Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy
Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement TherapyWhat is BHRT?
Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) is the use of supplemental doses of hormones that have a chemical structure identical to the hormones that the human body naturally produces. There are similar forms found in plants but none are human-identical, naturally. Plants do provide the basis or source for bio-identical hormones. These plant-based (phytohomornes) are chemically altered to precisely mirror the structure of human hormones, making them become “human-identical”. For example, bio-identical progesterone and estrogen can be created from chemically altered forms of naturally occurring phytohormones found in the Mexican wild yam, soy, and other plants. All sex hormones and cortisol are available in bio-identical forms.
How do Bio-identical Hormones Compare with Synthetic Hormones?
Conventional hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are synthetic compounds developed and patented by pharmaceutical companies. Synthetically made hormones are not human-identical. Synthetic hormones are limited in their actions within the body. They are able to replicate some of the processes of human hormones, but lack in fully replicating all of the processes. Human hormones are extremely complex and their functions within the body are numerous. Bio-identical hormones are able to mirror natural human hormones and their complex nature within the body.
BHRT: The Healthier Choice and More Effective Choice
Bio-identical hormones mimic your body’s hormone molecules in structure and action. They provide a natural boost to nudge your own hormones back into balance. Identically matching your body’s own hormones, bio-identical hormones replicate the action of hormones naturally produced by ovaries and the adrenal glands.
All of the body’s hormones: thyroid, estrogen, progesterone, DHEA, testosterone, and even cortisol, interact with one another. Disrupting one hormone will lead to imbalance. If a hormone imbalance or deficiency is detected within your body, bio-identical hormone supplementation will allow you to restore balance, turning back the clock on aging and it’s related health concerns.
Do Bio-identical Hormones have Side Effects?
It is possible for bio-identical hormones to have side effects when taken in excess of normal physiological doses (greater doses when compared to your body’s natural levels). For example, if excess estrogen is taken, it can increase your risk of breast cancer, weight gain, tender breasts, and endometrial cancer. Accurate reliable testing is imperative in determining the extent of your hormone imbalance and deficiencies. Formulation of correct dosing and medical follow-up by your practitioner will ensure safe and effective bio-identical hormone supplementation. A critical advantage of bio-identical hormones is the ability of the hormones to be tailored to your specific needs.
Is Hormone Imbalance Affecting Me?
The world we live in, the environmental toxins we are exposed to, the aging process and related health concerns, the stress we put on our bodies, the external stresses we are exposed to daily, nutrient deficiencies and malabsorption, the pharmaceuticals we have taken, etc., have all lead to increased risk for hormone imbalance.
The typical signs and symptoms of hormone imbalance include:
- Weight gain
- Decreased or no sex drive
- Hot flashes/night sweats
- Migraine headaches
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Anxiety/panic
- Depression
- Mood disturbances, irritability, and anger
- Low self-esteem
- Emotional fragility
- Brain fog
- Forgetfulness
- Hypercritical and obsessive thinking
- Abnormal hair growth
- Irregular periods and pre-menstrual syndrome
Weight gain is the most common complaint of hormone imbalance. If you have a problem losing weight despite eating right and regular exercise, it is important to have your hormones evaluated.
Can My Hormones be Re-balanced?
Yes, they can.
Contact the Renū Progressive Medicine today and make an an appointment with a naturopathic doctor who specializes in BHRT!
Is BHRT (Bio-Identical Hormones) Safe? CLICK HERE to read more!