Wednesday, August 14, 2013

What's Causing My Burning Vagina?


A burning vagina can be so uncomfortable and painful you seek treatment as soon as you notice it.? Vaginal burning is almost always a symptom of something else, whether it's irritation, an infection, or something less common.

Vaginal infections

Vaginal infections like bacterial vaginosis and yeast infection sometimes cause burning as one of the symptoms.? Infections result from an imbalance in vaginal conditions.? For instance, bacterial vaginosis is caused by an overgrowth of the bacterium Gardnerella.? Other symptoms of vaginal infections include an unpleasant smell and a change in discharge, along with other forms of irritation like itching and soreness.? If you suspect you have a vaginal infection, see a doctor.? Treating the infection will also relieve the burning.

Irritation

Most commonly, a burning vagina is a symptom of irritation.? Irritation can be caused by many things.? Usually the cause is right in your own home.? Feminine hygiene products, toilet paper, cleansing wipes, or soaps that contain strong fragrances and dyes may irritate the vagina, because the chemicals used to make those products are too harsh for use on sensitive skin.? That's one thing they don't warn you about on the label.? If you find your vagina burning after using any of these products, switch to a plain, unscented variety.? Douching can be another kind of vaginal irritant for much the same reason as the other products we discussed: harsh chemical ingredients.? Using a douche also kills the healthy bacteria in your vagina, making you more likely to contract infections.? If you feel like you have to douche, make a gentle homemade version using organic ingredients.

STDs

Sometimes a burning vagina is a sign of an STD.? Symptoms of STDs vary widely because there are so many different kinds, but some common ones are itching, swelling, an unpleasant smell, and a change in discharge.? Yellowish or greenish gray discharge in particular points to a sex-related infection.? Regular STD testing will help decrease your chances of experience unpleasant STD symptoms.? Always wear a condom during sex to prevent getting or spreading an STD.

Hormonal factors

Finally, a burning vagina can be caused by a change in hormones.? During menopause, the vaginal walls tend to become a little thinner and drier, leading to forms of irritation like itching and burning.? This can also be a problem during breastfeeding for some women.? This problem will usually go away on its own as your hormones balance themselves out, but if the problem persists, there are hormone therapy options that will help your body regulate hormones better.

If a burning vagina lasts more than a few days after eliminating the source, it's important to see a doctor to make sure you don't have any more serious issues.

Tuesday, August 13, 2013

Natural Remedies For Low Thyroid - What Are Your Options?


Natural remedies for low thyroid are a holistic approach that work to naturally balance the endocrine system. Using a holistic way to address symptoms of sluggish thyroid function, natural remedies may include diet changes, nutritional supplements, herbal remedies and lifestyle evaluation.

The conventional treatment for hypothyroidism (low thyroid) usually involves synthetic hormone replacement. This has the disadvantage that for as long as synthetic hormones are used, the thyroid will not be reactivated to begin producing hormones on it's own, and you will be on hormone replacement for life.

Several different tactics are being used by natural health care providers to address the issue of low thyroid function. One option is natural hormone replacement, which uses supplements made from desic­ca­ted por­cine thy­roid gland and they can naturally provide the hormones which are missing.

This option has an advantage over synthetic hormone replacement because it provides the complete range of hormones that are produced by the human thyroid, whereas synthetic hormones do not.

Another possible direction used by some natural health care providers is natural remedies for low thyroid. This approach uses different natural means to try to reactivate the production of hormones by the thyroid so that hormone replacement is not necessary.

Herbal remedies have been relied on for thousands of years by the worlds oldest natural healing traditions: traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda, which is the traditional medicine of India.

Thanks to a renewed interest in herbal medicine, clinical research has proven the ability of specific herbs to support the thyroid and endocrine system. The herbs makandi, kelp and green oats are known to help in maintaining balanced body temperature, metabolism, and ideal body weight.

Natural remedies for low thyroid like herbs, supplements, diet and lifestyle adjustments can work with your body's own natural healing and balancing ability. If you need additional guidance, consult a naturopathic doctor or other natural health care provider.

How to Ease Menopausal Symptoms Fast? Learn These Natural Tips for a Smooth Menopause Transition!


So you want to know how to ease menopausal symptoms without considering hormone replacement therapy?

I understand how you feel - in fact I face menstrual cramps for almost 20 years, in the mid 30 and will be facing menopause soon. So I fully understand what you are going through.

After research and study, I have a remedy to share with you... and it is this.

I am totally relieved from menstrual cramps and expecting a smooth menopause transition, so can you.

But if we intend to experience smooth menopause transition, first we need to know what causes the disliked effects during menopause. And 95% is cause of imbalance hormone level during menopause period.

What are hormones? Hormones are like generals controlling and giving instructions to the soldier, which is our tissues. Estrogen and progesterone are the two main female hormones.

They are two complementary hormones that balance one another, estrogen is the hormones of tissue grow; progesterone is the hormone that makes the tissue function. These 2 hormones are needed to balance all the tissue in the body of a woman.

Estrogen and progesterone typically regulate the sexual desire in women. In particular, estrogens increase in women sexual desire, while progesterone has been associated with decreases in women sexual desire.

Hence, during menstrual cycle, estrogens usually are elevated and progesterone levels are lower. Mating at this moment may easily result in female pregnancy.

And during menopause, our ovarian productions of these hormones become more irregular, often with unpredictable fluctuations in levels. During this period, fertility diminishes, but is not considered to reach zero yet until the official date of menopause. And which is determined retroactively, once 12 months have passed after the last appearance of menstrual blood.

Some women experiencing un-pleasant menopause transition usually considers hormone replacement therapy to balance the hormones and relieve from the effects such as lack of energy as the most common and distressing affect, hot flashes, palpitations, depression, anxiety, memory problems, lack of concentration, mood swings, vaginal dryness and urgency of urination.

I want you to think about this- since estrogen is usually used in the therapy, and it is the hormones that regulate of tissue grow, overdose may just cause cancer. And it is impossible to know the hormone level in our body our self, we need advice from our physicians for the right dosage.

So instead, let use these natural tips to balance our hormones to ease menopausal effects.

1. Change to a healthier lifestyle - Cut down on carbonated drinks and stop smoking

2. Do not eat a high carbohydrate meal before bed

3. Regulate hormones flux food - Soy, oats, barley, cashews, almonds, hazelnut, sunflower seed, apple, cabbage, broccoli, asparagus, whole grain & beans.

4. Complementary and alternative therapies - acupuncture and acupressure treatments

5. Alternative medicine such as herbal remedies that can help relieves menopausal symptoms, restore and maintain hormonal balance is a must.

However, due to a busy & stressful lifestyle, and inconvenience in preparing a traditional nutrient supplementation as well as a lack of correct knowledge. One has to buy ready-made nutrients available in the market.

Warning: Do not neglect the above! Be sure to take this advice seriously if you intent experience smooth menopause transitions.

Growth Hormone Pills - Does it Really Work?


Before purchasing growth hormone pills it would be beneficial to understand what the growth hormone does in the human body. The growth hormone occurs naturally in the human body and not unexpectedly it regulates our growth both in terms of height and sexual maturity. It is most prevalent in the young and in adolescence. The human growth hormone is manufactured in the pituitary gland located within the brain and it instructs the body to manufacture bone, muscle and cartilage. One if the most important function is in the regulation of human metabolism.

It was first isolated and identified in the mid fifties and by the early sixties it was used to treat children who had a stunted growth. In those days there was no way that it could be manufactured synthetically, this pills did not exist, it was extracted and processed from the pituitary glands from dead bodies'! However there is no clinical evidence that human growth hormone pills have a successful role in anti aging treatments.

The human body regulates all its hormones and most are produced in the medium range, high doses of hormones do not appear naturally in the body. The endocrine system is not used to dealing with high levels of hormones and when faced with a pharmaceutical excess in the form of growth hormone pills there are several adverse side effects. Not only does the muscle grow but the organs such as the heart liver and kidneys also increase in size. This can lead to an irregular heart murmur but in certain cases the heart loses its ability to pump blood which is potentially life threatening.

