Bioidentical Hormone Therapy
The Basics
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What is bioidentical hormone therapy?
Natural hormone production peaks around age 25; as we age, it slows or stops altogether; this is what causes the aging of our skin, the slowing of our brain, and the depletion of our energy. Bio-identical hormone therapy uses hormones that are identical to your body’s natural hormones at the molecular level; these hormones replenish your body’s natural store and restore optimal levels, thus helping you to maintain your youth.
Hormone therapy can give you more energy, improve your overall mood, restore your mental quickness, and give you the drive for your activities. It’s not just about extending your life; it’s about maintaining the quality of your life as you age.
Both men and women can benefit from hormone therapy, but it’s especially necessary and effective for women over the age of 50.
How do I know if I need hormone therapy?
Knowing the common symptoms that arise from a hormone issue is crucial. Many people live their lives with such symptoms and are unaware that there are solutions. Common symptoms include: Low energy, trouble sleeping, weight gain, muscle loss, low libido, depression, anxiety, and much more. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, we recommend you contact us or get in touch with your healthcare provider. After a possible deficiency has been identified, it's important to see a practitioner who's skills match your specific needs. If you'd like a provider referral click one of the two links below.
Here's a list of some of the most commonly supplemented hormones.
Testosterone—Yes, it’s important for women too! Although testosterone is typically thought of as a male hormone, it’s present and very important in women. In fact, it’s the second most important hormone for overall energy and well-being, not just libido and sex drive. More testosterone can mean increased exercise tolerance and muscle endurance.
Testosterone also contributes to psychological health and improved skin tone in women. In fact, testosterone is the best hormone to increase collagen and elastin. For women, the proper balance of estrogen and testosterone is essential in maintaining youthful skin.
DHEA (DeHydroEpiAndrosterone)—This is a precursor to other sex hormones; it aids in the creation of both estrogen and testosterone. Replenishing your stores of DHEA can help stave off fatigue, clear your skin, and improve mental function and memory. It may also help with depression and some psychological conditions.
Thyroid—Thyroid hormones are instrumental in the regulation of the body’s metabolism, which is the system that controls energy. Thus, thyroid hormone deficiencies can have a huge impact on your energy level and mood. Thyroid hormone is more responsible for improvement in energy and reducing fatigue than any other hormone. This hormone can also improve cerebral metabolism and prevent cognitive and memory impairment. The loss of thyroid hormone can lead to dry skin, fatigue, anxiety, problems sleeping, and a host of other problems that decrease your overall health.
Estrogens- For years doctors have prescribed estrogens to help women suffering from the symptoms of menopause, including but not limited to hot flashes, vaginal dryness, insomnia, anxiety, and problems with concentration. Women taking bio-identical estrogens saw major improvements in their symptoms, but as a bonus they found that they felt better, looked better, and were living happier and healthier lives. Research has shown that bio-identical estrogens helped decrease a patients risk of heart disease, osteoporosis, colon cancer, Alzheimer’s disease and urinary tract atrophy. Don’t confuse bio-identical hormones with synthetic. Ask us today about the difference and why it matters.
Progesterone- Estrogen and progesterone need to be balanced. This wasn’t figured out until the 1970’s when doctors found that patients on just estrogen replacement had higher incidences of uterine bleeding. Doctors realized progesterone worked not only to help decrease uterine bleeding, but promoted feelings of vitality and health. Progesterone can help decrease depression, improve sleep when taken orally at night, and act as a natural pain killer. It can work to decrease symptoms of PMS like moodiness, irritability, bloating, menstrual cramps and headaches. Progesterone should never be left out of your hormone regimen.
Melatonin—This hormone is essential for proper sleep patterns. Sleep is great for the regulation of all health systems in the body, and increased melatonin can reduce migraine headaches and slow Alzheimer’s and dementia. Improved sleep patterns can improve energy and mood, while sleep loss can mean anxiety, irritability, and premature aging.