Hormone Replacement, What Hormones are Tested, and the Effects They Have On Our Body.

Reproductive Hormones:

Estradiol and progesterone levels and their ratio indicate the presence of estrogen dominance, explaining many symptoms in the reproductive years. As we get older, a deficiency in progesterone (women) and testosterone (men) can result in estrogen dominance, which, if uncorrected can raise risks for breast and prostate cancers, hypothyroidism, weight gain, and a host of other problems. Maintaining the right balance of these hormones at any age is essential for optimal health.

Testosterone in excess can lead to excessive facial and body hair, acne, abdominal weight gain in women, irritability and tension. Too little testosterone is common in women who have had a hysterectomy, and in men at mid-life. Deficiencies from aging, stress, lack of exercise, and various medications, can cause vaginal dryness in women and loss of bone/muscle mass, depression, and memory lapses in both sexes.

Adrenal Hormones:

Cortisol is an indicator of adrenal function and exposure to stress. A normal cortisol curve (highest in the morning, lowest at bedtime) shows a healthy ability to respond to stress. Low cortisol can indicate adrenal fatigue, a weakened ability to respond to stress, and susceptibility to illness because of its role in immune system regulation. Chronically high cortisol is a consequence of constant stress, with serious risks for long-term health, cancer, osteoporosis, and possibly Alzheimer’s disease.

DHEA is produced by the adrenal glands and declines gradually with age. Like cortisol, it is involved with immune function, and a balance between the two is essential. Low DHEA can cause low libido and general malaise, while high DHEA can have masculinizing effects on women such as facial/body hair, deeper voice, etc.

Thyroid Hormones:

The Thyroid Profile detects imbalances in thyroid function, which can cause a range of symptoms from cold hands and feet, low libido and depression to weight gain, and inability to lose weight. Imbalances of estrogen, progesterone and cortisol are linked with low thyroid.

Vitamin D Profile:

Vitamin D deficiency is becoming a widespread health issue, but the lack of tell-tale symptoms means that many people are deficient without knowing it. The blood spot test is a simple way to detect low levels of the “sunshine vitamin” which can be increased through supplementation and/or sunlight exposure to reduce risks for cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, breast cancer, diabetes and even schizophrenia. Those most at risk: the elderly; obese; dark-skinned people, and anyone who does not get out in the sun much, should consider routine testing.