Hormones like testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, and DHEA play crucial regulatory roles in our bodies. When hormone levels dip too low or become imbalanced, wide-ranging symptoms can result. Low energy, changes in body composition, reduced sex drive, trouble sleeping, mood issues, and more may develop. Therefore, maintaining proper hormone balance is essential for optimal health, disease prevention, and an overall sense of well-being.
Hormone concentrations naturally decrease with age. But other factors also commonly impact hormone status like chronic stress, poor nutrition, toxins, obesity, inflammation, and some medications. In addition, certain health conditions are linked to reduced hormone production. Nonetheless, low hormone levels are highly treatable through professional care.
How can you know if your hormones warrant attention? Be aware of these common deficiency signs:
Drops in anabolic hormones impair cellular energy. You may tire more easily or struggle with motivation.
Catabolic muscle wasting frequently results from declining pituitary and gonadal hormones. Noticeable muscle loss often follows.
Blocked or slowed metabolism due to low thyroid, growth hormone, testosterone or estrogen can readily spur stubborn weight gain.
Testosterone, progesterone and estrogen all benefit cognition. Lapses in memory, focus and mental clarity frequently occur with deficiencies.
Hormonal imbalance is a major culprit behind sleep problems. Falling and staying asleep become difficult with deficiencies.
Low levels of hormones like serotonin, testosterone and estrogen drag mood down. Increased anxiety, irritability and sadness commonly develop.
Testosterone and estrogen drive sexual desire and performance in both men and women. Low counts of either hormone cause decreases here.
If you identify with two or more of these symptoms, professional hormone testing is advisable. Our clinic provides accurate testing, analysis of results, and science-based treatment plans when appropriate.
For hormone deficiencies proven through testing, various treatment options exist. The pros and cons of each differ based on one's health profile and goals. Our experts carefully evaluate testing outputs then recommend customized plans accordingly. Below is a general overview of today's common hormone therapy protocols.
These plant-derived hormones accurately match human hormones at the molecular level. As such, the body readily recognizes and utilizes bioidentical hormones. Delivery methods include creams, oral capsules, sublingual drops, pellets and injections. Careful dosing of these hormones restores balance gently and naturally.
Made from synthetic substances, these widely-available options lack molecular similarities to endogenous human hormones. However, they bind to hormone receptors to promote necessary activity. Oral tablets and transdermal patches/gels provide ease of use. But side effects are more common than with bioidentical preparations.
Here medications are custom blended in pharmacies to meet individual dosing needs. Multiple hormones can combine in tailored ratios, strengths and delivery vehicles. Compounding enables truly personalized therapy. It also allows for use of hormone types not commercially available.
Instead of providing external hormones, these stimulate natural hormone production. Injections like hCG, HMG and hGH prompt the body to release its own testosterone, estrogen and growth hormone. An indirect yet effective approach.
Hormone therapy can help transgender individuals align their physical characteristics with their gender identity. Many report improved quality of life, including reduced anxiety and depression. However, hormone therapy also carries health risks like blood clots and heart disease. Careful medical monitoring is key for maximizing benefits while minimizing harms.
Our functional medicine practice offers a full-spectrum of testing, consultative and treatment services related to hormone balance. We identify root causes of imbalances, not just symptoms. And we craft holistic, natural therapy plans to restore wellness, vitality and quality of life.
If your hormones need attention for any reason, contact our clinic to schedule a consultation. Our credentialed professionals make the process of testing and therapy simple, effective and personally tailored.
HRT serves as an invaluable tool for correcting deficiencies and imbalances. However, diet, exercise, stress relief and other lifestyle measures also support the hormonal environment. Here are quick tips for promoting natural hormone health every day:
Consume bone broth, oysters, eggs, cruciferous vegetables, berries, nuts/seeds, avocado and extra virgin olive oil. These provide the vitamins, minerals, protein, fats and antioxidants needed for hormone production.
Moderate cardio, strength training and HIIT workouts prompt the release of beneficial hormones and neurotransmitters. Just 30-45 minutes most days keeps hormones happily stimulated.
Stress hormones like cortisol strongly disrupt endocrine function. Make time for yoga, meditation, massage, saunas, nature immersion and similar activities. These dampen cortisol while boosting feel-good hormones.
Deep, restful sleep enables the pituitary gland to secrete key hormones that manage growth, reproduction, metabolism and immunity. Without it, hormone havoc eventually follows.
The town of Coram offers great amenities for supporting health during hormone therapy. Be sure to explore these spots and activities while in treatment:
LabCorp at 341 Route 112 - Easily complete bloodwork and testing before and throughout therapy here.
Core Fusion Pilates at 91 Patchogue-Yaphank Rd - Utilize pilates and yoga to reduce cortisol and energize.
The Shoppes at East Wind - Stroll this open-air shopping center to enjoy relaxing days.
Cathedral Pines County Park - Walk or hike this woodsy 600-acre park for peaceful contemplation.
Prohibition Kitchen at 240 Middle Country Rd - Savor nutritious, hormone-nourishing cuisine at this farm-to-table eatery.
Conclusion
We hope this overview gives helpful understanding of the pivotal role hormones play and what to do when they fall out of optimal range. Do not ignore lingering symptoms of hormone imbalance or deficiency. Seek testing and treatment early on for best restoration of health, vitality and daily function. Our clinic provides safe, natural protocols personalized to your needs. We consider it our privilege to help clients resolve hormone-related concerns and rediscover wellness. Please reach out with any questions.
