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HORMONE DEFICIENCY... A CAUSE OF CHRONIC ILLNESS
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by Linda Wright, MD, MD(H)
Suzanne Somers popularized bio-identical hormones in her books, The Sexy Years and Ageless. Starting in their 30's men and women experience declines in hormone levels including thyroid, estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA and growth hormone.
Ten years or more before actual menopause, women's hormones decline. These hormonal changes are often misdiagnosed. Many women (and men) experiencing very real symptoms are simply told "it is all in your head". They are offered anti-depressant therapy without addressing underlying hormonal imbalances.
Hormone Deficiency Can Cause:
* fatigue "brain fog" * weight gain
* muscle/joint aches * insomnia
* anxiety/depression * loss of libido
* vaginal dryness * hair loss & hot flashes
What Are Bio-Identical Hormones? Bio-identical” hormones have chemical structures identical to that made by the human body. However, most hormone prescriptions written today are not bio-identical (e.g. Premarin) and differ by a molecule or two. Because these are patentable, they are promoted by the pharmaceutical industry. Structural differences existing between them and bio-identical ones are most likely the cause of side effects experienced by people taking structurally altered versions.
For replacement hormones to fully replicate the function of hormones produced in the human body, their chemical structure must match the original exactly. Bio-identical hormones can be obtained by physician prescription through a compounding pharmacy.
Herbal Therapies or Bio-Identical Hormones? New highly effective herbal therapies have become available over the last several years. Often these work when others have not. Matching the patient, their philosophy, preferences and individual biochemistry is paramount to success. Some prefer herbal or homeopathic remedies; others prefer bio-identical hormones.
Multiple Deficiency Syndrome? People with complex health problems often have a multiple deficiency syndrome — a shortage in various nutrients and hormones. When specific nutrients are low, you can’t make hormones. When these deficiencies are corrected, many if not all symptoms resolve. For some women, hormone balance can be achieved without adding bio-identical hormones.
Hormones are orders of magnitude more powerful than drugs. A skilled physician can suggest a healing, hormonally supportive diet, natural medicinal supplements and, as needed, proper doses of natural / bio-identical hormones which regain and retain your health.
LINDA WRIGHT, MD, MD(H).Board Certified Internal Medicine, Conventional and Homeopathic Licenses. Valley Locations. 480-483-8986.
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