Hormone Therapy for Women in Cornelius
Our approach to hormone therapy aims to resolve hormonal imbalances by optimizing diet, lifestyle, and supplementation. This personalized treatment plan considers the intricate relationship between diet, stress, gut health, detoxification, and hormonal systems.
Menopause brings a variety of symptoms that can be managed with hormone therapy, but a holistic approach considers a wider spectrum of symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, irritability, insomnia, and mood swings. This approach provides a broader range of solutions for postmenopausal women.
Estrogen therapy via nutrition is a popular method to alleviate menopause symptoms and manage estrogen deficiency. Another effective method is the use of bioidentical hormones—artificial hormones that are chemically identical to those naturally produced by the body. While bioidentical hormones are effective, the nutritional approach to balancing hormones is often considered one of the most successful methods.
For women over 40 or 50, particularly those who are not suitable for conventional hormone replacement therapies, this holistic method is ideal. This approach is particularly helpful for women with a higher breast cancer risk or those with a history of uterine, ovarian cancers, or conditions like blood clots, stroke, or cardiovascular disease.
Our Functional Nutrition Approach to Hormone Balance
We also inform our clients about bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), which involves a doctor's prescription along with careful monitoring.
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BLOOD SUGAR STABILITY
Managing blood sugar levels is important for maintaining hormonal balance. Regular meals that combine protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates will help achieve this. Limiting simple carbs, refined sugars, and high-glycemic foods will prevent insulin spikes, which may interfere with hormones.
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HEALTHY FATS
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential for hormone production. Adding foods like flaxseeds, walnuts, chia seeds, and fish can support hormone synthesis and reduce inflammation.
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PHYTONUTRIENTS
Foods high in phytoestrogens, such as soy, flaxseeds, and legumes, can help balance estrogen levels. Cruciferous vegetables like kale, cauliflower, and broccoli aid estrogen metabolism and can help prevent osteoporosis.
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GUT HEALTH
The gut plays an essential role in hormonal balance. Dysbiosis, or an imbalance of gut bacteria, can contribute to hormonal issues like estrogen dominance. To keep the gut microbiome healthy, it’s important to eat foods rich in fiber, probiotics, and fermented foods.
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DETOXIFICATION SUPPORT
Estrogen and other hormones are detoxified in the liver. A diet rich in antioxidants, sulfur-containing vegetables like garlic, onions, and cruciferous vegetables, along with adequate hydration, supports liver function. Reducing alcohol and processed foods also helps.
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STRESS MANAGEMENT
Chronic stress can elevate cortisol levels, affecting hormonal balance. To reduce stress, incorporate yoga, mindfulness practices, meditation, and ensure sufficient sleep.
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PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Moderate, regular physical activity helps maintain hormonal balance by reducing stress, improving insulin sensitivity, and aiding in weight management. Over-exercising, particularly in women, can cause hormonal disruptions, making it essential to tailor exercise plans to the individual’s needs.
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MONITORING AND ADJUSTMENTS
Hormone levels should be tracked regularly using blood tests. Based on the results, dietary and lifestyle adjustments may be necessary. Regular assessments help ensure that the strategy continues to work as the body evolves.
TARGETED SUPPLEMENTATION
Adaptogens: Adaptogens such as ashwagandha, Rhodiola, and maca are herbs that can help balance cortisol and support adrenal function with reduced health risks.
Micronutrients: Magnesium, vitamin D, B vitamins, and zinc are necessary for proper hormone production and balance. If your diet doesn’t supply these nutrients, supplementation may be required.
Herbal Support: Vitex, or Chaste Tree Berry, is an herb traditionally used to balance hormones, especially to address symptoms of PMS and irregular menstruation.