Other less serious but still harmful side effects of human growth hormone pills are joint pains, fluid retention and high blood pressure. One has to remember that this pills are steroids and excess steroids within the body are unpredictable. One of the first effects is that once they are introduced artificially the body shuts down its own production and once you begin to take them you have to take them for life.

What Are Human Growth Hormones and Why Would Anyone Use Them


Getting older has always been the problem people could never solve. We all know that sooner or later our mind and body become more and more mature and there is nothing we can do about it. As times passes by, we age feeling day by day less beautiful and weaker.

This is the normal evolution of humanity but scientists still have a hope for those who want to remain young for a longer period of time. This revolutionary idea has been extracted from the very natural mechanism of the human body. In other words, scientists have discovered that natural youth is generated by so-called health growth hormones produced by the pituitary gland. As we get older, these hormones' levels get lower and lower and that is why the negative effects on our body become noticeable.

You must wonder what exactly these health growth hormones do. Well, they are responsible for making people grow taller and they also stimulate cells from all levels: bones, organs, muscles etc. So, these miraculous hormones help our body evolve making it stronger during our youth.

Doctors' solution is a simple one: as long as we can maintain the primary level of these health growth hormones in our body we will be able to conserve our body vigorous as at the age of 20. As we've already mentioned, these hormones are naturally produced by a gland from the brain and the main problem is that in time their number gets lower and lower. However, there have been discovered some methods that can enhance the hormones' level.

The best HGH are the ones produced naturally. Specialists recommend people to choose this method first because it is safe and it influences your body without causing any harm. The human body is based on a complex mechanism and that is why it is preferable not to violently interfere in this process. One of the best ways to produce health growth hormones is to do a lot of exercise. People who work hard on their body are healthier and more resistant. That is why one should make time for daily exercise.

Another great solution for obtaining these hormones is the sleep. It is mandatory to sleep at least 8 hours a day if you want to keep your youth longer. The "beauty sleep" is something most people don't include in their lifestyle because of their busy program or stress. However, one should understand that only a balanced life can guarantee you a prolonged youth. People have to understand that the body needs to be kept in good shape and that it also needs rest so that it can recover after a tiring day.

There are some cases when these natural methods can't produce the desired effect on people's aspect and that is why specialists have found some extra solutions too. The HGH supplements are used for the same purpose: they stimulate the health growth hormones artificially. Such supplements were first user by bodybuilders and sportsmen in general. Nowadays, these products are used by all people who are interested in getting younger. HGH supplements were very expensive at the beginning, but in time the market has been invaded by many companies that commercializes them and they have become more accessible.

Mainly, the HGH supplements generate more vivid dreams during the night and this leads to a higher hormonal level. The best HGH supplements are also responsible with other things like: regenerating cells, losing body fat, strengthen the body, maintaining muscles, increasing energy levels, conserving natural youth in general.

The most efficient HGH supplements are injections because this is the quickest way the body assimilates the substance. Even if injections are not very pleasant, most people prefer them in order to obtain results as soon as possible. You can also try the oral pills. They are easier to take, but less efficient on short-term treatment. If you decide to take the pills for a longer period of time, then you will also have some great results. Companies have also launched the oral spray with HGH supplements, but this method is not very popular among people. The treatment should last for six months. After this, you need to take a break for at least a year. In this time your body will work naturally and the aging process will be slowed down.

Hypothyroid Cures


Hypothyroid disease is a medical condition where a low production of thyroid hormones is one of the main issues. What causes hypothyroidism? Well, it has been stated that one of the most common causes for this disorder can be attributed to the presence of an iodine deficiency.

An iodine deficiency is caused from a lack of the trace element in the body. The hormones that belong to the thyroid gland called thyroxine and triiodothyronine do contain iodine. But a lack of iodine in one's diet can cause problems. Two of these problems are called endemic goiter and cretinism. Both of these issues can trigger delays in development and other health concerns.However, it can be caused by a number of other factors too.

Early hypothyroidism has only very mild symptoms and is asymptomatic in description. Some of these very early onset symptoms do include the following. They are an increased sensitivity to anything cold, weight gain, water retention, fatigue, constipation, depression, poor muscle tone, amid a few for example.

The later symptoms do include Goiter, which is a swelling of the thyroid gland itself, mood swings, stress, depression that is thyroid related, slow speech or hoarse, raspy voice, fatigue syndrome that is acute, infertility in both men and women, the list goes on. Some uncommon symptoms connected to this disease can also include brain fog, inattentiveness, hair loss, sluggish reflexes, impaired memory, anemia, difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath, for example of a few of them.

The diagnosis of this disease can be done by measuring the levels of TSH and T4 in a patient. The levels of these hormones can also be drastically affected by the presence of other conditions that are non-thyroid related in nature.Treatment for this disease can be treated with pills that are prescribed. Some of these prescribed pills do include Synthroid, which is one of the most common of all pills to take, and contains a synthetic thyroid hormone in the pill. About 40% of those who contract the disease do take Synthroid as a valid and effective form of treatment. Synthroid is able to successfully improve thyroid deficiency in a big way and relieve some of its symptoms. These symptoms do range from slowed speech to lack of energy to weight gain to beyond.

What are other cures used as treatment? Some of the other cures do vary and have different treatment protocols. Some of these treatments in thyroid replacement therapy do include the giving of T4 only. T4 is the giving of the supplement thyroxine (levothyroxine) as a stand alone to patients in a synthetic form. This treatment is presently viewed as being the standard treatment for this specific disease.

Another treatment for the disease is the giving of T3 and T4 together in combination. It involves the administering of T3, which is triiodothyronine (liothyronine), and also T4 that is thyroxine (levothyroxine) in one treatment simultaneously.

One more treatment for this health issue is via desiccated thyroid extract. Desiccated thyroid extract is a thyroid extract that is completely animal-based in description. It comes directly from a porcine source and is used as part of a combination therapy approach. This combination therapy can partner this thyroid extract with natural forms of L-T4 and L-T3.

The different cures for the disease do indeed differ, one from the other, but they all have one common goal and that is to alleviate thyroid deficiency.

Help With Menopause - What Are Bio-Identical Hormones?


During pre-menopause and menopause, many women suffer from an array of symptoms and need help with menopause symptoms. In this article I will discuss the cause of most menopausal symptoms as well as what options women have to alleviate them.

Most pre-menopause and menopause symptoms are due to a poor diet, a sedentary lifestyle and exposure to environmental estrogens. And also an imbalance in a woman's hormone levels. Two hormones in particular are out of balance at menopause: estrogen and progesterone.

When at menopause, the progesterone level drops to zero, a woman's menstruation stops and she starts suffering from painful breasts, weight gain, bloating, low bone density, trouble sleeping, anxiety and stress. At the same time, estrogen also declines and brings symptoms such as breast tenderness, anxiety, allergies, decreased sex drive, weight gain particularly around the belly, foggy thinking, insomnia, irritability, etc.

If the symptoms are not too severe, one type of help with menopause a woman can try is by changing her diet to include more fruits, vegetable, lean meats, whole grain and legumes. It is also important to include the healthy fats such as the Omega 3 found in fish such as salmon, herring, tuna.

Extending this natural treatment includes staying away from all types of stress as stress can worsen symptoms and cause further hormonal imbalance.

If the symptoms are more severe, a woman then can talk to her doctor about bio-identical hormone replacement therapy. Bio-identical hormones are natural, plant -based hormones that mimic the structure of the hormones made by the body. Because they are natural. They do not have any side effects.

This is important to know because many medical practitioners still want to use synthetic hormones which are obtained from pregnant mares and are foreign to the human body. Studies have found that the regular hormone replacement therapy increase s the risk of breast cancer and stroke.

In order to be put on Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) you will have to find a physician knowledgeable about hormones to help with menopause symptoms. The doctor in turn will prescribe a special formula that is unique to your hormonal levels after some tests.

