Could It Be a Hormone Imbalance? Testing Can Help Find The Answer

If you are noticing sudden changes in your weight, energy levels, skin, mood, or irregular menstrual cycles, your body is signalling to you that there is an imbalance. Your body communicates internally through the use of hormones which are chemical messengers that impact how our cells and organs function. They control a number of bodily functions, including our appetite, sleep, libido, and stress response.

Imbalances occur when there is too much or too little of a hormone in the bloodstream - essentially cutting communication with the organs they deliver messages to, or sending far too many messages and mixing up signals. In some cases, even slight imbalances can cause significant changes in the body. So if you feel something is “off” with your health, know that this is not just a normal symptom you need to live with - it may be a hormone imbalance!

The good news is, we have come a long way in integrative healthcare, and pinpointed hormone imbalances can be brought back to normal, healthy levels so that you can get back to living your healthiest and best life.

Symptoms of Hormone Imbalances

It can be difficult to tell whether symptoms are caused by hormonal imbalance, or another underlying issue. For instance, fatigue could be caused by lifestyle factors, or it could be due to an excess of the hormone progesterone. That's why hormone testing is crucial when determining the root cause of your symptoms.

Here are some symptoms of hormonal imbalance to watch out for:

• Changes in appetite

• Weight gain despite exercise and healthy diet

• Sudden weight loss despite eating the same diet and maintaining the same level of exercise

• Sleep problems such as trouble falling asleep or staying asleep

• Chronic acne, dry and brittle hair and other skin conditions

• Brain fog and difficulty concentrating

• Digestive issues

• Persistent fatigue, headaches and migraines

• In women, irregular menstrual cycles and PMS

• In men, erectile dysfunction

It’s important to discuss your symptoms in depth with a practitioner - I can help! They may recommend hormone testing to discern whether or not you have an imbalance.

Common Hormone Tests 

A variety of methods can be used to test hormone levels to get to the root cause of your symptoms. The test you receive will be based on your diagnostic needs.

Common hormone tests integrative practitioners perform include:

Saliva test

This simple test shows which hormones are freely available to the body, rather than the total amount of hormones in the bloodstream. It is particularly useful in detecting the hormone cortisol, which is linked to stress. This is because just thinking about blood tests and needles can raise people’s cortisol levels, providing an inaccurate picture of the hormones’ typical role in the body.

Blood serum test

This test allows your practitioner to look at the concentration of hormones in the bloodstream. Blood serum tests can measure important hormones such as insulin, testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, and hormones connected to the thyroid.

Hair sample

Strands of hair can be used to measure the presence of the hormone cortisol. The first 1 cm of hair closest to the scalp indicates around one month of cortisol production. If you feel chronically stressed, your practitioner may suggest this test.

Hormone testing may be worth looking into if you feel concerned about imbalances.

Some hormonal imbalances can be temporary while others are chronic (long-term).

They may require treatment so that you can maintain good health and feel your best.

Conditions Can Be Diagnosed by Hormone Testing

Hormone testing can address dozens of conditions caused by hormonal imbalance.

Some of the most common include:

Infertility

Hormonal imbalance is the number one reason women have difficulty conceiving. The most common hormonal disorder in women is polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), which can lead to infertility, irregular periods, ovarian cysts, and weight gain.

Thyroid Disease

There are two types of thyroid disease: hypothyroidism (low thyroid levels) and hyperthyroidism (high thyroid levels). Hypothyroidism (or under active thyroid) occurs when the thyroid gland doesn't make enough thyroid hormone. Over time, hypothyroidism that isn't treated can lead to other health problems, such as high cholesterol and heart problems. Hyperthyroidism causes excess levels of thyroid hormones that can then speed up the body's metabolism, trigger anxiety and unexplained or unplanned weight loss.

Irregular menstrual cycles

Many hormones play a role in the menstrual cycle, so an imbalance in any can lead to problematic periods. Most women's periods arrive every 21-35 days. But if your periods are arriving late or not at all some months, it may be a sign of an imbalance of the hormones estrogen or progesterone. Painful and heavy periods can also be a sign of hormonal imbalance.

Acne

Hormones are involved in the amount of oil that your skin produces. Androgens or “male” hormones are responsible for this, and in excess they can cause your glands to produce too much oil, thus clogging the pores.

Should You Get Your Hormones Tested?

Since your hormones control so much, including sleep, hunger, and reproduction, it’s crucial to your health to keep them balanced. Your hormone production will naturally decrease as you age, however, an imbalance in hormones can amplify symptoms of brain fog, fatigue, and joint pain. Taking the initiative to get hormone testing, you can ensure your control centre is in balance!

If you feel you may be suffering from a hormonal imbalance, dealing with a condition

such as PCOS, or are approaching the age of menopause, getting your hormone levels

assessed can be an important first step in developing a holistic treatment plan.

From there, you can work with your practitioner to create a treatment plan to restore

your body’s balance and get your health back on track. Call me to learn more!

