Hormones 101

Just what are they and what do they actually do?

TOP NEWS:
 
Asprosin: 
A recently discovered hormone that activates nerves in the brain that stimulate appetite and increase weight. Asprosin is produced by fat cells and can be induced by fasting.

Thyroid dysfunction:
COVID-19 has been linked to an increase in thyroid dysfunction in both current and past patients. A new study suggests that older people with hypothyroidism may be at increased risk of developing dementia.

Hormone replacement therapy:
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) often presents more benefits than risks, with recent studies indicating a very low possibility of severe side effects. Despite older studies highlighting potential risks that created reluctance towards HRT, current perspectives consider these views outdated as they fail to balance the benefits against the risks.

Citations:
HRT
https://www.news-medical.net/?tag=/Hormone
https://www.nature.com/subjects/hormones
https://scientificdiscoveries.ars.usda.gov/explore-our-discoveries/plains/tx-newly-discovered-hormone-controls-our-desire-to-eat

HORMONES 101:

Hormones, Hormones, Hormones!

We hear all of the time about how our hormones may be to blame for weight gain, hair loss, anxiety, loss of appetite or general lethargy. Oh, and let’s not forget about sex drive and aggressive behavior.

How many hormones are there in the human body?

Scientists have identified over 50 hormones in the human body so far. Hormones and most of the tissues (mainly glands) that create and release them make up your endocrine system. Hormones control many different bodily processes, including: Metabolism. 

But what are hormones really, how do they work, what do they do? Let’s see if we can provide clarification by means of story telling.

In the grand backstage of our bodies, hormones are the silent conductors, guiding our physiological responses to life's roller-coaster ride. Ever pondered why your heart flutters like a hummingbird when excitement hits, or why the sandman visits as twilight descends? All thanks to these pint-sized powerhouses! 💪

But what if the harmony in this hormonal orchestra goes awry? It's akin to trying to play a Beethoven masterpiece with a wonky piano—it just doesn't hit the right notes! Enter the Hormone Guru’s Harmonize Your Hormones Ultimate Guide. The free, no cost guide is a treasure trove of wisdom, translating convoluted hormonal pathways into bite-sized, digestible morsels of knowledge.

The guide navigates us through the life cycle of hormones: their genesis, journey, and eventual exit. It's like having a GPS for the complex highways of our endocrine system, with pit stops at all the vital glands!

One hormone they spotlight is cortisol, aptly dubbed the 'stress hormone'. Picture stress as a prowling lion—cortisol is your body's swift messenger, signaling whether to wrestle the beast or make a speedy getaway! But when our cortisol levels are chronically elevated, it can lead to health issues like weight gain and a weakened immune system. 😟

In today's hectic world, though, we're rarely fighting off actual lions. Our 'lions' might be looming project deadlines, rush-hour traffic, or that pulse-pounding first date. 😅

Hormones need to be in perfect balance for optimal function. If one hormone is out of whack, it's like a domino effect on the others. They are really “all in it” together.

Some tell-tale signs of hormonal imbalance or dysfunction include:

  • Acne and/or oily skin

  • Changes in sex drive

  • Fluctuating appetite

  • Fatigue

  • Headaches, including migraines

  • Increased sensitivity to heat and cold

  • Infertility

  • Inflammation

  • Menstrual changes

  • Mood swings, anxiety, and depression

  • Joint pain or swelling

  • Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

  • Stress

  • Weight fluctuations


Imagine the body as a vast, bustling city, where the buildings are cells, the roads are blood vessels, and hormones? They're the mail carriers on scooters, zipping around with messages that keep the city functioning in perfect harmony. Yes, hormones are the unsung heroes, the whisperers in the bloodstream, orchestrating life's magnificent symphony from behind the scenes.

Definition: Picture hormones as the body's charismatic influencers, broadcasting messages far and wide. Created in the grand factories of glands, organs, and tissues, they travel the bloodstream like comets, carrying commands that dictate everything from how tall you grow to how you metabolize that slice of pizza from last night.

Function: These molecular maestros wield the baton, conducting the orchestra of the body with precision. They're the reason you catch those Z's (thanks to melatonin), bounce back from stress (cheers, cortisol), and even why you grew those inches during your teenage rebellion (a shoutout to growth hormone). Imagine them as tiny wizards, casting spells that regulate our inner workings, from the warmth of our bodies to the sugar in our blood.

Endocrine System: This is the exclusive club of hormone-producing glands – think of it as the VIP lounge of the body. Members include the high-ranking pituitary gland, the energy-supplying thyroid, adrenaline-pumping adrenal glands, sugar-managing pancreas, and the reproductive headliners, ovaries, and testes. Together, they pump out hormonal hits that keep our bodily functions chart-topping.

Communication: Hormones are the social butterflies of the biological world, fluttering between glands and targets, sparking conversations that get things moving. Picture the pituitary gland sliding into the thyroid's DMs, urging it to kick into gear and flood your system with energy. It's a network of whispers and commands that keep the body's society thriving.

Importance: These molecular messengers are the celebs of the cellular world—for good reason. Even the slightest fluctuation in their levels can send ripples through the body, turning our world upside down. Their role is paramount; they're the guardians of our well-being, ensuring each day is a harmonious blend of health and happiness.

In this grand adventure of understanding our inner universe, it's crucial to connect not just with our minds but with our hearts, injecting a dose of fun into the maze of metabolism, growth, and sleep. By wrapping our heads around the pivotal role of hormones, we unlock the secrets to a balanced, vibrant life where every day is an opportunity to learn, laugh, and leap towards our best selves.

That’s why we created educational resources and courses. We believe that knowledge is power and by educating ourselves about the intricate workings of our bodies, we can take control of our health and well-being. Our courses cover a range of topics from the basics of hormones to specific functions like insulin regulation or thyroid function.

But it's not just about learning - it's also about implementing that knowledge into our daily lives. That’s why each course includes practical tips and strategies for incorporating hormonal balance into our everyday routines. From diet and exercise to stress management and self-care, we provide all the tools necessary for living in harmony with our hormones.

You're welcome to explore and discover the range of courses we offer right here on our platform.

HORMONE ROLES:

Hormone Guru Answers Your Questions!
Is Hormone Testing legit?




The Hormone Guru:

Tara Scott, MD, FACOG, FAAFM, ABOIM, NCMP

Transform Your Life with Threads of Wisdom and Bursts of Laughter!

Embrace your role as the maestro of your hormones... And, rather than just riding the waves, command them with elegance and joy.

It's time to celebrate the orchestration of your internal rhythms, note by joyful note. But how?

  • Stay Curious: Dive deeper into "The Hormone Beat" and uncover secrets to master your hormonal harmony.

  • Cherish Your Journey: Your path is unique. Embrace it with every burst of laughter and moment of discovery.

  • Live Balanced: Discover the bliss of well-tuned hormones. Let your days resonate with the harmony you deserve.

Until we meet again on this vibrant voyage, just remember: Your path to hormonal balance isn't just a journey, it's a celebration. Come join us on this adventure. Let's make every moment count.

Stay inquisitive, cherish your unique journey, and may your days be filled with the balance and bliss of well-tuned hormones.

Until our paths cross again... Keep tuning into The Hormone Beat.

This is for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute medical advice or diagnosis.