How Hormones Impact You

Hormones & Weight Loss

A Balanced Approach

To lose weight, it's essential to be in balance, healthy and able to activate six fat-burning hormones: thyroid, growth hormone, insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), testosterone, glucagon, and adrenaline. To activate these hormones, you must balance the three fat-building hormones—estrogen, insulin, and cortisol—that impact weight gain and body fat distribution.

Hypothyroidism

Frequently Overlooked

An underactive thyroid is a common condition characterized by insufficient production of thyroid hormone. Located in the front of the neck, the thyroid gland regulates various bodily functions. When it functions inadequately, individuals may experience mental fog, fatigue, and weight gain, significantly impacting their quality of life. Sadly, hypothyroidism is frequently overlooked or inadequately treated, leaving patients feeling hopeless. Many seek multiple healthcare providers before receiving a diagnosis. While levothyroxine (T4) is often prescribed to alleviate symptoms, it doesn't address the root cause. At our practice, we conduct thorough examinations to accurately diagnose hypothyroidism and address its effects while exploring deeper to identify underlying causes.

Signs & Symptoms of Low Thyroid

Hard stools or Constipation
Cold Intolerance
Fatigue or Feeling Exhausted
Irregular periods
Weight Gain
Stiff Muscles
Not Feeling Well
Insomnia
Dry skin
Thinning Hair/Brittle Nails
Decreased/Poor Libido
Anxiety/Depression

Testosterone

Equally Crucial

When discussing hormone imbalance, estrogen often takes the spotlight, yet testosterone is equally crucial. As one of the most abundant hormones in women, testosterone plays a vital role in female health. Testosterone decreases with age, similar to men. Testosterone levels can decline in women as early as their 20s, with a significant reduction in production typically occurring around age 35. Various factors such as birth control, obesity, genetics, and environmental influences can contribute to lower testosterone levels.

Signs & Symptoms Low Testosterone

Weight Gain
Mental Fog
Decreased Libido
Irregular Periods
Vaginal Dryness
Dry Skin
Weight gain
Low Energy Levels
Muscle Weakness
Insomnia
Elevated Blood Sugars
Increased Cholesterol

Perimenopause

Can Begin at Different Ages

While the reasons for seeking hormone replacement therapy varies, there's a common theme - the desire to restore or enhance the body. Perimenopause can begin at different ages. On average, perimenopause begins 8-10 years before menopause which is a normal part of the aging process. Some women begin in their 30s, however most often all women experience a decline in hormone production that typically starts around age 40 to early 50s. Menopause usually starts around 45 to 55 and is determined after 12 consecutive months without having a menstrual period and any spotting of blood.

When women experience declining hormone levels, especially estrogen, and imbalances in the estradiol to estrone ratio, it can lead to menopause-related hormonal fluctuations. These fluctuations are linked to health concerns like osteoporosis, breast cancer, and other significant issues.

Beyond cardiovascular protection, hormone replacement therapy targeting estrogen restoration may also safeguard against cognitive decline during aging and potentially reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Reduced estrogen production post-menopause is a primary factor contributing to the heightened Alzheimer's risk among women. If you're struggling with hormone imbalance, we offer various treatment options. Our therapy treatment aims to help women achieve their desired outcomes.

Symptoms of Menopause

Hot Flashes
Insomnia
Vaginal Dryness
Frequent Urinary Tract Infections
Decrease Libido
Heightened Anxiety
Thinning bones

Menopause

It's Not All In Your Head

Are you experiencing any of the above symptoms? Have you had lab tests come back normal, yet still find yourself going from one medical provider visit to another, only to be told that everything is normal and it's just a part of aging? You're not alone—and you're certainly not imagining things. You might be going through menopause.

Menopause is a natural phase in a woman's life, marking the cessation of her reproductive years. It occurs when the ovaries cease producing estrogen and progesterone, leading to the permanent end of menstrual cycles. A woman is considered to have reached menopause after going 12 consecutive months without a period. Estrogen receptors are located throughout a woman’s body and affects multiple organ systems like bone, central nervous system, cardiovascular, digestive, pituitary, and liver. Remember, suffering in silence is outdated; reaching out for help is in!

Adrenal Dysfunction

Prolonged Stress

Waking up feeling tired and irritable might not just be fatigue; it could indicate adrenal fatigue, a condition where prolonged stress wears out the body's stress system. The adrenal glands manage stress hormones like cortisol, adrenaline, epinephrine, and pregnenolone. Adrenal fatigue advances through four stages: alarm, resistance, exhaustion, and burnout. During the alarm stage, the body’s natural response to stress intensifies. Resistance comes next, prompting your body for a need to slow down. Exhaustion follows with a notable drop in cortisol, causing extreme tiredness and energy fluctuations. Eventually, burnout occurs, resulting in reduced adrenal function and various physical and psychological symptoms. Recovery requires a holistic approach to reduce stress and adhere to an appropriate adrenal fatigue protocol. If you're frequently experiencing these symptoms, simple blood and saliva tests can diagnose this condition.