It is important that you get adequate information about bio-identical hormones because a lot of doctors still prescribe synthetic hormones as they are more readily available and supported by the pharmaceutical industry. Because the natural hormones cannot be patented by the pharmaceutical companies, there is still some controversy about their efficacy. So you will be wise to find out more information so you can make an educated decision about the best options for you when it comes to help with menopause.

Monday, August 12, 2013

Hormones - Mind-Body Health & Anti-Aging


The mind-body connection posits that a well mind provides for a well body and vice versa. So when it comes to aging and brain health, one must also take into consideration the state of one's hormones.

What are Hormones?

Hormones are the body's messengers that transport important information from the brain to the glands and from the glands onto the cells and from the cells back to the brain. They serve to rejuvenate, regenerate and restore our bodies. Hormones are considered optimum from the age of 25 - 30 years. This is the same period, generally, in which our bodies are at their strongest and healthiest.

What Causes Aging?

Hormone levels progressively decrease during our lifetimes causing the changes in our bodies and minds that we call aging. The human body was never designed to live as long as we're living today. Thanks to advances in medical care and sanitation, we have drastically increased life spans. However, the glands that produce our hormones do not regenerate and continue to decline, producing fewer hormones with each passing year.

Associated with this process is the onset of overt diseases, changes in mood, dysfunctional memory, decreased ability to learn, decrease in hair growth and graying, decreased quality of facial skin, decreased lean body mass with an increase in percent body fat, infections, cancer, decreased wound healing, diminished sex drive and many other aspects that represent our quality of life and youthfulness.

The Need for Hormone Replacement

It has become increasingly important for both men and women to keep their hormones balanced to protect against these age-related ravages and to enjoy an overall sense of well being. Diet and exercise alone will not be as effective unless a person's hormones are balanced correctly. For optimal safety, only hormones that are low should be replaced and retesting of hormone levels should be done regularly.

Bio-identical hormones are manufactured in the lab to have the same molecular structure as the hormones made by your own body. They could also be called human-identical hormones.

Bio-Identical vs Synthetic

Bio-identical (also called bio-equivalent) hormones get their start in nature and are found in soy beans, wild yams, red clover and black cohash. The human body can recognize these bio-identical hormones and can use them just as it would as if produced by the ovaries, testes, or adrenal glands. Most side-effects experienced with bio-identical hormones are associated with either an incorrect dosing or an imbalance in the selection of the hormones.

By contrast, synthetic hormones are intentionally different. Drug companies cannot patent a bio-identical structure, so instead, they invent synthetic hormones that are patentable (such as Premarin, Prempro and Provera, the most widely used examples). Synthetic hormones are not easily recognized by the body even though they may produce similar effects. Because they are hundreds of times more potent than the hormones that our body makes, they are often associated with significant side effects.

Though bio-identical hormones have been around for years, many practitioners are unfamiliar with them. There are several branded versions now available for use in the kind of hormone replacement therapy ("HRT") typical of synthetic hormones. This is generally a one-size-fits-all dosage regime.

The greatest success, however, is with an individualized approach. Laboratory tests of hormone levels should be done (a "hormone panel") to determine the state of a patient's levels. If and when warranted, a precise dosage is prescribed of bioidentical estrogen, progesterone, testosterone or DHEA that is made up at a compounding pharmacy. Each patient is then monitored carefully through regular follow-up hormone panels to ensure symptom relief at the lowest possible dosage.

In the initial stages, a hormone panel might be taken every three months. That way, the doctor has the opportunity to fine tune the final prescription to address any personal goals. Whether this might mean an increase in mental acuity, improvement in depression and moods, increase in sexual drive, or improved physical ability; slight variations in the dosage, or dosage form, can often provide the sought after results. Once balance is restored, a panel may be taken only once a year.

HRT: Pills vs Topical Creams

It would seem reasonable that the easiest way to take hormones is by swallowing a pill. Unfortunately, once the hormones are absorbed by the blood they go directly to the liver where some of the hormones are inactivated.

Topically applied hormones are absorbed directly from the skin right into the blood where they immediately start working. Eventually, all chemicals end up in the liver being inactivated and/or converted to other substances. Another benefit of using topical creams is that dosage can be easily adjusted by increasing or decreasing the number of applications per day.

An important aspect to Compounded Bio-Identical Hormones is whether-or-not they have been tested for bio-availability. That is, once applied to the skin, the component hormones are easily absorbed from the cream, through the skin, and into the blood. Each component hormone and blended preparation of hormones have been tested extensively during the Federal Application and Patent application process. Each customized preparation is designed based upon laboratory testing and the personal goals of the patient.

Summation

Bio-identical hormones are better and safer than synthetic hormones. Our body can metabolize bio-identical hormones as it was designed to do, thereby minimizing side effects. Compounded bio-identical hormones can be matched individually to each woman's (or man's) needs, something that's not possible with mass-produced products. Synthetic hormones, on the other hand, are quite strong and often produce intolerable side effects. And many European medical studies suggest that bio-identical hormones are indeed safer than synthetic versions.

It should be noted that the original studies on the effectiveness and health risks associated with HRT were based solely on synthetic/equine-based hormones.

Pregnancy Secrets Exposed - How to Conceive Naturally by Balancing Your Hormones Part I


I'm calling this a pregnancy secret because it seems to be treated as a secret to women who are experiencing troubles getting pregnant. Women go on Clomid or other pharmaceutical drugs in order to get pregnant, why don't doctors mention that it could be that a patient's body's hormone chemistry is out of balance?

Hormones are what keep your body going. Do you feel run down? It could be a hormone imbalance. Are your periods irregular? It is probably a hormone imbalance. Do you have frequent headaches or food cravings? It could be a hormone imbalance.

Mark my words. I said it COULD BE hormone imbalance, but I bet most of the time it's hormone imbalance that is the culprit behind many diseases, lack of energy, etc.

I've listed 3 tips below on how to conceive naturally by balancing your hormones. I recommend following all of these tips while you are getting your hormones tested (you can get a home test kit by using your saliva) because these all will assist in balancing your hormones.

1. Eat Organic Meats & Poultry ONLY

There are SO many hormones pumped into our meat and poultry it is shocking. There are also preservatives and dyes added to enhance the appearance of meats. Our hormones are sensitive and any chemicals could knock them off balance.

2. Eat Organic Dairy Products ONLY

I can only imagine how many synthetic hormones "bleed" into our dairy products when the cows are injected with hormones to help them product more.

3. Eat Organic Fruits and Vegetables ONLY

I understand that eating organic can be expensive. In our house, we buy organic when we eat the "flesh" of the food. We buy conventional squash, oranges, bananas, etc. because it would literally break our budget to pay 3-4x what the conventional comparisons would cost. The pesticides that are on conventional fruits and vegetables can create HAVOC to your hormones. Just think how long you've been eating pesticide-laced foods. Just imagine how much pesticide and chemical build up you have in your body. It's no wonder why there are so many digestive disorders, allergies, etc. Do you know that hormones play an important role with our digestion?

I highly recommend incorporating these tips into your daily routine in order to balance your hormones so you can conceive naturally as soon as possible.

It seems that whenever we pursue health-related issues naturally it takes a bit longer to see results than if we were to take pharmaceutical drugs, but with far less, if any, side-effects. When we take synthetic drugs, we never know how our bodies will react to them in the future. Our bodies are record-keepers. They are intelligent and if we give them the proper nutrition and environment we'd be surprised by how healthy they can be.

In conclusion, it's vital to begin balancing your hormones by adjusting your diet. I have seen many benefits myself by following these 3 tips. I get my hormones tested annually and since I've began doing this, my hormones are close to being where they need to be so I can conceive naturally.

Why Do You Need to Meditate and What Are the Different Types of Meditation?


Why do you need to meditate and what are the different types of meditation?

Even though meditation is an essential spiritual component of major religions such Buddhism and Hinduism, it is actually utilized daily by millions of people today who meditate solely for the health advantages.

Modern medicine acknowledges meditation's beneficial, comforting benefits, with physicians suggesting people who experience stress, hypertension and persistent soreness to add a couple of stress-free moments to each day to meditate.

