Hormones are chemical messengers made by glands in the body that travel through the bloodstream to tissues and organs. They influence many processes including growth, metabolism, reproduction, and mood. Maintaining healthy hormone levels is important for overall wellbeing.
As we age, hormone levels can become imbalanced. Common issues include low testosterone in men, menopause in women, and thyroid disorders. Symptoms may include fatigue, trouble sleeping, weight gain, low libido, hot flashes, and mood changes. Blood tests can reveal imbalances.
Restoring balance through lifestyle changes, medications, or hormone therapy can provide relief from uncomfortable symptoms. People report improved energy, sleep, sexual function, body composition, and mental health. It's important to consult a doctor to develop a personalized treatment plan.
The main hormone supplements used are estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, thyroid hormone, melatonin, DHEA, and growth hormone. They come in pills, patches, gels, injections, and pellet implants. Compounded "bioidentical" versions match natural hormones more closely.
Men and women over age 30 with low hormone levels and related symptoms are candidates. Evaluation involves blood tests, physical exam, review of symptoms, and trying lifestyle measures first. Hormone therapy carries some health risks to consider.
Experienced practitioners tailor regimens to the individual by varying hormones, doses, and delivery methods over time. Close monitoring helps optimize results and safety. Most patients need therapy long-term due to the chronic nature of hormone imbalance.
Nestled in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains with a charming downtown, lush parks, and abundant outdoor recreation, Roanoke provides a nurturing environment to restore hormonal health. The moderate climate means hormone therapy can continue year-round.
Roanoke offers many holistic health resources to complement hormone therapy including yoga studios, massage, acupuncture, counseling, medical spas, farmers markets, walking trails, and more. Enjoy nourishing body and soul together.
Connecting with others at local events, classes, volunteering, or support groups builds social bonds important for meeting emotional needs. A variety of MeetUp groups and community centers facilitate meaningful connections.
Eating plenty of colorful vegetables, high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains provides the nutrients needed for hormones to function optimally. These foods reduce inflammation as well. Minimize sugar, processed items, and chemicals.
Chronic stress and poor sleep disrupt hormone pathways. Make adopting stress reduction activities like yoga, meditation, counseling, art, or journaling a priority. Improve sleep quality by optimizing sleep hygiene habits.
Aim for a mix of cardio, strength training, flexibility, and balance activities most days of the week. Check with a doctor before significantly intensifying exercise. Movement helps regulate hormone levels and manages weight.
Hormone therapy can help transgender individuals align their physical characteristics with their gender identity. Studies show that after transitioning with hormones, most transgender people report improved quality of life, reduced anxiety and depression, and greater life satisfaction. This suggests hormone therapy can have profoundly positive mental health effects for those undergoing a gender transition.
If persistent fatigue, trouble sleeping, sexual dysfunction, hot flashes, weight gain, or emotional issues are interfering with quality of life, it may be time to get evaluated for hormone imbalance. The sooner treatment begins, the more symptoms can potentially improve.
Finding an experienced doctor you connect well with is key to success. Ongoing communication regarding symptoms, labs, and side effects allows fine tuning treatment until it feels right. Patience is needed to let the body adjust.
While hormone therapy can help patients feel much better, maintaining a healthy lifestyle long-term provides the foundation to preserve gains made. Working holistically benefits total body-mind wellbeing on the lifelong journey towards optimal health.
