mind Body Well can work with you to ensure you are fuelling your body adequately to support hormonal health. Our Psychologists can also provide support if body image concerns, disordered eating, or mood changes are contributing factors.

For more information about testosterone and men’s health, visit Healthy Male (Andrology Australia)