What are Bio-Identical Hormones?
Bio-identical hormones refer to hormone medications that have a chemical structure identical to the hormones naturally produced in the human body. They are typically derived from plant sources such as yams or soy and are designed to mimic the molecular structure of hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.
The term “bio-identical” is used to distinguish these hormones from synthetic hormones, which have similar effects but different chemical structures. Bio-identical hormones are believed to be more similar to the hormones naturally present in the body, which is why they are sometimes considered a more natural or biologically identical alternative to synthetic hormones.
Bio-identical hormones can be prescribed to address hormone imbalances or deficiencies, particularly during menopause or andropause (the male equivalent of menopause). They are available in various forms, including creams, gels, capsules, and pellets, and can be customized based on an individual’s hormone levels and specific needs.
It’s important to note that while some practitioners and patients believe in the benefits of bio-identical hormones, the scientific evidence supporting their superiority or safety compared to synthetic hormones is limited. Each person’s hormonal needs and responses can vary, so it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your specific situation and guide you on the best course of treatment.
Feeling like you have low thyroid, but told your labs are normal?
There’s many reason your thyroid labs can look normal but you’re still having low thyroid symptoms.
Often, it’s that your body is not converting T4 to T3 and here’s many reasons why.
- Stress (cortisol, the main stress hormone, reduces T3 conversion)
- Nutrient deficiencies (certain vitamins are needed as co-factors for T3 production)
- Imbalances in your gut microbes (your gut bacteria either help or hinder the process)
- Estrogen dominance (imbalances in your estrogen and progesterone levels)
- Inflammation
If this is your problem, your thyroid gland is fine and you don’t necessarily need thyroid replacement – we need to correct the underlying factors so you can USE your thyroid hormone properly!
Functional Medicine & Thyroid
We do a comprehensive thyroid panel, including TSH, Free T4, Free T3, reverse T3, TPO antibodies and antiTG antibodies. We also look for underlying factors that may be interfering with how you are using your thyroid hormones, including stress, inflammation, and digestive problems in addition to determining if your body is fighting against itself, creating autoimmunity called Hashimotos.
Functional reasons for low thyroid
Nutritional Deficiencies:
- Iodine Deficiency: Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone production.
- Selenium Deficiency: Selenium is necessary for converting inactive thyroid hormone (T4) into its active form (T3).
- Zinc Deficiency: Zinc also plays a role in the conversion of T4 to T3 and in maintaining a healthy immune system.
- Iron Deficiency: iron is important for thyroid hormone synthesis
Poor Gut Health
- Leaky Gut/Intestinal Permeability: An unhealthy gut can lead to systemic inflammation, which affects thyroid function. Additionally, poor gut health can lead to impaired nutrient absorption, further compromising thyroid health.
- Dysbiosis: Imbalance in gut bacteria can trigger immune system responses that contribute to thyroid dysfunction.
Cortisol Dysregulation:
Elevated cortisol inhibits the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and can reduce the conversion of T4 to T3, causing low thyroid function.
