Hormone decline refers to the gradual drop in levels of key hormones like estrogen, progesterone, testosterone and growth hormones as we age. This decline starts in our 20s and 30s and accelerates through peri-menopause and menopause in women, and andropause in men.
Some key signs of hormone decline include:
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Loss of muscle mass
- Decreased libido
- Mood changes
- Sleep disturbances
The impacts can be wide-ranging. For women, plummeting
estrogen and progesterone can lead to hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and increased risk of osteoporosis. For men, dipping
testosterone spells trouble for energy, strength, libido and erectile function.
So what causes our youthful hormones to take a nosedive? Well, our glands and organs like the ovaries, testes and pituitary produce less of these hormones as we get older. Lifestyle factors like poor diet, excess body fat, high stress and lack of sleep likely accelerate decline too.
The good news? There are ways to slow or mitigate hormone drop-off:
- Eat a nutritious whole foods diet: Containing healthy fats, high fiber carbs and quality protein to provide building blocks for hormones and maintain ideal weight.
- Exercise regularly: To improve hormone sensitivity in tissues and keep fit. Both cardio and strength training are key.
- Reduce stress and get enough sleep: High cortisol and lack of sleep hamper hormone function.
- Consider bioidentical hormone therapy: Like that offered by Renew Hormone Institute. Expert physicians prescribe plant-based hormones identical to those our bodies make. Dosing is personalized to restore optimal levels safely. Many patients report feeling decades younger on bioidentical hormone replacement therapy with minimal risks. Renew Hormone Institute takes a holistic approach, addressing diet, lifestyle and specific symptoms alongside hormone optimization. I’d recommend making an introductory appointment to learn more!
While some hormone decline is inevitable, understanding the process allows us to slow it and manage impacts through diet, exercise, stress-reduction and when useful,
bioidentical hormone therapy. Don't just resign yourself to unpleasant symptoms - take charge of your vitality with resources like Renew Hormone Institute! Let me know if you have any other questions.