Women who experience menopause are not necessarily destined to suffer from hot flashes, impaired mood, muscle loss, poor sleep, memory difficulties, and sexual problems.
Menopausal symptoms are signs of an imbalance in sex hormones, which can be mitigated.
First, let's clarify two terms: perimenopause and menopause.
Perimenopause refers to the period one year before menopause when women may have anovulatory cycles, meaning they don't ovulate every month. During this time, hormone levels may fluctuate, and some women may experience various symptoms, although not everyone does.
These symptoms can include hot flashes, night sweats, irritability, sleep disturbances, and migraines, among others.
It can be a challenging time for some individuals.
When women have not had their periods
for one year, menopause officially begins.
This phase can also be associated with similar symptoms as those experienced during perimenopause, such as low libido, vaginal dryness, and low bone density.
However, it is important to note that the manifestation and severity of symptoms can vary greatly among women. Each person's experience with menopause will be unique.
When discussing hormone replacement therapy, we need to address a few important questions: who will benefit from it, what goals should be achieved, which type of hormone is preferred, and what is the best method of administration?
There are four commonly prescribed hormones: estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA).
Today, we will focus on the first two hormones: estrogen and progesterone.
The prescription of estrogen is a highly debated topic.
It can support heart and bone health, protect against dementia and Alzheimer's, alleviate hot flashes, improve sleep disturbances, relieve vaginal dryness, and boost libido.
Estrogen also offers skin benefits by increasing hydration, thickening the skin, enhancing elasticity, and reducing wrinkles.
Additionally, it can assist in treating insulin resistance and preventing type 2 diabetes.
But, on the other hand, it still carries a risk of breast cancer, clot formation, and liver damage. So, how can we reduce these risks?
There are two groups of estrogens currently available.
The first group is synthetic, which is derived from the urine of a pregnant horse.
These estrogens are not identical to our own and are associated with adverse effects such as breast cancer, clot formation, and liver damage.
They also suppress the production of our natural estrogens and have difficulties in being excreted from the body.
The second group is bioidentical estrogens, which are derived from plants but still undergo processing in the laboratory to mimic our hormones. While they are not completely identical, they are similar to the hormones produced by the human body.
However, since they are hormones, they still have an impact on liver function and coagulation.
It's important to note that estrogens come in several forms, including pills, patches, gels, injections, and intravaginal applications.
And to avoid liver damage, clots, and blood spikes it is better to apply it on the skin rather than take oral.
It is very important to apply the gel on the same skin surface so the absorption is stable and constant.
Spread a thin layer of the estradiol gel on a large surface as it produces a longer action that will last a full 24 hours.
All estrogen therapies should be combined with progesterone for safety reasons.
Progesterone is an antagonist for estrogen. It blocks excessive estrogen activity and possibly cancer cancer-promoting effect of estrogen.
It helps with muscle and nervous tenseness, irritability and aggressiveness, anxiety, and abdominal bloating.
How naturally boost estradiol and progesterone?
First of all by your diet. Eat enough calories with enough protein and saturated fat.
Add additional amino acid supplements, like l-arginine.
There are also a few supplements, that can stimulate estrogen production like boron, vitamin D, and E. Add to your diet flex and sesame seeds, soybeans, garlic, and peaches.
Avoid sugar and decrease your intake of cereal fiber, like whole grain bread, and milk products in your diet.
1. Maintain a healthy weight: Excess body fat can lead to hormonal imbalances, so maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help optimize hormone levels. But don't overexercise.
3. Manage stress levels: Chronic stress can disrupt hormone production and balance.
Practicing stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or spending time outdoors can be beneficial.
4. Get enough sleep: Adequate sleep is crucial for hormone regulation. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to support healthy hormone levels.
5. Consider herbal supplements: Some herbs like Maca root, black cohosh, and chasteberry (vitex) have been traditionally used to support hormonal balance. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting hormone replacement therapy. And if you need help and support don't hesitate to ask me.
