Hormonal balance and health: 50% of the body’s regulation

Hormonal balance and health: 50% of the body’s regulation

I. Hormones: Health and Regulation foundation

1. The definition and general role of hormones.

   • Hormones: chemicals produced by specialized cells of the endocrine glands, as well as some other tissues (for example, adipose tissue).
   • The key role of hormones: alarm and coordination of the functions of various organs and systems of the body. They act as chemical messengers that carry information from one part of the body to another.
   • Action: binding with receptors on the surface or inside target cells, which triggers a cascade of intracellular events, leading to a change in the activity of the cell.
   • A variety of functions: hormones regulate almost all aspects of physiology, including growth, development, metabolism, reproduction, mood, sleep, appetite, immunity and cognitive functions.

2. The main endocrine glands and their hormones.

   • Hyphydics: The “main iron” of the endocrine system regulates the activities of other endocrine glands.
     • Hormones: growth hormone (GR), prolactin, thyroidropic hormone (TSH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), follicle -stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), antidiuretic hormone (ADG), oxytocin.
     • Functions: growth, lactation, regulation of thyroid gland, regulation of adrenal glands, reproduction, regulation of water balance, uterine contraction and lactation.
   • Thyroid gland: regulates metabolism.
     • Hormones: thyroxine (T4), Triidotiron (T3), calcitonin.
     • Functions: regulation of the rate of metabolism, growth and development, regulation of the level of calcium in the blood.
   • Adrenal glands: are responsible for the reaction to stress and the regulation of electrolyte balance.
     • Hormone: Cortisol, Aldosterone, Adrenaline, Noradrenaline.
     • Functions: regulation of stress reaction, regulation of blood pressure, regulation of blood glucose, regulation of electrolyte balance.
   • Pancreas: regulates the level of glucose in the blood.
     • Hormone: insulin and glucagon.
     • Functions: a decrease in blood glucose (insulin), an increase in blood glucose (glucagon).
   • Ovaries (for women): are responsible for the reproductive function and the development of female sexual characteristics.
     • Hormones: estrogens, progesterone.
     • Functions: development of female sexual characteristics, regulation of the menstrual cycle, maintenance of pregnancy.
   • Testicles (for men): are responsible for the reproductive function and the development of male sexual characteristics.
     • Hormon: Testosterone.
     • Functions: development of male sexual characteristics, regulation of spermatogenesis.
   • Epifosis (pineal gland): regulates circus rhythms.
     • Hormone: Melatonin.
     • Functions: Regulation of sleep and wakefulness.

3. Classification of hormones according to the chemical structure.

   • Steroid hormones: derivatives of cholesterol. They penetrate through the cell membrane and are associated with intracellular receptors.
     • Examples: cortisol, aldosterone, testosterone, estrogen, progesterone.
   • Squirrel-peptide hormones: consist of amino acids. They are associated with receptors on the surface of the cell and launched intracellular signal cascades.
     • Examples: insulin, glucagon, growth hormone, prolactin, thyreotropic hormone, follicle -stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone.
   • Derivatives of amino acids: Modified amino acids. The mechanism of action varies depending on the hormone.
     • Examples: thyroxine, triiodotironin, adrenaline, norepinephrine, melatonin.

4. Mechanisms for the regulation of hormonal secretion (feedback).

   • Negative feedback: The most common mechanism. An increase in the level of the hormone in the blood leads to the suppression of its further secretion.
     • Example: increasing the level of thyroxine (T4) and triiodotyronin (T3) in the blood suppresses the secretion of thyroid hormone (TSH) with a pituitary gland.
   • Positive feedback: A less common mechanism. An increase in the level of the hormone in the blood leads to the stimulation of its further secretion.
     • Example: increasing the level of estrogen before ovulation stimulates the secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) with a pituitary gland, which leads to ovulation.
   • Nervous regulation: The nervous system can affect the secretion of hormones.
     • Example: stress stimulates the secretion of cortisol with adrenal glands through a hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis (GGNO).

II. Hormonal balance: Golden mid -health

1. Determination of hormonal balance and its importance.

   • Hormonal balance: a condition in which hormones are produced in optimal quantities and interact with each other harmoniously, ensuring the normal functioning of the body.
   • The importance of hormonal balance: necessary to maintain health, good health and optimal performance of all body systems.

