Hormonal balance after 40: how to support

Hormonal balance after 40: how to support

I. Understanding hormonal changes after 40

After 40 years in the body of both men and women, significant hormonal changes occur. These changes are a natural part of the aging process, but can cause a variety of symptoms that affect the quality of life. Understanding these changes is the first step to maintain hormonal balance and improve overall well -being.

A. Women: Perimenopausa and Menopause

For women, the most significant hormonal change is the onset of perimenopause, which precedes menopause. Perimenopause can begin already in the mid-30s, but more often manifested in the 40s. It is characterized by a gradual decrease in the production of estrogen and progesterone ovaries. This process can take several years and be accompanied by a number of symptoms.

1. Estrogen: Estrogen plays a key role in female health, affecting the reproductive system, bone tissue, cardiovascular system and brain. A decrease in estrogen levels can lead to the following symptoms:

   • Irregular menstruation: The cycle becomes less predictable, with changes in the duration and intensity of bleeding.
   • Tucks of heat: A sudden sensation of heat, often accompanied by sweating and redness of the face.
   • Night sweating: A feeling of strong heat and sweating during sleep, breaking sleep.
   • Dry vagina: Reducing the production of vaginal lubrication, leading to discomfort during intercourse.
   • Mood changes: Mood swings, irritability, anxiety and depression.
   • Sleep problems: Insomnia, frequent awakening at night.
   • Libido decrease: Reducing sexual attraction.
   • Dry skin and hair: Reducing skin elasticity and brittle hair.
   • Problems with memory and concentration: Forgetfulness, difficulties with concentration.
   • Weight gain: Slow down metabolism and redistribution of adipose tissue.
   • Osteoporosis: Reducing bone density, increasing the risk of fractures.

2. Progesterone: Progesterone also plays an important role in the reproductive system, preparing the uterus for implantation of a fertilized egg and supporting pregnancy. A decrease in the level of progesterone can aggravate some symptoms associated with a decrease in estrogen level.

3. FSG and LH: The level of follicle -stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) increases in the perimenopause, since the pituitary gland tries to stimulate the ovaries to the production of estrogen. These hormones can be used to diagnose perimenopause.

4. Menopause: The diagnosis of menopause is made when a woman has no menstruation for 12 consecutive months in a row. After menopause, the level of estrogen and progesterone remains low.

B. Men: Andropauza (age androgenic deficit)

In men, after 40 years, hormones, in particular testosterone, also decrease. This process is often called Andropauza or Age -based Androgenic Deficiency (EDA). However, unlike a sharp decrease in estrogen levels in women during menopause, a decrease in testosterone levels in men is more gradually.

1. Testosterone: Testosterone plays a key role in male health, affecting muscle mass, bone density, sexual function, mood and level of energy. A decrease in testosterone levels can lead to the following symptoms:

   • Libido decrease: Reducing sexual attraction.
   • Erectile dysfunction: Difficulties with the achievement and maintenance of an erection.
   • Reducing muscle mass: Loss of muscle strength and volume.
   • Increase fat mass: Redistribution of adipose tissue, especially in the abdomen.
   • Fatigue and weakness: A constant feeling of fatigue and lack of energy.
   • Depression and irritability: Doins of mood, a feeling of sadness and irritability.
   • Sleep problems: Insomnia, frequent awakening at night.
   • Reduced bone density: Increase risk osteoporosis.
   • Breast enlargement (gynecomastia): The growth of the mammary glands.
   • Problems with memory and concentration: Forgetfulness, difficulties with concentration.

2. Globulin connecting sex hormones (GSPG): With age, the GSPG level increases, which leads to a decrease in the level of free testosterone, which is a biologically active form of the hormone.

3. Digidrotestosterone (DGT): The level of DGT, a hormone formed from testosterone, can remain stable or even increase with age. DGT plays a role in the development of the prostate gland and baldness.

C. Impact on general health

Hormonal changes after 40 years can have a significant effect on general health, increasing the risk of various diseases.

1. Cardiovascular diseases: A decrease in estrogen levels in women and testosterone in men can help increase the level of cholesterol and blood pressure, increasing the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

2. Osteoporosis: A decrease in estrogen levels in women and testosterone in men can lead to a decrease in bone density and increase the risk of fractures.

3. Type 2 diabetes: Hormonal changes can affect sensitivity to insulin, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes.

4. Cognitive disorders: A decrease in hormone levels can negatively affect cognitive functions, such as memory and concentration, increasing the risk of dementia.

