Hormone support is not as simple as replacing “testosterone” or “estrogen,” for instance. There are 67 known human hormones which interact and interrelate with each other. There are thyroid hormones, sex hormones, brain hormones (neurotransmitters), stomach hormones, pancreas hormones, adrenal hormones, sleep hormones, bone hormones and many others such as vitamin D and insulin. The integrative physician (and endocrinologist, for that matter) must have an in-depth understanding of hormone interactions with the target hormone(s). The world of hormone disruptors must also be taken into consideration.
When properly balanced, hormones support great health, a vital appearance, restful sleep, stamina, mental clarity and enhanced immunity.
Thyroid
We’ll discuss thyroid first because it is impossible to overemphasize the importance of healthy thyroid function. Every organ, every tissue, every cell is dependent upon the active thyroid hormone. Thyroid controls metabolism, energy, body temperature, circulation and heart health, brain, kidney and joint health, and a myriad of other vital functions. Thyroid balance is especially critical in conditions of lowered immunity.
Thorough examination and testing are essential to maximize thyroid function. Mineral status, adrenal function, intestinal health, yeast infections, medications, and illness all interfere with thyroid function and the accurate measurement of thyroid hormones. Thyroid imaging can also be very valuable for appropriate treatment. Such in-depth testing is routine at CMB Health Specialties.
As for support, most people feel best with “natural” thyroid replacement, while some patients prefer and do well with synthetic thyroid. We always respect each patient’s condition and preferences. We will also recommend supporting nutrients as needed.
Male & Female Hormones
Current lifestyles often interfere with hormone function. Men and women, young and old, can be at risk for hormone disturbances. While there are many hormone tests available, the right test must be chosen for each person. For example, saliva, urine and blood hormone evaluations give slightly different information depending on patient needs.
Interestingly, poor libido may have unexpected origins in imbalances of other hormones such as thyroid, adrenal, insulin, serotonin or dopamine.
Hormones may be replaced topically, orally, or by injection. We offer bio-identical hormone replacement because it is a non-chemical way to balance hormones and provide exact dosage requirements.
Hormone Replacement Comparison
Integrative Sex Hormone Replacement
Bio-Identical/Plant source-plants actually contain active estrogens, progesterone, testosterone
Blood and/or salivary testing to determine need and dosage
Compounded to precise need
Bio-Identical hormones metabolize in a few hours
Routine Medical Sex Hormone Replacement
Synthetic/lab source (non Bio-Identical)
Minimal or no hormone testing: treatment based on symptoms
Dosage choices limited - difficult to achieve exact need
Synthetic (non Bio-Identical) is difficult to metabolize -
may persist 6-12 months in body
For example:
Premarin® (pregnant mare urine) contains 14 estrogens; humans have 3 estrogens.
Adrenal HORMONES
Adrenal hormones include cortisol, adrenaline, noradrenaline, aldosterone, DHEA, and pregnenalone. 80% of cortisol is cortisone. Adrenals are capable of supplying sex hormones later in life. Stress has a deleterious affect on sex hormones.
Cortisol is a steroid-hormone made from cholesterol. Cholesterol is necessary for the production of many hormones. Too little cholesterol restricts production of adrenal hormones. Of interest, too little cholesterol is also related to illness, aging, psychiatric conditions, Alzheimer’s, autoimmune disease and heart disease.
The first role of cortisol in humans is to release sugar for energy in stressful circumstances. (High and low blood sugars may be related to adrenal function.)
The second role is to reduce inflammation.
Adrenal disorders:
May lead to high or low blood pressure, memory loss, diabetes, infertility, mood disorders and heart disease.
Symptoms of adrenal weakness include fatigue, weight gain, hypoglycemia, and decreased libido.
Symptoms of adrenal stress include insomnia, night sweats, binge eating, high blood pressure, irritability, daytime fatigue and “the tired and wired” syndrome.
Testing:
Replacement therapy is usually based on initial blood testing. For retesting, topical hormones requires salivary testing while injectible and oral hormones require a blood or urine test.