testosterone deficiency<\/a> \u2013 says the service can be uniquely helpful.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Tests-2.jpg\")
Blood tests at home can now take substantial samples with painless pin-prick devices. Getty Images<\/p>\n
\u201cBlood testing provides a clear window into what\u2019s happening inside the body \u2013 often before symptoms appear,\u201d says Dr Jayanthinathan. <\/p>\n
\u201cRegular testing can help people to genuinely understand their health profile, identify risks earlier, track changes over time, and make more informed decisions about lifestyle or treatment.”<\/p>\n
The range of tests can be bewildering, but here are six helpful tests for men to consider.<\/p>\n
Testosterone
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Tests-3.jpg\")
A dip in a man\u2019s sex drive can be because of low testosterone. Getty Images
\nWhat is it?<\/p>\n
\u201cTestosterone is the primary male sex hormone and it plays a crucial role in physical strength, mood, cognition and sexual function,\u201d explains Dr Jayanthinathan. <\/p>\n
According to Dr Doug Savage of the Leger Clinic \u2013 a well\u2013respected UK testosterone clinic founded in 1987 \u2013 testosterone is vital for all areas of a man\u2019s wellbeing. \u201cTestosterone, like other hormones, maintains a wide range of functions,\u201d he says. <\/p>\n
\u201cIt influences your sex drive, contributes to muscle maintenance, helps regulate body fat, and supports mental focus and motivation. It’s also essential for strong bones and producing red blood cells.\u201d<\/p>\n
What symptoms should men look out for?<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen testosterone levels start to dip, it’s often the combination of changes to energy, mood, strength or libido that people notice first,\u201d says Dr Savage. <\/p>\n
\u201cLow testosterone can affect men in many ways, and the changes often develop gradually enough that they’re easy to overlook. <\/p>\n
“Symptoms affect men sexually, physically and psychologically, including reduced muscle mass or strength, low energy, increased body fat, low mood or irritability, sleep disturbances and low libido.\u201d<\/p>\n
It is important to note that low testosterone is often the byproduct of poor general health. \u201cLow testosterone is more common than many men realise, particularly with increasing age and in the presence of factors such as obesity, poor sleep or long\u2013term health conditions,\u201d says Dr Jayanthinathan. <\/p>\n
\u201cWhile many men with low testosterone may not experience any symptoms, men with very low testosterone and symptoms are known to face a significantly higher risk of adverse health outcomes \u2013 including twice the risk of premature death \u2013 if the condition is left untreated.\u201d<\/p>\n
How can I be tested for it?<\/p>\n
\u201cDiagnosis of low testosterone is based on both symptoms and blood tests,\u201d says Dr Jayanthinathan. \u201cThis typically involves two morning blood tests, taken at least two weeks apart, confirming consistently low testosterone levels. <\/p>\n
“Identifying the issue early allows for targeted lifestyle changes or clinically appropriate treatment such as testosterone replacement therapy to help restore energy, sexual function and overall wellbeing.\u201d<\/p>\n
The kind of testosterone test you choose \u2013 and the timing of it \u2013 really matters. \u201cTestosterone levels tend to rise overnight and peak in the early mornings,\u201d says Dr Savage. <\/p>\n
\u201cThe body’s natural rhythm largely guides this pattern. While you sleep, especially during REM, the brain prompts the testes to boost testosterone production, which is why levels are usually highest first thing in the morning. <\/p>\n
“When choosing a test it is important to choose one that includes at a minimum: free testosterone, total testosterone and SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin \u2013 a liver\u2013produced protein that binds tightly to sex hormones like testosterone, transporting them through the blood).\u201d This range helps you to get a fuller picture of your general hormonal health.<\/p>\n
Vitamin D
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Tests-4.jpg\")
Vitamin D\u2019s importance can be seen in how it acts more like a hormone. Getty Images
\nWhat is it?<\/p>\n
Vitamin D is known as the ‘sunshine vitamin’ because your body produces it when your skin is exposed to UVB rays from sunlight, which converts 7\u2013dehydrocholesterol into vitamin D.<\/p>\n
It helps to regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body, which are needed to keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy. \u201cVitamin D is needed for strong bones, muscles and energy levels,\u201d explains Dr Jayanthinathan.<\/p>\n
According to Dr Natasha Fernando, medical director at Medichecks \u2013 the UK\u2019s first direct\u2013to\u2013consumer blood-testing service \u2013 the effects of Vitamin D are wide\u2013ranging.<\/p>\n