It is similar to a workout for your brain, by concentrating the thoughts on a solo idea or image, even for just 10 or 20 minutes daily, your system de-stresses, the mind gets crystal clear, and stress filled issues grow to be less difficult to deal with.

The reason meditation has a considerable impact on body and soul.

To know how meditation functions, it will help to realize how the brain operates. The cortex is the most important portion of the brain, which has a right and left hemisphere.

The right side regulates creativeness, imagination and feelings. The left hemisphere is typically predominant, managing dialog, reasoning, computation and writing. Scientists think that we develop a link amongst the two side of the brain during meditation.

While people connected up to ECG machines meditate, experts can assess the depth of alpha waves and the brain waves while we are in tranquil, peaceful condition which can be generated during meditation. For the period of meditation, alpha waves appear much more powerful and steadier among both sides of the brain compared to other types of relaxation.

In the alpha state, the parasympathetic nervous system takes control over the portion of the nervous system that saves and re-establishes energy, reduces hypertension and pulse rate, and manages the digestive function and assimilation of nutrients.

As the parasympathetic nervous system takes control, the high-stress fight-or-flight effect which is followed by release of stress hormones such as adrenaline, as well as pressure in the head, neck and lower back is overturned, and the body secretes additional beneficial hormones that enhance relaxation and recovery.

Evidence that meditation is effective.

Medical scientists have performed a good deal of research into the advantages of meditation. Research shows it promotes improved brain performance, enhanced blood circulation in the arms and legs, improved cerebral blood circulation and reduced amounts of stress hormones.

In 1987 a study discovered that individuals who employed meditation visited the doctor less and expended 50 percent less time in hospitals than individuals who did not meditate.

There are actually numerous techniques to meditate, and it is possible to train oneself the way to do it through using books, tapes, or by the internet in no time at all. You can also often find classes accessible at nearby community centers, alternative health facilities and possibly local colleges.

This is a list of the different types of meditation you can practice:

1 - Breath awareness: You focus on breathing in rhythm, perhaps counting every breath out and in, frequently breathing through the nose in and exhaling through the mouth.

2 - Mantra meditation: A statement or word which is said again and either out loud or internally. You can select a key phrase that correlates to your individual values, that is an optimistic affirmation, or a simple sound like Om or Hum.

3 - Active meditation: Making use of rhythmic motions, such as walking, swimming, or yoga to concentrate the thoughts.

4 - Item meditation: You concentrate on a certain object, observing every single aspect of its appearance from shape, color, texture, etc.

A lot of folks who start out meditating discover they have difficulty encouraging themselves to meditate, and releasing their minds of the Western propensity to continually think about each and every minimal factor.

That is why you should look at getting into a class or using guided meditation cds or mp3. This can be very useful to possess a guide to look at as you meditate your first few times. As soon as you get accustomed to it, you are going to find meditation is effortless yet powerful. It is possible for you to even proceed to more complex methods as you see how easy and beneficial mediation can be.

Reducing the Symptoms of Aging With Bioidentical Hormones


Aging is a natural process. Yet, though natural, the process can still bring about many frustrating and uncomfortable symptoms for both men and women. Why? As the body ages, hormone levels begin to decline. Hormone levels typically begin to decline after the mid-20s; by the mid-30s many people will begin to feel the symptoms of hormone imbalances. Hormones play a vital role in many different processes in the body. When hormones become imbalanced, a person's physical, mental, and emotional health may be negatively impacted. Bioidentical hormones (BHs) can help men and women restore hormone levels to a more balanced state, reducing the symptoms of aging.

What are bioidentical hormones?

Bioidentical hormones match the natural hormones of the body, molecule by molecule. They are an exact replica of the body's hormones and as such the body is not able to tell the difference between BHs and a hormone produced by the body. BHs are created by hand in a lab, yet it is important to know that BHs are not the same as synthetic hormones. Synthetic hormones are not an exact match to the hormones produced in the body. Accordingly, the body responds to synthetic hormones differently than it does bioidentical or its own hormones. BHs can exactly match and stand in for many hormones in the body including but not limited to estrogen, testosterone, progesterone, cortisol, dhea, estradiol, and estriol.

What can bioidentical hormones treat in women?

Women typically experience the most uncomfortable symptoms of hormone imbalances during early menopause, menopause, perimenopause, and with severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Bioidentical hormones can safely help women suffering from symptoms of sleeplessness, hot flashes, mood swings, low libido, memory loss, weight gain, and more.

What can bioidentical hormones treat in men?

Men also suffer a type of menopause as they age, known as andropause. The symptoms usually have a more gradual onset in men than women but can be nonetheless frustrating once they begin to appear. BHs are also safe and effective for men and can help men address issues including but not limited to loss of muscle mass, weight gain due to increased body fat, loss of energy, fatigue, stress, and decreased libido.

Do bioidentical hormones have side effects?

Since BHs are an exact replica of the body's own hormones, there are little to no side effects associated with BH replacement therapy (BHRT). Side effects are usually only present when the dosage level is too high for an individual patient.

Who can provide bioidentical hormone replacement therapy?

BHs must be prescribed by a board certified physician. To minimize side effects and maximize results, it is important to seek a board certified physician experienced with BHRT and who provides carefully individualized treatment plans with good patient monitoring protocols.

The Effects Of A Hormone Pill


Since the beginning of time, the female body has demonstrated abilities limited to our gender. From menstruation, through pregnancy and childbirth, the body of a woman has exclusive rights a number of miraculous events. During the reproductive years, a woman's ovaries release eggs on a monthly basis for reproductive purposes. Included in this process is the release of estrogen - a female hormone responsible for the delicate operations of the woman's body. However, when menopause occurs, the loss of estrogen can produce a number of unpleasant side effects, sometimes resulting in a woman seeking relief through a hormone pill.

Menopause - generally occurring anywhere between the ages of mid-forties to mid-fifties - is defined by the permanent cessation of a woman's menstrual cycle. The ovaries cease to produce eggs and estrogen stops being produced. This is normally a process that happens gradually - sometimes occurring over the course of several years. In some cases, however, a needed surgical procedure will result in medically-induced menopause. Either way, it is the ending to a woman's reproductive years and the ending of estrogen production - a hormone that, when absent, results in a bevy of symptoms. The hormone pill - or estrogen replacement therapy - supplements the body with estrogen and can minimize the symptoms of menopause.

Some of the more common symptoms of menopause include hot flashes, night sweats, memory loss, mood swings, and loss of sexual desire. Not every woman experiences every symptom. And when symptoms are experienced the severity with which they are experienced varies from woman to woman. For some women, their symptoms are difficult to endure and interfere greatly with daily life. In this instance, a doctor may suggest a daily hormone pill to help balance the body.

However, the hormone pill continues to receive mixed reviews as an answer to symptoms of menopause. Researchers continue to debate the safety of the hormone pill and the possibility of it compromising cardiovascular function. Most doctors will ask women to try a variety of natural therapies before turning to a hormone pill. Studies show that women, who eat natural, whole foods, exercise regularly, and live an overall healthy lifestyle, will find themselves far less affected by menopause symptoms. In many cases, a change in lifestyle will result in a relief of symptoms, making the hormone pill unnecessary.

Sunday, August 11, 2013

Patients Ask - Do Hormone Imbalances Cause Depression?


A lot of people have been asking, "Do hormone imbalances cause depression?" Both physical and mental symptoms have been presented by patients due to abnormal levels different hormones in the body affecting the cells in both the brain and muscles. Several studies have also been conducted showing the relationship which can help people find treatment and prevention.

Excess Estrogen

Excess estrogen may mean either having too much estrogen being produced or having too less progesterone to balance the effects. Doctors find that several patients with hormone imbalance experience agitated depression which is a state combing both elements of depression and excitation or agitation. Women describe it as a sense of restlessness and irritability compounded by insomnia at an extent. Estrogens are described as excitotoxins when present in high levels. Estrogen dominance is considered as mild estrogen toxicity wherein patients feel like jumping out of their skin or having an electrical charge in their system.

