Hormones are a hot topic these days. And with good reason! Naturopathic medicine works well to support hormonal changes.

When hormones are working well, the body and brain feel great and run smoothly. When they are wonky - all kinds of symptoms can show up. Hair loss, rage, pain, constipation, fatigue, hot flashes, cold flashes, brain fog, nausea, decreased or absent libido, depression, anxiety, are a few that come to mind. These symptoms come on because hormones work as messenger molecules in the body and brain and tell our systems how to perform. Naturopathic medicine can help stabilize hormones, allowing the symptoms to resolve and the patient to feel great.

Estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, thyroid are a few hormones that work together to keep the systems going. Estrogen, for example, is responsible for growing the lining of the uterus each month and contributes to concentration, focus, memory, and clear thinking. Too much estrogen - the lining of the uterus becomes too much and anxiety may come up. Too little to no period or a scant period and brain fog and depressive thoughts and feelings. Hormones work with each other and also with neurotransmitters in the nervous system, inflammatory molecules of the immune system and more. Makes sense that wonkiness causes trouble!

During times of hormonal change - fertility issues, pregnancy, post-partum, perimenopause, andropause - levels of hormones shift drastically. Symptoms can come up that can be confusing and awful.

The good news is that there are many ways to support hormones in the brain and body and naturoapthic doctors are well positioned to provide that support. Hormone therapy - adding in external hormones - can be helpful. Herbs and supplements - taking into account traditional use and evidence based knowledge - can be helpful. Diet and exercise can be helpful. Chiropractic medicine and massage therapy can help. And all of the above can be combined or used separately.

The useful thing about supporting hormones is that when we find the right type of support - ALL of the hormones can improve. Because they work with each other to balance and keep everything clicking along. That’s when symptoms resolve and the patient feels well.

Over the last 25 years, I have supported folks through hormone changing times. My experience and extra training has taught me that there are no one-size-fits-all solutions. Every human is different and a tailored, individualized approach is the best way forward. My expectation is for the patient to improve and feel well and as we work together, we monitor progress and adjust as needed.

Naturopathic medicine can be a tremendous support for hormones!

Please feel free to reach out with any questions at kim@kimcallaghannd.com, or book a complimentary 15-minute chat online to explore how naturopathic medicine—or any of our services at Vivid Health—can support you: https://vividhealth.janeapp.com/#/team

In health,
Dr. Kim Callaghan ND