For many years, doctors recommended hormone replacement therapy for post-menopausal women. This type of therapy was comprised of progestin and estrogen, which was designed to control the unpleasant symptoms of menopause. However, researchers found women who were taking these hormones were at an increased risk of developing health problems later in life. In light of …
For many years, doctors recommended hormone replacement therapy for post-menopausal women. This type of therapy was comprised of progestin and estrogen, which was designed to control the unpleasant symptoms of menopause. However, researchers found women who were taking these hormones were at an increased risk of developing health problems later in life. In light of this information, doctors developed bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, which is closer to the natural hormones made in a woman’s body. In addition to being a safer alternative to synthetic hormones, this therapy promotes muscle strength as women age.
The Effects Of Aging
As women age, many changes take place within the body. Cravings for sugar and carbohydrates occur more often, as a result of the lower levels of dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine.
This causes women to feel lethargic and unhappy, which often leads to indulging in high carbohydrate foods for a quick pick-me up. Aging also causes reduced testosterone and estrogen levels, which decreases the amount of lean muscle mass a woman is able to build and maintain. Keeping as much lean muscle mass is key to keeping weight within normal limits because the body burns more fat at rest when it has more muscle.
When testosterone levels are low, it can lead to the body producing less insulin. This means that carbohydrates are more often stored as fat and muscles have less ability to recover from strenuous activities. Women also experience a great deal of bone loss during menopause, which can lead to osteoporosis.
Symptoms Of Imbalanced Hormones
Women who suffer from hormonal imbalances before, during and after menopause often have symptoms such as:
How Hormone Replacement Therapy Can Help
Hormone replacement therapy can help slow the effects of aging and menopause. Studies have shown that women who take hormone replacements have more energy, sleep better and are happier than those who do not. In addition, hormone replacement therapy helps women increase and maintain more lean muscle tissue, which reduces weight gain. Hormone replacement therapy has helped many women regain control of their weight and athletic performance. Anyone suffering from hormonal imbalances, should consult their doctor about the benefits of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy.