\u201cVitamin D behaves more like a hormone and is essential for bone health, muscle function, immune response and even mood,\u201d she says. \u201cMany people in the UK, especially those spending much time indoors, have insufficient levels.\u201d<\/p>\n
What symptoms should men look out for?<\/p>\n
\u201cLow levels of Vitamin D can cause reduced strength and stamina and are most common in men who do not get enough sun exposure, have darker skin and poor diets,\u201d says Dr Jayanthinathan. <\/p>\n
\u201cThe risk increases in winter, and in older men. Men with low vitamin D may notice fatigue, muscle weakness, joint aches and low mood, although many people are unaware they are deficient without testing.\u201d<\/p>\n
How can I be tested for it?<\/p>\n
Dr Fernando says: \u201cThe most accurate way to assess vitamin D status is by measuring 25\u2013hydroxyvitamin D in the blood, which can help identify a deficiency that might be contributing to low energy and muscle aches.\u201d<\/p>\n
The good news, according to Dr Jayanthinathan, is that supplementation \u2013 alongside sensible sun exposure and dietary support \u2013 is an effective way to restore levels and support long\u2013term bone, muscle and metabolic health.<\/p>\n
Cholesterol
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Tests-5.jpg\")
Poor diet can cause high cholesterol, which is often symptom-free. Getty Images
\nWhat is it?<\/p>\n
Most of us have heard of cholesterol in a negative sense, but what exactly is it? \u201cCholesterol is the essential fat which is needed for cell membranes and hormone production,\u201d explains Dr Jayanthinathan. <\/p>\n
\u201cBut high levels of ‘bad’ LDL (low\u2013density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels can build up in arteries and restrict blood flow, significantly increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.<\/p>\n
“Many men develop raised cholesterol earlier in life than women \u2013 particularly in the presence of risk factors such as excess weight, smoking, poor diet or inactivity.\u201d<\/p>\n
What symptoms should men look out for?<\/p>\n
\u201cHigh cholesterol rarely causes symptoms, which is why regular blood testing is so important,\u201d insists Dr Jayanthinathan. That is why it is often dubbed a \u2018silent killer\u2019.<\/p>\n
But watch out for warning signs of advanced, untreated high cholesterol, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness or leg pain. <\/p>\n
\u201cHigh cholesterol itself doesn\u2019t cause symptoms, but persistently elevated levels are a major risk factor for heart and vascular diseases over time,\u201d says Dr Fernando.<\/p>\n
How can I be tested for it?<\/p>\n
\u201cA simple blood test that measures both cholesterol and LDL levels can identify if your levels are elevated and help to assess overall cardiovascular risk,\u201d says Dr Jayanthinathan.<\/p>\n
Dr Fernando says: \u201cA cholesterol test looks at total cholesterol, LDL, HDL (high\u2013density lipoprotein \u2013 the \u2018good\u2019 cholesterol which absorbs cholesterol in the blood) and triglycerides (types of fat in your blood that your body uses for energy) to assess cardiovascular risk rather than just a single number.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cTreatment for high cholesterol focuses on making lifestyle changes and improving diet,\u201d continues Dr Jayanthinathan. \u201cPeople are advised to do regular exercise, manage their weight and, if applicable, quit smoking. With the right management, men can greatly reduce their cardiovascular risk.\u201d<\/p>\n
Iron
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Tests-6.jpg\")
Fatigued? Low iron could be to blame. Getty Images
\nWhat is it?<\/p>\n
Iron deficiency in men is rare, but studies suggest endurance athletes, such as marathon runners and long\u2013distance cyclists, are particularly at risk. \u201cIron is essential for carrying oxygen in the blood, energy, physical performance and general wellbeing,\u201d says Dr Jayanthinathan.<\/p>\n
No wonder athletes are at higher risk, and may notice the effects more than others. \u201cIron is crucial for oxygen transport and energy production,\u201d says Dr Fernando. \u201cWhen iron is low, your red blood cells can\u2019t carry oxygen efficiently, leading to fatigue, weakness and reduced performance.\u201d<\/p>\n
What symptoms should men look out for?<\/p>\n
\u201cLow iron causes fatigue, reduced stamina, attention problems, dizziness and pale skin,\u201d says Dr Jayanthinathan. \u201cIron deficiencies are less common in men, but can occur due to poor diet or absorption issues. Men of all ages can be affected.\u201d<\/p>\n
How can I be tested for it?<\/p>\n
\u201cLow iron is diagnosed by blood tests assessing iron stores and oxygen\u2013carrying capacity,\u201d says Dr Jayanthinathan. Dr Fernando adds: \u201cWe often assess iron alongside ferritin (a protein that stores iron in the body) and full blood count markers to get both current levels and store estimates.\u201d<\/p>\n
