These prodromes are easy to associate with our hormones but some of the more complicated symptoms make the cause more difficult to identify. When left untreated we may notice: ■ Memory loss, ■ Cognitive decline, ■ Muscle cramps, ■ Joint inflammation, ■ A “hump” of fat accumulating at the shoulder blades, ■ Numbness and tingling in extremities, and ■ Even changes in blood pressure. The slow onset of symptoms and age-old stereotypes allows for the ability to dismiss early warning signs as a part of “normal aging” when, in fact, they are anything but. essential in the pursuit of maintaining optimal health and vitality.” “The importance of hormonal balance is
Our skin is another area of note. While decreasing collagen production and excessive sun exposure play a part in the development of fine lines and wrinkles, low estrogen, progesterone, and DHEA might be stealing the show. When we suffer an imbalance of these three hormones, our skin elasticity suffers. The tissue becomes thinner and more prone to wrinkling due to increased dryness and reduced blood flow. All of these “normal age-related changes” add up. One day, crows feet appear, the next, we have blood pressure issues, no physical stamina, and a bad back. The importance of hormonal balance is essential in the pursuit of maintaining optimal health and vitality. Functional medicine practices have come a long way in their ability to diagnose and treat the root cause of these symptoms. Individualized treatment plans are created through simple blood and urine tests. Often, when caught early enough, subtle shifts in routine, diet, and environment can be all it takes to rectify the minor symptoms. For the larger, more concerning issues, working with a provider trained in hormone replacement therapy can be all it takes to get you back to feeling like yourself again. There is no universe in which feeling anything less than your best is “normal.” Advocate for yourself to find comfort and safety in the skin you’re in. n
Nisha Jackson, Ph.D., MS, NP, HHP is a nationally recognized hormone expert and gynecology health specialist renowned as a lecturer, motivation speaker, radio host, columnist, and author. She is owner and founder of OnePeak Medical specializing in functional medicine, hormone balance, age management, and disease prevention for both men and women.
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August 2023 | The Business Review
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