Memory Loss - How Hormone Replacement Therapy Can Help

Memory loss is an abnormal degree of forgetfulness and inability to recall past events. Depending on the cause, amnesia or other forms of memory impairment may have a gradual or sudden onset. Also, they may either be permanent or temporary. Most of the time, slight forgetfulness occurs as part of the aging process. On the other hand, it may be caused by a severe emotional trauma or brain damage following disease or physical trauma.

Types of memory loss include immediate, short-term and long-term. Short-term is characterized remembering some childhood and past events but failing to remember happenings in the past minutes. In long-term, on the other hand, patients are unable to recall any event in distant past.

Among the common causes of memory loss are the following:

-As a person gets older, he loses nerve cells even if he does not have aging-associated disease like Alzheimer's. After the age twenty-five, the body stops growing new nerve cells to replace old ones. As a result, when a person reaches the age of seventy, he will most likely not remember about one-third of this memory.

-Insufficient thiamine, vitamin B12 and protein may also lead to memory loss.

-Regardless of age, loss of memory can occur due to depression. This is among the top reasons for memory loss in elders. Mental impairment related to depression is a treatable condition.

-Damage due to free radicals can also cause loss of memory. These free radical molecules undermine other molecules around them. This destabilization results in molecular level damage to the body. Free radicals may soon damage the blood-brain barrier that separates the circulating blood and the brain. This will further damage the brain happens.

-Emotional and physical stress fuels the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. Continuous exposure to stress hormones results in the death of nerve cells and memory loss.

-Low estrogen levels in women also counts as a cause. Women often report a large decrease in their memory function after they undergo menopause.

For hormone-related memory loss, men and women may choose bio-identical hormone replacement therapy. Estrogen and stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline will be replenished, making sure there is adequate amount of these hormones in the body. Once these hormones are stabilized, forgetfulness will be greatly reduced.

Safe Treatment for Low Testosterone Levels

Testosterone production declines with age (i.e especially after the age of 30) and depleting testosterone levels bring about a lot of physical and hormonal changes in the body. Most men experience mood swings, irritable behavior and the loss of overall energy, strength and stamina as they tend to get old. In our medically advanced world of today, there are a vast number of substitutes and treatments available for the individuals who experience a shortage of testosterone in their natural blood levels throughout their body. In fact, our market is flooded with a variety of testosterone pills which effectively aid in making up for the lack of testosterone hormones in our body. Then, Testosterone replacement is supposedly the other solution to all the problems that crop up because of a decline in testosterone production. But, this method has it's share of side affects and is definitely a dangerous method for low testosterone treatment.

Now, there are two types of testosterone pills available in the market, which are synthetic and natural. While synthetic pills have quite a number of benefits, they can also have side effects similar to testosterone injections or shots. Generally these pills might deliver the desired results but not without paying a heavy price as these pills are quite toxic and can produce some serious side effects. As a result an individual can experience nausea, swelling in the extremities, yellowing of the skin and even painful erections.

Therefore, natural pills are definitely a better option to enhance testosterone levels. The essential difference is that while synthetic pills are a replacement therapy, natural pills are simulators that help increase your body's own production of testosterone. There are some high quality supplements that are 100% natural and are backed with clinical approvals as well. This is important since most of the natural herbal medications are not regulated by the FDA. These natural testosterone pills are made of herbal or botanical extracts and help in rejuvenating your sex life, improved physical performance with powerful erections and an overall increase in the energy levels. These natural supplements also help you gain lean muscle, reduce body fat and can also help improve sleep quality, mental alertness and elevate your mood etc. These supplements are absolutely safe as they do not carry any side effects and thus have evolved as a popular choice among men looking to give their bodies a testosterone boost.

Bioidentical Hormones Benefits Are Extensive

During menopause, many women experience uncomfortable symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats and insomnia, among others. While hormone therapy with a combination of progestin and estrogen has been a popular treatment to help relieve some of these symptoms for quite some time, women who have undergone hormone therapy often have higher rates of breast cancer, stroke, heart disease and blood clots.

As such, many women do not wish to undergo hormone therapy but need help relieving menopausal symptoms and other aging effects such as weight gain.

