Bioidentical Hormones
There are various different hormones that we compound. Bioidentical Hormones have the same chemical and molecular structure as hormones that are produced in the body. They’re made from a plant steroid found in soy and wild yams.
Estrogen
This hormone is produced primarily by the ovaries. It is responsible for the development and maintenance of the female reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics. In the brain it boosts the formation and function of neurotransmitters. While estrogen does have positive effects on blood cholesterol and lipid profiles, it is also key in slowing the progression of osteoporosis. Estrogen helps keep skin elasticity and moisture.
There are three different types of estrogen produced by the body: estrone, estradiol and estriol. They serve different functions and are in our body in different amounts during all stages of our life cycle.
Symptoms of low estrogen include:
Hot flashes/night sweats
Insomnia
Vaginal dryness
Brain Fog/Memory loss
Depression
Dry skin and hair/brittle nails
Fatigue
Headaches
Frequent urination
Osteoporosis
Joint Pain
Symptoms of excess estrogen:
Breast tenderness/fullness
Bloating/weight gain
Migraines
Uterine fibroids/fibrocystic breasts
Heavy or irregular menstrual cycles
Depression
Irritability
Water retention
Anxiety
Progesterone
Progesterone is made in the ovaries and is one of the main reproductive hormones responsible for facilitating pregnancy. Progesterone helps the body to use fat for energy. It is a natural antidepressant, lifts our mood and has a calming effect. This calming effect helps with sleep and anxiety. Progesterone helps normalize blood clotting, and is a natural diuretic. It also helps with sex drive as well as rebuilding bones.
Progesterone is typically the hormone lost first and when a woman is still making normal amounts of estrogen, this can cause an unbalance called ‘estrogen dominance’. The symptoms of low progesterone describe this condition.
Symptoms of low progesterone:
Anxiety
Depression
Mood swings
Insomnia
Aches/pain
Osteoporosis
Excessive menstruation
Breast tenderness
Symptoms of excess progesterone:
Increased fat storage
Decrease glucose tolerance
Increased cortisol
Increased appetite
Increased carbohydrate cravings
Relaxed smooth muscles
Incontinence
Aches and pains
Testosterone
Testosterone is produced in the ovaries as well as the adrenal glands. Testosterone helps with energy levels and clear thinking. It helps with sex drive as well as response. Testosterone strengthens ligaments and sphincters as well as helps build muscle. It helps with a sense of well being and is an antidepressant.
Symptoms of low testosterone:
Weigh gain/decline in muscle tone
Fatigue
Decreased sex drive
Depression or anxiety
Dry, thick skin, with poor elasticity
Thinning hair
Thin lips
Lack of motivation
Symptoms of excess testosterone
Anxiety
Depression
Changes in memory
Fatigue
Hypoglycemia
Sweet/salty cravings
Agitation/anger
Unwanted hair growth/loss
Acne/oily skin
Weigh gain/fluid retention
DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone)
DHEA
(Dehydroepiandrosterone)
DHEA is a precursor hormone to testosterone and estrogen and is made in the adrenal gland. DHEA protects against the effects of physical stress and inflammation. It helps with sex drive and arousal. DHEA can help improve motivation and a sense of well being. It can also help improve memory.
Symptoms of low DHEA:
Fatigue
Weight gain
Depression
Aching joints
Low libido
Symptoms of high DHEA (similar to symptoms of low levels):
Weight gain
Increased facial and body hair
Oily skin/acne
DHEA is available over the counter, but it is always suggested to be tested first before starting on DHEA supplementation.
