The human body has hundreds of hormones working together and against one another. The organs that produce and regulate these hormones, like the adrenal and thyroid glands, can become slow and sluggish under stress, just like other organs. When under stress, balancing hormones for optimum health takes more conscious work to relieve some of the excess strain on our organs. Menopause is one natural life occurrence that can trigger hormone imbalance, but a poor diet, excess stress, or lack of sleep can contribute to imbalances at any life stage.

Mood, weight, energy, and even body temperature are regulated by your thyroid. It plays a vital part in metabolism. Changing your diet to include more vegetables is a good start to supporting your thyroid in its proper functioning. Kelp supplements, along with vitamins C, E, and B-complex are often recommended to help thyroid function, as well.

Melatonin

Produced by the pineal gland in the brain, is responsible for your natural sleep cycle and bodily rhythms. The secretion of melatonin can be thrown off by a number of things, but most commonly by ignoring your natural sleep cycle, and pushing to maintain a hectic schedule. Backlit screens, such as your computer, and bright lights near bedtime can also have a negative effect on melatonin production. Melatonin supplements are available over the counter. Some lifestyle changes that encourage good sleep habits, like not using backlit screens within an hour of bedtime, switching to red lights late in the evening, and waking up at the same time every day can boost your natural melatonin production.

Insulin

The pancreas produces insulin in response to glucose in the blood. Too little insulin results in glucose in the urine, a classic sign of diabetes. Insulin resistance occurs when the body isn’t using the insulin effectively, causing the pancreas to secrete it in increasing amounts. Incorrect insulin balance from an overworked pancreas can cause weight gain, and trouble losing weight. You may become tired and will have difficulty concentrating. Choosing carbohydrate sources that are absorbed more slowly, and eating more protein can help balance your blood sugar. Chromium is a commonly recommended supplement to help your body use insulin more effectively.

Menopause may be a natural change but it’s a stress on your body. Balancing other hormones will make it easier for your body to bring oestrogen, testosterone, and progesterone back into balance as well, easing menopause symptoms.

Embracing healthy lifestyle changes, and taking natural supplements regularly can help ease the symptoms of menopause and help balance hormones. Each woman’s needs are unique, so if you would like help in attaining internal balance again, please contact me.