Hormones are chemical messengers that are produced in the body by endocrine glands. They act as signaling molecules that regulate physiology and convey information between different organ systems. Hormones impact growth and development, metabolism and blood sugar, reproduction, and immunity by modulating inflammation.
Hormones can be affected by how well they are transported, genetics, nutrient status (enzymes and cofactors), how well they are used, how fast they break down, and metabolism. We have hormones that impact digestion, appetite, sleep, and thyroid, but when most people think of hormones, they think of sex hormones.
Testosterone has many different receptor sites in the body, meaning it has many functions, notably, testosterone supports stronger bones and muscles, it improves energy and mood, and has cardioprotective effects. Testosterone declines after the age of forty. Like testosterone, estrogen protects bones, helps regulate cholesterol, supports cardiovascular health, and cognitive health. Estrogen is made in the ovaries, adrenal glands, and fat cells. Progesterone is a calming hormone that effects fertility. Progesterone has protective effects, it can reduce anxiety, improve sex drive, improve memory, and support a healthy metabolism.
It’s important that all of our hormones are in balance. High amounts of testosterone lead to masculinizing physical characteristics including irregular or absent menstrual periods, facial hair growth, acne, and male pattern balding. Low testosterone is associated with low libido, weight gain, loss of muscle, and decreased sense of well-being. High estrogen, called estrogen dominance, can cause many female reproductive concerns and feminizing physical characteristics. Progesterone when it’s low can lead to menstrual cycle irregularities, infertility, headaches, mood change, and sleep disturbance.
Often times, hormone metabolism can be negatively impacted from environmental endocrine disrupting chemicals, such as: insecticides, pesticides, and phthalates. These can cause many issues with natural production and regulation of hormones.
There are several methods and treatments for balancing hormones. Lifestyle factors play a big role. It’s important to be aware of environmental impact and how to reduce your exposure to endocrine disruptors and xenoestrogens. Good sleep and stress regulation have a large impact on hormone regulation. Good nutrition is also essential to assist in detoxification and hormone regulation. There are also many micronutrients that impact hormone metabolism and should be assessed, for example: magnesium, zinc, b vitamins, choline, and methionine. Bio-identical hormone replacement is a safe and effective treatment method to relieve symptoms and promote wellness when medically appropriate.
Another therapeutic option is the use of herbal medicine.
-Chaste Tree Berry (Vitex agnus-castus)- acts on the pituitary gland to increase luteinizing hormone which increases progesterone and is commonly used for many different female menstrual irregularities.
-Black Cohosh (Actea racemosa)- acts on the pituitary gland to decrease luteinizing hormone which decreases progesterone and increases estrogen (treats depression, hot flashes, and mood changes)
-Wild Yam (Dioscorea villosa)- active compound diosgenin is used as the starting material for pregnenolone, progesterone, and corticosterone in bio-identical hormone therapy.
-Maca (Lepidium meyenii)- aphrodisiac, hormone balancing, antidepressant, treats hot flashes, and mood change.
Hormones can be complicated and affect us in so many ways. Understanding your body and how to optimize your hormones starts with a medical intake and lab work. If you are curious about how your hormones are impacting your health, and would like to get started, schedule an appointment with Amber Walz, ND.