Your hormones are part of the puzzle for a well-functioning body. They affect every process — from digestion to appetite to mood. If they are out of balance, they can have a huge impact on your quality of life. That is where bioidentical hormone therapy comes in. To manage any imbalances, BHRT can be a great complement to a healthy diet and exercise. But what are bioidentical hormones? And how do they help you relieve your symptoms?
What Are Bioidentical Hormones?
Whether it is a drop or increase, an imbalance in estrogen or testosterone can lead to uncomfortable symptoms. The level of discomfort can vary from person to person, but symptoms can range from mild to intolerable. Many experience weight gain, low sex drive, hot flashes, and night sweats.
This is particularly true if you are experiencing perimenopause or menopause, where your estrogen levels are dropping or already low. Many women find that their symptoms become unbearable, requiring hormone replacement. Men who experience andropause can encounter similar symptoms.
One of your options is bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. Bioidentical hormones are human-made hormones that come from plant estrogens. They are created to be chemically identical to the hormones your body produces.
Traditional HRT, on the other hand, uses hormones extracted from the urine of pregnant horses and other synthetic sources.
Side effects are part of the reason why many prefer going the BHRT route. Since bioidentical hormones are exactly like the ones you naturally produce, you may experience fewer side effects with less severity.
How Do I Optimize My Results From Hormone Therapy?
It is always helpful to optimize other aspects of your lifestyle before and during BHRT. You may even find some relief in these lifestyle changes. They can also ensure that you get the best results possible from your treatment.
Exercise
Regular physical activity can strengthen your bones and muscles, increase your lean muscle mass, improve your energy levels, and help optimize your cardiovascular health. Endorphins are another positive side effect that can boost your mood.
Healthy Diet
An unhealthy diet can make you feel sluggish throughout the day. Taking on a healthier diet with minimally processed foods can do wonders for your mood and your energy levels. Making just one change per week can set you on track for a better lifestyle.
Quit Smoking
While quitting smoking may prove to be a longer journey, you will experience significant benefits in the long run. Certain studies find that smoking can affect your endocrine function, disrupting your hormone levels.
Practice Good Sleep Hygiene
Sleep affects your stress hormones, mood, and energy levels. Going to sleep and waking up at a reasonable time every day can help reduce the amount of stress and fatigue you experience on a daily basis.
Find a Bioidentical Hormone Provider Today
If you are still wondering What are bioidentical hormones? then reach out to one of our providers. They can help answer any lingering questions you have about how BHRT works.
Find a practitioner approved by Simpatra™ in your area today.