One option is bioidentical hormones, which have an identical molecular structure to the natural hormones in the body but come from soy and yams. The hormones include 17 beta-estradiol, estriol and estrone, as well as finely ground progesterone.

Bioidentical hormones are often considered natural since they derive from plant extracts but offer many of the same benefits of traditional hormone therapy without some of the potential risks.

Moreover, the body cannot distinguish between naturally occurring hormones and those that are bioidentical.

Including traditional pill form as well as lotions, creams and gels rubbed onto the legs or arms by a few different methods. The hormones then enter the bloodstream when absorbed into the skin.

One of the most effective forms of bioidentical hormone therapy is custom compounding, wherein a doctor determines the specific hormonal doses for an individual to achieve the best results. The compound is then custom-mixed to create an individual hormone therapy replacement program.

There may be other benefits to the use of bioidenticals, such as anti-aging effects like younger-looking skin, improved sleep and perhaps even reduced risk of breast cancer, stroke, heart disease, endometrial cancer and Alzheimer's disease.

Bioidentical hormones may also help improve weight loss, especially if the weight gain is due to changes in the body due to menopause. The hormones may also help increase metabolism and reduce belly fat.

Some research studies have shown that bioidentical hormone therapy can reduce menopausal symptoms such as vaginal dryness and hot flashes.

Many doctors and clinicians use saliva testing to monitor the hormone levels in the body once bioidenticals are in use, although traditional blood tests work as well.

Note that you should work with a clinician with extensive experience with hormone replacement therapy, specifically bioidenticals and custom mixing in an effort to make sure the therapy as is effective and safe as possible.

When used in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle, such as eating well and exercising, bioidenticals may further help reduce menopausal symptoms, improve overall health and boost metabolism, weight loss and lower body fat.

Qivana - Dr Marcus Laux Finally Settles on Qivana

Qivana is a relatively new MLM company started in early two thousand and nine. They entered the health and wellness arena with a different perspective than most health related MLM companies. Qivana approaches health with the objective of detoxing and cleansing the body first, then administering Chinese herbs and minerals.

Qivana appointed well known naturopathic physician, Dr Marcus Laux as its chief Science Officer, while putting together a Scientific Advisory Board consisting of world renowned doctors and scientists.

Dr. Marcus Laux had an objective early on in his career to be a conventional M.D., but in 1986 when a cardiologist, who made a fatal decision with the treatment of his Dad, Dr. Laux knew that conventional medicine would not be his forte.

Shortly thereafter, while in pre-med, his observations of the use of chemicals in hospitals and money hungry doctors, simply reinforced his thought process, so he decided to be a doctor of naturopathic medicine. Dr. Laux learned early on that naturopathic medicine is by far the safest, most comprehensive natural approach to practicing medicine in humans.

After spending ten yrs. in college & med school, fifteen yrs. in private practice & over twenty yrs. of research, Dr Laux came to this conclusion, because naturopathic medicine searches past the symptoms only, and looks to sources of problems instead.

Qivana was very lucky to get Dr. Laux, but since the company philosophy was also based on promoting balance, detoxing and strength, first and foremost, this was a match made in heaven. Dr. Laux had been engaged with several other great companies, but Qivana had the potential to be so much more, he thought.

Dr Marcus Laux has an extensive resume including:

Doctorate: Nat'l College of Naturopathic Medicine, Portland, Or. (1985)

Private Practice: FT practice in Beverly Hills and Malibu, Ca. 19yrs

Asst. Adjunct Professor: Emperors College of Traditional Oriental Medicine (Ca)

Adjunct Faculty Member: Bastyr University of Naturopathic Health (Wa)

Scientific Advisor Boards: Enzymatic Therapy, EuroPharma, and McZand.

Chairman of Scientific & Strategic Advisory Board: Unigen Pharmaceuticals

Launched New Supplement innovations: Nature's Way, Cognis (Henkel), Integrative Therapeutics & Toyo Bio-Pharma

Dr. Laux actually is responsible for coining the term "bio identical" in the hormone world with his book, Natural Woman, Natural Menopause (Harper Collins), which alone is responsible for improving the lives of women all around the world.

For 30 years, Dr. Laux has taken the lead in educating people in the natural products industry. He has continued to provide cutting edge education to pharmacists around the world for over twenty yrs.

