The 6 Hormones Everyone Should Know
July 21, 2019 Neal Rouzier, M.D. Worldlink Medical
DHEA
Clinical studies have demonstrated that DHEA has a beneficial effect on immune response, sex drive, metabolism and emotional stability. DHEA benefits the immune system and reduces visceral fat associated with diabetes mellitus. Other health-related benefits include support of cognitive function, helping the body cope with stress, and protection against heart disease through its effects on lipids and body fat.
Melatonin
Melatonin regulates the circadian rhythm as well as the deep stages of sleep. Studies suggest that the immune system depends on melatonin’s effects of deep sleep. In the January 1997 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine, melatonin was demonstrated to be a powerful antioxidant hormone that can protect against cancer. There are hundreds of studies showing that melatonin can scavenge free radicals, and be a safe sleep-enhancing hormone.
Thyroid
This metabolic hormone secreted by the thyroid gland regulates temperature, metabolism and cerebral function. Insufficient thyroid levels result in fatigue, increased cholesterol levels and increased risk of coronary artery disease. With age, thyroid hormone levels gradually decline resulting in a decreased metabolism, which affects all cells and organs. Low thyroid causes low energy, and thinning of hair, skin and nails. The dictum that normal levels are not optimal levels is extremely important when it comes to thyroid.
Testosterone
Although testosterone is the primary male hormone, women also benefit from its supplementation. Levels of testosterone decline with age in men and women. At optimal levels, research shows testosterone increases bone density and bone formation, enhances energy and sex drive, decreases body fat, increases muscle strength, lowers blood pressure and modulates cholesterol levels. Testosterone is a hormone that neither man nor women should be without and we’ll present the scientific evidence to support this.
Estrogen
Over 50 years of studies demonstrate that loss of estrogen increases cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s Disease, osteoporotic fractures, urogenital atrophy, macular degeneration and depression. Recent studies sort out the confusion created by the WHI (Women’s Health Initiative) and conclude that certain types of hormones cause harm in some women, whereas different hormones avoid the harm and provide a significant protection. A thorough literature review helps sort out the differences and provides credence and confidence for the use of bioidentical estrogens as based on our medical evidence.
Progesterone
Data demonstrates that synthetic progestins increase the risk of breast cancer, heart disease, strokes, bleeding, and depression. Studies demonstrate that not only does micronized progesterone not increase these risks, but it also protects against them. Studies demonstrate a synergistic effect of progesterone with estrogen, whereas progestins negate estrogen’s positive benefits. This literature review will demonstrate the difference between progesterone and progestins and how this difference is the key to understanding the importance of progesterone.