As a woman ages, her body undergoes a variety of changes. With age, natural hormone levels start to decline which creates hormonal imbalance. Eventually periods cease entirely and the body begins to prepare for another transition, menopause. Menopause can leave the hormone levels awry in a woman's body resulting in hot flashes, depression, and fatigue. This is caused by the decline of three key hormones: estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. In addition, memory loss and decreased energy levels negatively impact hormonal production. Keep reading to find out how hormone levels affect the body during menopause.
Why Are my Hormones Imbalanced?
Hormones fluctuate rapidly throughout a women's life. Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate different bodily functions. Hormones are made by the body's glands such as the thyroid. During menopause, hormones become imbalanced as the ovaries begin to cease functioning. Estrogen production declines alongside progesterone leaving the hormones off-balance.
How Do I Control My Hormones?
To correct hormonal imbalance, it's important to make healthy lifestyle choices since hormonal imbalance can be prevented with a balanced diet and regular exercise. A diet rich in complex carbohydrates such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins are essential to keeping your body and hormone levels in check. Additionally, healthy fats such as avocados and nuts should be incorporated into a well-balanced diet. It is important to avoid caffeinated drinks and alcohol; when the body is trying to process toxins like caffeine and alcohol, it is more likely to suffer from hormonal imbalance which can lead to fluctuations in weight.
Sleep is a necessity of life, but many women do not receive sufficient amounts as work, relationships, and family cut into one's resting. People who get between seven and eight hours of sleep daily have been proven to live longer because the body is rested and is able to avoid hormonal imbalance and weight loss.
Hormones are critical to maintain healthy body function. There is no single answer for all women who experience hormonal imbalance. However, addressing the problem and identifying the tell-tale solutions that will work best can help a woman cope with her changing hormones. Click here to read more about natural hormones and their effect on menopause.