Natural hormone therapy helping women

In today’s information-laden society, there is no reason to be in the dark about natural hormones, botanical medicine and saliva testing.

by Dr. Theo Christodoulakis — 

Today, many women are aware of all the natural choices available for their many ailments, from menopause to hot flashes to PMS. Perhaps the information overload has them wondering if they should visit their local supplement store to try a vitamin or an herb for their problems. Although some good herbs are commonly used for hot flashes and menopause, questions arise about how much to take, for how long and which brands to use.

In today’s information-laden society, there is no reason to be in the dark about natural hormones, botanical medicine and saliva testing. These techniques not only involve supplementing with hormones, but also “balancing” them for your best health.

Many factors are associated with hormonal imbalance and the risks of breast cancer. These include declining levels of progesterone as we age; perhaps the removal of the ovaries during a hysterectomy; and the presence of xenobiotics in the form of pollutants, pesticides, oral contraceptives, steroid-laced meats and synthetic hormone replacement therapy. All contribute to excess estrogen in the body — a condition known as estrogen dominance. Since estrogen stimulates cell growth, a predominance of it — especially in the absence of adequate levels of progesterone (common in the menopausal years) — presents an increased risk of cancer, particularly in the breast.

It is extremely important and beneficial for many women with symptoms of hot flashes, PMS, depression and anxiety to get tested by a licensed physician familiar with natural hormone therapy. Saliva/blood testing will allow the prescribing of individualized therapies that might include compounded natural hormones, nutraceutical herbal combinations or both.

Natural or bio-identical hormones derived from plant compounds are identical to the hormones naturally produced in the human body. By prescription only, these hormones can be compounded into creams, pills or even into gummy bears. Not only women can benefit from bio-identical hormones, but men also can use them to address many andro-pause symptoms such as weight gain, nagging depression, apathy, decreased libido, etc.

The benefits of natural hormone therapy include the prevention of osteoporosis and heart attacks; weight loss; reduction of hot flashes, PMS and insomnia; improved confidence; wellness benefits; increased libido and generally improved quality of life.

With so many treatment options available, women need not suffer any longer. A good book with valuable information about hormone balancing is What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Breast Cancer: How Hormone Balance Can Help Save Your Life, by John R. Lee, M.D. and David Zava, Ph.D.

Dr. Theo Christodoulakis is a licensed naturopathic physician practicing in Chandler, Ariz. 480-857-7528 or www.onegooddoctor.com.

Reprinted from AzNetNews, Volume 26, Number 6, December 2007/January 2008.