II. Diagnosis of hormonal imbalance

To determine the hormonal imbalance, consult a doctor and undergo an examination. The doctor may prescribe the following tests:

A. Blood tests:

1. Women:

   • FSG (follicle -stimulating hormone): An increased level of FSH can indicate perimenopause.
   • LH (luteinizing hormone): An increased level of LH can also indicate perimenopause.
   • Estradiol (main estrogen): A low estradiol level can indicate perimenopause or menopause.
   • Progesterone: The low level of progesterone may indicate a violation of ovulation.
   • Testosterone: The level of testosterone can also be measured, since in women it plays a role in libido and muscle mass.
   • TSH (thyrotropic hormone): It is important to check the function of the thyroid gland, since diseases of the thyroid gland can cause symptoms similar to symptoms of perimenopause.

2. Men:

   • General testosterone: Measurement of the general level of testosterone.
   • Free testosterone: Measuring the level of free testosterone, which is a biologically active form of the hormone.
   • GSPG (globulin connecting sex hormones): Measurement of the level of GSPG, which affects the level of free testosterone.
   • LH (luteinizing hormone): Measurement of the level of LH, which stimulates the production of testosterone with testicles.
   • FSG (follicle -stimulating hormone): Measurement of the FSH level, which plays a role in spermatogenesis.
   • Prolactin: A high level of prolactin can indicate problems with the pituitary gland and affect the level of testosterone.
   • Estradiol: Measurement of estradiol levels, since in men it plays a role in bone density and libido.
   • PSA (simplicity-specific antigen): It is important to check the level of the dog for screening of prostate cancer.
   • TSH (thyrotropic hormone): It is important to check the function of the thyroid gland, since diseases of the thyroid gland can affect the level of testosterone.

B. Other examinations:

1. Dencitometry: Measurement of bone density to detect osteoporosis.
2. Ultrasound of the pelvic organs: In women to assess the condition of the ovaries and uterus.
3. The prostate ultrasound: In men to assess the state of the prostate gland.

III. Ways to maintain hormonal balance

There are many ways to maintain hormonal balance after 40 years, including a change in lifestyle, the use of drugs and alternative treatment methods. It is important to discuss the most suitable treatment plan with the doctor, taking into account individual characteristics and health status.

A. Change in lifestyle:

1. Proper nutrition: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grain products and low -fat protein plays a key role in maintaining hormonal balance.

   • Limiting sugar and processed products: Excessive consumption of sugar and processed products can lead to insulin resistance and hormonal imbalance.
   • Sufficient fiber consumption: Fiber helps to regulate blood sugar and remove excess estrogen from the body.
   • Healthy fats: The consumption of healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids contained in fish, avocados and nuts, is necessary for the production of hormones.
   • Phytoestrogens: Moderate consumption of products containing phytoestrogens, such as soy, tofu, flax and chickpeas, can help alleviate the symptoms of menopause. However, before the use of large amounts of soybeans, it is necessary to consult a doctor, especially in the presence of hormone -dependent diseases.
   • Calcium and vitamin D: Enough consumption of calcium and vitamin D is necessary to maintain bone health.
   • Products rich in magnesium: Magnesium plays an important role in regulating the level of hormones and maintaining the nervous system. Good sources of magnesium are dark green leafy vegetables, nuts and seeds.
   • Protein: Sufficient protein consumption is necessary to maintain muscle mass and regulate the level of sugar in the blood.

2. Regular physical exercises: Physical activity helps to maintain healthy weight, improves mood, strengthens bones and muscles, and also regulates the level of hormones.

   • Aerobic exercises: Running, swimming, cycling improves the cardiovascular system and help to burn calories.
   • Power training: Power training helps maintain muscle mass and bone density.
   • Flexibility exercises: Yoga, Pilates and stretching help improve flexibility and reduce stress.

3. Reducing stress: Stress can negatively affect the hormonal balance, so it is important to learn how to cope with stress using various techniques, such as meditation, yoga, breathing exercises and hobbies.

4. Sufficient sleep: The lack of sleep can lead to hormonal imbalance, so it is important to sleep at least 7-8 hours a day.

5. Refusal of smoking and restriction of alcohol use: Smoking and drinking alcohol can negatively affect hormonal balance and general health.

