Hormones are chemical messengers that tell specific tissues how to behave. Our bodies produce various hormones that all have specific functions. As a result, when we have hormonal imbalances, too much or too little of a certain hormone, this can impact our health and wellbeing. 

Below, we’ll briefly run through some of the key hormones and how they may affect your health: 

Leptin & Ghrelin

From a nutritional standpoint, leptin and ghrelin have a significant impact in the body as they control your levels of hunger and fullness. Leptin tells your body you are full, while ghrelin informs your body when you are hungry and need more energy from food. Many factors contribute to the management of these hormones. A few examples include consuming too much sugar or not getting enough sleep, which can lead to a decrease in leptin levels and an increase in feelings of hunger. To learn how these hormones impact food intake and body weight, please read on here.

Melatonin

Speaking of sleep, melatonin is the hormone that helps us feel sleepy and fall off into dreamland. If you have low melatonin levels this can increase stress and, combined with other factors, potentially lead to the development of obesity and diabetes. Having trouble sleeping? Read more about how melatonin impacts your cycle of sleeping and waking here.

Testosterone & Estrogen

Testosterone is a male sex hormone and helps with muscle strength and bone density. This is why, typically, men can grow larger and stronger muscles and are generally bigger than women; they make more testosterone. It is important to note that women also produce testosterone, in addition to estrogen, which in contrast “promotes the development and maintenance of female characteristics in the human body.” To learn more about estrogen and progesterone, please read here.

Thyroxine (T4) & Triiodothyronine (T3)

Commonly referred to as T3 and T4, these are the hormones secreted by your thyroid gland. They impact your health as they are responsible for controlling your metabolism and energy levels. When these hormones are thrown out of their natural balance, then it can cause fatigue, digestive issues, and much more. Interested in how your thyroid hormones work? Read on here.

As you can see, hormones can significantly impact your health as they alter the way your body works based on the signals it is sending to different parts of the body. The most effective way to maintain hormonal balance is by improving your nutrition. A balanced diet full of whole foods and low on refined sugar can help you keep everything in check and allow your body to work effectively.

If you are interested in speaking with a hormone and metabolism specialist, we are here to help. Call us at 802.861.1200 or fill out a contact form here today.