Reviewed by Dr. Kenton Bruice, MD
Reading Time: 4 minutes
Aging brings inevitable changes, and hormones play a crucial role in this process. They regulate everything from our mood to our physical health.
As we age, our hormone levels often become imbalanced, leading to symptoms that can affect our quality of life. Understanding and managing these changes is key to graceful aging and optimal wellness.
Table of Contents
The Importance of Balanced Hormones
Hormones are chemical messengers that travel throughout our body, communicating with cells and organs to regulate various bodily functions. They play a vital role in energy levels, regulating metabolism, sleep patterns, mood, immune function, sexual function, and more.
When our hormone levels are balanced, these functions run smoothly. However, our hormone production decreases as we age, leading to imbalances that can cause various symptoms and health issues.
Key Takeaway
Balancing hormones is an important step towards maintaining optimal health. Hormone testing is an effective way to identify any imbalances in the body. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is a natural solution to treat hormone imbalances with minimal to no side effects.
Symptoms of Hormone Imbalance
Hormone imbalances can manifest in several ways and affect people differently. Some common symptoms in men and women include:
- Mood swings
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Difficulty sleeping
- Decreased libido
- Irregular periods (in women)
- Hair loss
- Hot flashes (in menopausal women)
- Vaginal dryness (in menopausal women)
- Decreased muscle mass
- Memory problems
These symptoms can impact our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Pay attention to these changes and seek treatment if they are affecting your quality of life.
Causes of Hormone Imbalance
Multiple factors can contribute to hormone imbalances as we age. These include:
- Natural aging process
As we get older, our bodies naturally produce fewer hormones. This decrease is a normal part of aging and can lead to imbalances.
- Menopause (in Women)
Menopause is a natural process that occurs in women, typically between the ages of 45 and 55. During this time, the ovaries stop producing estrogen and progesterone, leading to hormone imbalances.
- Stress
Excessive stress can cause the body to produce high levels of cortisol, a stress hormone that can throw off other hormonal balances.
- Poor diet and lack of exercise
Eating unhealthy foods and leading a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to imbalances in hormones such as insulin and leptin, which regulate metabolism and weight.
- Environmental toxins
Exposure to toxins in the environment, such as pollution and harmful chemicals, can disrupt hormone production and lead to imbalances.
- Andropause (in Men)
Andropause, also known as “male menopause”, is a condition that affects men typically in their 40s and 50s. Andropause is caused by a gradual decline in testosterone production, leading to hormonal imbalances. Symptoms of andropause can include fatigue, mood swings, and decreased sex drive.
Hormone Testing and Treatment
If you are experiencing symptoms of hormone imbalance, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider who specializes in hormone therapy.
A simple blood test can measure hormone levels and identify any imbalances. Common hormone level tests include:
- Thyroid hormones
- Sex hormone levels such as estradiol, progesterone and testosterone
- Adrenal function tests
- Growth hormone levels
Treating Hormone Imbalances with Bioidentical Hormones
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is a treatment that uses hormones that are identical in structure to the ones our bodies produce. These bioidentical hormones can help restore hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms of hormone imbalances.
BHRT in pellet form has gained popularity in recent years as it offers a more consistent and convenient delivery method compared to creams or pills. Pellets are small, rice-sized pellets that are inserted under the skin and release hormones over time.
Lifestyle Changes for Balanced Hormones
Aside from hormone therapy, lifestyle changes can help promote hormonal balance and support graceful aging. These include:
- Eat a nutritious diet rich in whole foods, fiber, and healthy fats.
- Exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight and reduce stress levels.
- Manage stress through activities like meditation, yoga, or therapy.
- Get adequate sleep to support hormone production and balance.
BHRT in Denver
Achieving balanced hormones is a fundamental aspect of aging gracefully and maintaining optimal health. Aging will inevitably impact hormone levels, but understanding these changes and implementing strategies to manage them can significantly improve quality of life.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms we described, book an appointment at the Denver Hormone Institute of Colorado. Dr. Kenton Bruice, MD, is a leading expert in hormone therapy and offers personalized treatment plans to help you achieve balanced hormones and optimal wellness.