Hormone therapy keeps you feeling and looking healthy. As you age your hormones decrease. Optimal levels of estrogen, testosterone, DHEA, thyroid hormone and progesterone lead to greater longevity and allow better overall health per studies.
Optimal levels of estradiol, testosterone and DHEA lead to decreased visceral fat. Visceral fat is an abnormal fat distribution that occurs around your organs, surrounding organs like your stomach and liver. It can look outwardly as more fat around your abdomen. When you have more of the visceral fat, you will have more tendencies toward developing cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. The lower your estradiol, testosterone and DHEA are, the more you will have increased visceral fat. (Obesity Rev. 2004. Nov. 5(4). 197-216).
People with lower than optimal estradiol and DHEA levels will have more risk for osteoporosis and bone fractures. (JAMA. Nov. 10, 2004. V. 292, #18) Lowered estradiol levels have also been associated with Alzheimer’s disease. (JAMA. Nov. 6, 2002, V. 288, #17).
Those who have lowered thyroid hormone levels tend to have more fatigue, depression, constipation, and cold intolerance. The thyroid is like the gas pedal for your system.
As testosterone levels fall with age, men and women also tend to have more fatigue, cardiovascular disease, higher lipids, but also lowered sex-drive. Optimal levels of testosterone help build muscle and keep you looking fit.
Progesterone at low levels can lead to more issues with insomnia, or trouble getting to sleep. Progesterone also protects against certain cancers.
Dr. Holman tests her patients for their levels of these hormones and more to make sure levels are at optimal levels, and treats with hormones when it is necessary. She also balances this with supplements, diet recommendations and acupuncture.
Dr. Holman is a board certified Naturopathic Physician and Acupuncturist who has been practicing for over twenty years. She specializes in getting to the core of patient’s health problems to find the cause of their illness, and works with patients to regain optimal health.