How Do I Know if I Have a Hormonal Imbalance?

How Do I Know if I Have a Hormonal Imbalance?

Hormone imbalances tend to develop over time, and the symptoms are often non-specific, leading conventional medical doctors to discount them. Some people who seek naturopathic treatment have a hormonal imbalance and have never realized it. 

Signs of a hormonal imbalance include:

• Fatigue and sleep issues
• Digestive issues
• Weight gain, especially around the abdomen
• Migraines
• Mood swings
• Night sweats and hot flashes
• Irregular menstrual periods
• Changes in hair and skin

An imbalance in thyroid hormones can cause issues with metabolism and energy. Adrenal hormones manage vital body functions like blood pressure and responding to stress. Insulin regulates the body’s use of glucose, a critical fuel for the cells, especially in the brain. 

How are Hormonal Imbalances Treated?

Your evaluation begins with testing to determine whether you have an imbalance in one or more hormones. Dr. Cutler will review all the factors affecting your hormone levels and develop a plan to address them. This plan may use treatments such as:

• Eliminating toxicants (hormone-altering chemicals occur in many household items)
• Appropriate supplements
• Physical activity
• Diet and nutrition
• Stress reduction
• Decreasing Caffeine and alcohol use

Many people start to see symptom improvements within a few weeks as the lifestyle changes take effect. Detoxification can take time, depending on your level of toxicants. Almost all of us come into contact with hormone-altering chemicals multiple times a day, often but not always from plastics. Caffeine and alcohol also affect hormone balances and overall health, so you will benefit from limiting or eliminating them. 

What Can Hormone Imbalance Treatment Do?

Since hormonal imbalances often affect the metabolism, many people find that treatment gives them more energy and helps them lose weight more easily. You may see healthier-looking skin and hair. Many people notice improvements in mood and quality of sleep. Chronic digestive issues may also resolve without any other treatment.