What does your Body tells you about Your Health?

Posted by Evan Murray on January 6th, 2020

Have you ever heard someone blame their hormones? In fact, they affect us all and our hormone levels are not always the same. Our hormones are the crossing points of the body and tell us when to slow down, relax or ... change lanes. You probably know that life stages can affect hormones, but do you also know that the environment, drugs, drinks, food and stress can also greatly influence them and help to disrupt their functioning?

Everyone will experience a hormonal imbalance in their lifetime and everyone will experience it differently. Weight, mood, appetite, energy, body hair, blood pressure, libido and even memory could be affected. If you think you are experiencing a hormonal imbalance, it is best to talk to your doctor to find the source of the problem, especially if your age or an event in your life (such as pregnancy) do not seem to be the cause.

About these hormones ...

Although the human body secretes about 50 hormones, here are the ones that are most often associated with dysregulation:

Endorphins
These hormones can reduce your perception of pain and increase your positive feelings. They are produced, for example, during training sessions or physical activities.

Adrenaline
It is the hormone of flight or combat, capable of supplying the body with a surge of energy in response to danger.

Cortisol
Here is the hormone that helps the body cope with stress.

Ghrelin
The hormone of hunger or appetite signals to the body that it is time to eat.

Insulin
Linked to diabetes, it is obvious that a little insulin can do a lot. This hormone has several roles. Among other things, that of allowing cells to draw sugars and amino acids from the blood, which can then be converted into energy. Insulin also promotes muscle development.

Leptin
Called the satiety hormone, leptin signals the body that it is full.

Melatonin
This hormone helps control the body's internal clocks, letting us know when it's time to go to sleep.

Testosterone
Although responsible for several male characteristics, testosterone is produced by both women and men. Sometimes, this can be the reason of back pain.

Estrogens
Participating in the regulation of the female reproductive system, estrogens are much talked about during menopause.

Find balance

There is no one-size-fits-all solution for finding hormone balance, but a few tips can help you find your way.

Changing Your Diet
Different diets can affect different hormones. For example, an increase in protein can help lower the level of ghrelin. So you feel full longer. Reducing the intake of sugar and refined carbohydrates can decrease insulin production, which helps prevent obesity and diabetes. In addition, increasing the intake of omega-3 fatty acids could reduce the levels of adrenaline and cortisol. These healthy menu changes are just good for us, and a good way to start a change.

Exercise
Did you know that physical activity can help lower insulin levels? Moving around can also help reduce stress and have a positive influence on estrogen levels. Many women in their thirties have a dominant level of estrogen, which can increase the risk of breast cancer, but exercise can help regulate it.

Sleep
Who doesn't like to sleep? Alas, many of us are not getting enough sleep. Disturbed sleep can be linked to an imbalance of hormones such as cortisol, insulin, leptin and ghrelin. Another good reason to put the electronics away and keep your eyes shut a little longer.

Relax
Life can be very stressful, but knowing how to balance it can help us control our hormones. For example, meditation, yoga, massages can help relieve the body of the weight of its stress. And less stress also helps you sleep better.

Don't these tips indicate that everyone can enjoy a nice weekend of relaxation at the spa?
Ladies, starting in their forties

You could say that women over 40 are penalized at the hormonal level. At perimenopause, which can even occur during your thirties, a woman's body undergoes a series of hormonal changes and imbalances. Adjusting to this new stage of life marks the end of the reproductive period, but by following the advice given above, it is possible to minimize the inevitable symptoms. And rather than manifesting as a tsunami, the transition then unfolds like a softer wave.

But remember that if you suspect a hormonal imbalance, your doctor is the first person to try to find a solution. With Blue Cross health insurance, you benefit from comprehensive drug insurance programs and, in addition, you have access to the Blue Advantage program, for discounts on gym memberships, therapy and various products and services helping to reduce stress and cortisol levels