Hormone Replacement Therapy
Feel Your Best!
How and Why We Age
Over the last 50 years, research in the fields of endocrinology and immunology has improved our knowledge as to how and why we age. Communication between the nervous, endocrine and immune systems makes it possible for us to adapt and survive in our environment, and hormones are the messengers between these systems. Hormones are molecules that are released into the blood stream and exert biochemical effects on receptor sites to regulate our body’s temperature, reproduction, growth, aging and immune functions.
As messengers of the central nervous system, hormones instruct our internal organs on how to function. Unfortunately, both men and women experience a drop in these life-sustaining hormones as they age.
Hormonal Deficiency Symptoms Include:
- Weight Gain
- Loss of Muscle Mass
- Immune System Changes
- Wrinkling and Thinning of the Skin
- Depression and Anxiety
- Cognitive Decline
- Insulin Resistance
- Loss of Sex Drive
- Fatigue
- Sleep Disorders
Replenishment of hormones to optimal, physiological levels may alleviate these age-related changes.
How Hormones Fit Into the Aging Process
Hormones are molecules that are produced in the endocrine glands, which include adrenal glands, testes, ovaries, thyroid, pituitary and pineal gland. As the body ages, the levels of hormones diminish. In addition, the specific hormone receptor sites in the cells tend to change with age. They can become less sensitive and more resistant to hormone stimulation, potentially resulting in a decrease in cellular function, cellular repair, protein synthesis and cell reproduction. These outcomes can contribute to the signs and symptoms of aging associated with hormonal decline.
As the levels of hormones decline, so may our physical and mental capabilities. We can lose our energy, vitality, strength, physique and health. Natural aging may result in osteoporosis, coronary artery disease, muscle atrophy, sleep disorders, depression, mood disorders and decreased sociability. Hormones play a vital role in strengthening our bodies and minds. Maintaining resilience by optimizing hormonal health may help us overcome the stressors of daily life.
Biologically Identical Hormones
Bioidentical hormone structure is everything when it comes to hormone replacement therapy. Natural, biologically identical hormones mimic the shape and function of our own endogenous hormones. The body treats and processes them the same way it has processed its natural hormones for years. It’s true that many of the hormones regularly prescribed are not identical to those found in the human body. These hormones may somewhat resemble our own hormones and may accomplish some of the same tasks, but they are different from what the body is used to metabolizing. Bioidential hormones can have a rejuvenating and proactive effect. The quality of life as you age depends heavily on the quality of hormones you take.
Achieving optimal hormone levels can require a delicate balance of bioidentical hormone replacement. Which hormones to replenish, how much to supplement, and how to find that balance distinguishes our experienced provider base. We applaud you for taking the first step; now let us help you achieve the quality of life you desire and deserve.
How to Get Started
Karla Hammonds, APRN, ANP-BC, has over 11 years of experience and more than 260 hours of training specific to hormone optimization. She will order specific blood tests, conduct an initial consultation, and based on the results of these and other evaluations, will formulate an optimal hormone replacement regimen specifically tailored to your needs. Your personalized program may include prescriptions and recommendations for appropriate dietary supplements, exercise and proper nutritional guidelines. This preventive medicine program is designed to help you feel, function and live your best while preventing age-related decline in health. With optimal bioidentical hormone replacement, the focus is on a healthy quality of life for years to come.
What is Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Mood Disorders
Hormonal changes in menopause or andropause (in men) can cause or worsen mood swings, anxiety disorders, or depression. In addition to worry, fear, agitation, irritability, nervousness, and irrational thoughts, patients can have physical symptoms — rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, nausea, numbness, lightheadedness, shakiness, and high blood pressure.
Who Can Benefit from Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy?
BHRT can benefit women and men with age-related changes in hormone levels causing problems that range from wellness issues to serious medical conditions.
BHRT therapy can also be useful for younger patients who have any of the conditions mentioned. No matter what age you are, if you suffer from a hormone imbalance, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy may help.
Who Should Avoid Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy?
However, BHRT isn’t right for everyone. The potential risks and side effects can vary from individual to individual, based on a patient’s medical history and lifestyle. You should always consult with your PCP for the following:
- Think you may be pregnant
- Are experiencing vaginal bleeding
- Have/had certain types of cancer such as breast, uterine, or endometrial
- Had a stroke or heart attack
- Have/had blood clots
- Have/had liver disease
What Function Does Each Hormone Support?
DHEA
Clinical studies have demonstrated that DHEA may have a beneficial effect on immune response, sex drive, metabolism and emotional stability.¹ Its effect on the immune system via distribution of stress hormones and its use as a powerful antioxidant demonstrate potent age-resisting capabilities. Other health-related benefits, may include supporting cognitive function, helping the body cope with stress and protecting against heart disease through its effects on lipid body fat.
Pregnenolone
Memory fog and lack of mental clarity can be among the most frustrating aspects of aging. Studies indicate that pregnenolone might be beneficial against age-related cognitive decline.² Nicknamed the “mother hormone,” pregnenolone is a precursor and necessary building block to DHEA, which in turn can convert testosterone, estrogen and progesterone.
Thyroid
This metabolic hormone secreted by the thyroid gland may help regulate temperature, metabolism and cerebral function, which generate energy and warmth. Insufficient thyroid level may result in fatigue, increased cholesterol levels and increased risk of coronary artery disease. With age, thyroid hormone levels gradually decline resulting in a decreased metabolism, which affects all cells and organs. Low thyroid causes low energy, loss of motivation and thinning hair, skin and nails.
Estrogen & Progesterone
As an essential hormone critical during the menopausal transition, estrogen has maintained its important role over the years Bioidentical estrogen mimics exactly what the body makes. It is essential for muscle tone, skin smoothness, hair texture, uterine protection, and sex drive. Bioidentical progesterone should always be viewed as the life-long partner of estrogen. They balance each other and work synergistically to promote optimal female health. Progesterone may help boost mood and overall sense of well-being.
Testosterone
Although testosterone is the primary male hormone, women also benefit from its supplementation. Levels of testosterone decline with age in men and women. At optimal levels, testosterone may increase bone density and bone formation, enhance energy and sex drive, decrease body fat, increase muscle strength, and modulate cholesterol levels. Testosterone is an essential hormone that neither men nor women should be without as they age.
Melatonin
Melatonin regulates the circadian rhythm as well as the deep stage of sleep. Studies suggest that the immune system is stimulated during these periods of deep rest. In the January, 1997 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine, melatonin was praised as a powerful antioxidant and a potential anti-cancer agent. ³ In light of hundreds of studies showing that melatonin can scavenge free radicals, induce youthful sleep patterns and possibly slow the aging process, it’s a perfect candidate for the anti-aging roster.
Vitamins, Supplements, Nutrition & Exercise
These all play an important role in the success of any healthy aging program. Our food sources have changed drastically over the last 50 years with the increased use of processed foods, nutrient depleted soil and a variety of pesticides. In today’s society, eating well, along with exercise and proper vitamin and supplement intake, is more important than ever.