All About Hormones
Hormones play a vital role in the proper functioning of our body. These chemical messengers travel through our bloodstream, causing changes in various organs and tissues. In this blog post, we will explore how hormones influence different parts of our body and why it is essential to maintain hormonal balance. Let’s start with a quick introduction. I am a chiropractic physician and a certified acupuncturist. Hormonal medicine is one of my areas of expertise, and I have had the opportunity to train medical professionals from around the world.
So, let’s dive into the fascinating world of hormones! The influence of hormones extends throughout our body. If we look at a chart, we can see that they affect various organs and glands, such as the hypothalamus, pineal gland, thyroid, parathyroid, liver, thymus, adrenal glands, kidneys, testes, ovaries, and even the placenta and uterus. As we age, our organs gradually produce fewer hormones. The decline usually begins around the age of 25. The first hormones to decrease are thyroid hormone, progesterone, and testosterone. This decline in hormone production can lead to various imbalances in our body, including growth hormones, DHEA, melatonin, and pregnenolone.
One hormone that deserves special attention is the thyroid hormone. It plays a crucial role in making us feel good and energetic. When the thyroid gland, which is located in the neck, isn’t functioning optimally, we may experience several symptoms indicating a thyroid imbalance. These symptoms include fatigue, hair loss, brittle nails, dry skin, weight gain, constipation, and feeling cold all the time. Thyroid imbalance can result from various factors, including the lack of iodine, poor conversion of thyroid hormones, and receptor site insensitivity. Iodine, an essential mineral, is responsible for the production of all hormones in our body. It’s worth mentioning that iodine can be obtained through food, particularly sea vegetables and seaweed.
Factors like aging, alcohol, diabetes, environmental toxins (fluoride, chloride, bromide, and mercury), stress, obesity, and nutrient deficiencies (chromium, copper, iron, selenium, zinc, vitamin A, B2, B6, and B12) can impact the conversion of thyroid hormones. It is important to closely monitor thyroid medication, if necessary, as it should not suppress the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) excessively. Educating patients about when and how to take their medication and the signs of overcorrection is crucial to ensure their thyroid health. In summary, hormones have a profound influence on our body’s organs and tissues. They act as messengers, traveling through the bloodstream and causing changes in various parts of our body.
Maintaining hormonal balance is essential for overall well-being. Regular monitoring, a healthy lifestyle, and addressing any imbalances are key to ensuring optimal hormone function.
Remember, if you suspect a hormonal imbalance or have persistent symptoms, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional.
They can help assess your hormone levels and develop a customized plan to restore balance and improve your overall health. I hope this article has provided you with valuable insights into how hormones influence our organs and tissues. Stay tuned for more articles on hormone health and wellness!
References:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4049189/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279203/
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