Testosterone
Low testosterone in young men: signs, causes and natural support
Low testosterone is often seen as an older man’s issue, but more young men are asking about it. Here is what causes low testosterone in young men, and what you can do about it.
In short: Young men can have low testosterone due to excess weight, poor sleep, chronic stress, heavy drinking, past anabolic steroid use, opioid use, certain medical conditions or, less commonly, problems with the testes or pituitary gland. Signs include low drive, tiredness, weaker erections and low mood. Many lifestyle causes are reversible.
Signs of low testosterone
- Low sex drive
- Weaker or fewer erections, including morning erections
- Tiredness and low motivation
- Low mood or irritability
- Loss of muscle and increased body fat
- Poor concentration
- Reduced body hair
These signs can also have other causes, so testing is the only way to confirm low testosterone.
Common causes in young men
Excess weight
Fat tissue converts testosterone to oestrogen. See high estrogen in men and weight loss and erectile dysfunction.
Poor sleep
A week of five-hour nights can lower testosterone noticeably. See lack of sleep and erectile dysfunction.
Anabolic steroids
Using steroids shuts down your own testosterone production, which can remain low for months after stopping. See steroids and erectile dysfunction.
Alcohol and drugs
Heavy drinking, opioids and heavy cannabis use can lower testosterone. See dagga and erectile dysfunction.
Chronic stress and over-training
High cortisol and extreme training without rest can suppress hormones.
Medical causes
Conditions such as Klinefelter syndrome, testicular injury, mumps orchitis, pituitary problems and type 2 diabetes can cause low testosterone.
Getting tested
An appropriately registered medical professional can arrange a morning blood test, usually repeated to confirm. We do not test or prescribe hormones, but we can refer you and support you naturally.
Natural ways to support testosterone
- Sleep seven to nine hours.
- Strength train two to three times a week.
- Lose excess belly fat.
- Limit alcohol and avoid steroids and recreational drugs.
- Manage stress and include rest days.
- Eat enough protein, zinc, magnesium and vitamin D. See zinc benefits for men sexually and magnesium benefits for men.
Read also how to increase testosterone naturally and erectile dysfunction in young men.
How we can help
Our naturopaths can review your lifestyle and symptoms, build a natural plan, and refer you for blood tests when needed.
Why men choose our natural approach
Walk in or consult remotely
Walk in at Buccleuch, Sandton, with parking available, or consult by phone or video from anywhere in South Africa.
Natural and non-surgical
Herbal remedies and practical guidance, with no injections or surgery.
Faster appointments
Enquiries answered 24/7, with same-day appointments often available.
Transparent pricing
Consultations are R2,500, with any remedy costs confirmed before you commit.
Private self-check: 5 quick questions
Answer these honestly before you try anything new or book. They help you describe what is happening and get more from your first consultation.
- Has your interest in sex dropped noticeably over the past year?
- Do you feel tired most days, even after a full night in bed?
- Has your weight around the middle increased?
- Have stress, low mood or poor sleep become more common?
- Have you noticed weaker erections or fewer morning erections?
Two or more yes answers suggest that energy, sleep, stress or weight may be affecting your drive. These are areas where natural, practical support often makes a real difference, and a naturopath can help you work out where to start.
What happens at your first consultation
- Walk in or book online, call +27 10 205 9855 or WhatsApp +27 81 823 1313. In Gauteng, walk in at 199 Vanessa Street, Buccleuch, Sandton, where parking is available. Outside Gauteng, choose a confidential phone or video consultation. Enquiries are answered 24/7.
- Talk privately with a naturopath about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle and goals.
- Receive a personalised natural plan, with any remedy costs confirmed upfront.
- Follow up in person or remotely so your progress is reviewed and your plan adjusted.
Your health and safety
Our naturopaths use natural remedies and lifestyle support, and always check your health history and current medicines first. If anything needs medical attention we tell you honestly and refer you to an appropriately registered medical professional. Avoid unregistered “enhancement” products sold online or at markets, as SAHPRA has warned that some contain hidden ingredients.
Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, an erection lasting more than four hours, sudden weakness or other sudden symptoms.
Consultation price
A consultation is R2,500, in person or remote, and your naturopath confirms any further costs before you go ahead. See our men’s clinic prices for details.
Frequently asked questions
Can a man in his 20s have low testosterone?
Yes. Weight, sleep, stress, alcohol, steroid use and some medical conditions can cause low testosterone in young men.
What are the signs of low testosterone in young men?
Low drive, weaker erections, tiredness, low mood and loss of muscle are common signs.
Can low testosterone in young men be reversed?
Often, yes, when it is caused by lifestyle factors such as weight, sleep, alcohol or stress.
Do steroids cause low testosterone?
Yes. Anabolic steroids shut down natural testosterone production, which can stay low for months after stopping.
How much does a consultation cost?
A consultation is R2,500, and any remedy costs are confirmed with you before you go ahead.
Book your consultation today
Get personalised, natural support from a naturopath. Walk in at our Sandton practice, or book a remote consultation if you live outside Gauteng.
References and further reading
- Mayo Clinic: Male hypogonadism
- Mayo Clinic: How many hours of sleep are enough?
- NIDA: Anabolic steroids
Reviewed by George Mulaudzi, Naturopath. This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. If you have chest pain, sudden symptoms or a medical emergency, seek urgent medical care.