Sources

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Top Tips For Getting The Quality Sleep You Need

Despite the many scientific advances in the field of medicine over the last few decades, many of us neglect one of the most important contributors to our wellbeing: sleep. It’s a bit ironic. We now know more than ever before about the effect of lifestyle on health, but, on average, we’re sleeping less. 

The results of missing out on a good night’s sleep can undermine your efforts with nutrition and fitness. Your body needs sleep to regenerate and experience the benefits of your work towards better health. But many people experiencing sleep problems, or looking to improve health and energy levels, struggle to improve their quality of sleep. This often leads them to pharmaceutical solutions that can create more problems than they solve. A more natural approach improves the quality of your sleep without the potential for dangerous side effects. 

Why We Need Sleep

It may seem simple on the surface, but sleeping is a complex process necessary for many functions, including.

• Energy conservation so you can tackle whatever the next day holds

• Hormone release and regulation

• Muscle repair

• Processing and organizing memories and information accumulated during waking hours

• Strengthening of your immune system 

Because so much happens while we sleep, the results of not getting enough can be far-reaching. We don’t just feel tired, we are also at a higher risk of:

• Mental health problems. Almost every mental health condition can be impacted by not getting enough sleep. The frustrating element is that many mental health conditions make it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep.

• Weight gain and other metabolic concerns. Sleep regulates the hormones that control appetite, including leptin and ghrelin. Studies show that missing even one good night’s sleep can lead to poorer food choices. Missing out on sleep can lead to weight gain, metabolic syndrome, and Type 2 diabetes. 

• Weakened immunity.  You’ve probably noticed you’re more likely to get sick when you’re tired. That’s because you produce infection-fighting cytokines and other antibodies while you sleep.

• Heart problems. Several factors influencing heart health, including cortisol levels and blood pressure, are impacted by sleep.

• Accidents. You’re less focused when you are tired, and that impacts your risk of a car accident in a way similar to drinking alcohol. You’re three times more likely to get in an accident when you’re tired!

Five Ways To Improve Your Sleep - And Your Wellbeing 

1 - Improve your sleep hygiene.

Regular and predictable are the keys to a good sleep routine. It might take some experimenting to find what works for you, but many people find reading, taking a warm bath, doing some restorative yoga or meditation relaxes them. 

Try to build in a routine to separate your sleep time from the stress and activity of your day. Some people find it helps to limit their bedroom to only for sleeping. 

2 - Eat for sleep

Your diet can impact your sleep in several ways. For optimum sleep, eliminate the things that inhibit a good night’s sleep and focus on those that relax and balance your body and mind.

Avoid:

• Stimulants like caffeine, especially after noon as it takes upwards of 4 hours to clear your system.

• Alcohol before bedtime. Although alcohol is a depressant and can make you feel sleepy, it often disrupts your natural sleep cycles and you may find yourself waking up frequently. 

• Spicy and overly heavy foods, which can make you too uncomfortable to sleep and cause indigestion.

Choose instead:

• Chamomile tea, which has proven sleep-enhancing effects. 

• Foods high in tryptophan, which can relax you and encourage higher serotonin levels. In addition to turkey’s infamous tryptophan content, foods that contain tryptophan include salmon, pineapple, tofu, many nuts and seeds, and eggs.

• Some research suggests that consuming foods high in carbohydrates, like potatoes or rice, with foods containing tryptophan has a positive influence on sleep. 

• Certain supplements can be beneficial for improving sleep, but be sure to work with a healthcare practitioner to determine what’s right for you. Some supplements used to help sleep include magnesium, which helps regulate the neurotransmitters linked to sleep, and melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate your circadian rhythm. Herbal supplements include valerian and passion flower, which both have sedative effects.

3 - Avoid blue light before bedtime.

The blue light emitted from electronic devices can trick your body into thinking it’s day time. As a result, it slows melatonin production, the hormone that regulates your sleep cycle. Try to avoid computer and device screens in the three hours before bedtime. If you must be in front of a screen, look into blue-light blocking glasses. Many people keep their phone beside their bed, but try to put yours in another room at night. (If you use it as an alarm clock, buy a digital or standard alarm clock. You’ll be surprised at the difference this makes!)

4 - Create a sleep-friendly environment.

It’s important to work with your body’s natural rhythms. A cool, dark environment signals that it’s night time, and therefore your body will release more melatonin. In fact, one study found that room temperature is one of the most important factors in the quality of sleep. 

5 - Exercise wisely.

A regular exercise routine can help you fall asleep, but avoid intense activities at least two hours before bed. Researchers have seen positive effects on sleep from regular exercise such as yoga, strength training, and steady state cardio. 

Don’t let poor sleep undermine your quest for a healthy lifestyle. Take the first step today towards better rest, more energy and a greater sense of wellbeing. Call for an appointment with me to talk about better sleep strategies!

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Top Nutrients for Healthy, Vibrant Skin

Dreaming of hydrated glowing skin but just can’t seem to get there? Before shelling out on a new, expensive skincare routine, you may want to reconsider your diet.  

Our overall health and the quality of food that we eat is often reflected on the outside. Your skin is the largest organ of your body, and it requires proper nutrition to look and function its best. Taking care of yourself on the inside is crucial if you want to look your best on the outside. Keep reading to learn about key nutrients that will help unlock your skin’s radiance.

