Nothing lasts forever. That’s a true statement, and one of the ways we know we’ve truly gained maturity is our acceptance that we don’t last forever. We live, we age, we die. But times have changed, and with them have come astonishing scientific achievements. One of those is the process of anti-aging treatments and, while it won’t make you immortal, it can change how you age and restore vitality to your life.
Hormones are an integral component of our bodies. When left to their own devices, they frequently reach peak efficiency while we’re in our 20’s, and naturally decline thereafter. However, hormone levels are unique to a degree in everyone. On the one hand, you might see a person in their 40’s or 50’s who has very little energy, has lost their hair, and seems to be much older than they actually are. That person likely has a hormonal imbalance. On the other hand, you’ve probably met people who seem 10 or 20 years younger than they actually are, and they seem to exuberantly bound through life. Those people probably have hormonal levels that are working efficiently.
Very simply put hormone replacement therapy “primes the pump,” and helps to increase your body’s production of powerful anti-aging hormones. A few of those hormones affected are:
- DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, is created by your adrenal glands. It’s the precursor for other hormones like progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone. When it is supplemented, some believe that it can enhance energy, boost strength, and immunity, and decrease the amount of fat stored.
- HGH, or human growth hormone, is created by the pituitary gland within your brain. Naturally, it handles organ and tissue maintenance during your life, and growth during childhood. HGH treatments can reduce body fat deposits, boost libido, and enhance strength.
- Progesterone and estrogen are created within the ovaries, and they work together to maintain brain function, a healthy heart, bone strength, as well as important aspects of menstruation and pregnancy. Supplementing these hormones can help to ease hot flashes during menopause, reduce insomnia, and increase concentration.
- Melatonin is a hormone produced by the brain, and it’s best known for preparing us for sleep. As we age and melatonin levels drop, it can become more difficult to fall asleep. Supplemental melatonin not only increases the ease with which we fall asleep but also slows down the aging process by neutralizing inflammation.
- Testosterone is produced in the testes for men, and within the adrenal gland and ovaries for women. It is responsible for the sex drive, muscle strength, bone mass, and red blood cell production. When testosterone levels are enhanced, it can boost the libido, increase energy and strength.
When we talk about hormone therapy, some nuance is required. Hormone levels are different for everyone, and the balance of hormones within our bodies can be affected by many things. Sometimes, if a hormone is being produced at reduced levels, it’s only a temporary condition. That’s why, if you’re considering treatment, you need to recognize the individuality of your body. Before agreeing to treatments, talk to your doctor and have your hormone levels checked. Afterward, if hormone therapy is right for you, treatments can be personalized and you can age more gracefully and retain your vigor.
