Hormones play a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes in the body, including metabolism, mood, reproduction and energy levels. When hormones become imbalanced it can lead to a wide range of symptoms and health issues, from fatigue and weight gain to mood swings and reproductive disorders.
MediThrive Personalized Wellness uses functional medicine to address the root causes of this issue, leading to a restoration of hormonal balance and overall health and wellness.
Factors That Contribute to Hormonal Imbalances
Hormonal imbalance occurs when there is disruption or dysregulation in the production, release or metabolism of hormones. Several factors can contribute to hormonal imbalance.
- Diet and Nutrition – Poor dietary choices, nutrient deficiencies, even excess consumption of processed foods can disrupt hormone production and signaling pathways.
- Chronic Stress – Prolonged stress triggers the release of cortisol and adrenaline, disrupting the balance of other hormones such as insulin, thyroid hormones and sex hormones.
- Sleep Disruptions – Inadequate or poor sleep quality can interfere with the body’s natural hormone production and regulation – particularly cortisol and growth hormone.
- Toxin Exposure – Exposure to environmental toxins, endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and synthetic hormones found in plastics, pesticides and personal care products can disrupt hormonal balance.
- Gut Health – Imbalances in the gut microbiome and digestive issues can affect hormone metabolism and absorption, also leading to hormonal disturbances.
- Lifestyle Factors – Sedentary lifestyle, smoking, excess alcohol consumption and certain medications can impact hormone levels and function.
Symptoms That Often Accompany Hormone Imbalance
Hormonal imbalances can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms that can absolutely affect your quality of life.
Menstrual Irregularities
Menstrual irregularities are a common hormonal complaint that should not be ignored. The menstrual cycle is primarily regulated by a delicate balance of hormones including estrogen (estradiol) and progesterone. An imbalance of these hormones can cause irregular periods, heavy bleeding, clots or painful cramps.
Mood Changes
Many people experience mood changes during their menstrual cycle such as irritability, depression or anxiety. These changes can also be related to changes in estrogen (estradiol) and progesterone levels. Other hormonal imbalances like low thyroid hormone levels, low vitamin D, neurotransmitter imbalances, high histamine or adrenal insufficiency can also cause mood changes. In some cases, mood changes may be related to premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Weight Gain
Weight gain is a common hormonal complaint, particularly during menopause. As we age hormone levels begin to fluctuate, resulting in decreased estrogen levels. This decrease in estrogen can lead to weight gain, particularly in the abdominal area. In addition, low thyroid and increased cortisol, glucose and insulin can contribute to unwanted weight gain.
Fatigue
Fatigue is probably the most common symptom of many imbalances, including low thyroid levels, adrenal insufficiency, low testosterone levels and low nutrients (such as iron, B vitamins or vitamin D). Such imbalances can affect energy levels and make it difficult to complete daily activities.
Hair Loss or Thinning
Hair loss or hair thinning is a common complaint that can cause a lot of stress. Hormonal imbalances (such as those caused by thyroid disorders, high cortisol/stress levels or menopause) can indeed lead to hair loss. Androgenic alopecia, a condition that causes hair loss, is also related to issues with testosterone and DHT (dihydrotestosterone).
Achieve Hormone Balance With Hormone Replacement Therapy
Achieving hormone balance is essential for overall health and well-being, as hormone levels affect numerous physiological functions in the body. Functional medicine takes a comprehensive and personalized approach to hormone balance, focusing on addressing the underlying root causes of imbalance rather than just suppressing symptoms. By taking a proactive approach to hormone balance, you can optimize your health, vitality and quality of life.
Trusted Lake Norman Hormone Replacement Therapy Service Providers
If you’re ready to take control of your health, let our team at MediThrive help you identify the root causes of your hormonal imbalance. Call (980) 580-6070 to learn more about our personalized approach to HRT and TRT, or request a consultation today.
