Hormones work as the body’s chemical messengers, essentially giving our cells the impetus to function rather than just sitting there. Our hormones travel through our bloodstream to tissues and organs, and they work to affect different processes – such as metabolism, reproduction, mood, sexual function, and even growth.
Our hormones therefore play an essential role in the overall function of the body. Even the slightest change in hormone production can affect our bodily processes and how we feel physically. When we produce too much or too little of a given hormone, chances are we are experiencing hormonal imbalance.
Since a main role of hormones is to regulate major bodily functions such as heart rate, sleep cycles, body temperature, and stress levels, it is important to treat any imbalances. Both men and women can be affected by imbalances in insulin, adrenaline, and cortisol hormones.
How to Correct Hormonal Imbalance
Hormonal fluctuations are normal among both males and females, especially during puberty and menopause/andropause. However, hormonal imbalance might be an indication that there’s an underlying medical condition which needs to be addressed, such as diabetes.
Lifestyle- and diet-based causes of hormone imbalances can be corrected in simple ways, including the following:
- Eat protein at every meal. Dietary protein is rich in amino acids, which are essential in maintaining muscle, bone, and skin health. Consuming adequate protein can trigger hormone production, thereby making you feel full and energetic.
- Consume healthy natural fats and avoid unhealthy processed fats. This can help to reduce insulin resistance and stimulate the production of hormones that help control appetite.
- Avoid a diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates. Sugar and refined carbs have been shown to contribute to insulin resistance. Reducing your consumption of sweets and overall carbohydrate intake can help regulate your insulin levels.
- Increase your activity levels. Exercise has a positive and direct effect on hormonal health. Incorporate regular exercise, such as strength training, to help regulate your hormone levels and protect muscle mass.
How Do I Know if I Have a Hormonal Imbalance?
There are certain signs and symptoms that can indicate a hormonal imbalance, including:
- Unexplained weight gain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Hypersensitivity to hot and cold weather
- Breast tenderness
- Decrease in sex drive
- Increased thirst
- Changes in heart rate and palpitations
No matter what the symptoms are, it is best to seek medical help if you notice any sudden changes in your body. There are various treatments that your endocrinologist can prescribe to you, depending upon your hormone level results and any underlying medical conditions.
Endocrinologist Dr. Lurie in Miami Beach, Florida
If you are in or near Miami Beach and you think you may have a hormone imbalance, see our expert endocrinologist Dr. Alexander Lurie. He can give you a full medical evaluation and determine whether your symptoms are being caused by a hormonal imbalance or by another underlying condition.
If you do have an issue with your hormones, Dr. Lurie can treat your hormonal imbalance with natural and prescription methods – depending on your issue and what you prefer. He treats everything from diabetes to thyroid issues to pituitary and adrenal issues.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Lurie by calling us at (305) 456-4840, or you may fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to seeing you!