Addressing the underlying cause of low iron is usually the best solution. \u201cTreatment normally involves dietary changes and iron supplementation, which can restore iron levels and improve day\u2013to\u2013day health,\u201d says Dr Jayanthinathan.<\/p>\n
Thyroid
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Tests-7.jpg\")
Thyroid problems can cause low mood and brain fog in men. Getty Images
\nWhat is it?<\/p>\n
Issues relating to the thyroid \u2013 a butterfly\u2013shaped gland located in the neck that controls metabolism and growth \u2013 are far more common among women than men. But men should be aware of symptoms.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe thyroid is a small gland with an outsized role in health,\u201d explains Dr Jayanthinathan. \u201cIt regulates metabolism and influences energy levels, weight, heart health and brain function. When it isn\u2019t working properly, the effects can be felt across the entire body.\u201d<\/p>\n
What symptoms should men look out for?<\/p>\n
\u201cAn underactive thyroid, or \u2018hypothyroidism\u2019, occurs when the gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone,\u201d explains Dr Jayanthinathan. <\/p>\n
\u201cAround one in fifty men will have this condition, with symptoms often including persistent fatigue, unexplained weight gain, low mood, brain fog, reduced libido and muscle weakness. It can be mistakenly attributed to stress or ageing. Hair thinning can also be a symptom.\u201d<\/p>\n
According to Dr Fernando, the thyroid gland also regulates heart rate, body temperature and weight. \u201cMany people with subtle thyroid imbalance feel unusually tired, gain weight or feel colder, yet may not recognise it as a thyroid issue,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n
How can I be tested for it?<\/p>\n
\u201cThyroid function is assessed through blood tests measuring thyroid\u2013stimulating hormone (TSH) and free T4 (thyroxine),\u201d explains Dr Jayanthinathan. Dr Fernando suggests a test that also includes FT3 (free triiodothyronine), alongside the other two markers, so you get a clear picture of your thyroid health.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe condition is highly treatable,\u201d insists Dr Jayanthinathan. \u201cThyroid hormone replacement therapy \u2013 most commonly via levothyroxine \u2013 alongside lifestyle changes can restore the hormone balance. This can lead to marked improvements in energy, metabolism, cardiovascular health, mental clarity and overall quality of life.\u201d<\/p>\n
Albumin
\nWhat is it?<\/p>\n
Not many men have heard of albumin, but it is an important marker of kidney and liver health. \u201cAlbumin is a protein made by the liver which regulates fluid balance, transports nutrients and supports overall health,\u201d says Dr Jayanthinathan. \u201cLow albumin levels affect energy, recovery after exercise and physical strength.\u201d<\/p>\n
Albumin is the main protein in blood plasma. \u201cIt maintains fluid balance and carries hormones, nutrients and medications around the body,\u201d says Dr Fernando.<\/p>\n
What symptoms should men look out for?<\/p>\n
“Albumin deficiency can be a symptom of other underlying health problems,\u201d explains Dr Jayanthinathan. \u201cThis could be liver or kidney disease, chronic inflammation or inadequate protein intake, and may present with fatigue, swollen legs, weakness or slower recovery from illness or exercise.\u201d<\/p>\n
How can I be tested for it?<\/p>\n
A test measures the level of albumin in your blood to evaluate your liver and kidney function.<\/p>\n
\u201cAlbumin isn\u2019t usually tested alone in our at\u2013home packs; it\u2019s included as part of broader panels that assess liver, kidney or overall metabolic health,\u201d explains Dr Fernando.<\/p>\n
\u201cTo treat low albumin levels, doctors focus on addressing the underlying cause and improving nutrient intake, especially protein,\u201d says Dr Jayanthinathan. \u201cWhen albumin levels are returned to normal, men will see improvements in energy, strength and recovery.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"At\u2013home blood tests are big business, with experts predicting the global market for mail\u2013order services could be worth…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":755204,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[10],"tags":[59,102,56,54,55],"class_list":["post-755203","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-health","tag-gb","tag-health","tag-uk","tag-united-kingdom","tag-unitedkingdom"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/755203","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=755203"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/755203\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/755204"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=755203"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=755203"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=755203"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}