Qivana with its own cutting edge product line should be a good fit for Dr. Laux. "I have been working with natural products for yrs and when I came across Qivana, I knew I had found something special", stated Dr. Laux.

Types of Hair - Asian Hair

No two persons have the exact hair. The same way different races have different skin color, it's the same way different ethnic groups have different types of tresses. There are three main types depending on ethnic group - Asian, Afro-Caribbean and Caucasian - all types having their own unique attributes. No matter how different the types are, they comprised of the same parts. These are the cuticle, cortex, medulla and a very important protein called keratin which is the chief part of all. What determines the shape of your tresses is the shape of each follicle. Asian hair grows from round follicles giving it a bone straight appearance. It has very thick cuticles made up of approximately ten layers while other types have around five.

Asian hair type is the most dominant in the entire universe. It usually has smaller thickness than the other types but it grows faster than the rest by far pertaining to swiftness of growth. The quantity of hair on the head in Asians is small but because of the thickness it appears to be full. It has been found that this type reacts more quickly to care products, specifically, hair loss products. It is considered that this has to do with the natural speed of growth that this type has. It is also stronger than other types and more able to recuperate from damages and it also has the longest cycle of growth which lasts up to nine years. Formerly, this type was the least susceptible but lately Asians have been adopting the practices of the western world. These habits can result in very thin hair as it is not very crowded.

Each type calls for different care procedures and products to fulfill the requirements of that special type. Asian hair absorbs moisture very fast and keeps that moisture. In spite of this, it may undergo extra dryness. This is because it tends to be very long and as a result moisture is lost along the long shaft. Hair loss in Asians is little since few hairs are lost daily. Balding is also a rare occurrence in Asians. This type is generally shiny because of the presence of a medulla containing dark pigment which explains the shininess and high moisture. Asians usually have oily scalp which demands their mane to be washed frequently to avoid a dirty look.

Because Asian hair is long, straight, strong and typically free from chemical impairment it is the ideal type to utilize for extensions. As a result, persons turn to Asian countries for human tresses to be used in wig making and extensions.

This type requires the use of products that are appropriate for that specific kind. Shampoos that have a pH of 5 to 5.5 are ideal; anything over that pH would be too harsh. Individuals of Asian lineage must avoid using products like mineral oil.

Asian styles are usually different. They usually look sleek, smooth and silky. They are also generally extremely straight and flowing. Stylists agree that it is harder to curl and colour when compared to other types. Digital hot perm machines are helpful in styling because they can be set to provide the appropriate heat and chemical solution for any type. Asian hair is dark and therefore adding highlights to it can truly highlight the appearance of the tresses. Double-sided coloring is a great way to augment this type. The underside is colored in a dark brown shade and a lighter shade is dyed on top. This gives a shimmering effect when the hairs rub against each other.

Questions of Midlife - What Age Does Menopause Start, and How Long Does it Last?

Questions like, "What age does menopause start?" and, "How long does menopause last?" are fairly common in the middle years. Most women are looking for an idea of what to expect, and when. One of the things that make it confusing - as well as being difficult to answer - is the terminology used by medical professionals. So first, let me explain some of those terms in plain English. Technically, menopause is the last period that a woman ever has, but that can only be determined after the fact.

During the years leading up to that last period, menstruation is often erratic. It's not unusual for a woman to miss several periods, and then have another. The flow may be heavier or lighter. Spotting is also common during this time. But since spotting can indicate a medical problem, it's important to have regular Pap smears and follow the check-up schedule that your doctor prescribes for you.

• After a woman has gone a full year without having a period, she is said to be "post-menopausal"


• The term "pre-menopause" is used to describe the time leading up to the last period, when periods are often irregular and other symptoms, such as hot flashes, may appear


• The term "peri-menopause" is used to describe the time before, during and after the last period

Now, that you understand those terms, let's look at what age menopause starts, on average.

In Western societies the average age of the last period is 51. In developing countries, the median age is 44. When the last period occurs between the age of 55 and 60, it is considered "late-menopause." If it occurs between the ages of 45 and 50, it is considered "early."

The answer to how long does menopause last? Well technically, it is a single day - the last day of the last period.

But if you're wondering how long the symptoms last, that's quite a different matter, not dependent on the age that menopause begins.

