Have you recently been feeling tired, low on energy, or struggling with a low libido? This might be due to low testosterone levels in the body. But, you might be wondering, “Do I need testosterone therapy?” or “How do I know if I need testosterone?” If these are the questions in your mind, you are not alone. 

Many men worldwide are also asking the same questions. But the main question is, “How low does your testosterone have to be to get TRT? And is it safe to start? 

This blog will answer all these questions, including symptoms of low testosterone, causes of low testosterone, and explain who the best candidate is for TRT therapy.

What is Low Testosterone? 

Low testosterone, also sometimes called Hypogonadism, is a condition in which the body doesn’t produce enough testosterone for routine body functions. The American Urological Association defines low testosterone as having blood levels below 300 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL).

Symptoms of Low Testosterone

Some symptoms associated with low testosterone in the body include:

  • Low Libido
  • Fatigue
  • Erectile Dysfunction
  • Hot Flashes
  • Poor Memory

Causes of Low Testosterone

1. Aging
Aging is one of the main causes of low testosterone. As a person gets older, the testosterone levels naturally start declining. Most men see a gradual decline after age 30. This decline continues throughout.

2. Too much stress
Similarly, taking too much stress can also result in low testosterone. Chronic stress increases cortisol, the stress hormone, and that can mess with our testosterone levels. Our body can’t focus on both at once. As a result, our testosteron levels drop.

3. Poor sleep
Poor sleep or
not getting enough quality sleep can also cause low testosterone levels.  Most testosterone is made while you sleep, so if you are always tired, this could be a reason.

4. Being overweight
Extra body fat, especially around the belly, can lead to lower testosterone. Fat cells actually convert testosterone into estrogen, which throws your hormones off balance.

5. Lack of exercise
If you are not moving your body regularly, your testosterone might dip. Staying active — especially with weight training — helps keep your levels healthy.

6. Certain medications
Some prescription drugs, like steroids, antidepressants, or opioids, can lower testosterone as a side effect. Always worth checking with your doctor.

7. Health conditions
Problems like diabetes, sleep apnea, or low thyroid function can also lead to low testosterone. Sometimes it’s not just lifestyle — it’s something deeper going on in your body.

Who’s a Good Fit for TRT

Testosterone Replacement Therapy, or TRT, is not for everyone.  It’s designed for men who have both low testosterone levels and symptoms that are actually affecting their daily life. You don’t just look at a number and jump into treatment. There’s more to it.

1. Your Testosterone Levels Need to Be Low

First things first, your testosterone levels need to be confirmed through blood tests. Usually, your doctor will ask for two separate morning blood tests. Morning is the best time to check because that’s when testosterone is at its peak. If both results come back showing levels below 300, it’s considered low.

2. Symptoms Matter Just as Much as the Numbers

Having a low number on a test doesn’t always mean you need TRT. You also need to have real symptoms. We’re talking about things like constant tiredness, low sex drive, brain fog, depression, or lack of motivation. If you feel totally fine, TRT might not be needed, even if your levels are on the lower end.

3. When Low Testosterone Has a Bigger Cause Behind It

Low testosterone isn’t always about getting older. Sometimes there’s something else going on underneath it. It could be from chemo treatment, a genetic issue you were born with, or something affecting your brain, like a pituitary problem. In cases like these, TRT can still make a difference, especially when the primary cause cannot be fully resolved. It’s about giving your body the support it needs.

4. Different Types of Low Testosterone and How TRT Helps

There are two kinds of low testosterone. One is when the testicles just aren’t making enough. That can occur with age or due to some type of damage. TRT usually works well for that.


The other kind starts in the brain. The signals that tell your body to make testosterone aren’t working right. That’s a little trickier, but TRT can still help, as long as the root problem is either treated or no longer causing other issues.

Who Should Avoid TRT

TRT isn’t for everyone, and there are a few cases where it’s not a good idea.

First, if your testosterone levels are normal, even if you are feeling tired or low on energy, TRT probably isn’t the answer. Those symptoms could be coming from something else, and it’s important to figure out the real cause.

Also, men who have prostate or breast cancer, especially if it’s untreated, should stay away from TRT. Testosterone can make those conditions worse, so it’s just not worth the risk.

If you’re trying to have kids soon, TRT might not be right for you either. It can lower your sperm count and affect fertility, which a lot of people don’t realize.

And lastly, if you’ve got serious heart issues or something like high red blood cell counts, TRT could make those problems worse. Your doctor would need to take a close look before even thinking about it. 

Where Can I Get the Best TRT Therapy in California? 

If you are a resident of California, you can get the best TRT therapy in California at Optimal Clinic USA. We have expert TRT doctors helping patients with low testosterone for years. We offer different types of TRT Therapy at affordable prices in California. 

If you are serious and want to improve your testosterone levels, book your consultation with our TRT doctors in California now. 

How do I fix my low testosterone?

Testosterone replacement therapy is usually recommended to fix the low testosterone. However, TRT is now always the solution. Get more information about TRT by booking an online consultation with our TRT doctor in California. 

Can masturbation cause low testosterone?

No, masturbation does not lower testosterone levels. However, masturbation addiction is not considered a healthy activity. 

What is normal testosterone by age?

Normal testosterone levels can vary by age.
For men aged 40 to 49, levels typically range from 252 to 916 ng/dL.
Between ages 50 and 59, the range is about 215 to 878 ng/dL.
For those 60 to 69, it drops slightly to 196 to 859 ng/dL.
And by ages 70 to 79, normal levels usually fall between 156 and 819 ng/dL.

Which foods increase testosterone?

Foods like eggs, tuna, beef, spinach, ginger, and pomegranates may help boost testosterone levels naturally.