What is hormone imbalance?
A hormone imbalance refers to the production of too much or too little of a hormone in your body. Hormones such as estrogen, testosterone, cortisol, and thyroid hormones regulate many processes in the body.
When the body doesn't produce adequate or appropriate levels of hormones, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Unexplained weight gain or weight loss
- Low libido and sexual dysfunction
- Fatigue, lack of energy or stamina
- Anxiety, mood swings, irritability
- Brain fog, trouble concentrating
- Hair loss
Causes of Hormone Imbalance
- Chronic stress
- Poor diet and lack of nutrition
- Inflammation or chronic disease disruption
- Pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause
- Use of hormonal birth control methods
- Overuse of cosmetics with hormone-disrupting ingredients
If neglected long-term, hormone imbalances can significantly impact fertility, menstrual health, sexual health, weight, energy levels, and aging.
Restoring Hormonal Balance Naturally
The good news is there are many natural ways to restore hormonal balance:
- Reduce stress with meditation, yoga, massage, etc.
- Follow an anti-inflammatory diet
- Prioritize sleep and recovery
- Take targeted herbs and adaptogenic supplements
- Correct nutritional deficiencies
- Avoid exposure to hormone-disrupting chemicals
- Bioidentical hormone therapy (if recommended by your doctor)