What is an optimal total testosterone level?
The short answer
Optimal total testosterone is above 500 ng/dL, as stated on video.
Most labs call total testosterone low only under 264. So your report can come back normal at 382 while you sit under the optimal floor.
These numbers are for men. Labs print 15–70 ng/dL for women.
“now we typically say for a male you should have a testosterone level over 500 but probably it should be more like six seven eight even 900”
“So I I shoot for the normal range of 500 to a thousand.”
What each range means
- under 264 ng/dL Most labs flag this as low
- 264–500 ng/dL Normal on most reports. Below optimal“So I I shoot for the normal range of 500 to a thousand.” Dr. Paul Turek · 1:26:33 →
- above 500 ng/dL Optimal
What total testosterone measures
All the testosterone in your blood, most of it bound to proteins.
It sets the ceiling on how much your body can use. Binding decides how much it reaches.
Checked against MedlinePlus — Testosterone Levels Test.
Why it matters, on the record
“if you don't have adequate levels of testosterone you will find your health diminished you'll have low energy low motivation low concentration low cognitive function low liido low sexual function and erectile dysfunction”
Common questions
What is an optimal total testosterone level?
Above 500 ng/dL, from a quote on video (Dr. Mark Hyman, 1:30).
What is a normal total testosterone level?
Most US labs print 264–916 ng/dL. Your report grades you against that range. It exists to catch disease, not to describe your best.
What does your total testosterone number mean?
On a typical lab range, under 264 ng/dL is low, 264 to 916 is normal and over 916 is high. Your own report prints its range next to your number, and that is the one your lab uses. The optimal range on this page comes with the quote behind it.
Is total testosterone of 382 normal?
A typical lab range calls it normal. On video, the optimal floor is 500 ng/dL (Dr. Mark Hyman, 1:30), so by that line it is low.
What does the total testosterone test measure?
All the testosterone in your blood, most of it bound to proteins. It sets the ceiling on how much your body can use. Binding decides how much it reaches.