2. Factors affecting the hormonal balance.

   • Age: The level of hormones is changing with age.
     • Examples: a decrease in testosterone levels in men with age (age -related hypogonadism), a decrease in estrogen levels in women during menopause.
   • Floor: Men and women have different hormonal profiles.
   • Genetics: A genetic predisposition can affect the function of the endocrine glands and sensitivity to hormones.
   • Nutrition: Insufficient or unbalanced nutrition can violate the hormonal balance.
     • Examples: iodine deficiency leads to hypothyroidism, vitamin D deficiency can affect the level of parathormone.
   • Stress: Chronic stress can violate the hormonal balance, especially the work of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (GGNO).
   • Dream: The lack of sleep can violate the hormonal balance, in particular the level of cortisol, melatonin and growth hormone.
   • Physical activity: Moderate physical activity is useful for hormonal balance, excessive – can be harmful.
   • Chemicals (endocrine dysraptors): Substances imitating or blocking the effect of hormones contained in plastic, pesticides, cosmetics and other products.
   • Diseases: Some diseases may disrupt hormonal balance.
     • Examples: diabetes mellitus, thyroid disease, ovarian polycystic ovary.
   • Medicines: Some drugs can affect hormonal balance.
     • Examples: corticosteroids, hormonal contraceptives.

3. Signs and symptoms of hormonal imbalance.

   • General signs:
     • Fatigue, weakness, decrease in energy.
     • Weight changes (loss or weight gain).
     • Slide problems (insomnia, drowsiness).
     • Changes in appetite.
     • Dry skin, fragility of hair and nails.
     • Libido decrease.
     • Mood swings, irritability, anxiety, depression.
     • Problems with concentration and memory.
   • Signs of hormonal imbalance in women:
     • Irregular menstruation or their absence.
     • Strong menstrual pain.
     • Premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
     • Infertility.
     • Tucks of heat.
     • Vaginal dryness.
     • Acne.
     • Hirsutism (excessive hair growth on the face and body).
   • Signs of hormonal imbalance in men:
     • Libido decrease.
     • Erectile dysfunction.
     • Breast enlargement (gynecomastia).
     • Loss of muscle mass.
     • Increase fat mass.
     • Infertility.

III. The main hormones and their effect on health.

1. The hormones of the thyroid gland (T3, T4): metabolism and energy.

   • Functions: Regulation of the rate of metabolism, growth and development, regulation of body temperature, effect on the cardiovascular system, nervous system and digestive system.
   • Hypothyroidism (lack of thyroid hormones):
     • Symptoms: fatigue, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, cold sensitivity, depression, memory deterioration.
     • Reasons: autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto disease), iodine deficiency, and thyroid removal.
   • Hyperthyroidism (excess hormones of the thyroid gland):
     • Symptoms: weight loss, heart heartbeat, anxiety, sweating, tremor, irritability, insomnia.
     • Reasons: Graves disease, toxic multi -native goiter, thyroiditis.
   • Factors affecting the health of the thyroid gland:
     • Sufficient iodine consumption.
     • Avoiding deficiency of selenium, zinc and iron.
     • Stress decrease.
     • Avoiding endocrine dizraptors.

2. Insulin and glucagon: regulation of blood glucose and metabolism.

   • Insulin functions: A decrease in blood glucose, stimulation of glucose capture with cells, stimulation of the synthesis of glycogen in the liver and muscles, stimulation of the synthesis of fats and proteins.
   • Glucagon features: An increase in blood glucose, stimulation of glycogen decay in the liver, stimulation of gluconeogenesis (the formation of glucose from non-carb sources).
   • Insulin resistance: A condition in which cells lose their sensitivity to insulin, which leads to an increase in the level of glucose in the blood and the need to produce more insulin.
     • Reasons: overweight, insufficient physical activity, malnutrition, genetic predisposition.
     • Consequences: antiabet, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome.
   • Type 1 diabetes Autoimmune disease in which the immune system destroys the pancreatic cells that produce insulin.
   • Type 2 diabetes: The disease characterized by insulin resistance and insufficient production of insulin.
   • Factors affecting blood glucose and insulin resistance:
     • Nutrition with low sugar and treated carbohydrates.
     • Regular physical activity.
     • Maintaining a healthy weight.
     • A sufficient dream.
     • Stress decrease.

3. Cortisol: stress hormone and its effect on the body.

   • Functions: Regulation of stress reaction, regulation of blood glucose, regulation of blood pressure, regulation of the immune system, regulation of inflammation.
   • Chronic stress and increased cortisol level:
     • Consequences: weight gain, increased blood pressure, sleep disturbance, decrease in immunity, anxiety, depression, worsening memory and concentration of attention.
   • Reducing the level of cortisol (adrenal failure):
     • Symptoms: fatigue, weakness, dizziness, nausea, loss of appetite, weight loss, hypotension.
   • Factors affecting the level of cortisol:
     • Regular relaxation techniques (meditation, yoga, breathing exercises).
     • A sufficient dream.
     • Proper nutrition.
     • Restriction of caffeine and alcohol.
     • Moderate physical activity.

