Lingering fatigue, less drive, reduced desire: many men wonder at some point whether their testosterone is to blame. The answer is never obvious. Here is what French specialists say, with no shortcuts and no promises.
What does testosterone do?
Testosterone is the main male sex hormone. Produced mostly by the testicles, it plays a role in sex drive, muscle mass, bone strength, fat distribution, red blood cell production and, more broadly, energy and mood.
Its level varies over the course of the day and is highest in the morning. That is why blood tests are done early in the morning.
A gradual, normal decline with age
From around age 30, testosterone levels decrease slowly, by roughly 1% a year, and the decline steepens after 60. This drop is physiological: on its own, it does not mean there is a problem.
The term age-related testosterone deficiency, sometimes called “andropause,” is used when the drop is lasting, confirmed by lab tests and accompanied by symptoms. According to the French Society of Endocrinology, it is thought to affect about 5% of men at 50, 10% at 60, 15% at 70 and 26% at 80.
Signs that may be a warning
Specialists distinguish between two groups of signs.
- More telling signs: reduced sexual desire, erection problems, loss of muscle mass, weaker bones, hot flashes.
- Non-specific signs: fatigue, loss of energy and motivation, low mood, sleep problems, reduced physical performance.
These non-specific signs have many other possible causes: stress, lack of sleep, overwork, depression, nutritional deficiency, chronic illness. That is why medical advice is essential before drawing any conclusions.
The most common causes
Apart from age, several situations can lower testosterone:
- excess weight and obesity, particularly abdominal fat;
- type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease;
- chronic illnesses and certain long-term infections;
- certain medications, notably long-term corticosteroids, opioids, and some antipsychotics or anticonvulsants;
- insufficient or poor-quality sleep, heavy drinking, prolonged stress.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis rests on two elements together: suggestive symptoms and low testosterone measured by a blood test taken in the morning, ideally on an empty stomach, then confirmed by a second test. The French Association of Urology sums it up this way: doctors treat a person, not a number, and that person must have both a confirmed drop and clinical signs.
Your regular doctor can order these tests and, if needed, refer you to an endocrinologist or a urologist. Any hormone treatment must be prescribed by a doctor, and only after a full workup.
What you can do day to day
The general lifestyle recommendations are the same as for overall health, and they matter:
- exercise regularly, combining endurance and strength training;
- aim for a stable weight and limit abdominal fat;
- get enough sleep, at regular times;
- drink in moderation and quit smoking;
- review your medications with your doctor rather than stopping them on your own.
Supplements and “booster” products: caution first
No food or dietary supplement is a treatment for testosterone deficiency. In Europe, no health claim is authorized stating that a food product raises testosterone.
French health authorities regularly warn about products sold online as stimulants for men, sometimes in the form of honey or candy, that contain undeclared pharmaceutical substances. These substances can cause serious adverse effects, particularly in people with heart problems or who take certain medications. Before using this type of product, read the ingredient list and ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Honey remains a food, enjoyed for its taste and convenience. To find out what it really contains, read our article Why honey? Composition, calories and practical tips.
Frequently asked questions
At what age does testosterone start to decline?
The decline generally begins around age 30, at a rate of about 1% a year, and steepens after 60. It is normal and is not a disease in itself.
How can I tell if my testosterone level is low?
Only a morning blood test, confirmed by a second test and interpreted by a doctor, can tell you. Symptoms alone are not enough.
Can a food replace treatment?
No. No food or dietary supplement is a treatment for testosterone deficiency. Any treatment must be prescribed by a doctor.
Sources
- Société française d’endocrinologie, “Andropause, déficit androgénique lié à l’âge”
- Association française d’urologie, “Recommandations pratiques pour la prise en charge du déficit en testostérone”
- Association française d’urologie, “Déficit en testostérone : ne pas se résigner”
This article is for information only and does not replace a medical consultation. If you have any doubts about your health, talk to your doctor.