What is hormone decline?
Hormone decline is a natural process that occurs as we age. Our hormones are chemical messengers that regulate many functions in our bodies. Some key hormones that tend to decrease over time include:
- Testosterone - This male sex hormone plays a role in libido, muscle mass, bone density, and energy levels. Testosterone levels start dropping after age 30 by about 1% per year. Low testosterone can lead to symptoms like fatigue, erectile dysfunction, and loss of muscle mass.
- Estrogen - This primary female sex hormone regulates the menstrual cycle and reproductive system. During perimenopause and menopause, estrogen levels start to fluctuate and decline. This can cause symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and mood changes.
- Growth hormone - This hormone stimulates cell reproduction and regeneration. Growth hormone levels start to decline after age 30, leading to slower metabolism and muscle loss.
- Progesterone - Works together with estrogen to regulate the menstrual cycle. Declining progesterone contributes to irregular periods and infertility as women age.
- DHEA - Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a precursor hormone that gets converted into testosterone and estrogen. DHEA levels start declining around age 30. This affects energy levels, mood, libido, and cognition.
What causes hormone decline?
Natural aging is the biggest factor influencing hormone decline. As we get older, our endocrine glands secrete lower amounts of hormones. Other contributors include:
- Menopause in women - estrogen levels drop off around age 50.
- Andropause in men - testosterone gradually declines year after year.
- Increased SHBG - This binding protein limits usable hormones.
- Poor sleep - Lack of sleep disrupts optimal hormone production.
- High stress - Cortisol and other stress hormones disrupt endocrine function.
- Unhealthy diet - Excess sugar, processed foods, alcohol, etc.
- Sedentary lifestyle - Inactivity leads to muscle loss, fat gain, and low T.
- Some medications - Birth control, opiates, steroids affect hormones.
What are the effects of hormone decline?
The wide-ranging effects of lowered hormone levels include:
- Low energy and fatigue
- Decreased muscle mass and strength
- Weight gain, increased body fat
- Loss of bone mineral density
- Wrinkles, sagging skin, and aging appearance
- Decreased libido and sexual function
- Mood changes like irritability and depression
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Reduced mental sharpness and memory
- Weakened immune function
Can hormone decline be treated?
Yes, hormone replacement therapy can relieve symptoms of hormone decline. Options include:
- Testosterone replacement for men
- Estrogen replacement for women
- Human growth hormone (HGH)
- DHEA supplementation
- Compounded bioidentical hormone therapy
Speak to your doctor about screening tests and whether hormone therapies may be right for you. Getting levels optimized can help you feel youthful and energetic again!
For a confidential consultation and comprehensive hormone testing, contact the experts at Renew Wellness today. Our integrative approach looks at nutrition, exercise, stress management, and other factors along with hormone optimization. Renew Wellness uses only pharmaceutical-grade hormones and proven treatment protocols to help you look and feel your best.
In summary, hormone decline is a natural part of aging that affects vitality and health in many ways. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options allows you to take a proactive approach. With professional medical guidance, hormone replacement therapy can help mitigate unpleasant effects and improve your quality of life. Be proactive about hormone testing and seek individualized treatment plans.