Hormone Imbalance

Hormonal balance is vital to a healthy mind and body. Hormone fluctuations occur naturally during puberty, perimenopause and menopause. Hormone balance can be disrupted in many ways such as an incorrect relationship between progesterone and estrogen levels, exposure to environmental toxins, increase stress, chronic constipation and an unbalanced lifestyle.
These are the two hormones that must co-exist peacefully in a perfect balance, and any variations or changes will cause a dramatic effect on a woman’s health and cause unwanted symptoms.
During perimenopause ovulation begins to decline; as a direct result the production of progesterone from the ovaries does not happen. The healthy accepted levels of progesterone start to drop, and the estrogen levels start to increase. Many younger women are showing symptoms of estrogen dominance due to failure to ovulate caused by an unbalanced lifestyle: chronic stress, crash diets, exposure to synthetic hormones used in birth control pills, and growth hormones in beef and dairy products, as well as xenoestrogens (mimic estrogens) found in numerous personal hygiene and household products.
Lifestyle choices can have a tremendous impact on overall health and symptoms of imbalanced hormones. Smokers have a much higher incidence of hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms, as do heavy alcohol drinkers. High stress is a big factor in worsening menopause symptoms; especially hot flashes/night sweats, anxiety/palpitations, low energy and moodiness.
Foods high in sugar, fat, alcohol, caffeine and refined carbohydrate will cause an increase in hormonal imbalance and symptoms. Chronic constipation can further complicate the hormonal imbalance by causing recirculation of estrogen.
A food plan high in phytonutrients, fiber, and cruciferous vegetables will assist proper hormone metabolism and help the body clear itself of excess estrogens and xenoestrogens. To achieve overall balance, includes hi-quality multi-vitamins with the antioxidants A, B-complex, C, D and E, and key minerals like calcium, magnesium, zinc, and selenium.
Boost hormones naturally with strength training or weight-bearing exercises. Women who exercise regularly have far fewer hot flashes. Minimize the effects of stressors by doing yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
Other ways to maintain a healthy balance of hormones include; keeping an ideal weight to reduce overproduction of estrogen in fat cells. Get enough sleep. Make time for the people you love. Hold on to your sense of humor! And never use estrogen by itself—even after a hysterectomy; balance it with progesterone the body’s accustomed way.
The hormonal health of any woman depends upon the delicate dance of progesterone and estrogen. Understanding the causes of hormone imbalance empowers us to prevent them, and at the same time, feel better, think better, protect health and prevent illness.
For more information call Compassionate Healthcare Associates, 661-295-7777.