Women can begin to feel the effects of lowering hormonal levels as early as age 35. However, women that are in good health may never experience any symptoms at all, except, of course, that they stop having their periods.

Women who are not in the best of health (or perhaps don't know about natural supplements that reduce symptoms) may tell you that menopause lasts 10 years or more. I had a friend once say to me, "Honey, it lasts the rest of your life."

On the other end of the spectrum are women that never paid any attention to how long does menopause last, because they never had any unwanted symptoms.

If you smoke and you want to know what age menopause starts, you can expect it a little earlier than average. You are also more likely to have hot flashes and other unwanted symptoms.

If you have older female relatives, you may be able to guesstimate how long does menopause last, by asking them how long they had symptoms. However, there really is no sure way to determine ahead of time at what age will menopause start.

But no matter when menopause begins or how long it lasts for you, it is possible to avoid the undesirable symptoms with a good diet, appropriate supplements, and healthy lifestyle.

Bioidentical and Synthetic Hormones - Why is it Important For Us to Learn About Them?

Bioidentical hormones are often a controversial and confusing topic. There has been a lot of research and discussion about it recently and many women are still feeling as if they are in the dark. Many times traditional physicians or medical professionals will not fully explain treatment with hormones and will not discuss the difference between the commonly prescribed synthetic hormones and the more natural bioidentical hormones. Physicians have been prescribing synthetic hormones to women since 1942 and even though there have been problems associated with synthetic hormones, it is slow to change the minds of many physicians. In medical school they learn that this is the correct treatment of choice and pharmaceutical companies promote the prescribing of synthetic hormones because it is a money making venture for them, the drug companies also are able to influence the FDA due to their power. Most medical doctors are taught in medical school that synthetic hormones are the only trusted hormones to prescribe. When brought to discussion with physicians I know, they are skeptical and dismiss bioidentical hormone replacement, saying it is like taking a placebo and not useful, not the traditional way to treat women needing hormone replacement. But more recently, in the last 10 years, more women have been questioning the use of synthetic hormones and weighing the benefits and risks of taking synthetic versus bioidentical hormones.
 
What do hormones do for women anyway? Hormone therapy replaces hormones that we are lacking in our bodies. Restoring the hormone we are lacking stops the deterioration of cells in our body. Without replacing hormones that we have lost, we then develop other conditions that could decrease our longevity, our outlook on life, and our ability to be content and well.
 
Synthetic hormones such as Premarin, Prempro and Provera are not made from natural products and the structure of these drugs is different than what our bodies naturally make. Premarin is made from a pregnant horse's urine. On the other hand, bioidentical hormones are biologically identical to the hormones we have in our body and are made from soy, plant, yam and natural products. They are made to be exactly like what nature originally gave us.
 
Let us take a look at the three main hormones we are talking about;
 
1. Estrogen
2. Progesterone
3. Testosterone
 
1. Estrogen is primarily a woman's hormone and is produced in the ovaries. Women have increased estrogen and decreased testosterone, whereas men have decreased estrogen and increased testosterone. As women approach mid-life our estrogen levels start changing. They may surge at some point but in menopause they decrease. If we do not have the right amounts of estrogen in our bodies we could experience things such as weight gain, bloating, itching, sweats, hot flashes, depression, fatigue and decreased libido.
 
2. Progesterone is primarily a woman's hormone made in the ovaries and adrenal glands. Males have a small amount of Progesterone. If we do not have the correct amount of Progesterone we can experience sleep disturbances, irritability, anxiety, weight gain, breast swelling and tenderness, itching, bloating, memory loss and loss of libido. But if we have the right balance of progesterone and estrogen then there are many good effects such as stronger bones, maintenance of a healthy brain, more fat metabolism and we are protected more against cancer.
 
When estrogen is balanced with progesterone it helps to maintain a healthy uterus, protects against breast cancer and post partum depression.
 
3. Testosterone is present in women in small amounts compared to estrogen. It is produced in the ovaries. It increases clitoral and nipple sensitivity, increases libido, increases the quality of orgasm and increases muscle strength and bone density. With the correct and sufficient amount of testosterone in our bodies it can decrease the inflammation (which helps in preventing heart disease), we have increased energy, a lower LDL cholesterol (the bad cholesterol), and increased HDL (the good cholesterol), increased muscle strength, increased brain function and decreased body fat.  If our testosterone level is not at the right amount we can experience fatigue, a feeling of imbalance, memory loss, abdominal fat, weight gain and our risk of breast cancer could be increased. 
 
