Wholistic MD

When it comes to hormone imbalances, what meets the eye is often just the tip of the iceberg. The visible symptoms you notice in yourself or others are merely a small part of a MUCH larger and more complex picture… ?? What you CAN see ??Weight Gain or Loss: Particularly sudden or unexplained increases or decreases. ??Acne and Skin Issues: Persistent or severe acne, oily skin, or sudden changes in skin texture. ??Hair Loss or Thinning: Visible thinning of hair on the scalp or noticeable hair loss. ??Excessive Hair Growth: Unusual hair growth in places like the face, chest, or back (hirsutism). ??Bloating and Digestive Issues: Noticeable bloating or distended abdomen. ??Fatigue and Lethargy: Visible signs of tiredness, such as dark circles under the eyes. ??Changes in Body Shape: Alterations in body fat distribution, such as increased abdominal fat. ??Sweating and Hot Flashes: Excessive sweating, particularly during hot flashes, and flushed skin. ??Dry Skin: Patches of dry, flaky, or scaly skin. ?? What you CAN’T see ??Not Feeling Like Themselves: Looking in the mirror and not recognizing the person they see. ??Anxiety and Depression: Persistent feelings of anxiety or depression without a clear cause. ??Mood Swings: Sudden and extreme changes in mood, feeling emotionally unstable. ??Low Self-Esteem: Decreased confidence and self-worth, feeling inadequate or unattractive. ??Brain Fog: Difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, and feeling mentally sluggish. ??Loss of Motivation: A lack of drive or interest in activities that once brought joy. ??Social Withdrawal: Pulling away from social interactions and isolating themselves. ??Body Image Issues: Negative body image and dissatisfaction with physical appearance. ??Guilt and Shame: Feelings of guilt and shame over their symptoms. Just because we can't see all of the symptoms, doesn't mean the struggle isn't real. Remember, acknowledging your hormone imbalances is the first courageous step towards reclaiming your health and vitality. ?? Ready to finally be heard? Sign up for an initial discovery call to see if we are a good fit for each other! #hormonebalance #hormone #hormones #hormonesupport #happyhormones #healthyhormones #hormoneimbalance #hormonehealth #hormonalhealth #hormonalimbalance

Poor adrenal health can have a downstream effect on other hormones. The adrenals are part of a hormonal circuit called the ovarian adrenal thyroid (OAT) axis. The OAT axis consists of: ?? The adrenals glands ?? Thyroid ?? And ovaries. Each element of the OAT axis has an impact on the other two, this means that when one component of the axis becomes out of balance, the rest suffer as a result. ??Estrogen / Progesterone Estrogen dominance and adrenal fatigue go side by side. One of the precursors to cortisol is progesterone. When the body is stressed and needs to pump out more and more cortisol, it needs more and more progesterone. This can lead to an imbalanced ratio of estrogen - progesterone, causing a phenomenon that’s often called estrogen dominance. ??Thyroid Excessive stress hormones circulating in the blood can impact enzymes that convert T4 to T3 (the active form of thyroid hormone). When stress hormones are high, this can lead to hypothyroidism if not enough of T3 is circulating. This is why you'll often encounter women with hypothyroidism who also have adrenal fatigue and sex hormone difficulties. ??Testosterone The adrenal glands are also responsible for producing DHEA. DHEA is a precursor to both estrogen and testosterone. When the adrenals are overproducing cortisol, and under producing DHEA this can lead to low testosterone levels and symptoms such as low energy levels, low libido, weight gain, weak bones, and depression. The good news is that supporting one aspect of the OAT axis will also benefit the others. And, in many cases, the resolution for resolving issues in one component is the same resolution for resolving issues in another.? Save this post to refer back to! #adrenal #adrenalhealth #adrenalfatigue #adrenalfatiguerecovery #adrenalsupport #adrenals #adrenalfatigueawareness #estrogendominance #hormonebalance #hormonebalancing

Consuming a wide variety of plants is essential to creating a healthy microbiome and an overall healthy life. One of the largest and longest studies, done out of Harvard, analyzing the impact of various foods on overall health found that: ??Those who consumed more fruits and vegetables on a daily basis, had a lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease. ??Participants who averaged 8+ servings a day had a 30% chance less risk of heart attack or stroke. ??The fruits & vegetables that appeared to have the biggest impact on health were: dark leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, and citrus fruits. Don’t have the habit of eating fruits or veggies? Here are some tips on how to add more of them to your life! ?? Add a handful of chopped veggies to your morning scramble. Can be whatever you have in the fridge ?? Drink a cup of hot water and lemon to start your day ?? Swap out your pasta for spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash ?? Add pureed veggies to any sauce that you make. ?? Add a handful of greens to your morning smoothie or protein shake ?? Add in extra chopped veggies to any casserole or baked dish. ?? Create a quick side to any meal by pan roasting veggies. ?? Try one new vegetable every week to expand your palette. ?? Add herbs to give your plate a dash of color. ?? Drink a veggie juice. Can make your own or buy. ?? Soup / stew - add in a cup of leafy greens at the end. ?? Snack on veggies with your favorite dip. (Grab a bag of pre-cut & washed carrots, snap peas, cherry tomatoes, celery, etc) Save this post with these ideas! #eatyourveggies #eattherainbow #functionalmedicine #fxmed #hollistichealth #wellnesswarrior #naturalhealthcare #healyourbody #choosehealthy #naturopathicnutrition