Estrogen is then discovered to create passivity and agitation. The addition of other substances containing excitotoxins such as aspartame or caffeine can exacerbate symptoms. Effects can last for years depending on the patient's response. It has then become a fact that hormone imbalance can cause depression in women since hormones are actually chemicals affecting substances in the brain responsible for mood. This the same as hormone changes experienced during labor or menstrual cycles. Women often go through temporary or short-term depression during such cases.

Hormones and Neurotransmitters

Hormones and neurotransmitters are both natural-occurring substances in the body with a complex interaction and links that can help explain the changes in physical and mental aspects during hormone imbalance. Hormones circulate through the bloodstream and act to help cells and organs properly. Neurotransmitters are more specific in their role of boosting or reducing chemical signals between particular nerve cells to gain specific responses.

There are so-called stress hormones that particularly cause depression medically. Stress and depression are highly associated. When a person's response or ability to cope to stress is impaired, stress hormones can accumulate thereby causing a variety of mental symptoms leading to depression. Emotional arousal is triggered by various neurochemicals in the brain and hormones in the bloodstream which can hinder physical activities and mental capabilities.

Serotonin and norepinephrine are neurotransmitters particularly responsible for enhancing mood. However, low levels of these have been found in depressed individuals with a specific correlation with hormone imbalance spurring doctors to provide a diagnosis of clinical depression. However, low serotonin levels can be either a symptom or cause of depression. If a person engages in pleasure-giving activities or minimize stress, more serotonin is being produced and vice-versa. Depression can also cause added chemical changes in the brain which determines the duration of the condition.

Dealing with Stress

Stress is a triggering factor that can affect hormone imbalance. The body views stress as a type of threat resulting to the "fight or flight" response. The body will either try to fight back the perceived threat by reinforcing itself and improving overall performance and function of cells or organs or it will try to preserve and protect itself by avoiding the perceived threat. Some occurrences in the body include heightened alertness, suppressed appetite or sex drive, enhanced delivery of fuel or energy to major muscles, improved focus and boosting levels of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These effects are supposed to last only for a short while until the threat is overcome or gone. Otherwise, the effects will be unhealthy and hormone imbalances cause depression.

Understanding The Uses And Benefits Of Bioidentical Hormones


Many women who need to take hormones will be asking themselves about bioidentical hormones. There have been discussions about this topic on TV talk shows. Feedback from these shows is that these have worked to assist in reducing the symptoms of menopause. Furthermore, users have reported that they feel much younger after taking these.

TV is not the only forum that has been used to spread this message of hope to women. Advertising has been done in newspapers, magazines, radio, blogs and websites discussing this matter. Women who encounter this advertising in one way or another are going to want to know whether this would work for them or not.

The fact is that these types of hormones have been used for at least the last twenty-five years alone by a certain practice. Furthermore, it is reported that many clients have experienced great results on the treatment. That said, this is issue requires personalized attention for each women. No two people are alike and therefore each woman should be assessed and treated individually.

Bioidentical hormones come in many different forms and women respond to them in many ways. Furthermore, they work in different ways as well. All of this creates challenges when it comes to administering this to a woman.

Some women respond favorably to the drug right away and others will need support of varying degrees while on the treatment regime. Giving this support will ensure that these women achieve the results they so badly desire.

These types of hormones are manufactured in the laboratories to have the same structure as regular hormones. This is speaking from a molecular point of view. Regular hormones are the ones that are produced by the body. Synthetic ones are different as scientists are unable to patent the structure identically. Therefore, they manufacture ones that are synthetic and which can be patented.

Strangely, many practitioners are not aware of these despite the fact that they have been around for close to three decades. Today women are able to select from several branded varieties. Most often these can be taken by all and sundry.

Many practices will do tests on clients to see what the exact dosage should be. They refer to a hormone panel to ascertain this information. Careful monitoring of the client is then done to see that she handles the bioidentical hormones in the right way. Regular follow-ups are done to see that the women obtain relief from the symptoms of menopause.

Adrenal Fatigue Updated


Searching For Answers

For years I have been searching for answers to my health concerns and those of many others who have crossed my path. My journey involved years of not feeling well, an illness that surfaced, over three years to realize the emotional core of all illness including mine, and over a decade of trial and error regimens that eventually led me to uncover some amazing facts. I always felt there had to be one core issue that contributed to, if not caused, the decline of health and the surfacing of disease. Many doctors and health practitioners had ideas and protocol, much of which I followed, but it never produced vibrant health for me. I felt I was a yoyo - up and down - going nowhere. So I continued my search.

Providentially, I came upon information that resonated with my thoughts - that a single core imbalance was a significant factor in many illnesses. My continued research uncovered the significance of the endocrine system and how the glands within this system basically run the body. Many doctors addressed the sex hormones, blaming those hormones, which are often involved, as the culprit for my significant imbalances and symptoms. Others said, "Well, you're getting older so you have to expect some of these things." Others said it was simply stress. I didn't buy their answers so looked further.

Through my studies I had realized the thyroid imbalance prevalent in many individuals as well as myself, so began working with this gland. Although taking a natural thyroid prescription did help somewhat with symptoms - cold hands and feet, fatigue, constipation, insomnia - it never really allowed me to feel great. So there had to be more, and as I devoured every article and book I could on hormones, I uncovered the significant role of the adrenal glands in the body. Then it hit me - this must be the missing piece of the puzzle for which I was seeking. And like a tire that goes flat on a car inhibits the entire vehicle from performing well, so would an imbalance with one gland affect the performance of the other glands within the endocrine system, and thus affect the entire body's performance.

Although I wrote an article before concerning the healing of the adrenals, I have a deep desire to uncover other aspects of this primary gland and its hormonal impact. Thus I keep discovering new information that can be beneficial for those suffering with adrenal fatigue. The first article lays the foundation for the information I am now sharing.

What Are The Hormones?

When I reference hormones that must be balanced, I am referring to these: T3 and T4 in the thyroid gland, Cortisol and DHEA in the adrenal glands, Progesterone, Estrogen and Testosterone in the sex glands, Melatonin that aids sleep, and Pregnenalone the King of all hormones, all of which are aided by other smaller but relevant steroid hormones. DHEA is the most abundant hormone in your body and is beneficial for your immune system, anti-aging and keeping muscles strong and flexible. Like all other hormones, they begin declining around age 40, sometimes even sooner. If your body is stressed, then they decline at a faster pace.

Although the decline of hormones is a natural process, our present day diet and lifestyle wreck havoc on our health and contribute immensely to the greater decline we see today. Changing your diet, exercising, and reframing beliefs and mental attitudes can go a long way into helping to create vibrant health. But why not restore some of the necessary hormones so life can be more enjoyable and fulfilling? Here again, it is important to do some research and use only products that nourish the body and give it high level energy so it can create vibrant health, not just supply it with a 'fix" to alleviate symptoms. Go for the cure of the core!

Traditional Medicine Versus Holistic Approaches

First understand this: Most medical professionals do not recognize the adrenals as part of the problem, yet it is the most common hormonal imbalance. Astonishing, isn't it? I believe that anyone who has an illness has an adrenal problem, and that without giving nutrient support to the adrenals, it is harder to heal the illness, if not impossible. In addition, although doctors perform traditional thyroid blood tests, these often do not show a thyroid imbalance unless it is severe. It requires a holistic health practitioner or doctor to perform an expanded thyroid panel to show other aspects of how the thyroid hormones function, which are not shown in a traditional test. This happened to me. My thyroid produced plenty of its hormones, so with the traditional test it appeared I was fine. I did this test several times with the same results over a period of five years. However, with continued symptoms that indicated thyroid dysfunction, I sought a holistic doctor and had the expanded test performed. I hadn't known of this expanded test until my research revealed it. The test report indicated that I did indeed produce adequate thyroid hormones, but I was not converting it into useable hormones within my body - an aha moment! So I began natural thyroid treatment.