An important point to keep in mind is that hormones need to be replaced in ratios to the other hormones and every woman is different with varying amounts needed. This is another reason bioidentical hormones are being used and chosen more frequently over synthetic hormones.
 
Make sure you have discussions with your physician about the use of hormones. You also should have blood and or saliva hormonal testing done at some routine intervals starting usually at about age 35. Sometimes the effects of lack of hormones can creep up and women do not know what is causing them to feel the way that they do. Hormones keep our cells and organs in our body working efficiently and that is why it is important to be taking the right prescription. Do your research, get your facts and see what you think about taking hormone replacement and if it can benefit you. If you choose to, decide whether it should be synthetic or bioidentical, and work with your medical professional to make the right choice for you and with you.      

Treatment Methods Options, Root Cause and Indicators of Hashimoto's Thyroiditis Symptoms

Hashimoto's Thyroiditis symptoms: Precisely what is it?

The most regularly occurring thyroid ailment in the Country is Hashimoto's thyroiditis which is in addition, regarded as autoimmune or persistent lymphocytic thyroiditis. It is usually an inherited affliction which impacts on close to 16 million US citizens and is about six times more common in women than in men of all ages. The capacity of thyroid cells to create thyroid hormone is affected by the body's own immune system which is a key characteristic of Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Hypothyroidism will happen if the amount of thyroid hormone which can be created is not sufficient for the body's requirements. An actual Goiter may well form in a number of sufferers when the thyroid gland is bigger.

Hashimoto's thyroiditis: Precisely what are the indicators?

A good number of sufferers with Hashimoto's thyroiditis could have simply no signs for many years, and the medical diagnosis is made accidentally when an enlarged thyroid gland or irregular blood tests are identified as part of a routine assessment. Decreased levels of thyroid hormone and pressure effects in the neck due to the actual goiter are usually the first signs or symptoms to manifest. Edema in the lower front of the neck which often is painless may be the first indicator of the actual disorder This may well eventually lead to a pressure sensation within the throat and the enlargement may come to be easily apparent. Respiratory issues may well take place in addition to issues with swallowing if left without treatment.

Hashimoto's thyroiditis: What precisely is the trigger?

Hashimoto's thyroiditis comes from a malfunction within the immune mechanism. Whilst operating adequately, the immune system is intended to safeguard the body against invaders, like as harmful bacteria, microbes, and various other foreign compounds. Antibodies are manufactured by the body's defence mechanism that in people with Hashimoto's thyroiditis indicates that the immune system views the ordinary thyroid cells as unknown tissues and it might then damage most of these cells. Regardless of the fact numerous environmental elements have been analyzed, none have been positively verified to be the actual trigger of Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

Hashimoto's thyroiditis: Precisely how is it determined?

Research laboratory tests, physical signs and symptoms and a physical evaluation can typically detect the indications of Hashimoto's thyroiditis if conducted by a health practitioner qualified in the medical diagnosis and treatment methods of thyroid disorders which can easily recognize a goiter and can identify hypothyroidism signs.

Hashimoto's thyroiditis: Treatment solution choices?

With regards to sufferers with thyroid enlargement (goiter) or hypothyroidism, thyroid hormone treatment is obviously needed, given that adequate dose corrects virtually any signs and symptoms due to thyroid hormone deficiency and will certainly help reduce the goiter's proportions. Medication and therapy consists of consuming a single daily pill of levothyroxine. Much older sufferers that might have underlying coronary heart disease are typically started off with a lower dose and steadily increased, whereas younger healthy and fit sufferers could be started out on full hormone substitute dosages right away. Thyroid hormone behaves fairly slowly within the human body; consequently it may possibly take quite a few months after treatment is actually started out to notice improvement in signs and symptoms or goiter shrinking. Medicines dose might have to be regulated every now and then and the treatment is commonly for a person's entire life on account of Hashimoto's thyroiditis being generally permanent and progressive in characteristics. Very small variations in thyroid hormone amounts are recognized by the human body that is very acutely sensitive to this and optimal modification of medication is typically based on laboratory tests rather than thyroiditis symptoms.

