h e a r t s c e n t
FEMALE HORMONES
No matter how old you are, you may be dealing with the symptoms of hormones a little out of balance. Here is a simple list of possible symptoms you may experience with the three main female hormones.
Once again, the 3 main hormones that affect women throughout their lives are: estrogen (oestrogen), progesterone and cortisol. It is fairly common to deal with minor or major disruptions in the levels of these three players.
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E S T R O G E N
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ESTROGEN DOMINANCE
- Creates a dark cloud over everything
- Weight gain in the hips
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Cellulite (connected to insulin)
- Poor sleep
- PMS, irregular periods
- Fibroids, Endometriosis
LOW ESTROGEN
- Weight Gain – Belly Fat
- Fatigue
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Hot Flashes – due to a message from the hypothalmus (part of limbic system)
- Night Sweats
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PROGESTERONE
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PROGESTERONE TOO HIGH
- Breast tenderness.
- Feeling bloated.
- Mood swings.
- Excessive sleepiness.
- Dizziness, tinnitus
- Susceptibility to yeast infections.
PROGESTERONE TOO LOW
- Weight gain
- Low libido
- Mood swings & depression
- PMS, irregular periods, heavy bleeding
- Breast tenderness, fibrocystic breasts
- Gallbladder problems (if removed – thyroid problems )
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h e a r t s c e n t
C O R T I S O L
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CORTISOL IMBALANCE
- Weight gain (both hips & belly)
- Fatigue
- Poor sleep (insomnia & waking)
- Depression & Anxiety
- PMS, irregular periods
- Fibroids, Endometriosis
- Low sex drive
- Water retention
Self care is critical in balancing hormones. Reducing physical and emotional stressors is very powerful. One of the biggest physical stressors we experience is the bombardment of endocrine disruptors. These chemicals are everywhere in our life and can disrupt our normal hormone activity. Some examples include: pesticides, perfumes + body care products, laundry detergents, BPA and phthalates. Taking time to find these items and replacing with less dangerous ones is well worth your time.
Check out EWG (Environmental Working Group) for more information.
As always, consult your health care provider regarding any concerns regarding your reproductive cycle.