However, that didn't turn out to be the complete answer, and after more research I altered my course to address the adrenals. An ASI test proved my intuition was correct - my adrenals were indeed fatigued. My cortisol was high in the late afternoon and evening when it should be lower, and was low in the morning when it should be the highest. My body was in a reverse action mode. So I turned my attention to the adrenals and began a diligent program of supplements and stress reduction to alleviate the issue with my adrenals. But it still wasn't enough. Then I got it! It is often necessary to work on all of the endocrine system at once, giving nutrients for the adrenals, thyroid and sex hormones altogether. Many times the adrenal depletion affects the thyroid and we refer to that as sub-clinical hypothyroidism, or under the main cause. Better results can often be achieved when addressing all the hormones at once.

The more I have studied this rather puzzling dilemma, the more I see how intricate the body is - how everything is connected and intertwined. So in addition to addressing the entire endocrine system, it is imperative to work on emotional issues, mental beliefs, and spiritual connections as well. We are so much more than our physical body, so balancing these other areas plays a significant role in healing. A person can take dozens of supplements for the adrenals and thyroid, but if their belief system includes mountains of daily stress, and that stress feeds into their heart so that they feel the stress, then a vicious cycle is created and healing the adrenals will be impossible.

Role Of Adrenals

Do you know the key role of the adrenals? It is threefold. Its first role is to maintain the fluid balance within the body. It is imperative to have enough moisture in the intestines for elimination as well as joint and connective tissue flexibility. Symptoms that often accompany adrenal fatigue are constipation, dry skin and hair, and both muscle pain and weakness. The second role the adrenals play is in helping to settle inflammation in the body when it is needed. Thus individuals with joint problems - arthritis, fibromyalgia, muscular dystrophy - most likely need to heal the adrenals in order to heal their other health concern. The third role of the adrenals is to provide sufficient energy to get through each day. This is why fatigue, lethargy, impaired concentration, and sleep issues are part of the adrenal fatigue picture.

Something I have discovered in recent months is the importance of detoxing the kidneys when healing the adrenals. Remember that the adrenals are located right above the kidneys, so it makes sense to cleanse the kidneys of stagnant debris that has accumulated there. Of course the intestines and liver will probably need cleansing at some point since they, along with the kidneys, are the filter organs in our body. But when the adrenals are drained and not functioning optimally, to detox heavily can plummet the adrenals into deeper fatigue. What I have learned is that the best course of action in the beginning, especially if you are a sensitive person as I am, is to sit in a FAR infrared sauna or begin juicing veggie juices in a juicer. Both of these programs allow for gentle detox so that the adrenals are not further impaired.

Symptom Review

Let's quickly review the symptoms of adrenal fatigue. They are often:

- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Weight gain, especially around the waist and abdomen
- Constipation
- Mild depression
- Morning sluggishness
- Dry skin and hair
- Anxiety and nervousness
- Arthritis
- Low body temperature
- Reduced sex drive
- Numerous other symptoms

Funny thing is that most of these symptoms mimic the symptoms of low thyroid function, known as hypothyroidism, making it a little tricky to find the underlying cause for many professionals. But again, I reiterate how all hormones inter-relate and often must be addressed simultaneously.

Healing The Adrenals

Healing the adrenals can be a daunting task, or at least it may seem that way. Understand that healing the adrenals, or balancing any hormones, can take time; it is not a quick fix. After all, it took you some time to unbalance them, so you'll have to hang in there with some trial and error to rebalance them. Again I must stress the importance of working in all realms - the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual to experience a complete rebalancing of anything in your body. We are multidimensional beings who require work in every dimension. This means your lifestyle will probably need to change.

But what is necessary for healing the physical body? Often a vicious cycle is created with the adrenal situation. If the adrenals are tired they don't allow other systems in the body to work well, like digestion. If digestion is impaired, then constipation, lack of assimilation of nutrients, and weight gain can ensue. The weight gain can occur due to the lack of digestion which causes undigested food particles to enter the blood stream and deposit in undesirable places in the body. (those unwanted pounds!) Or, if digestion is not working efficiently, that very thing can weaken the adrenals and become a stressor for them. So you can see how easy it is to set up a vicious cycle that is hard to break. Digestive enzymes are in order as part of the adrenal restoration process.

Salt is vital for restoring adrenals to proper function. Now I'm not talking about table salt, which is simply sodium chloride, a chemical, which can cause high blood pressure among other things and offers nothing good for your body. You might think I'm referring to sea salt, but that isn't the case either. Sea salt, taken from our polluted oceans, is still processed and does not include the necessary nutrients. But Himalayan salt, sometimes referred to as pink salt, includes all 84 nutrients that your body needs every day. It is taken directly from the Himalayan salt mines and is the purest salt in the world. A teaspoon every day is recommended to help keep your fluid levels balanced and provide you with the nutrients and minerals your body needs. Some individuals crave salt when the adrenals are significantly depleted. For some, when their adrenals are very low functioning, taking ½ to 1 teaspoon of Himalayan salt in lukewarm water in the morning before eating anything can help raise their cortisol levels. Remember, cortisol needs to be at its highest level in the morning so you have energy throughout the day.

The B vitamins are an absolute if you wish to repair your adrenals. B's are anti-stress for one thing, and are required for all healing, digestion, energy and restoration anywhere in the body. The B vitamins are best ingested in a liquid form since digestion is impaired with adrenal fatigue. Also note that tablets seldom break down enough to be utilized by the body, and many capsules have fillers and binders that can actually inhibit absorption into the body. Make sure you include liquid B's in your daily healing protocol.

Sleep is a necessity for repair of the adrenals, and anything in the body for that matter, for during sleep the repair process takes place. So without sufficient sleep restoration is halted. Many individuals complain about fitful sleep or waking up throughout the night, leaving them tired and sluggish for the day. Five consecutive hours of sleep are what is required every night for adrenal repair, and if you are not able to do this, natural measures should be taken to help you sleep. A product called Seriphos from InnerPlexus can be helpful in lowering elevated evening cortisol levels as can liquid melatonin from PR Labs. Other relaxant herbal combinations may also be helpful. Some find benefit from 5HTP. The cycle of insomnia that is often created when hormones are out of balance can usually be eliminated once hormones become balanced, but using some aids such as mentioned above are certainly in order to help achieve sleep faster. Sleep is vital for repair.

One of the main factors in adrenal fatigue is stress, so changing your response to stressors is a must if healing is to occur. Reducing and eventually eliminating stress will help the insomnia issue as well. You might think this is impossible since everyone experiences stressors in their life, but I can assure you it is possible because I have accomplished this. Here are the facts. Of course you will experience stressful situations in your life through health challenges, financial issues, relationships, work situations, and many other happenings. In addition there is your diet to consider, structural issues, your beliefs and attitudes, and what you think about constantly. Don't go there! I know what you're thinking - that this is too hard and you'll probably never be able to get well, right? Like I said, don't go there. It is possible to heal with the right and perfect tools because I have accomplished this!

The secret to overcoming stress is in how you respond to the stressors. If you allow them to take over your life and focus on them continually, worrying, becoming anxious or angry, you create an environment for adrenal burnout because these responses are negative. If, on the other hand, you understand that everything that comes your way is there for a reason and has merit in your life, perhaps as a learning tool, then it becomes a positive experience at some point and is not a stressor. If you want to learn more about living without stress in your life, I have a free E-book called Stress Free Living on my website. It really does work!

Using adrenal and/or thyroid nutrient boosters can be quite beneficial in supporting the restoration of these glands and their hormones. But beware, for many health practitioners recommend animal glandulars or supplements with chemical constituents. You are a high vibrational being. Animals and chemicals resonate at a lower vibration. Therefore, if you consume products from these sources they can never raise you to vibrant health because the vibrations cannot match yours. Doesn't it make sense to put only products into your body that can resonate on the same vibrational level as you, and therefore promote and sustain hormone balance and great health? I have found that the products from PR Labs have this high vibration. Only pure plants are used in synergistic blends, and their hormone supplements are precursors to help your body produce what is needed rather than simply giving the body a supplemental hormone or product. Helping your body produce what it needs is always the best way to go for restoration whenever possible.

