Welcome to B.WELL Living! I’m Sarah B, and this month we’re kicking off with a crucial topic: understanding your hormones. Whether you’re new to the world of hormone health or looking to brush up on your knowledge, this blog is your go-to guide for getting started.
If you’ve ever felt like hormones are an enigma that’s messing with your health, you’re not alone. Hormones play a vital role in almost every aspect of your well-being, but understanding them can be tricky. In this blog, we’ll break down what hormones are, why they matter, and how you can start taking control of your hormonal health.
What Are Hormones?
Hormones are like the body’s messengers. They travel through your bloodstream to communicate with organs and tissues, regulating everything from metabolism and growth to mood and reproduction. These chemical signals are essential for maintaining balance within your body.
Why Hormones Matter
Hormones play a significant role in your overall health and well-being. They help control:
Metabolism: How your body converts food into energy.
Reproduction: Menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and sexual health.
Mood: How you handle stress and emotional changes.
Growth and Development: How your body develops and changes over time.
Key Hormones You Should Know
Estrogen: Often associated with female reproductive health, estrogen also affects bone density and cardiovascular health.
Progesterone: This hormone helps regulate the menstrual cycle and supports pregnancy. Progesterone can also help support healthy sleep cycles.
Testosterone: While commonly linked to men, women also need testosterone for muscle strength and bone health.
Thyroid Hormones: These hormones regulate metabolism and energy levels. Imbalances can lead to conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Insulin: Produced by the pancreas, insulin helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Common Hormonal Imbalances
Hormonal imbalances can manifest in various ways, including:
Irregular Periods: Changes in menstrual cycle length or flow.
Fatigue: Persistent tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest.
Mood Swings: Unexplained changes in mood or emotional state.
Weight Fluctuations: Unintended weight gain or loss.
How to Keep Your Hormones in Check
Regular Testing: Hormone levels can fluctuate, so periodic testing helps monitor your balance and detect any issues early. I recommend having a base hormone panel done betweek 36-40 years old and then again ever year after the age of 40. Once you begin perimenopause, you will want to retest every 6 months to monitor and adjust your hormone replacement therapy to help avoid symptoms. We'll talk about HRT in an upcoming blog!
Healthy Eating: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats supports hormone health. Super important to focus on getting at least 100 grams of protein in per day. Limit or eliminate processed food. Limit or eliminate sugar and alcohol.
Exercise: Regular physical activity helps regulate hormone levels and reduce stress. 3 - 30 minute strength training sessions per week can help you burn fat and build lean muscle mass!
Stress Management: Chronic stress can disrupt hormonal balance, so finding effective stress-reducing techniques is essential. Try meditation, yoga, going for a walk, or evening slowing down enough to read a book that (isn't business based).
Final Thoughts
Understanding your hormones is the first step toward achieving better health and wellness. By keeping an eye on your hormonal balance and making informed lifestyle choices, you can support your body’s natural rhythms and overall well-being.
Stay tuned for more insights this month as we dive deeper into the fascinating world of hormone health. If you have any questions or topics you’d like us to cover, feel free to reach out!
Let's B.WELL together!
Sarah B Holistic Hormone & Certified Mental Wellness Coach
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