If you research health and wellness today, chances are you will read about hormones. Hormones play a major role in body functions and affect our health in many ways. Today, hormone replacement therapy is on the rise because it’s a common way to restore balance in the body. There are five major hormones in the body that work in conjunction to promote optimal health and wellness. Here’s what you need to know about them.
Estrogen
As a hormone produced by the female ovaries and male testes organ, estrogen is essential to both women and men. It’s vital for reproductive health since it regulates a woman’s menstraul cycle and overall reproduction. While estrogen is essential, too much of this hormone can also create problems in women like fibroids or endometriosis. Without treatment, this issues can lead to breast or ovarian cancers.
If you have an imbalance of this hormone, you may experience uncomfortable symptoms like mood swings, insomnia, hot flashes, or metabolic issues. Men can also experience symptoms like erectile dysfunction, low sex drive, or even infertility.
Testosterone
Testosterone, like estrogen, is present in both males and females. While it’s mostly present in the male testicles and prostate, women also need a small amount for reproduction and sex drive. This hormone helps with muscle and bone mass and red blood cell production.
Low levels can lead to decreased sex drive, bone and muscle loss, and erectile dysfunction in men. However, some people can also experience an abundance of this hormone, which can lead to enlarged breasts, acne, and increased risk of prostate cancer. High levels may also raise your cholesterol and increase your risk of cardiovascular issues.
Insulin
If you’ve ever wondered why you feel a certain way after eating meals, this hormone is part of the reason. Certain foods can give you energy or make you feel tired. The pancreas produces insulin and helps regulate blood sugar levels. When you eat, insulin helps convert the food into sugar and use it for energy. If there is too much or too little, it can lead to several health issues.
An imbalance in women may lead to irregular menstrual cycles or skin issues. Men may struggle with lower testosterone levels, leading to low muscle mass, libido, and more. Additionally, men and women who have an insulin imbalance may experience heart disease, obesity, or Type 2 Diabetes. Blood tests can often reveal if you are at risk for developing Diabetes.
Thyroid
Chances are you’ve heard about an underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism) thyroid. Either of these issues can cause you to experience a variety of symptoms. The thyroid gland produces hormones that help regulate your energy, metabolic function, and even your body temperature. These hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), play a major role in metabolism and growth and development.
As they consistently release hormones into your bloodstream, they help regulate overall health. However, men and women can experience a thyroid imbalance. When this happens, you may experience hair loss, lack of mental focus, weight gain, or infertility issues.
Cortisol
If you exercise or read about stress, you have probably learned about cortisol. Although this is an essential hormone that regulates the body’s stress response, too much of this hormone can create many health issues. Produced by the adrenal glands, cortisol regulated functions such as blood pressure, metabolic function, and immunity.
Men and women can struggle with cortisol imbalance. In men, this can result in low libido, bone density issues, and weakened muscles. Women may struggle with weight gain, infertility, and problems in their menstrual cycles. While cortisol is an essential hormone, too much of this hormone can affect health and wellness.
Contact Us Today
If you struggle with hormonal imbalance, you are not alone. Contact Hale Wellness Clinic today for a consultation. We will create a personalized plan to help you recover so you can get your life back.
