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Hormonal imbalance is one of the most common health concerns among women in the U.S. At some point in life—especially during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause—most women will experience changes in their hormone levels. But when those changes become disruptive or chronic, they may indicate a deeper issue.
Hormones regulate vital functions in the body, including your metabolism, fertility, menstrual cycle, mood, energy, and more. When your hormones are too high or too low, it can lead to a range of symptoms that affect your daily life.
Below are five common causes of hormonal imbalance and how to address them.
1. Poor or Unbalanced Diet
What you eat plays a major role in your hormone health. Diets high in sugar, processed foods, or unhealthy fats can throw your hormones out of balance.
What helps:
- Eat more whole foods, lean proteins, leafy greens, healthy fats (like avocado or olive oil), and fiber.
- Limit refined sugars and artificial additives.
2. Chronic Stress
When you’re stressed, your body produces excess cortisol—the stress hormone. Over time, this can interfere with your thyroid hormones, estrogen, and progesterone, leading to fatigue, weight gain, and mood swings.
What helps:
- Prioritize sleep
- Try meditation or deep breathing
- Make time for hobbies or light physical activity
3. Over- or Under-Exercising
Too much or too little physical activity can negatively impact your hormone levels. Excessive exercise can affect reproductive hormones, while a sedentary lifestyle may lead to insulin resistance or thyroid issues.
What helps:
- Aim for moderate activity: 150 minutes of movement per week
- Mix cardio with strength training
- Avoid intense workouts without proper recovery time
4. Environmental Toxins
Everyday exposure to pesticides, plastics (like BPA), and synthetic chemicals in skincare or cleaning products can disrupt the endocrine system. These are called endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs).
What helps:
- Use BPA-free containers
- Choose organic produce when possible
- Switch to fragrance-free or natural personal care products
5. Thyroid Dysfunction
Your thyroid gland controls metabolism and energy levels. If it’s underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism), your body may produce too much or too little hormone—causing fatigue, mood issues, or weight fluctuations.
What helps:
- Ask your doctor for a thyroid panel blood test
- Common treatments include medication or hormone therapy
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Signs of Hormonal Imbalance in Women
Not sure if your symptoms point to a hormonal issue? Look out for these common warning signs:
- Fatigue or low energy
- Mood swings, anxiety, or depression
- Painful or irregular periods
- Hair thinning or facial hair growth
- Night sweats or excessive sweating
- Weight gain or unexplained weight loss
- Breast tenderness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Infertility or trouble conceiving
How Hormonal Imbalance Is Diagnosed
Your doctor may recommend one or more of the following tests:
- Blood tests to check hormone levels (e.g., estrogen, progesterone, cortisol, or thyroid hormones)
- Pelvic exams to check for ovarian or uterine concerns
- Imaging tests like ultrasounds or MRIs for glandular issues
- Thyroid scans or biopsies if abnormalities are found
Treatment Options for Hormonal Imbalance
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Your doctor may recommend:
- Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, stress reduction)
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
- Thyroid medication
- Natural supplements like magnesium, B vitamins, or adaptogenic herbs
Talk to a Doctor About Hormonal Imbalance
You don’t have to deal with these symptoms alone. The experts at BASS Medical Group offer personalized hormone care to help you feel your best. Our team of gynecologists, endocrinologists, and primary care providers can work together to identify the root cause and design the right treatment plan for your body.
Schedule an appointment today to get started on your journey toward hormonal balance.
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