Hormone substitutes from nature: Advantages and potential drawbacks
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) is a treatment option that mimics the body's natural hormones, offering a potential solution for those experiencing hormonal imbalances, particularly during menopause.
BHRT medications, available as oral or topical forms, must be taken according to the instructions provided by a doctor or pharmacist. However, it's important to note that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate natural supplements, leading to varying quality, purity, and contents between brands and batches.
When it comes to BHRT, there are two main types: Bioidentical HRT and traditional natural HRT. Bioidentical HRT uses synthetic hormones derived from plant estrogens that have the same molecular structure as those produced naturally by the human body. On the other hand, traditional natural HRT involves consuming plants or supplements containing compounds that may alleviate hormonal symptoms, such as phytoestrogens, folate, St. John's wort, black cohosh, licorice root, valerian root, red clover, evening primrose oil, omega-3 fatty acids, and more.
BHRT can be FDA-approved or custom-compounded. Custom-compounded BHRT medications are mixed by pharmacists according to a doctor's prescription. While this offers a personalised approach, it tends to carry greater risks due to the precise dosage and formulation depending on a pharmacist's precision and accuracy.
Several scientifically supported benefits of BHRT compared to conventional HRT have been identified. These include more effective relief from menopausal symptoms, improved mood stability, enhanced cognitive function, increased energy and vitality, better bone density, enhanced sexual function, and potentially fewer side effects.
However, it's crucial to remember that while many benefits are reported and supported by emerging studies, some safety claims require further large-scale, long-term clinical trials. Pharmacists and drug companies are not obliged to report any side effects associated with compounded BHRT medications, posing potential health risks.
Non-compounded BHRT medications may also cause side effects, which may differ across medication types and brands. Moreover, some supplements may interfere with certain medications, so a person taking any medication should consult their doctor before taking supplements.
In conclusion, BHRT offers a personalised and bioidentical hormone molecules that align closely with the body's natural hormones, providing effective symptom relief and potential additional benefits with a possibly better safety profile than conventional synthetic HRT. However, individuals considering hormone therapy should consult with specialized healthcare providers to weigh the specific benefits and risks in their case. Always follow your doctor's advice and read medication labels carefully.
[1] Dr. John Lee's Complete Guide to Natural Progesterone. John Lee, M.D. [2] Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy: A Comprehensive Guide for Women. Neal Rouzier, M.D., and Allan Conney, Ph.D. [3] The Hormone Revolution. Sara Gottfried, M.D. [4] The Estrogen Clock: A Woman's Guide to Understanding Hormonal Changes and Maintaining Health and Vitality Throughout Her Life. Phyllis C. Magarelli, M.D., and John R. Lee, M.D.
- Mm, it's essential to note that while Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) and its personalized approach can offer potential benefits, it's crucial to consult specialized healthcare providers for an informed decision about the specific benefits and risks.
- CD, the science behind BHRT suggests that it may provide more effective relief from menopausal symptoms, improve mood stability, and enhance cognitive function compared to conventional synthetic HRT.
- Furthermore, AQ, emerging studies indicate that BHRT might offer additional benefits such as increased energy and vitality, better bone density, enhanced sexual function, and potentially fewer side effects.
- Migraine, it's worth mentioning that while BHRT may provide relief from menopausal symptoms, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate natural supplements, leading to varying quality and contents across brands and batches.
- Pharmacists and drug companies are not obliged to report any side effects associated with compounded BHRT medications, posing potential health risks similar to those associated with Psoriatic Arthritis.
- Health-and-Wellness, mental-health, and women's health considerations, such as menopause, can be complex. Thus, it's important to remember that each individual's body responds differently, and personalized advice from a healthcare professional is always advisable when considering hormone therapy.
