When it comes to feeling your best, testosterone plays a major role in energy, mood, and overall health. But did you know that several factors can lower your testosterone levels? Some of these may even be things we deal with in everyday life, like stress, poor nutrition, or lack of sleep.
Today, I want to explain how these factors can impact your testosterone levels and how SHBG (Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin) fits into the picture.
What Does Low Testosterone Feel Like?
Low testosterone can cause a wide range of different symptoms. Most people experience a combination of these common symptoms:
- Weight Gain, trouble burning fat
- Loss of strength or muscle mass
- Brain fog, concentration issues
- Moods like anxiety or depression
- Trouble sleeping
You can read more about how testosterone can affect muscle growth here, or read more about how testosterone plays a role in weight here.
What Lowers Testosterone?
While some people naturally have lower levels of testosterone and feel “normal”, some men develop levels of testosterone that are lower enough to create unwanted symptoms. So what causes low testosterone? Is it environment? Can it be avoided?
What Is SHBG, and Why Does It Matter?
Beyond just producing testosterone, your body needs to transport and use it properly. That’s where SHBG comes in. SHBG is a protein made in the liver that binds to testosterone, making it “locked up” and generally unavailable for use. About two-thirds of your testosterone is bound to SHBG, while another third is bound to a protein called albumin, which makes it bioavailable (usable). Only 1-2% of testosterone is free and readily available to your cells.
If you’re wondering why SHBG is important, here’s the key: If your SHBG levels are too high or too low, it can affect how much testosterone your body can use. Factors like liver health, chronic inflammation, or even certain conditions like fatty liver disease can lower SHBG. Interestingly, as people age, SHBG levels naturally increase by about 2% per year, while free testosterone declines.
How to Keep Testosterone and SHBG Balanced
There are a few key things you can do to support healthy testosterone and SHBG levels:
It’s important to get bloodwork to see if there are any underlying issues like chronic inflammation, liver dysfunction, or iron overload that might be affecting your SHBG or testosterone levels.
This starts with eating a healthy diet and supporting good gut function. A healthy gut helps your body clear out excess estrogen, which otherwise could interfere with testosterone. You can also consider adding a supplement like DIM (Diindolylmethane), a compound found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts. DIM helps the body metabolize and clear estrogen, which can help maintain better hormone balance.
The Bottom Line for Balancing Testosterone
When it comes to testosterone, it’s not just about how much your body makes—it’s about how your body transports and uses it. Factors like stress, nutrition, sleep, and estrogen exposure can all play a role in lowering testosterone levels. By focusing on a healthy lifestyle and getting the right nutrients, you can support balanced testosterone and SHBG levels.
If you have any questions about your hormone health, we’re here to help at Blue Sky MD. We’ve been at the forefront of hormone therapy for men and testosterone replacement therapy in North Carolina since 2008, and have helped thousands of men regain their health, motivation, and confidence. Feel free to schedule a consultation to learn more about how we can support your wellness journey towards better hormone health.
North Carolina’s #1 TRT CLINIC
Since 2008, we’ve been at the forefront of TRT in North Carolina. Learn more about our life-changing testosterone therapy program for men.
Dr. David LaMond, MD
Founder, Medical Director, Blue Sky MD
Dr. LaMond is a nutrition and prevention expert; who is a successful medical entrepreneur. Dave developed and operates numerous successful medical practices, along with a consulting company which helps physicians and medical practitioners operate successful independent practices. Drawing from his foundation and board certification in Family Medicine, he developed the innovative medical principles behind the Blue Sky MD concept of total patient care. Blue Sky MD has appeared on the INC 5000 list three times; as one of the 5000 fastest growing privately held companies in the US.
Dave has been a featured speaker for numerous medical conferences and has been a business and health consultant and has made several appearances on health television broadcasts. His written work has been featured in medical journals and other print media; with a focus on sports medicine, nutrition, wellness and non-invasive cosmetic procedures.
Additionally, Dr. LaMond has been a luminary, speaker and consultant for Crescent Health Solutions, Eleme Medical, Osyris, Suneva Medical and Candela Corporations, served as a clinical professor for Wake Forest University and is an expert in non-invasive and minimally invasive body contouring and cosmetic laser surgery.
Dr LaMond is passionate about the outdoors and has a love for mountain biking. He works as a nutritional coach and physician for professional cyclists, and enjoys training and riding along-side them. Dave has competed in high level mountain bike events regionally and nationally in masters level competition and has been on the podium at USA cycling National Championships.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
SHGB stands for sex hormone binding globulin. It is a protein found in the human body that binds itself to testosterone and plays a role in hormone regulation
SHGB can be maintained through an healthy diet, exercise, losing weight, vitamin D and a generally healthy lifestyle.
Optimal testosterone levels are different for every man—some with low testosterone experience no symptoms. The normal range for adult males is usually somewhere between 300 and 1000 nanograms per deciliter, but naturally as we age.