What Causes Poor Skin?  

There are a number of reasons your skin may not be looking its best. Some of these are:  

• Nutrient Deficiencies:  A pale or sallow complexion may indicate an iron, zinc, vitamin B12, or vitamin B6 deficiency. I recommend testing for these deficiencies and working with a practitioner to resolve nutritional shortcomings. Additionally, antioxidants such as zinc, selenium, and vitamins A, C, and E, are essential in your diet for fighting off free radicals, which age your skin. If your skin is dry, it may be a sign that you lack protein, which forms the building blocks of our skin and bodies. Fatty acids are also crucial for supporting moisture and skin health.

• Poor Diet: Eating too many processed foods or drinking alcohol in excess will affect the texture and appearance of your skin.  

• Weather: It is common to experience dryness as the weather cools down.  

• Hormonal Changes. Hormones are often to blame for many skin issues. If you are struggling with oily or acne prone skin, this may be due to an excess of androgen hormones, such as testosterone. This may cause your skin to overproduce oil, creating an environment for bacteria and acne to grow. People who menstruate may also feel skin becomes more sensitive and reactive around the time they get their period. This is due to fluctuations of the hormone estrogen throughout your body. Tracking your cycle can help you prepare for these changes. Stress hormones, like cortisol can cause flare ups in your skin as well. Existing skin conditions like acne, eczema, or psoriasis tend to worsen when stress is high.

Top Foods for Healthy Skin

What you eat has a significant impact on the appearance of your skin. Getting the right nutrients is crucial to keeping it strong and youthful.

Foods with high-quality protein, healthy fat, and antioxidants will feed your skin well. Avoiding foods that are highly processed, high in sugar, and limiting alcohol is also key, as these have been associated with increased effects of aging. 

Here are some foods you could add to your next grocery list for glowing skin:  

• Salmon contains antioxidants, fatty acids, and high-quality protein — a winning combination for skin health. Since our bodies don't produce fatty acids naturally, eating them helps to reinforce your skin's barrier and keep it moisturized. You can also find these fatty acids in fish like mackerel and herring. 

• Avocados are full of healthy fats that will help you glow on the inside and outside. Studies with over 700 women have found that high consumption of healthy fats, like those found in avocados, is associated with plumper, more youthful skin. Also, avocados contain powerful antioxidants like vitamin C & E, which help your skin build collagen and protect it from oxidative damage.  

• Sweet Potatoes are an excellent source of beta carotene, which helps protect your skin from sun exposure and prevents dry, wrinkled skin. This nutrient can also be found in spinach and carrots. 

• Bell Peppers, Tomatoes, & Broccoli are all excellent sources of vitamin C, which is essential for your skin’s production of collagen—a protein that helps keep the skin firm and strong. 

• Nuts & Seeds are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Think walnuts & sunflower seeds, which contain vitamins and omega-3s that can help reduce inflammation in your body, leading to a more even skin tone.

  Supplements for Healthy Skin 

Ideally, you want to get most of your skin-healthy nutrients through your diet. However, this may not be realistic for everybody at all times.

These supplements can be a helpful addition to support your skin (always work with a qualified health practitioner before starting any supplement protocol):   

• Vitamin E: This antioxidant helps stop the production of free radicals, which age the skin. Supplementing vitamin E daily is recommended, as it can be difficult to find in foods.  

• Vitamin C: As we know, this vital antioxidant helps our skin with collagen production. It also plays a role in cells that control skin pigmentation (melanocytes),  making it a helpful ingredient to address skin discolouration. 

• Vitamin D: Studies have found that vitamin D is protective against the skin-damaging effects of free radicals, and it also reduces inflammation. 

• Collagen: As the body’s most abundant protein, supplementing collagen can help the skin’s regeneration process. Collagen supplements come in many forms: powder, liquids, and capsules, and in bone broth.   

• Probiotics: Also found in fermented foods, probiotics are essential for maintaining immune and gut health. They play a role in mitigating numerous inflammatory conditions, such as acne, rosacea, eczema, and premature aging from UV damage:

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These are found in fish oil, supplements which have been found to help against inflammatory and autoimmune conditions affecting your skin, such as psoriasis. 

Products & Lifestyle for Healthy Skin

It is also important to make conscious choices about what our skin comes in contact with. Many cosmetics and lotions contain skin irritants that can cause issues like acne and dryness.

This database will help you find products with clean ingredients that suit your skin. 

If you are suffering with dry, dull, acne prone skin or more, working with a health practitioner who knows your health history can help get to the root cause. Together, we can review your specific lifestyle habits and get proper hormone testing to rule out any imbalances that may be affecting your skin’s health.

Reach out to me today and let’s get you back on the path to healthy and vibrant skin!

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Nagata, C., Nakamura , K., Wada, K., Oba, S., Hayashi, M., Yasuda, K., & Takeda , N. (2010, May). Association of dietary fat, vegetables and antioxidant micronutrients with skin aging in Japanese women. The British journal of nutrition. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20085665/

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