 ASK
OUR EXPERTS...
What does hormone imbalance mean and how can it affect me?
By Dr. Patricia Wales & Dr. Jennifer Bunzenmeyer
Pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS), irregular menses, infertility, fibrocystic
breasts, uterine fibroids and menopause are women’s health conditions that
are caused by an imbalance in hormones. Causes can include exogenous
estrogens; chemicals found in food, air and water; malfunctions in liver
detox pathways and stress.
Xenoestrogens, found in plastics, pesticides, detergents, solvents and
chlorinated water, are chemicals that mimic estrogen and cause an excess
estrogen state. When estrogen is overabundant, progesterone becomes low in
relativity. Lowered progesterone or progesterone low in relation to the
levels of estrogen present can lead to an irregular or shortened menstrual
cycle; PMS symptoms like irritability and anxiety; uterine fibroids and
ongoing heavy bleeding through the month. Decreasing estrogen through
support of the liver detox pathways and supplementation of
progesterone-supporting substances such as chastetree, vitamin B6 and
evening primrose oil can help the situation.
The liver makes cholesterol which is the “backbone” to all our hormones. It
also breaks down estrogen and sends it to the intestines to be excreted. If
this function is jeopardized, the result is an excess of estrogen in our
body. Liver function is hindered by chemicals in food, environmental toxins,
bowel toxicity, high fat diets, drugs, alcohol and nutritional deficiencies.
Naturopathic doctors seek to optimize liver function with B vitamins, milk
thistle, dandelion, rosemary and choline. Liver detox programs and support
are a very effective way to enhance liver function.
Stress can cause a hormonal imbalance by increasing production of the stress
hormones including adrenalin and cortisol. This causes progesterone,
estrogen, testosterone and thyroid hormone production to be “sacrificed” in
lieu of making more of the stress hormones. For example, in menopause,
ovarian hormone production decreases and therefore the adrenal glands are
called upon to make more estrogen and progesterone to provide a balanced
transition into menopause. An overabundance of stress contributes to a
decrease in estrogen and progesterone production in the adrenals. Then a
further sudden large drop in estrogen causes symptoms such as hot flashes,
insomnia and decreased thinking and memory function.
By looking at proper estrogen metabolism, hormone balance, lifestyle
factors, liver function and decreasing stress, naturopathic doctors are able
to help with this imbalance.
For more health advice, contact Dr. Patricia J. Wales, BSc ND & Dr.
Jennifer Bunzenmeyer, BSc ND at 403.301.0123.
www.ndclinic.com
|
