Testosterone and muscle growth.
Are you frustrated that your muscle mass and strength are reducing while your fat levels are increasing? Are you finding it difficult to build up your muscles and losing motivation? Your testosterone levels may be the key to the problem.
Testosterone and muscle mass
Testosterone is essential for the greater muscle mass and bone strength that men have. It also plays a role in how much, and where, fat is deposited on your body.
As men age, natural testosterone production declines. Low Testosterone levels can cause many unwelcome symptoms that can be detrimental to your overall health. These are not necessarily just signs of aging but can be attributable to hormone imbalance.
Signs of low testosterone
If your testosterone levels are low, you may be experiencing:
- Loss of muscle mass and strength
- An increase in body fat, particularly around the belly
- Low sex drive or poor sexual performance
- Fatigue
- Depression
Low testosterone can also affect your motivation to exercise and your ability to concentrate.
If you want to build your muscle mass and strength, or retain the muscle mass you have and your Testosterone levels are low – you have a real challenge on your hands. But it is possible through Testosterone therapy.
What is testosterone?
Testosterone is a hormone that plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of male physical characteristics.
It belongs to a class of hormones called androgens and is often referred to as the primary male sex hormone.
How is testosterone produced?
In men, testosterone is primarily produced in the testicles, specifically by specialized cells called Leydig cells. A small amount is also made by the adrenal glands.
The production of testosterone is controlled by a part of the brain called the hypothalamus, which signals the pituitary gland to release luteinizing hormone (LH). LH then stimulates the testicles to produce testosterone. It’s a tightly regulated feedback loop known as the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.
Why is testosterone important in men?
Testosterone is vital for a wide range of physical and mental functions, especially:
- Puberty and development: Testosterone promotes the development of male reproductive tissues (penis and testes), deepens the voice, and triggers facial/body hair growth.
- Muscle and bone health: Testosterone increases muscle mass and strength, and maintains bone density.
- Sex drive and erectile function: Testosterone boosts libido and supports erectile health.
- Mood and mental health: Testosterone helps regulate mood, energy levels, and mental clarity.
- Fat distribution and metabolism: Testosterone affects fat storage and helps maintain a healthy metabolic rate.
- Sperm production: Testosterone is essential for fertility and healthy sperm development.
Are your testosterone levels low?
Find out today if you have low testosterone levels and how testosterone therapy can help you. Simply call us or do the online assessment and one of our friendly consultants will contact you to discuss your treatment options.
- Call: 1300 983 126
- Email: health@thetestoclinic.com.au
- Complete our low testosterone assessment test »
More symptoms of low testosterone
Reduced sex drive.
Have you noticed a significant drop in your interest in sex? A reduced sex drive is one of the most common symptoms of low testosterone. You might feel less desire for intimacy or find it difficult to become aroused. This can be frustrating and may put strain on your relationship or self-esteem. Testosterone is the key hormone that fuels sexual desire in men — when levels are low, your body may simply not respond the way it used to.
Erectile dysfunction.
Struggling with weak or infrequent erections, or finding it harder to maintain them? Low testosterone can interfere with the natural processes that allow for strong and consistent erections. While other factors like stress, anxiety, or health conditions can contribute, testosterone is crucial for healthy sexual function. If you’re experiencing these changes alongside a loss of libido, low T may be the underlying cause — and help is available.
Increased fatigue.
Do you constantly feel drained or low on energy, even after a full night’s sleep? Men with low testosterone often report feeling unusually tired or sluggish, which can affect motivation, concentration, and overall mood. Tasks that were once simple may now feel like a chore, and the enjoyment you once had for hobbies or social activities can fade. This isn’t just about being “worn out” — it could be a hormonal imbalance.
Mood changes, iritability and depression.
Have you been feeling more irritable, anxious or down than usual? Testosterone doesn’t just affect the body — it also plays a role in emotional wellbeing. Low levels can contribute to mood swings, a sense of apathy, and in some cases, depression. If you’ve noticed a decline in your mental outlook or feel emotionally “flat,” low testosterone may be part of the picture. These mood changes can also affect relationships, work, and your overall quality of life.
Stubborn weight gain.
Is the weight around your belly becoming harder to shift, despite regular exercise or a healthy diet? Testosterone helps regulate how your body stores fat and builds muscle. When levels drop, metabolism slows down, making it easier to gain fat and harder to lose it — especially around the abdomen. Low T can also contribute to insulin resistance, which may make fat storage even more difficult to control.