4. Sex hormones (estrogens, progesterone, testosterone): reproductive function and general health.

   • Estrogens (in women): The development of female sexual characteristics, regulation of the menstrual cycle, maintenance of pregnancy, bone health, cardiovascular system and brain.
   • Progesterone (in women): Preparation of the uterus for pregnancy, maintaining pregnancy, regulation of the menstrual cycle.
   • Testosterone (for men): The development of male sexual characteristics, regulation of spermatogenesis, growth of muscle mass, bone health, libido, energy.
   • Estrogen imbalance (in women):
     • Excess estrogen: PMS, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, risk of breast cancer and endometrium.
     • Lack of estrogens: ebbs of heat, vaginal dryness, osteoporosis, decrease in libido.
   • The imbalance of progesterone (in women):
     • The disadvantage of progesterone: irregular menstruation, infertility, miscarriages, PMS.
   • The imbalance of testosterone (in men):
     • Disadvantage of testosterone (hypogonadism): decrease in libido, erectile dysfunction, loss of muscle mass, increased fat, fatigue, depression, osteoporosis.
   • Factors affecting the level of sex hormones:
     • Maintaining a healthy weight.
     • Proper nutrition.
     • Regular physical activity.
     • Stress decrease.
     • Avoiding endocrine dizraptors.

5. Melatonin: Sleep and circus rhythms.

   • Functions: Regulation of sleep and wakefulness, antioxidant protection, regulation of the immune system.
   • Malatonin disadvantage:
     • Symptoms: insomnia, violation of circadian rhythms, reduction of immunity.
   • Factors affecting the level of melatonin:
     • The darkness (the production of melatonin increases in the dark).
     • Regular sleep schedule.
     • Avoiding blue light from screens before bedtime.
     • Melatonin additives (under the supervision of a doctor).

IV. Diagnosis of hormonal imbalance.

1. Anamnesis collection and physical examination.

   • A detailed questioning of the patient about symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, medications taken and additives.
   • Physical examination to identify signs of hormonal imbalance (for example, an increase in thyroid gland, hirsutism, gynecomastia).

2. Laboratory studies (blood tests, urine, saliva).

   • Blood tests:
     • The level of thyroid hormones (TS, T4, T3).
     • The level of insulin and glucose.
     • The level of cortisol.
     • The level of sex hormones (estrogens, progesterone, testosterone, FSG, LH).
     • Prolactin level.
     • Vitamin D. level
   • Urine tests:
     • Cortisol level (daily urine).
     • Hormone metabolites level.
   • Saliva tests:
     • Cortisol level (during the day).
     • The level of sex hormones.

3. Instrumental diagnostic methods (ultrasound, CT, MRI).

   • Ultrasound: For visualization of the thyroid gland, ovaries, adrenal glands.
   • CT and MRT: for detailed visualization of the endocrine glands and the detection of tumors.

4. Interpretation of test results and diagnosis.

   • The interpretation of the results of the analysis should be carried out by an endocrinologist, taking into account the clinical picture and other factors.
   • It is necessary to take into account the reference values ​​of the laboratory and the individual characteristics of the patient.

V. Correction of hormonal imbalance.

1. Change in lifestyle: nutrition, physical activity, sleep, stress management.

   • Nutrition:
     • Balanced diet with sufficient amounts of proteins, fats and carbohydrates.
     • The use of whole, unprocessed products.
     • Limiting sugar, treated carbohydrates and trans fats.
     • Sufficient fiber consumption.
     • The inclusion in the diet of products that support hormonal balance (for example, products rich in iodine, selenium, zinc, vitamin D).
   • Physical activity:
     • Regular moderate physical activity (for example, walking, running, swimming, yoga).
     • Avoiding excessive training.
     • A combination of aerobic and strength exercises.
   • Dream:
     • Sufficient sleep (7-8 hours a day).
     • Regular sleep schedule.
     • Creating comfortable sleep conditions (darkness, silence, coolness).
   • Stress management:
     • Regular relaxation techniques (meditation, yoga, breathing exercises).
     • Hobbies and classes bringing pleasure.
     • Communication with loved ones.
     • Appeal to a psychologist or psychotherapist if necessary.

