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What if your testosterone levels are too low?
Do you feel fatigued, less strong, or simply not quite yourself? It may be that your testosterone levels are on the low side. And no, that does not automatically mean that something is “wrong.” Testosterone deficiency is more common than you might think, especially in men over 40, although younger people can experience it too. Fortunately, there is a lot that can be done. In this blog, we answer the most frequently asked questions, from symptoms to solutions, from supplements to medical treatment, so you know what to look out for and what options are available to you.
Table of contents low testosterone
How do you notice a testosterone deficiency?
A testosterone deficiency is usually noticed through a combination of symptoms rather than a single sign. Many people feel persistently tired, irritable or low in mood without a clear reason. You may also notice a loss of muscle mass while body fat increases. Other common signs include reduced interest in sex, erectile difficulties and less energy to engage in daily activities.
What many people do not realise is that a deficiency can also cause mental symptoms, such as reduced concentration or becoming overstimulated more easily. The difficulty is that these complaints can also be linked to other factors, stress, poor sleep or ageing. This is why testosterone deficiency is often overlooked. If in doubt, it is wise to have your hormone levels checked. This can be done easily with a blood test. Especially for men over 40, this is certainly not unnecessary.
How do you increase your testosterone levels?
Your body produces testosterone naturally, so the first step is to create the right conditions. Eating a healthy diet, getting good-quality sleep and exercising regularly are essential. Strength training in particular, such as weightlifting or resistance exercises, stimulates your body to produce more testosterone. Adequate sunlight exposure or sufficient vitamin D levels can also help support this process.
In addition, regular periods of rest are important. Chronic stress and an overly busy lifestyle cause cortisol levels to rise, which suppresses testosterone production. Try to build moments of relaxation into your day. Reducing alcohol intake and addressing excess weight can also make a difference, as abdominal fat converts testosterone into oestrogen.
In short: you can help your body a lot with the right lifestyle. Sometimes that is enough, but not always. In those cases, hormonal support can be a solution, under the guidance of a doctor.
How do I increase my testosterone levels?
If lifestyle changes are not sufficient, testosterone levels can also be supported through supplementation or medical treatment. There are different options available, ranging from testosterone gels and injections to tablets. Which form is most suitable for you depends on your individual situation and your blood test results.
Treatment usually starts with a blood test to determine exactly how low your testosterone levels are. You then discuss with a physician which form of supplementation is safe and effective for you. This is always done under medical supervision, as hormonal balance requires careful management. At IKARIA Clinics, for example, we also look at your lifestyle, dietary habits and other hormones to understand the complete picture.
Sometimes supplementation is needed temporarily, sometimes on a longer-term basis. What matters most is taking your symptoms seriously, because with the right approach you can start to feel more energetic, stronger and more like yourself again.
What symptoms are associated with low testosterone?
A testosterone deficiency can present itself in many different ways. The most well-known complaint is often a reduced interest in sex or difficulty achieving erections. But it goes beyond that. Many people also notice that they feel tired more quickly, have less muscle strength, or gain weight, particularly around the abdomen. Sleep problems or poor recovery after physical exertion can also be related.
Less well known are the mental and emotional symptoms. These may include low mood, irritability or difficulty concentrating. Some people also feel less motivated or experience reduced self-confidence. In men, decreased beard growth or reduced body hair can also be a sign.
Because these symptoms often develop gradually, they are not always immediately linked to testosterone. However, if you recognise several of these signals, it is worth looking into them further.
Which vitamin is best for increasing testosterone?
The most important vitamin for your testosterone levels is vitamin D. It is produced in the skin under the influence of sunlight, but many people unknowingly have a deficiency, especially during autumn and winter. Vitamin D plays a key role in testosterone production and also supports the immune system, muscle function and overall energy balance.
Zinc and magnesium are also important. Zinc contributes to a healthy hormonal balance and is found mainly in red meat, fish and nuts. Magnesium helps muscles relax and is essential for hundreds of processes in the body, including hormone production.
If you eat a balanced, healthy diet, you will obtain many of these nutrients naturally. However, in cases of deficiency or increased demand, for example due to stress or intensive exercise, supplementation can be helpful. It is advisable to have your blood levels checked first, so supplementation can be tailored to your actual needs.
Can you take testosterone pills?
Yes, testosterone tablets do exist, but in the Netherlands they are rarely prescribed as a first-choice treatment. The reason is that when testosterone is taken orally, it first passes through the liver, which can place extra strain on the body. For this reason, doctors usually opt for other forms, such as injections or a gel applied to the skin.
The method of administration affects how stable your testosterone levels remain. Injections often cause a peak followed by a decline, while gels or patches can provide a more steady release. Which option works best varies from person to person.
Importantly, never take testosterone pills purchased online without medical supervision. These products are often unreliable, may be contaminated and carry serious health risks. Proper treatment always begins with an accurate diagnosis and guidance from a qualified physician.
Is testosterone available without a prescription?
Officially, testosterone in the Netherlands is only available on prescription. This means that blood tests are required first, followed by a consultation with a physician. Only when there is a confirmed deficiency and a clear medical indication can a doctor prescribe testosterone. This system is designed to prevent people from experimenting with hormones on their own, as this can carry significant health risks.
Despite this, there are online providers that sell testosterone products without a prescription. These products often come from abroad and their quality is unclear. They may be impure, contain incorrect dosages or be contaminated with other substances. Using such products is not without risk.
In short, if you think you may have a deficiency, have your blood levels tested first. This way, you know where you stand and avoid putting your health at unnecessary risk.
Can a GP prescribe testosterone?
Yes, a GP can prescribe testosterone, but only after blood tests have been carried out and a clear deficiency has been confirmed. A GP will usually request a morning blood test first, as testosterone levels are highest in the morning. If the results show genuinely low levels and you have symptoms that are consistent with this, a follow-up pathway can be initiated.
In practice, GPs often refer patients to a specialist, such as an endocrinologist or a clinic specialising in hormonal health. This is because testosterone treatment is highly individualised. It is not simply about “adding something,” but about restoring balance across the entire hormonal system.
At IKARIA Clinics, for example, we always take a broader view, looking at lifestyle, nutrition, stress levels and other hormones. This means you do not receive a standard solution, but a treatment plan that truly fits you.
What are the disadvantages of testosterone tablets?
Testosterone tablets are not commonly used, precisely because of their drawbacks. Because they have to pass through the stomach and liver, long-term use can place strain on the liver. In addition, prolonged use of external hormones can cause the body to reduce or stop its own testosterone production. This means you may become dependent on supplementation.
In addition, some people may experience side effects such as acne, hair loss, increased aggression or mood swings. With incorrect use or excessive dosing, cholesterol levels and blood pressure can also be affected. This is why it is important to remain under medical supervision.
Another risk is the use of non-approved pills purchased online. These products are often unreliable and may contain no testosterone at all, or conversely far too much. Always choose treatment through a physician or a recognised clinic, so you can be confident that it is safe and properly monitored.
To conclude, listen to your body
A testosterone deficiency is nothing to be ashamed of, it affects many people, and there are safe and effective ways to address it. The first step is to take your symptoms seriously. Whether you are dealing with fatigue, reduced interest in sex, low mood or loss of muscle mass, all of these can be linked to hormonal balance.
At IKARIA Clinics, we always look at the complete picture: hormones, lifestyle, nutrition and mental health. Would you like to know where your testosterone levels stand? Have your blood values checked and discuss the results with a professional. That way, you can be sure whether something is going on and what you can do to feel energetic, strong and like yourself again.
