Free testosterone refers to the amount of testosterone in the blood that is not bound to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) or albumin. It is the biologically active form of testosterone that is available to cells and tissues to promote masculinization and anabolic effects in the body. Some key points about free testosterone:
- Free testosterone makes up only 1-3% of total testosterone in men. However, it has much greater biological potency compared to bound testosterone.
- Levels of free testosterone depend on the normal testosterone production by the testes. When testosterone is released into the bloodstream, about 65% is bound to SHBG, 30-40% is bound to albumin, and 1-3% remains free or unbound.
- SHBG binds tightly to testosterone, making it unavailable to tissues. Only free testosterone and the albumin-bound fraction are considered bioavailable and able to enter cells and activate androgen receptors.
- Free testosterone promotes muscle growth and increases lean body mass. It binds to androgen receptors on muscle tissue and stimulates protein synthesis. Higher free testosterone is linked to greater muscle mass and strength.
- Free testosterone is important for bone density and bone strength. It promotes bone mineralization and the retention of calcium in the bones. Low free testosterone is associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis.
- Free testosterone supports male sexual health and fertility. It is responsible for libido, erectile function, and sperm production. Optimal free testosterone levels are essential for male sexual and reproductive health.
- Free testosterone plays a role in fat metabolism and body composition. It promotes lipolysis (fat breakdown) and the oxidation of fat. Low free testosterone can contribute to increased body fat and reduced muscle mass.
- Free testosterone levels naturally decline as men age, starting from around age 30. Lifestyle factors like obesity, lack of exercise, and poor diet can also reduce free testosterone over time.
If you're concerned about low or declining levels of free testosterone, there are steps you can take:
- Lose weight if overweight and increase lean body mass. Excess body fat causes more testosterone to be bound to SHBG, reducing free T. Building muscle through weight training can increase free testosterone.
- Reduce stress and improve sleep quality. Chronic stress and poor sleep decrease testosterone production. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Manage stress with relaxation techniques.
- Optimize vitamin D levels. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with lower testosterone. Get moderate sun exposure and consider supplementing with vitamin D3.
- Avoid excessive alcohol intake. Chronic heavy drinking can lower testosterone levels. Limit alcohol to 1-2 drinks per day maximum.
- Review medications with your doctor. Several prescription drugs can negatively impact testosterone levels. Changing medications may help increase free T.
At Hormone Harmony, we specialize in precision hormone optimization for men. Our advanced testing measures free and total testosterone, SHBG, estradiol, and other hormones using LC-MS/MS for accuracy. Our physicians create customized treatment plans to restore optimal testosterone and hormone balance for health, wellbeing and performance. We offer cutting-edge therapies including bioidentical testosterone therapy, potential alternative options like enclomiphene citrate, growth hormone peptides, and other evidence-based regimens to increase free and total testosterone. Hormone Harmony uses best-in-class compounding pharmacies to provide high quality treatment options tailored to your individual hormone needs. Contact us for a consultation today to discuss improving your free testosterone and hormone health.
