Testosterone Total(TT)
Total testosterone is the headline male performance biomarker — but the number alone tells you less than you think. Free testosterone, SHBG, and estradiol together complete the picture.
Optimal range
900–1200ng/dL
Clinical "normal"
300–1000 ng/dL
Avg. cost (US)
$75
Test frequency
Every 3–6 months while optimizing; annually at maintenance
When to measure
Between 7–9 AM, fasted. Testosterone follows a strong circadian rhythm — afternoon draws can read 20–30% lower.
How to measure
Standard venous blood draw. Most labs measure total T via immunoassay; LC-MS/MS is more accurate and worth asking for if results are borderline.
Average cost
≈ $75 cash price. Often covered by insurance with relevant ICD-10.
Signs your level is off
Symptoms if low
Low libido, muscle loss, depression.
Symptoms if high
Acne, aggression, erythrocytosis.
If your level is low
Zinc >50 mg: nausea
Supplement
Zinc· 30-50 mg/day
Form: Zinc picolinate
Boosts LH and testicular function.
Foods
- Beef
- eggs
Lifestyle
- Heavy lifting
Medication (if prescribed)
Testosterone cypionate· 100-200 mg/week
Form: Injectable
Reference only. Speak with a licensed clinician before any prescription intervention.
Caution: Zinc >50 mg: nausea
If your level is high
DIM: headaches
Supplement
DIM· 200 mg/day
Form: Diindolylmethane
Reduces estrogen conversion from testosterone.
Foods
- Broccoli
Lifestyle
- Avoid plastics
Medication (if prescribed)
Anastrozole· 0.5 mg 2x/week
Form: Oral tablet
Reference only. Speak with a licensed clinician before any prescription intervention.
Caution: DIM: headaches
Test these together
These biomarkers contextualize Testosterone Total and unlock a clearer picture than any single value can.
Deeper reading
Protocols that move this marker
Selected studies
TRAVERSE 2024 NEJM; Zinc RCT PMC
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