2. Drug therapy (hormonal drugs, other drugs).

   • Hormonal drugs:
     • Hormone replacement therapy (ZGT) for women during menopause.
     • Thyroid hormones drugs for hypothyroidism.
     • Insulin in type 1 diabetes and in some cases of type 2 diabetes.
     • Antiandrogenic drugs for hirsutism and acne in women.
   • Other drugs:
     • Preparations for reducing blood glucose in type 2 diabetes.
     • Preparations for reducing cholesterol levels.
     • Antidepressants for depression.
   • The appointment of drug therapy should be carried out by a doctor based on the results of the examination and taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient.

3. Alternative treatment methods (herbal medicine, acupuncture, homeopathy).

   • Phytotherapy: The use of medicinal plants for the correction of hormonal imbalance.
     • Examples: Sacred Vitex (for the regulation of the menstrual cycle), cystic clopone (to relieve symptoms of menopause), ashvaganda (to reduce stress).
   • Acupuncture: The impact on biologically active points on the body using needles to restore the energy balance and regulate the hormonal system.
   • Homeopathy: The use of small doses of substances to stimulate self -regulation of the body and correction of hormonal imbalance.
   • The effectiveness of alternative methods of treatment requires further research. Before use, you need to consult a doctor.

4. Surgical treatment (with tumors of the endocrine glands).

   • Surgical removal of thyroid tumors, adrenal glands, pituitary gland and other endocrine glands.

5. An individual approach to each patient and regular monitoring of hormonal status.

   • The treatment of hormonal imbalance should be individual and take into account the characteristics of each patient.
   • Regular monitoring of hormonal status is necessary to assess the effectiveness of treatment and its correction, if necessary.

VI. The role of nutrition in maintaining the hormonal balance.

1. The main nutrients and their effect on hormones.

   • Squirrels: It is necessary for the synthesis of hormones and enzymes.
   • Fat: Important for the synthesis of steroid hormones.
   • Carbohydrates: The main source of energy for the body. It is necessary to use complex carbohydrates (whole grains, vegetables, fruits) instead of simple carbohydrates (sugar, treated products).
   • Vitamins and minerals: participate in the regulation of the hormonal system.
     • Vitamin D: It is important for immunity, bone health and regulation of parathormone levels.
     • B vitamins B: necessary for the metabolism of energy and functioning of the nervous system.
     • Iodine: necessary for the synthesis of thyroid hormones.
     • Selenium: Antioxidant, necessary for the health of the thyroid gland.
     • Zinc: is important for immunity, reproductive function and hormone metabolism.
     • Magnesium: participates in the regulation of the level of glucose in the blood, blood pressure and the nervous system.

2. Products that support hormonal balance.

   • Products rich in iodine: Sea cabbage, seafood, iodized salt.
   • Products rich in selenium: Brazilian nuts, tuna, eggs.
   • Products rich in zinc: Oysters, red meat, poultry, nuts, seeds.
   • Products rich in vitamin D: Bold fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel), egg yolks, enriched products.
   • Products rich in fiber: Vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes.
   • Products containing healthy fats: Avocado, nuts, seeds, olive oil, oily fish.
   • Fitoestrogens containing: soy, flaxseed, sesame seeds, legumes.

3. Products that should be avoided or limited.

   • Sugar and processed products: contribute to insulin resistance and hormonal disorders.
   • Transjir’s: Negatively affect the cardiovascular system and hormonal balance.
   • Excessive consumption of caffeine and alcohol: They can break the sleep and increase the level of cortisol.
   • Products containing endocrine dysraptors: Try to avoid plastic packaging, canned food with internal coating, inorganic fruits and vegetables.

4. Examples of diets contributing to the hormonal balance (Mediterranean diet, a diet with a low glycemic index).

   • Mediterranean diet: It is rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, olive oil, fish and seafood. Limits the use of red meat and processed products.
   • Diet with low glycemic index (gi): It involves the use of products that slowly increase the level of glucose in the blood. Limits the use of sugar, white bread, white rice and other products with high gi.

VII. The role of physical activity in maintaining the hormonal balance.

1. The influence of various types of physical activity on hormones.

   • Aerobic exercises (walking, running, swimming): reduce the level of cortisol, improve insulin sensitivity, and contribute to the production of endorphins (hormones of happiness).
   • Power exercises (weight lifting): Increase testosterone levels (in men and women), contribute to the growth of muscle mass and a decrease in fat mass.
   • Yoga and Pilates: reduce the level of cortisol, improve flexibility and balance, and promote relaxation.

2. Recommendations for the choice and intensity of physical exertion.

   • Choose a form of physical activity that you like and which you can perform regularly.
   • Start with moderate intensity and gradually increase the load.
   • Combine aerobic and strength exercises.
   • Pay attention to warm -up and hitch.
   • Listen to your body and do not overdo it.

