Hormones play a crucial role in the functioning of our bodies. They control processes such as our mood, energy levels, sleep, and fertility. When a hormone imbalance occurs, a variety of symptoms can occur. In this blog, we discuss common hormonal complaints, causes of hormonal imbalance, and how to gain insight into what's going on in your body.
Hormonal complaints
Hormonal symptoms can manifest themselves in a variety of ways. Some common symptoms include:
- Fatigue or lethargy
- Mood swings or irritability
- Irregular menstruation or PMS
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Reduced fertility
- Libido Loss
- Skin problems such as acne
- Hair loss
These symptoms may indicate an underlying hormonal imbalance, where the balance between estrogen, progesterone and testosterone is often disturbed.
Hormonal imbalance: what does it mean?
Hormonal imbalance occurs when the levels of certain hormones are out of balance. Common forms are:
- Estrogen dominance
When the level of estrogen is too high relative to progesterone, we speak of estrogen dominance. This can lead to symptoms such as bloating, painful breasts, mood swings, migraines and heavy periods.
- Progesterone deficiency
Progesterone deficiency can manifest itself in symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, PMS or irregular cycles.
- Testosterone excess
Excess testosterone is often associated with acne, excessive hairiness (in women), feeling agitated and irregular periods.
Causes of hormonal imbalance
With hormonal symptoms, it is always important to look for the cause. Some possible causes are:
- Impaired liver function
The liver plays an essential role in processing and breaking down excess hormones, such as estrogen. When liver function is not optimal, it can lead to hormonal accumulation, resulting in estrogen dominance. Factors such as an unhealthy diet, alcohol consumption and toxic load can stress the liver.
- Impaired intestinal flora
The gut flora plays an important role in recycling and eliminating hormones. An imbalance in gut bacteria can cause an accumulation of estrogen in the body, contributing to hormonal symptoms. Improper diet, stress and medication, among others, can lead to an imbalance in gut flora.
- Impaired blood sugar regulation
Impaired blood sugar regulation can disrupt the production and balance of hormones, particularly insulin and cortisol. But conditions such as PMS, PCOS and hormonal acne are also directly associated with disturbed blood sugar regulation. This situation can arise from an unhealthy lifestyle with a lot of processed foods, sugars, too little exercise and chronic stress.
- Overactive immune system
An overactive immune system can cause chronic inflammation, which can disrupt the balance of hormones. For example, this can lead to excess stress hormones and disruption of sex hormones.
What can you do for hormonal symptoms?
Restoring hormone balance requires a holistic approach. Here are some tips:
- Support your liver: Avoid alcohol, sugar and processed foods. Choose foods rich in antioxidants, such as green vegetables and turmeric.
- Ensure healthy gut flora: Eat high-fiber and varied foods, chew each bite well, eat without distractions and drink plenty of water.
- Stabilize your blood sugar: Choose complex carbohydrates and combine them with protein and healthy fats. Avoid sugar spikes from processed snacks and kick off added sugars.
- Strengthen your immune system: Get adequate rest and sleep, reduce stress and eat varied and colorful foods.
- Get tested: Every body is different and a personalized approach is always recommended. A EMB-blood test or hormone test can provide insight into where your hormonal imbalance is coming from, so you can work with a therapist to target your needs.
Summary
Hormonal symptoms can have a major impact on your daily life. By gaining insight into the underlying causes, such as disturbed liver function, gut flora or blood sugar levels, you can work in a focused way to restore your hormonal balance. Need help? Schedule a free consultation with a therapist to discover which steps are right for you.