The Hormonal Chain

EFA's, commonly known as essential fatty acids, are necessary for the conversion of all steroid hormones. They create the good cholesterol required to begin this process. Without sufficient EFA's your body cannot convert the hormones into functional use. EFA's are found in foods like wild caught cold water fish, raw organic nuts and seeds - almonds, pecans, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, flax seeds - organic coconut oil and organic olive oil.

The cholesterol first converts into pregnenolone which is considered to be the King in the hormone chain because it has the ability to essentially convert into all other steroid hormones. It converts into progesterone on one hand and DHEA on the other. The progesterone converts into cortisol and aldosterone while the DHEA converts into androstenedione, which in turn converts into the estrogens ( estrone, estradiol, and estriol) and testosterone.

Sometimes it is advantageous to utilize pregnenolone in a supplemental program, but using a blend can be even better.

Take It Slow

In my previous article on adrenal fatigue I mentioned some suggested supplements and lifestyle changes that have been noted as important for adrenal restoration. Understand that when adrenals are worn out, it is not advantageous to ingest large quantities of supplements. Earlier I referenced the digestion impairment when adrenals are dysfunctional, so taking large quantities of supplements only adds more toxic buildup to your body. Instead, opt for a few high energy supplements that your body can benefit from. Better yet, have a health practitioner test your body with the suggested products through applied kinesiology, or muscle testing. Although not a 100% accurate, it is many times better than simply guessing.

Each of us are individuals, unique in our own way. There are multiple paths to healing, and what works for one may not hold true for the next person. You can read many articles or books on hormone balance and receive various protocols to follow. Listen to your body. Go with what feels right, and have someone test you with kinesiology or similar methods. Do your own research as well and become educated with beneficial information. Many people do not want to take the time to investigate their health issues, but would rather allow someone else to control what goes into their body and tell them what to do. To me, health is a top priority and therefore requires due diligence of my time to keep my body functioning optimally with vibrancy. Although what I've shared in this article has proven good for many people, some of it may not work for you. so go into your healing process with an open mind and willing heart to listen, learn and then act when it feels right.

Other Important Supplements That May Be Beneficial To Use

In my first article on adrenal fatigue, I mentioned a few supplements that seem to be important for most people to implement according to leading health practitioners. They include:

- Magnesium
- Vitamin C
- Extra B5 in addition to the B complex
- Natural progesterone cream
- Vitamin E

All of these supplements appeared on lists from holistic doctors who specialize in the endocrine system and adrenal issues as needed for healing since these support and nourish the glands, particularly the adrenals. Again, go with what works for you, but this is a good starting place. Be sure to include the items mentioned in this article as well.

Sex Hormones

Since it is necessary to address all hormones - thyroid, adrenals and sex hormones - when you seek harmony and healing, we need to talk about the sex hormones. Often this is the place doctors start with treatments, and they frequently prescribe synthetic hormones in an effort to restore balance. Synthetic hormones are NOT like your body in any way, and although they may sometimes seem to reduce or eliminate symptoms, they pose a high risk of creating serious side effects that are capable of even ending your life. Some medical practitioners offer bio-identical hormones as a solution to the unbalance. These may be a better choice and certainly are promoted as closer to what your body produces, but are not always a solution.

What I have discovered over and over again, is the importance of using natural progesterone cream since it not only supports the adrenals and thyroid, but also helps reduce the estrogen overload we are experiencing today. This overload is causing men to have breast growth as well as breast cancer, girls to begin menstruation way too early, many disorders to appear such as endometriosis, along with cancer of the breast, uterus, prostate, and much more. The imbalance of this estrogen overload is contributing to a greater decline of progesterone and testosterone in both women and men.

I believe that most women and probably most men, especially over 50, need to use a natural progesterone cream to help restore the balance between estrogen and progesterone. In addition, most men probably need a boost for their testosterone, and often women do too. The best way to do this I feel is to use a synergistic blend of plants that help your body produce the proper harmonious hormone balance. The most common complaints associated with a sex hormone imbalance at mid-life is weight gain, reduced libido (sex drive), energy reduction, thinning hair, and muscle weakness or pain. Sound familiar? You're right - these same symptoms are found with adrenal fatigue and thyroid imbalance. So can you see how the hormones are so intrically woven together and why addressing all of them is essential when you are seeking harmony and vibrant health?

Exercise

Exercise is vital if you want health and vitality. Exercise allows blood to flow and be oxygenated, releases toxins from the body as you sweat, keeps your joints moving and flexible, strengthens your bones and joints (particularly when using weights), energizes your body, improves your mood, clears the cobwebs out of your brain, and above all, helps you lose those unwanted love handles. But caution! When the adrenals are fatigued, be careful not to overdo exercising. Too much further depletes the adrenals. Rule of thumb - if after exercising you are exhausted you are doing too much. Do less next time so that you feel good afterwards. If you have symptoms of hormonal imbalance, here's another guideline. If you are exhausted after routine exercise, then you probably are experiencing significant adrenal problems. If however you feel energized after exercising, you are probably experiencing more of a thyroid deficiency. It is known that thyroid function is boosted after exercise. Simple walking is usually beneficial for everyone. So get moving! With rare exception, exercise is highly beneficial for everyone! You might try yoga too!

Overview

Much information is now becoming available for this huge problem of adrenal burnout that so many people are experiencing. Some say it affects as much as 80% of our population at varying levels. Sadly, many do not know it is affecting their health. What I can see after years of researching for answers in regard to finding the core of health challenges, is that any illness will have the adrenals involved. In order to effectively create healing, the adrenals will need to be nourished and supported to achieve healing. But I also came to realize that complete healing will never occur without addressing the spiritual, emotional and mental realms. After several years of attempting to heal my body in the physical realm years ago, when I began working on releasing old beliefs about hurt, anger, guilt and shame, I then began healing very rapidly.

In the physical realm, anyone who is stressed needs help with their adrenals. Things like worry; financial problems; eating foods that aren't good for you; no exercise or too much exercise; lack of 5 hours consecutive sleep; too much sugar, alcohol or caffeine (proven to be totally detrimental to adrenal function); chronic infections; toxicity; old beliefs that don't serve your highest good; spinal misalignment; anger; resentment; jealousy - all of these things contribute to adrenal fatigue because they wear down your body. The adrenals are your stress indicator, and if they become worn out, other systems are affected. This creates an unfavorable environment for a healthy body. Refer to the section on adrenal roles if you've forgotten what they do.

So it is a combination of nourishment through supplements and diet, release of old beliefs and programming, reprogramming your thoughts and behavior, repairing the damage and changing your lifestyle that enables your body to really heal. Does this seem like too much to do? Anything worth anything takes time, effort and oftentimes money to implement. In the end, it is more than worth it. You become a stronger and more balanced individual with a whole new outlook on life. Stress is removed and enjoyment replaces it. You feel better, life looks good, your relationships improve, and your heart opens. When you enjoy life, you are living as you are meant to live. And every stressor becomes a gift for you to grow beyond.

Wrap Up

I've shared with you in this article what I believe is necessary to heal your body from adrenal fatigue or any hormonal imbalance. Since the endocrine system, home of your primary hormones, runs every system within your body, it only makes sense to pay attention to your hormones. Health advocates might say that toxins are the primary cause of illness. They certainly are a significant factor in any illness, but often toxic overload is due to too much or too little of one or more hormones that create other unfavorable situations within the body. Too much estrogen can cause cell proliferation leading to cancer. Improper digestion due to any imbalance of hormones can lead to toxins pouring into the blood and depositing anywhere in the body. This can lead to weight gain, colon issues and cancer, among other things. Low DHEA affects the immune system allowing for free radicals to take over and create illness. Any stressors that lower the function of the adrenals contribute to the creation of many diseases.

,b.To Sum It All Up...

Balance your hormones...
Release old beliefs and patterns that are hurting you...
Heal your relationships - forgiveness heals you and the other person...
Replace old programming with positive thoughts and attitudes...
Reduce stress by changing how you respond to your stressors...
Exercise - whatever you like to do - just do it...
Reduce or eliminate sugar, alcohol and caffeine...
Enjoy life. Focus on the good in your life...
Do your own research - educate yourself...
Work on bettering your diet...
Eliminate chronic infections and toxicity.