6. Maintaining a healthy weight: Excess weight or insufficient weight can lead to hormonal imbalance.

B. Medicines:

1. Women:

   • Hormonal replacement therapy (GZT): GZT involves taking estrogen and progesterone to alleviate the symptoms of menopause, such as the ejiumns of heat, night sweating and dry vagina. GZT can be assigned in the form of tablets, patchings, creams or vaginal rings. It is important to discuss the risks and advantages of GZT with the doctor, as it can increase the risk of developing certain diseases, such as breast cancer and stroke.
   • Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SMER): SMER, such as Tamoxifen and Raloxifen, can be used to treat osteoporosis and reduce the risk of breast cancer.
   • Antidepressants: Some antidepressants, such as selective inhibitors of the reverse capture of serotonin (SIOOS), can help relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety associated with menopause.
   • Estrogen vaginal creams: Vaginal creams with estrogen can help alleviate the symptoms of dry vaginal.
   • Addresses of calcium and vitamin D: Calcium and vitamin D additives can help maintain bone health.
   • Other drugs: Depending on the symptoms, the doctor can prescribe other drugs, such as drugs for the treatment of high blood pressure or cholesterol.

2. Men:

   • Putting therapy with testosterone (ZTT): ZTT involves taking testosterone to increase the level of testosterone and relieve symptoms of hypogonadism, such as a decrease in libido, erectile dysfunction and fatigue. ZTT can be prescribed in the form of injections, plasters, gels or tablets. It is important to discuss the risks and advantages of ZTT with the doctor, as it can increase the risk of developing certain diseases, such as prostate cancer and cardiovascular disease.
   • Phosfodiester inhibitors-5 (FDE-5): FDE-5 inhibitors, such as Sildenafil, Tadalafil and Wardenafil, can be used to treat erectile dysfunction.
   • Other drugs: Depending on the symptoms, the doctor can prescribe other drugs, such as drugs for the treatment of high blood pressure or cholesterol.

C. Alternative treatment methods:

1. Herbs and additives: Some herbs and additives, such as a bunch of cystic, red clover, wild iams, ginseng and dhea, can help alleviate the symptoms of hormonal imbalance. However, it is important to consult a doctor before using herbs and additives, as they can interact with other drugs and have side effects.

   • Clopogon is cystic: It can help alleviate the ebbs of the heat.
   • Red Clover: Contains phytoestrogens and can help alleviate the symptoms of menopause.
   • Wild Yams: Contains diosgenin, which can be transformed into progesterone in the laboratory. However, there is no evidence that the wild iams can increase the level of progesterone in the body.
   • Ginseng: It can help improve energy and reduce fatigue.
   • DHEA (dehidroepandrosterone): The hormone produced by the adrenal glands, which can be transformed into testosterone and estrogen. Dhea can help improve libido and muscle mass. However, the use of DHEA should be under the strict supervision of a doctor.

2. Acupuncture: Acupuncture can help alleviate the symptoms of hormonal imbalance, such as the ebbs of heat and problems with sleep.

3. Meditation and yoga: Meditation and yoga can help reduce stress and improve overall well -being.

4. Biologically active additives (dietary supplements): Some dietary supplements containing vitamins, minerals and other nutrients can help support hormonal balance.

IV. The importance of consulting a doctor

It is important to consult a doctor before any treatment of hormonal imbalance. The doctor will be able to determine the cause of hormonal imbalance, prescribe the necessary tests and examinations, as well as develop an individual treatment plan, taking into account individual characteristics and health status. Self -medication can be dangerous and lead to undesirable consequences.

V. Additional factors affecting the hormonal balance

1. Thyroid diseases: Diseases of the thyroid gland, such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, can affect hormonal balance.

2. Diabetes sugar: Diabetes mellitus can affect the level of hormones, such as insulin and cortisol.

3. Adrenal failure: The adrenal failure can lead to a decrease in the level of cortisol and other hormones produced by the adrenal glands.

4. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCU): SPKI is a common hormonal disorder in women, which can lead to irregular menstruation, infertility and other health problems.

5. Tumors: Tumors located in the pituitary gland, ovaries or adrenal glands can lead to hormonal imbalance.

6. Medicines: Some drugs, such as corticosteroids and antidepressants, can affect hormonal balance.

7. The effects of toxins: The effects of toxins, such as pesticides and plastic, can affect hormonal balance.

VI. Hormonal imbalance prevention

1. Healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, regular physical exercises, reducing stress, sufficient sleep and rejection of smoking and drinking alcohol, is the key to the prevention of hormonal imbalance.

2. Regular medical examinations: Regular medical examinations allow you to identify hormonal imbalance at an early stage and begin treatment in a timely manner.

3. Avoiding the effects of toxins: Avoiding the effects of toxins, such as pesticides and plastic, can help prevent hormonal imbalance.

4. Proper stress management: Training in stress management techniques, such as meditation and yoga, can help prevent hormonal imbalance caused by stress.

VII. Conclusion (do not include in the article)

VIII. Summary (do not include in the article)

IX. Closcing Remarks (do not include in the article)