3. Physical activity and stress management.

   • Physical activity is an effective way to reduce stress and improve mood.
   • During physical exercises, endorphins are produced, which have an anesthetic and antidepressant effect.

4. Cautions: excessive loads and their effect on hormonal balance.

   • Excessive physical activity can lead to an increase in the level of cortisol, a violation of the menstrual cycle in women and a decrease in testosterone levels in men.
   • It is necessary to avoid overtraining and give the body enough time to restore.

VIII. Stress and hormonal balance.

1. The mechanisms of the effect of stress on the endocrine system (GGNO).

   • Stress activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (GGNO).
   • The hypothalamus releases corticoliberin (KRG), which stimulates the pituitary gland to the production of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).
   • ACTH stimulates the adrenal glands to the production of cortisol.
   • Chronic stress leads to a constant increase in the level of cortisol, which can violate the hormonal balance and lead to various health problems.

2. The effect of chronic stress on various hormones (cortisols, sex hormones, thyroid hormones).

   • Increased cortisol level: It leads to weight gain, increase in blood pressure, sleep disturbance, a decrease in immunity, anxiety, depression, a deterioration in memory and concentration of attention.
   • Reducing the level of sex hormones: leads to a decrease in libido, erectile dysfunction (in men), irregular menstruation (in women), infertility.
   • Disruption of the thyroid gland: It can lead to hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.

3. Stress management methods and their effect on hormonal balance (meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, psychotherapy).

   • Meditation: Helps reduce the level of cortisol, improve the mood and concentration of attention.
   • Yoga: Reduces the level of cortisol, improves flexibility and balance, and promotes relaxation.
   • Respiratory exercises: help reduce stress and anxiety.
   • Psychotherapy: Helps to deal with the causes of stress and learn how to manage it effectively.

4. The role of social support and healthy relations in a decrease in stress.

   • The presence of social support and healthy relationships helps reduce stress and improve overall well -being.
   • Communication with loved ones, participation in social groups and volunteers help reduce stress and improve hormonal balance.

IX. Endocrine dysraptors and their effect on hormonal balance.

1. Determination of endocrine dysraptors and sources of their intake in the body.

   • Endocrine dysraptors: chemicals that can simulate or block the effect of hormones, disrupting the normal functioning of the endocrine system.
   • Sources of the intake of endocrine dysraptors in the body:
     • Plastic (bisphenol A, phthalates).
     • Pesticides.
     • Herbicides.
     • Cosmetics (parabens, triclosan).
     • Personal hygiene products.
     • Household chemicals.
     • Food products (canned food with internal coating, inorganic fruits and vegetables).

2. The mechanisms of the action of endocrine dysraptors on the hormonal system.

   • Imitation of hormones: endocrine dysraptors can contact hormones receptors and activate them, causing undesirable effects.
   • Hormone locks: endocrine dizrapors can block hormones binding to their receptors, preventing their normal action.
   • Violation of the synthesis and metabolism of hormones: endocrine dysraptors can affect the synthesis, transport and metabolism of hormones.

3. The effect of endocrine dysraptors on various body systems (reproductive, thyroid gland, immune).

   • Reproductive system: They can lead to infertility, premature sexual maturation, development of breast cancer, ovaries and prostate.
   • Thyroid gland: They can disrupt the function of the thyroid gland, lead to hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
   • Immune system: They can reduce immunity and increase the risk of developing autoimmune diseases.

4. Methods of reducing the effects of endocrine dysraptors.

   • Choose products in glass or paper packaging instead of plastic.
   • Use filtered water.
   • Choose organic fruits and vegetables.
   • Use natural cosmetics and personal hygiene products.
   • Avoid the use of household chemicals with aggressive chemicals.
   • Ventilate the room more often.

X. Hormonal balance and women’s health.

1. Hormonal changes during the life of a woman (puberty, menstrual cycle, pregnancy, menopause).

   • Puberty: An increase in estrogen levels, the development of secondary sexual characteristics, the beginning of menstruation.
   • Menstrual cycle: Cyclic changes in the level of estrogen and progesterone, regulation of ovulation and preparation of the uterus for pregnancy.
   • Pregnancy: An increase in the level of estrogen, progesterone and other hormones necessary to maintain pregnancy.
   • Menopause: Reducing the level of estrogens, cessation of menstruation, ejacob, vaginal dryness, osteoporosis.

2. ** Hormonal disorders characteristic of women (PMS, polycystic ovary, endometrio