Hormones are the little chemical that make your whole body work, folks. Without these messages, the cart would come off of the horse pretty quickly!
Produced by your endocrine glands — including your reproductive system, pancreas, thyroid and adrenal glands — these natural chemicals are what help ensure your body is running smoothly and everything is in sync. When your hormones are not balanced, your body will let that be known in a variety of ways, including the ones described below.
Ever-present fatigue
Everyone gets tired at times. However, you should be able to recover with a good diet, hydration and proper rest. If you feel as if you are tired all the time no matter how well you take care of yourself, it may be time to have your hormone levels evaluated. Both adrenal fatigue or hypothyroidism could be the culprit, among other hormone disorders.
More and more anxiety
Anxiety is common in the U.S. Women may have a higher risk of developing anxiety disorder because of the changes in their estrogen levels during pregnancy, menstrual cycles or menopause. Men who have lower levels of testosterone are also more likely to develop anxiety than those who have normal levels.
Weight gain or loss difficulties
When you eat too little and work too much, you are putting stress on your body. This can lead your body into a “flight or fight” mode, and this produces the stress hormone known as cortisol. When you are under consistent stress, your level of this hormone is always high. To protect you in this scenario, your body begins to holding onto fat as an energy reserve instead of burning it off. You can have your blood levels of cortisol tested; if they are excessively high, work out a plan with your doctor.
Skin or hair changes
Sudden acne or hair problems can both be signs that something is going on with your hormones. Some thyroid disorders, for example, can cause hair loss or brittle hair. If you are experiencing new hair or skin issues, be sure to talk to your doctor.
Don’t suffer a potential hormone imbalance in silence. If you suspect you may have a condition related to your hormones, speak to your doctor right away. In many cases, a simple blood test can identify the problem so you can take the next steps toward feeling more like your best self.