Starting Protocol For Adrenal Repair...

B Vitamins - liquid...
Adrenal synergistic blend of plants...
Thyroid nutrients that include iodine...
Natural progesterone cream...
EFA's...
Himalayan salt...
Digestive enzymes...
Melatonin, 5HTP or herbs to help you sleep...
Reduce stress - learn how to respond differently to your stressors...
Learn positive ways to view life - use a coach, take classes, read books on this.

As a person who has traveled the path of undesirable symptoms, illness, many stressors and hormonal imbalances, I have learned, through my personal experiences, what works and what does not work for me. Although I feel what I have shared is an effective way to balance your hormones and create vibrant health, other things may need to be factored into your equation that I have not addressed. Each of you are unique with your own individual qualities and beliefs, and your lifestyle may look totally different from mine, so all of this must be taken into consideration. However, there is a basic format that must be implemented to begin the healing process, even though additional supplementation, detoxification or lifestyle shifts may be needed.

My personal passion is to use my knowledge gained through research and personal experiences to assist individuals who are suffering in life and want to heal. If I can be of service to you, I invite you to contact me. Life is meant to be enjoyed and fulfilling, and my greatest joy comes from helping someone step into their own power and begin moving into a place of vibrant health and wholeness in all dimensions. As I stated earlier, I believe healing is possible if you embrace the right and perfect tools to accomplish it.

Normal Thyroid Levels: What Are Normal Thyroid Levels?


You might be asking yourself "What exactly are normal thyroid levels?" Normal levels can depend on your age, the make-up of your build and gender. Your thyroid is responsible for the secretion of hormones which are responsible for the efficient function of your metabolism. If these hormones become imbalanced the entire body suffers the effects.

Let us get to the bottom of what the thyroid actually does for the body. It provides two important hormones. These hormones are T3 (triodothyronine) and T4 (thryoxine). They determine how fast or slow your metabolism functions. These hormones are produced in response to a thyroid stimulating hormone known as TSH.

An effective way of testing for normal thyroid levels is to test the T3 and T4 TSH hormone levels present in your blood. Thyroid stimulating hormones tells the thyroid gland whether or not it should produce more hormones. Therefore it is usually tested first. High TSH levels indicate that your thyroid is underactive (hypothyroidism) while a low TSH levels indicates an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). The next to be tested are the T4 levels. A high level indicates an overactive while a low level indicates an underactive thyroid. T3 levels are checked last as they are not always reliable indicators.

It is vitally important to try and keep these levels within the body constant. If the levels appear to ne abnormal to your doctor, he may need to perform a thyroid antibody test to figure out the reason for your problem. A thyroid scan is also used to detect growths on the thyroid known as thyroid nodules. These growths could be causing the problem.

If you are experiencing abnormal thyroid levels and suffering with fatigue, unexplained weight gain, dry skin, constipation and a slow pulse you more than likely have an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) If this is the case do not become despondent as there are certain things in your life you can change in order to regain normal thyroid levels.

There are a number of thyroid foods and nutrients which can be used in order to reach normal thyroid levels. An often touted bad substance - coffee, has been known to balance thyroid levels. I hear you saying "Coffee, no surely not!" However it has been proven in numerous studies that people that drink coffee not only live longer but the more coffee they drink the longer they live.

Although coffee is a vital nutrient for thyroid problems it unfortunately is not the only nutrient required, there are numerous thyroid friendly foods which need to be introduced into the diet in order to attain normal thyroid levels.

Hormones and Menopause - What You Should Know


Hormones and menopause are frequently much discussed topics during the menopause transition. Most of the time, the menopause transition is characterized by hormonal imbalance. In this article I will review the two hormones that are the most affected and what can be done for the relief of menopause symptoms.

In the menopause literature, there is a lot of talk about estrogen and progesterone. Because of all the toxins in our environment, and because of the sharp decline in progesterone during menopause, most women become estrogen dominant.

What are the symptoms of estrogen dominance?


  • mood swings

  • headaches

  • weight gain

  • water retention

  • digestive disturbances

  • Fuzzy thinking

  • Poor lifestyle choices can be the cause of estrogen dominance. A diet that consist mainly of highly refined foods and junk foods can have an impact on your hormone levels and lead to hormonal imbalance.

Some women are more likely than others to accumulate fat - especially around the waist. Body fat produces estrogen and other hormones.Fat cells produce excess estrogen which are often difficult to metabolize. Xenoestrogens, which are harmful chemicals found in our environment, cause even more excess estrogen to accumulate in our fat cells, disrupting our hormonal metabolism.

What should you do?


  • Manage stress. In relation to estrogen dominance, experts believe that stress fuels chronically high levels of adrenaline and cortisol, stress hormones known to alter our hormones.

  • Limit exposure to harmful chemicals. Choose organic foods as much as possible, and select organic or kosher meats. Avoid plastics for heating or storing food. Choose body care products and cleaning products that have natural ingredients.

  • Consider discussing bioidentical hormone therapy with your doctor. Bioidentical hormones are plant-based hormones that mimic the hormones found in your body. Because they are natural, they have very little side effects. Since they cannot be patented, you will have to work with your doctor and a compounding pharmacy to find the right formula for you.

  • Adopt a natural diet that is plant-based. Eat a lot of vegetable as the fiber will cleanse you of toxins and will help you metabolize the hormones. Add legumes, yams and green leafy vegetables. Make sure that you avoid highly refined foods as well as trans fats. It's important to include healthy fats in your diet such as those coming from olive oil and fish (like salmon, herring, tuna). A tip to guide you is to avoid any fats that turn solid at room temperature.

Causes of Sweating Hot Flashes Other Than Menopause


Have you experienced sweating hot flashes (or hot flushes); not only at night but also in the morning? For most women, hot flushes and sweating are taken as signs of perimenopause or impending menopause. But is this the only reason?

Although these bodily heat waves and night sweats are usually associated with women and is believed to be due to hormonal changes in a woman's body, there are also men who experience the same condition. Causes of sweating hot flashes and night sweats other than menopause include:

  1. Idiopathic hyperhidrosis can cause the body to sweat profusely but no medical cause can be identified.

  2. Tuberculosis is also a common cause of night sweats. People with tuberculosis usually have higher temperatures at night thus activating the sweat glands.

  3. Infections such as endocarditis, which is the inflammation of the heart valvesl HIV/AIDS, which is the infection of the body's immune system; abscesses, which are the inflammation of the tonsils, boils, or infection of the appendix or osteomyelitis, which is an infection within the bones, are also probable causes of hot flushes or night sweats. These conditions should be attended to immediately by a medical specialist.

  4. Cancer patients often experience night sweats together with fever and consistent weight loss as an early symptom of certain cancers such as lymphoma.

  5. Menstruation is a monthly occurrence in women and a lot of women also experience hot flushes before and after their menstrual period. This is quite normal because the level of estrogen in women's bodies changes before and after their period. This causes their body temperature to increase triggering the night sweats.

  6. Medications can also lead to night sweats as side effect of antidepressants and other psychiatric drugs. Aspirin, acetaminophen, paracetamol and other medications to lower fever can also lead to sweating. Cortisone, predinisone and prednisolone are medications that can also trigger sweating during the day and night.

  7. Hypothyroidism or an underactive thyroid can also cause hot flushes that strike any time of the day.

  8. Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar - a situation commonly experienced by diabetics who are taking insulin or anti-diabetic drugs - may also cause night sweating.

  9. Hormonal disorders such as pheochromocytoma - tumors of the adrenal glands, carcinoid syndrome - excess hormones released by the gastrointestinal or carcinoid tumors and hyperthyroidism - overactive thyroid can all cause sweating accompanied by facial flushing.

  10. Eating certain foods such as spicy food or hot spices, smoking, excessive drinking of alcohol, obesity, over consumption of sugar are also some of the instigators of sweating and hot flashes.

Both men and women are susceptible to these causes of sweating and hot flashes. If you experience sweating and rising body heat, the best thing to do is to consult with a doctor to help you rule out or identify underlying causes for it.