Written by: Dr. Terrie Van Alstyne, ND
As we age, our hormone levels naturally decline, which can lead to age-related health problems and diseases. Women, in particular, face several challenges as they enter perimenopause and menopause, experiencing a range of physical and emotional symptoms. Fortunately, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) offers an effective solution to these issues, improving both quality of life and long-term health outcomes.
The Top Health Risks for Aging Women
Aging brings an increased risk of several serious health conditions, especially for women:
Cardiovascular Disease: The leading cause of death for women, including heart attacks and strokes.
Breast Cancer: Other cancers, such as lung, colorectal, uterine, ovarian, and vaginal cancers, are also a major concern.
Dementia: Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia are prevalent as women age.
Osteoporosis: The risk of fractures and bone loss increases with age.
How Functional Medicine and Bioidentical Hormones Can Help
Bioidentical hormones are derived from plants and synthesized to match the chemical structure of the hormones naturally produced by your body. When prescribed in the right doses, they can:
Alleviate menopausal symptoms
Improve overall quality of life
Lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, breast cancer, osteoporosis, and dementia
Bioidentical hormones are available in the form of creams, gels, and capsules, providing a personalized approach to treatment with minimal risk of side effects.
The Dutch Lab Test: Analyzing Your Hormones
The Dutch Lab test is a comprehensive hormone test that measures important hormones such as estrogens, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, and cortisol. This test can also reveal how estrogen is being metabolized, helping assess the risk of estrogen-related cancers like breast cancer. With this information, healthcare professionals can develop targeted interventions, including dietary changes, supplements, and lifestyle modifications to reduce these risks.
The Benefits of Bioidentical Hormones
When bioidentical hormones are prescribed within the first five to ten years of menopause, they have been scientifically proven to:
Lower the risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia
Reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes
Prevent muscle mass loss (sarcopenia)
Support bone density and lower osteoporosis risk
Reduce the risk of breast and other cancers
Common Menopausal Symptoms
If you or someone you love is struggling with perimenopausal or menopausal symptoms, bioidentical hormones could provide relief. Here are some common symptoms women experience during this stage:
Psychological Symptoms: Mood swings, irritability, depression, anxiety, and loss of sexual interest.
Circulatory Symptoms: Hot flashes, night sweats, and heart palpitations.
Digestive Symptoms: Indigestion, bloating, and gas.
Urinary Tract Symptoms: Urinary tract infections, frequent urination, and incontinence.
Joint and Muscle Symptoms: Osteoarthritis, joint pain, and muscle aches.
Bone Symptoms: Osteopenia and osteoporosis.
Vaginal Symptoms: Vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, and itching.
Skin and Hair Symptoms: Facial hair growth, wrinkles, and hair loss.
Glandular Symptoms: Sore breasts.
Brain Symptoms: Migraines, headaches, and memory lapses.
Metabolic Symptoms: Weight gain and loss of lean muscle mass.
How Bioidentical Hormones Address Key Health Concerns
Estrogen: Estrogen plays a crucial role in over 400 body functions, including:
Metabolism and Weight Management: Estrogen increases metabolic rate and aids in weight loss.
Insulin Sensitivity: Estrogen improves insulin sensitivity, reducing the risk of diabetes.
Thermoregulation: It helps regulate body temperature, preventing hot flashes and night sweats.
Muscle and Bone Health: Estrogen prevents sarcopenia and supports bone density.
Cardiovascular and Brain Health: Estrogen provides protection against cardiovascular disease and dementia.
Progesterone: A deficiency in progesterone can lead to:
Arthritis and Joint Pain
New Allergies or Asthma Symptoms
Fatigue, Irritability, and Anxiety
Testosterone: Low testosterone levels can result in:
Reduced Libido and Confidence
Fatigue and Joint Pain
Muscle Loss and Weight Gain
Pregnenolone: This precursor hormone plays a critical role in:
Memory and Learning
Mood Balance and Sleep Quality
Immune Support and Bone Density
DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone): DHEA helps produce testosterone and estrogen and has several health benefits, including:
Decreasing Cardiovascular Risk
Improving Bone Health
Boosting Muscle Mass
Reducing Fat Tissue
Supporting Blood Sugar Regulation
Personalized Care for Hormonal Balance
If you're experiencing symptoms of perimenopause or menopause, bioidentical hormone therapy offers a tailored approach to addressing your hormonal imbalances. With the right treatment plan, you can reclaim your health and vitality.
Ready to Take Control of Your Health?
Don’t let menopausal symptoms control your life. Bioidentical hormones can provide relief and protect your long-term health. Book an appointment today to learn more about how this personalized treatment can work for you. Click here to Book an Appointment with Dr. Terrie Van Alstyne!
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