A competent Health professional in thyroiditis symptoms and treatment methods of this kind of health problem needs to manage Hashimoto's thyroiditis accurately.

Risks and Benefits of Bioidentical Hormones

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) provides natural hormone therapy to replace your natural hormones that have diminished with age or to correct a problem in your balance of hormones at any time of your life. While the major bioidenticals used today are estrogen and progesterone, more bioidenticals treatment are being produced as time goes on, such as recent treatments for young adults who get acne around the time of their menses. Bioidenticals have also been used recently with men to replace lost testosterone.

Bioidentical hormone treatment is gaining in popularity because the hormones produced in the lab can be custom made to fit each person's unique characteristics and needs. In other words, these natural hormones can be "custom-compounded" for each individual, as opposed to synthetic hormones which are made uniformly in bulk. This treatment is also popular because the ingredients in bioidenticals are all natural as opposed to the synthetic hormone replacement chemicals that have been traditionally used.

Despite the positives, Bioidentical hormone replacement is relatively new and carries some risks because the research into its effectiveness has not fully matured. Also, since there is a wide variety in the abilities of bioidentical practitioners and a wide range of ingredients they use, it is not surprising that some problems have been reported. Thus it is important for anyone considering this type of treatment to fully contemplate the risks. How can you be sure this herbal remedy will be as safe as possible for you?

1. First consult with your usual doctor to see if s/he thinks you have any unique problems that would interfere with this remedy and cause problems. Know which natural ingredients will be used in your bioidentical formula beforehand and report and other herbal home remedies and supplements you are taking as well as any recent medical changes or symptoms.

2. Choose a highly experienced bioidentical doctor and a compounder who has a good reputation and a lot of experience - this may be the most vital step since in many areas this form of herbal home remedy is quite new.

3. Consider starting with a bioidentical mixture of natural ingredients that is standardized rather than custom compounded and start with a low dose. You can move to custom compounding later.

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy has been proven safe but this does not mean that every practitioner is equally good, and every compound is safe. Like many herbal remedies, bioidenticals interact with different people in different ways. Be aware of the risks and potential side effects of bioidenticals, and also know clearly what positive effects you should experience and when. Make sure you have an open line of communication with your hormone replacement practitioner as well as your regular doctor during your treatment.

How Can I Get My Hormones Back to Normal?

The hormonal system is the 'engine' of the woman

The functions of the female human body are largely influenced by hormones. It affects the physical, mental and emotional aspects of the body. Hormones are the body's chemical messengers, produced by cells and carried into the bloodstream to affect various physiological functions and development.

Pre-Pregnancy?

• Around puberty age, the part of the brain called hypothalamus releases pulses of hormones to stimulate the pituitary gland to produce the luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), which activate ovarian functions. The ovary is a female organ that produces the two main female sex hormones: estrogen and progesterone. The hormone estrogen is what stimulates breast development and the maturity of the vagina, fallopian tubes and uterus during puberty stage.


• Beyond puberty, estrogen and progesterone, as well as LH and FSH will play vital roles in a woman's menstrual cycle and fertility, following a predictable pattern of rising and falling levels to support a chain of events with regard to reproduction. These hormones will be the ones to govern the maturity and release of eggs in the ovary, as well as the preparation of the womb to conception.


• The surge of luteinizing hormone or LH marks a woman's ovulation phase, when the mature egg is released from the ovary to the fallopian tube. In the tube, the egg will be carried along by hair like projections to the uterus. In the uterus, the egg will be fertilized is sperm is present. Birth control pills prevent LH surge to prevent pregnancy.


• On the other hand, the hormone progesterone is responsible for the thickening of the endometrium or uterine lining. This is to facilitate the implantation of the fertilized egg. If the implantation failed to occur, the spiral arteries in the lining will stop blood flow. This turns the thick uterine lining into blood pools, which is normally released in the form of menstrual flow.

During Pregnancy?

• Pregnancy results from a fertilized egg. The usual drop of estrogen and progesterone levels at the end of the menstrual cycle does not occur, which explains the absence of your period.