Did you know there are 3 common types of hormone tests? These tests include measuring hormone levels in: ?? Blood ?? Urine ?? Saliva ?? Blood testing There are two types of blood testing: serum & spot test. Blood testing identifies the amount of various hormones currently in your bloodstream. Hormone blood testing can be used to analyze the following hormones: ?? Thyroid ?? Insulin ?? Estrogen ?? Progesterone ?? Testosterone ?? DHEA-S ?? SHBG ?? LH ?? FSH ?? PSA ?? Cortisol . Blood testing may not be the best option to monitor those using topical hormonal therapies. ?? Urine testing Testing hormone levels through urine analysis involves collecting several samples throughout the day. Urine tests can assess and measure the following free hormones levels: ?? Testosterone ?? Estrogen ?? Progesterone ?? DHEA-S ?? Cortisol ?? Melatonin One benefit of measuring hormones through urine testing is that it allows for the analysis of how hormones are being metabolized. ?? Saliva testing This type of test you spit into a tube several times throughout the day. Saliva tests can provide an insight into free hormones available in the body rather than the amount of total hormones found within the bloodstream. This type of test is often used to look at the following hormone levels: ?? Testosterone ?? Estrogen ?? Progesterone ?? DHEA-S ?? Cortisol There can be limitations to this test as some hormone levels are higher or lower than in blood or urine. ??When to test: Hormone levels are constantly fluctuating throughout the month. So it’s important to mark down what day in your cycle that you completed the test. In addition, to test for certain conditions, specific days may be more beneficial than others. Ask your practitioner about this. Curious to know more about the types of hormone tests we do? Sign up for a discovery call with the link in bio! #hormonebalance #hormone #hormones #hormonesupport #happyhormones #healthyhormones #hormoneimbalance #hormonehealth #hormonalhealth #hormonalimbalance

Want to reset your hormones? Here’s HOW in 5 steps ?? 1???? Identify your imbalances via hormone testing The first step to balancing your hormones is understanding where the imbalances lie. Consider comprehensive hormone testing to pinpoint specific issues. This will provide a clear roadmap for your journey to optimal health. 2???? Add in small lifestyle habits Incorporate simple, positive habits into your daily routine. Practices like mindful meditation, adequate hydration, and consistent sleep schedules can make a big difference in your hormonal health. 3???? Remove habits that are hurting your hormones Identify and eliminate habits that may be detrimental to your hormone balance. Reduce or eliminate consumption of processed foods, limit alcohol intake, and minimize exposure to endocrine disruptors found in certain plastics and chemicals. 4???? Eat nutrient-dense food Fuel your body with whole, nutrient-dense foods. Focus on a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains. Foods high in fiber and antioxidants support hormone production and balance. 5???? Move your body daily Regular physical activity is crucial for hormone health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily, whether it’s walking, yoga, strength training, or any activity that gets you moving and feels enjoyable. Save this post to try these techniques this week! #hormonebalance #hormones #hormonesupport #healthyhormones #happyhormones #balancehormones #choosehealthy #balancedliving #healthylivingjourney #functionalmedicine

Is organic ***really*** worth it??? In my opinion, YES! Here’s why???? ?? Reduce exposure to chemicals Pesticide exposure has been linked to everything from birth defects, obesity, ADHD, and other chronic health problems. ??GMOs GMOs are genetically modified plants and there is a growing concern that these could impact health. ??More nutrient dense Studies have found that the organic contains more antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and micronutrients vs conventional products. ??Protects the bees Bees are an essential part of the growing process as they are pollinators. Pesticides pose dangers to bees and other pollinators. On a budget? The Environmental Working Group creates a guide every year with a list of produce that has the highest risk of pesticide exposure and the lowest risk so that you know where to focus your efforts. Dirty Dozen

Birth control does NOT treat the unwanted symptoms… it only masks them. The traditional approach to addressing irregular and/or painful periods is to prescribe hormonal birth control, often an oral contraceptive. Birth control pills only suppress the symptoms of heavy/painful or irregular periods, rather than treating the root cause…here’s HOW?? ??The developing egg produces estrogen. After the egg is released during ovulation, the shell of the egg produces progesterone. ??Estrogen & progesterone are responsible for regulating the menstrual cycle—estrogen causes the building of the uterus to build up, and progesterone causes it to thin out. Rinse, lather, repeat. ??The synthetic hormones found in oral contraceptives tell the ovaries not to release an egg. Because the ovaries are not producing estrogen & progesterone, the body is forced into a withdrawal bleed so periods can become regular. ??Since the ovaries aren’t allowed to produce estrogen, there is a reduction of the uterine lining build up, so periods are less heavy. ??Studies have shown risks of using birth control pills

