Hormones influence health
Hormones are chemical messengers produced by glands and released into the bloodstream. They regulate various bodily functions by sending signals to organs and tissues, which in turn respond to them. Thus, hormones influence a host of processes, including growth and development, metabolism, mood, reproduction, and immune system function. They play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis: the balance in our bodies.
When hormones are not working as they should, creating imbalance, you can suffer from a wide variety of symptoms. Think fatigue, mood swings, weight fluctuations, mental symptoms, skin problems, intestinal problems and more. Nutrition plays an important role in how good hormone balance is. Healthy, diverse foods and the right nutrients support balance, while foods like sugar, fat and alcohol disrupt hormone balance.
Hormones and your appearance
Hormonal imbalance affects so many bodily processes, including appearance. The better balanced your hormones are, the more you shine on the outside. Is there imbalance? Then you'll see it reflected. This is because hormones have the following influences on your appearance:
Hormones and the skin
The female sex hormone estrogen helps keep skin hydrated and elastic. A decrease in estrogen, such as during menopause or due to imbalance, leads to dry and thin skin. The male sex hormone testosterone affects sebum production. High levels of testosterone can lead to increased sebum production, which can cause acne. In addition, the stress hormone cortisol also plays a role in
skin health: a stress hormone imbalance makes the skin thinner and less elastic, which can lead to premature aging.
Hormones and hair and nails
Androgens are a group of hormones, including testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), that play a key role in hair growth. Imbalance can lead to baldness or thin hair in both men and women. Disbalance in thyroid hormones (hypo- or hyperthyroidism) can also lead to hair loss and changes in hair thickness and texture, as well as brittle and weak nails. The female hormones estrogen and progesterone also affect nail growth.
Weight and body shape
Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels and plays a role in fat storage. Insulin resistance can lead to weight gain, especially around the abdominal area. The hormones leptin and ghrelin regulate hunger and satiety. Leptin reduces appetite, while ghrelin increases appetite. Imbalances can lead to overeating and weight gain. Estrogen and progesterone affect fat distribution in the
body. High estrogen levels can lead to fat storage in the hips and thighs, while changes in progesterone can affect body weight and shape, especially during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and menopause.
Hormones in balance
Hormonal fluctuations are normal. We all have a natural hormone cycle that affects how we feel at each stage of the cycle
feel. However, when hormones are (constantly) out of balance, these fluctuations become more pronounced and worsen additional symptoms. Do you notice that you suffer from recurring symptoms that are difficult to pinpoint a cause for? Perhaps it's your hormones. From skin problems to weight fluctuations, mood swings to bowel problems. The more balanced your hormones are, the better you feel in your own skin.
Hormones advice
If you suffer from hormonal imbalance, these are the things you can do best to restore balance holistically:
- Stress Management:
Stress causes your stress hormones to spike, leading to a variety of symptoms in the long run. Managing your stress and applying relaxation techniques helps keep the balance here. Make time for walks, breathing exercises, meditation and relaxation. - Optimize sleep:
Maintain a regular sleep rhythm and strive to meet your ideal sleep hours, whether seven or nine hours. - Regular exercise:
Exercise is also essential for keeping balance in your hormones. Try to be physically active at moderate intensity for at least 30 minutes a day. Too intense exercise can also cause imbalance. Cycling, swimming, running, walking or strength training are all good forms of exercise. - Avoid toxins:
Avoid hormone-disrupting chemicals in beauty and personal care products, household products, food, clothing and plastic packaging as much as possible. - Consider supplements:
Supplements contain nutrients that can support several areas of your hormonal health to supplement a healthy diet. For example, vitamin B6 helps regulate hormonal activity, and zinc helps establish normal testosterone levels in the blood.
Buying supplements at Charlotte Labee
Do you find yourself suffering from recurring symptoms that are difficult to pinpoint to a cause? Perhaps it is your hormones. At Charlotte Labee we have specialized therapists who can advise you personally about hormones, lifestyle and supplements, including possible risks such as medication, illness, pregnancy or other factors. You can request a free* consultation with us to get tailored advice, but you can also enter into a 1-on-1 program with one of our therapists to address your hormonal imbalance on every level, including your diet, lifestyle, sleep patterns and other important elements.
Take the free personal consultation testto find out which supplements best suit your needs.
*One-time €15.95, which you get back when you purchase supplements.
