Why Men Shouldn't Compare Their Testosterone Numbers
Mar 15, 2024 2:30 pm
Hi, !
March is right around the corner, and most of you are well into your 2024 New Year fitness routines, and with those may come a lot of "advice" and comparisons inside the gym and out regarding your individual medication and supplement regimen. While it may seem innocuous to compare your labs and your doses to the next guy, remember that so much more goes into a "number" at any given moment in time.
Why Men Shouldn't Compare Their Testosterone Doses and Levels
When it comes to testosterone therapy, it's tempting to look over your shoulder and see what the other guy is doing. But here's the thing: comparing testosterone doses between two men is like comparing apples to oranges. Here's why.
Genetic Variations
We all have unique DNA blueprints, and this extends to how our bodies interact with hormones. Specifically, variations in androgen receptor sensitivity can mean that two men with the same testosterone levels might experience vastly different effects. One person's "just right" dose could be another's "way too much" or "not nearly enough."
Timing is Everything
The effectiveness of testosterone therapy isn't just about how much you take, but when you take it. The timing of your dose in relation to your lab draw will affect the result. In addition, the amount injected (e.g. 200mg once a week vs 50mg four times a week) will have a significant impact on the result at that moment in time.
Lab Variations
Ever heard the phrase "lost in translation"? That can happen with lab results, too. A reading from one lab might not be directly comparable to a reading from another due to variations in testing methods and standards. The same blood sample measured on the same day read at two different labs (or two different machines in one lab) can vary wildly. Check out this article on lab variations for more explanation Variations in Lab Reports: Causes other than Laboratory Error.
There are other variables that affect your testosterone level at that very particular moment in time, mentioned above are only a few. Before you start eyeing your neighbor's prescription or adjusting your dose based on a friend's regimen, remember: your body is unique. What works for someone else might not work for you, and vice versa. Maybe that person’s dose or current average (testosterone, like other hormones, goes up and down over the course of the day and week) level has them with acne, increased blood pressure, and running to the blood donation center monthly (yikes!).
Always go with a healthcare provider who is competent enough to tailor your testosterone therapy to your individual needs, taking into account your genetic makeup, lifestyle, goals, and the specific nuances of your treatment plan. It's not about the numbers; it's about what's best for you.
For a more detailed explanation, check out my latest YouTube video where I detail the ins & outs of what goes into lab results and optimal dosing:
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