06/06/2022
For years I have avoided this costly mistake made by most doctors and their patients who want to dabble in hormones. They run a blood test and put all their weight behind a single marker ---TSH, for example, or maybe cortisol--for all their clinical decision making.
I have explained to those I care about that this "report card" method only works when a medication needs managing ----Should I increase the dose, or lower it? Or, when a patient is taking bioidenticals.
It's easy to forget that hormones on a blood test only check production, and disregards what is at the root of your hormonal imbalances:
~Food allergies & gut flora imbalances: New scientific research shows that the flora in your gut (microbiome) plays a crucial role in hormone regulation and regulating inflammation that is at the root of so many chronic illnesses. If you have IBS, SIBO, leaky gut syndrome or a lack of good gut bacteria residing in your intestines, you’re more susceptible to hormonal imbalances.
~High levels of inflammation
~Genetic predisposition
~High levels of toxin exposure including exposure to pesticides, harmful bacteria, parasites, viruses, cigarette smoke (even second-hand), excessive alcohol and other harmful chemicals or compounds like lead and formaldehyde
~High amounts of stress and regular release of stress hormones like cortisol, paired with a lack of rest and deep sleep. In my practice, this is one of the biggest contributors to hormonal imbalances!
Balancing hormones naturally can frequently have additional benefits such as increased energy, weight loss, improved sleep, and healthier skin.
The earlier hormonal imbalances are diagnosed, the sooner you can start addressing them naturally, which is why I strongly advocate for 3 types of hormonal testing for patients and a deeper dive into what is at the root!