What should I do if my testosterone levels are low?

Testosterone is not exclusively secreted by the testes in males; the ovaries in females also produce testosterone. As an androgen, testosterone plays essential roles in maintaining muscle strength and mass, preserving bone mineral density and structural integrity, enhancing alertness, and improving physical stamina. Testosterone levels in the human body are not constant but fluctuate within a normal physiological range. Deviations—particularly declines—beyond this normal range may indicate underlying health issues. So, what should one do if testosterone levels are low? Let’s explore the options below.

What to Do If Testosterone Levels Are Low

1. Pharmacological Treatment

(1) Oral medications: For low testosterone, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may include oral formulations, transdermal patches, or intramuscular injectable esters. Common oral preparations include methyltestosterone tablets and undecanoate testosterone capsules.

(2) Intramuscular injection: Short-acting esterified testosterone injections are preferred over long-acting formulations. Long-acting injectables—administered once monthly or every few weeks—do not allow for timely dose adjustments. Moreover, testosterone levels fluctuate significantly throughout the extended duration of action, failing to meet physiological demands consistently. Such fluctuations may also trigger pronounced mood swings or behavioral abnormalities in patients.

2. Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Therapy

The core principle of endocrine balance therapy—“treating the root cause”—employs a stepwise, systematic approach combining traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Western medicine to restore hormonal equilibrium, thereby addressing the fundamental etiological factors.

3. Dietary and Lifestyle Interventions

(1) Animal offal: Rich in cholesterol—the key precursor for sex hormone synthesis—offal (e.g., heart, liver, kidney, and intestine) also contains adrenal hormones and sex hormones that promote spermatogonial cell division and maturation. Moderate consumption may help elevate endogenous androgen levels, increase seminal volume, and enhance sexual function.

(2) Zinc-rich foods: Zinc is an essential trace element critical for maintaining the normal structure and function of the male reproductive system. Zinc deficiency can reduce sperm count, impair libido, and diminish sexual performance. Recent research suggests a correlation between zinc deficiency and the TCM concept of “kidney-yang deficiency.” Oysters contain the highest concentration of zinc; other good sources include beef, milk, chicken, chicken liver, egg yolk, shellfish, peanuts, whole grains, legumes, and vegetables.

(3) Arginine-rich foods: Arginine is a vital amino acid required for sperm production. Regular intake of arginine-rich foods supports kidney health and sperm generation. These foods typically have a viscous or slippery texture—for example, eel, loach, sea cucumber, squid, chicken, frozen tofu, nori, and peas.

(4) Vitamin-rich foods: Vitamins A, E, and C all contribute to delaying aging and preventing sexual dysfunction. They are predominantly found in fresh vegetables and fruits.

The above outlines evidence-informed approaches to managing low testosterone. We hope this information is helpful—and wish you a happy, healthy life.