Knowledge is power, and it's time to unravel common misconceptions about hormone health! ?? Myth 1: Hormonal Imbalance is Normal as You Age! Truth: While some hormonal changes do occur with age, such as when a woman goes through menopause, significant imbalances should be evaluated and managed. Your well-being matters at every stage of life! ?? Myth 2: Hormonal Birth Control Balances Hormones! Truth: Birth control is a band aid approach and simply masks symptoms and it doesn't address underlying imbalances. Speak to your healthcare provider about personalized options! ?? Myth 3: Diet and Supplements Fix All Hormone Imbalances! Truth: Nutrition plays a role, but hormonal health is multifaceted. A holistic approach, including personalized guidance, is key to effective hormone balancing. ?? Myth 4: Exercising More Always Corrects Hormone Imbalances! Truth: Exercise is great, but overexercising can disrupt hormones, especially in women. Find a balanced workout routine that suits your body's needs! ???♀? ?? Myth 5: Detoxes and Cleanses Always Fix Hormone Imbalances Truth: While some detoxification practices may support hormone health, extreme or fad detoxes may do more harm than good, disrupting the body's natural balance. ?? Myth 6: Hormonal Imbalances are Solely Physical! Truth: Hormones impact mental and emotional well-being too. Addressing both physical and emotional aspects is essential for total well-being! Let's break free from misconceptions and embrace evidence-based knowledge about our hormone health! Which one of these myths surprised you? #HormoneHealth #HormoneBalance #WomenWellness #HormoneImbalances #HealthyLiving #SelfCareJourney #hormonebalance #hormones #hormonesupport #healthyhormones #happyhormones #balancehormones

Ladies, hormone imbalances don’t just affect your period… ?? Your hormones play a critical role in regulating a number of bodily functions, so when their levels are off, the ripple effects can be felt far beyond the reproductive system. Here are the key areas where hormone imbalances can show up in the body: → Muscles ? Weakness: Particularly low levels of testosterone or thyroid hormones, can lead to muscle weakness and decreased muscle mass. ? Cramps: Imbalances in electrolytes regulated by hormones, such as magnesium and calcium, can cause muscle cramps and spasms. → Headaches ? Migraines: Fluctuations in estrogen levels, especially around menstruation, can trigger migraines in many women. ? Tension Headaches: Stress hormones like cortisol can cause tension headaches due to muscle tightness and stress. → Skin ? Acne: Androgens, such as testosterone, can increase oil production in the skin, leading to acne. ? Dryness: Low estrogen levels can reduce skin hydration and elasticity, causing dry skin. → Sleep ? Insomnia: Cortisol imbalances, especially high levels at night, can interfere with sleep patterns and cause insomnia. ? Night Sweats: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during menopause, can lead to night sweats and disrupted sleep. → Energy ? Fatigue: Thyroid hormone imbalances can cause chronic fatigue and low energy levels. ? Adrenal Fatigue: Imbalances in cortisol production can lead to adrenal fatigue, causing persistent tiredness. → Brain ? Mood Swings: Estrogen and progesterone fluctuations can affect neurotransmitter levels, leading to mood swings, irritability, and even depression. ? Brain Fog: Imbalances in thyroid hormones and cortisol can cause cognitive difficulties, often referred to as brain fog. → Gut ? Digestive Issues: Imbalances in hormones like cortisol and thyroid hormones can affect digestion, leading to issues such as constipation, diarrhea, and bloating. ? Gut Dysbiosis: Hormonal imbalances can alter the gut microbiome, causing dysbiosis and related symptoms like gas and discomfort. The good news is, there are things you can do to bring your hormones back to balance! Seeking professional help is the first step. ?? Curious to learn more about my approach to healing? Send me a DM! #hormones #hormonesupport #healthyhormones #balancehormones #hormonesbalance #balancedhormones #femalehormones #hormonehealthcoach #functionalmedicine #preventativemedicine

?Check, ?check, ?check? PMS, while common, is NOT normal. 75% of women experience PMS, and other issues before starting their period each month. Most of us unconsciously accept this because we’ve been conditioned to believe it’s “normal”. PMS is not an inevitable side effect of beginning your period, even though society would let us believe otherwise. ??It DOESN’T have to be this way?? To think that 75% of women have an inherent design flaw that occurs EVERY SINGLE MONTH is crazy Yet, why is it that some women’s PMS is so much worse than others? Why do some women experience it every single month while others breeze through life with little to no symptoms