Hormones

Arjuna icon

What Is BHRT?

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) involves the use of hormones that are chemically identical to those produced by the human body. Unlike synthetic hormones, bioidentical hormones are designed to match the molecular structure of the hormones our bodies naturally produce, making them a more natural alternative for hormone replacement.

BHRT offers a natural and effective solution for addressing the symptoms of hormonal imbalance in both men and women. By restoring hormone levels to their natural state, individuals can experience improved quality of life, enhanced well-being, and a greater sense of vitality.

Licorice Root icon

Benefits of BHRT

BHRT can offer numerous benefits for both men and women, particularly as they age and their natural hormone levels decline. Some of the key benefits include:

  • Improved Energy Levels: Many individuals experience a boost in energy and a reduction in fatigue.
  • Enhanced Mood and Mental Clarity: BHRT can help alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and brain fog.
  • Better Sleep: Improved hormone balance often leads to better sleep quality.
  • Increased Libido: Restoring hormone levels can enhance sexual desire and performance.
  • Weight Management: Hormone balance can assist in maintaining a healthy weight.
  • Skin and Hair Health: BHRT can improve skin elasticity and reduce hair thinning.

Why Are My Hormones Out of Balance?

  • Processed Foods
    • High in Sugar: Excessive sugar intake can lead to insulin resistance, affecting overall hormonal balance.
    • Trans Fats: Found in many processed snacks, trans fats can disrupt insulin and estrogen levels, leading to metabolic and reproductive issues.
  • Refined Carbohydrates
    • Blood Sugar Spikes: Foods like white bread, pasta, and pastries can cause rapid spikes and drops in blood sugar, leading to imbalanced insulin levels and increased risk of diabetes and obesity.
  • Dairy Products
    • Hormones in Milk: Conventional dairy products may contain added hormones or antibiotics that can interfere with natural hormone levels in the body, affecting estrogen and testosterone balance.
  • Soy Products
    • Phytoestrogens: Soy contains compounds that mimic estrogen, which can be beneficial in moderation but may disrupt hormone balance when consumed in excess.
  • Red Meat
    • Hormonal Additives: Non-organic red meat may contain growth hormones, which can interfere with the body’s natural hormone production and balance.
  • Sedentary Lifestyle
    • Lack of Exercise: Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining hormonal balance. Sedentary behavior can lead to increased cortisol levels and insulin resistance, affecting overall health.
  • Chronic Stress
    • Elevated Cortisol: Prolonged stress can cause chronically high levels of cortisol, leading to adrenal fatigue, disrupted sleep patterns, and imbalances in other hormones like thyroid and reproductive hormones.
  • Poor Sleep Habits
    • Sleep Deprivation: Inadequate sleep can affect the production of key hormones, such as melatonin, cortisol, and growth hormone, leading to issues with metabolism, mood, and overall health.
  • Excessive Alcohol Consumption
    • Liver Function: The liver is crucial for hormone metabolism. Excessive alcohol can impair liver function, leading to imbalances in estrogen and testosterone levels.
  • Exposure to Environmental Toxins
    • Endocrine Disruptors: Chemicals found in personal care products, cleaning supplies, and the environment can mimic or interfere with hormone function, leading to various health issues.

“Forever chemicals” refer to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are highly persistent in the environment and human body. These chemicals can disrupt endocrine function by:

  • Mimicking Hormones
    • PFAS can imitate natural hormones, interfering with their normal functions.
  • Blocking Hormone Receptors
    • They can block hormone receptors, preventing natural hormones from binding and exerting their effects.
  • Altered Hormone Levels
    • PFAS exposure has been linked to changes in thyroid hormones, reproductive hormones, and metabolic hormones, potentially leading to disorders such as hypothyroidism, infertility, and metabolic syndrome.

Plastics, especially those containing bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, are known endocrine disruptors. They affect hormonal balance by:

  • Estrogen Mimicry
    • BPA can mimic estrogen, leading to imbalances that may cause reproductive issues, developmental problems, and increased cancer risk.
  • Hormonal Interference
    • Phthalates, found in many plastic products, can interfere with testosterone and other androgens, affecting reproductive development and function in both males and females.
  • Developmental Impacts
    • Exposure to plastic-related chemicals during critical periods of development can have long-lasting effects on hormone regulation and health.

Herbicides, particularly those containing glyphosate and atrazine, can disrupt hormonal systems in humans by:

  • Endocrine Disruption
    • Glyphosate has been shown to interfere with the endocrine system, affecting hormone production and signaling pathways.
  • Hormone Receptor Binding
    • Atrazine can bind to hormone receptors and alter their function, potentially leading to reproductive issues, developmental delays, and metabolic disorders.
  • Thyroid Disruption
    • Certain herbicides can impact thyroid function, leading to hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, which affect overall metabolism and energy balance.
Epimedium icon

BHRT for Women

Women often seek BHRT to manage symptoms associated with menopause.

  • Hot Flashes and Night Sweats
    • BHRT can significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of these symptoms.
  • Mood Swings
    • Stabilizing hormone levels can help manage mood fluctuations.
  • Vaginal Dryness and Discomfort
    • BHRT can alleviate vaginal atrophy and discomfort during intercourse.
  • Bone Density
    • Estrogen therapy can help maintain bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Forsythia icon

BHRT for Men

For men, BHRT is commonly used to address symptoms of andropause (male menopause) and low testosterone levels.

  • Decreased Libido
    • BHRT can help restore sexual drive and performance.
  • Muscle Mass and Strength
    • Testosterone therapy can assist in maintaining muscle mass and strength.
  • Mood and Cognitive Function
    • Improved hormone levels can enhance mood and cognitive abilities.
  • Fatigue and Energy Levels
    • Men often experience increased energy and reduced fatigue with BHRT.
Snakeroot icon

Personalized Approach

One of the significant advantages of BHRT is its personalized approach. Hormone levels are assessed through comprehensive testing, and treatments are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. This personalized therapy ensures that hormone levels are optimized to provide the most benefit while minimizing side effects. During your treatment course, we will also address your sleep habits, digestion and nutrition. Additional supplements and prescriptions can be given at this time.

Ajwain Seed icon

Safety and Efficacy

While BHRT is generally considered safe, it’s crucial to undergo treatment under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Regular monitoring and adjustments are necessary to ensure optimal hormone levels and to mitigate any potential risks.

Andrographis icon

How Do I Get Started?

If you are wondering what BHRT can do for you, call us today to schedule your blood work and consultation.

Call us at 513-845-4558 to schedule a simple blood test and consult with our nurse practitioner and hormone expert, Leslie Susan Secrist, FNP-C.

To complete your BHRT labs you can go to AccuDoc Root Cause in Harrison.  Click here to schedule an appointment..

Scroll to Top