T Nation

Help Regarding Blood Test Results

T Replacement
#1

Hey guys,

I am 17 years old, and a male, ofc.

I got my blood test results today.

I had my testosterone checked.

Total Testosterone: 11.2 nmol/L (scale is 7.6-27.7 nmol/L)
Testosterone Bioavailable (Free test. plus something else) 8.4 nmol/L (scale is 5.0 - 18.0)
Sex Hormone Binding Globulin: Mine said low: 11 nmol/L (scale is 13-71)

Is my testosterone level good for my age? Is it low, anyone know why my SHBG level is low. I am about 60 pounds overweight (215 pounds, healthy weight is 150-160 pounds). I dont have diabetes or high cholesterol, only high triglycerides. My genitals grew, same with pubic hair and body hair, and facial hair. Is my testosterone perhaps lower b/c of my weight? Any tips or advice

#2

Research shows that as BMI (body mass index) and waist size increase there is a decrease in both testosterone and SHBG. This would explain why it’s currently low, causing more free-T, causing more inhibition of the pituitary, causing low T. So weight loss would be part of your treatment. It would be wise to get your thyroid function tested as hypothyroidism may be the real underlying issue.

#3

Yes, could be an effect of your weight. And low T can promote fat, so a potential for a spiral to your current state.

We have to also be concerned with your general metabolism [rate].

Low total cholesterol can cause problems, we need the numbers.

Your low cholesterol is probably a symptom of something else that is the cause. So you have to be open minded to such things so you can try to find the root cause[s].

There is a lot to learn. Start by reading the advice for new guys sticky where you will find the basics, terminology and good links for further reading. Note the first paragraph in that sticky. Any issues in that sticky that might apply to you.

Post more data about you as per the above sticky.

Why did you seek lab work? Because of your weight or how you feel?

We see many guys here with thyroid issues. Often from iodine deficiency. To be healthy, you need to have a long term continuous consumption of iodized salt. Sea salt, Himalayan ‘sea’ salt and kosher salt do not contain any useful amounts of iodine. Check your waking and mid afternoon body temperatures as per the thyroid basics sticky.

Also see the things that damage your hormones sticky.

#4

Guys thank you so much for your replies.

I felt like I was not growing chest hair and facial hair took longer to grow. Otherwise, I dont really have ED, i have morning erections and some spontaneous erections, penis is about average (~ 6 in) so its not the size that concerns me. I feel weaker (hear my bones creaking).

My thyroid levels:

TSH: 3.65 nmol/L (0.30 - 5.50 nmol/L)
T4 Free: 15 pmol/L (11 - 22 pmol/L)

Cholesterol Levels:

Cholesterol

4.28 (2.00 - 4.40) mmol/L

LDL Cholesterol

2.46 (1.60 - 2.80) mmol/L

HDL Cholesterol L 0.88 (> 1.09) mmol/L

Triglycerides H 2.07 (< 1.21) mmol/L

Glucose Fasting: 4.5 (3.6 - 5.5) mmol/L

Testosterone levels listed above ^^

Please let me know what exercises I should do I am 5’10-5’11, 215-220 pounds, want to become 150-160 pounds.

I take Centrum Multivitamins for men.

Cant really afford anything on the internet.

#5

“”“TSH: 3.65 nmol/L (0.30 - 5.50 nmol/L) “”” is a disaster!

The ranges mislead doctors!

We see many guys here with thyroid issues. Often from iodine deficiency. To be healthy, you need to have a long term continuous consumption of iodized salt. Sea salt, Himalayan ‘sea’ salt and kosher salt do not contain any useful amounts of iodine. Check your waking and mid afternoon body temperatures as per the thyroid basics sticky.

Please deal with the above.

That vitamin does, I think, contain iodine. But if you were deficient, that vitamin will not restore iodine levels. If you are not iodine deficient, there may be a thyroid problem.

Thyroid affects all cells and systems in your body.

More labs:
TSH,
fT3
fT4
E2, if low, that is associated with joint issues

Are you getting any health fats or essential fatty acids:

  • nuts, flax seed oil/meal, fish oil
  • olive oil, avocados

Do you get much sun exposure?

#6

Thank you for your reply :slight_smile:

What is the normal TSH level for guys my age, if mine is low.

I eat 1 omega 3 capsule everyday, eat peanuts, walnuts, peanut butter, olive oil, stuff like that.

How do I know if iodine level is low,

Sincerely,

#7

TSH is not age related. TSH=1.0 is a good place to be.

If you have not had long term intake of iodine from iodized salt and/or vitamins that list iodine, you are probably deficient. Exception would be a diet rich in seaweeds and salt water fish.

Do not ignore this: Check your waking and mid afternoon body temperatures as per the thyroid basics sticky.