• Immediately, a new hormone called human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) is released to develop the placenta and stimulate the ovary to produce the needed levels of estrogen and progesterone to sustain pregnancy. Along with other hormones in pregnancy, HCG will be responsible in increasing the blood circulating in the womb and initiating other body mechanisms to nurture the growing baby in the womb.


• During child birth, these two hormones also cause the womb to contract and stimulate the production of breast milk.

Post-Pregnancy?

• Progesterone and estrogen levels are expected to drop after pregnancy.


• This will facilitate the shrinking back of the womb,


• Toning of the pelvic floor muscles


• Normalization of blood flow. The sudden drop of female hormones may also cause episodes of post natal depression.

Getting my Hormones to Work?

"Normally, women do not need to do anything to control their hormones".

If we lived in a 'normal' world there would be no need for this article. However, in most societies women encounter as much stress, perhaps more, with their 'double' workloads, as anyone would.

• Depending on the woman's stress reactions, there can be many upsets to a normal pregnancy which is dependent on her hormones for biochemical direction.

Hormonal imbalance is basically a disturbance to the delicate balance or incorrect relationship between the estrogen, progesterone and the stress hormone levels in the body. Women suffering hormonal imbalance do suffer risk of infertility or miscarriage.

The usual medical solution is 'hormonal replacement therapy', a form of treatment trying to correct the hormonal imbalances, usually performed during the luteal phase of a woman's ovulation and menstrual period.

The human body though, is a maze of nervous system options that few people become aware of. There are a number of reflexes on the skin that relate specifically to the Endocrine Glands and can be used to balance their function.

Imagine if you could just stimulate one of these reflexes and its related gland would "start up" again, balancing not only it's own production of hormones, but stimulate others as well. It is true, that these reflexes exist and anyone can learn how to use them to balance the hormonal system without having to take any medications.

We are getting smarter about how our bodies work and pregnancy is a fine example of how well what we have learned can be seen in the 'real' world. Don't wait until it's too late to find out.

Neuro-Training has developed a proven way to systematically balance the whole hormone system. Women who have had terrible experiences with their hormones can now be helped and easily learn how to do it themselves.

How Do I Stop My Hair From Thinning? Advice For Both Women and Men

I often get emails from both men and women who are concerned about thinning hair.  Although the causes and treatments of the hair loss for men and women are sometimes (but not always) different, the concern is still the same.  It's not always true that a man can just shave his head and a women can just a wear a wig with no problems.  Thinning hair can be painful both physically and emotionally.  And, since there are things that you can do to slow or stop it, there's no reason to just accept it with a heavy heart.

Thinning Hair In Men (Causes And Treatments): Although scalp, medical, and dermatological issues are possible with male hair loss, by far the most common culprit is genetic or hereditary hair loss.  Some people mistakenly think that you should look to your mother's father to see your genetic destiny.  This really isn't true.  Genetic hair loss can come from any family member and in some cases, there is no genetic history (there doesn't really have to be.)

The treatment for this hair loss is healing the scalp or fixing the medical problems if applicable. Or, if what you have is genetic loss, then you'll need to lessen the grip that DHT and androgens have on your follicles, regrowth, and scalp.  This is often done through drugs, but I prefer to try topicals first.  It's advisable to go with the least invasive thing first and then to become more aggressive as you need to.  If you pull out the most aggressive treatments first, you have no where to go when they lose their effectiveness.  And, many men have unfavorable reactions to these medications anyway.  Some of the medications cause even more hair loss, so it's important to start treatment slowly and to gradually taper up (and always introduce only one thing at a time.)

You'll also need to focus heavily on regrowth. The thin, miniaturized hairs that regrow with genetic hair loss often don't provide enough decent coverage to make a difference.

Female Hair Thinning: (Causes And Treatments):  Women have the same risk factors as men (genetics, medical, and dermatological issues, etc.) but there is often one large culprit that makes their hair loss different - hormones.  Any changes in hormones (even very small changes) is usually enough to kick off a shed which can eventually lead to or build up to thinning.  For women, this can be estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, thyroid, or adrenal hormones.  Women will often try to add in the hormones in an attempt to stop the thinning.  They'll go on birth control pills or bio identical hormones or they will experiment with herbs that promise the same results.

But here's the problem that often follows.  Women who thin due to hormones are what I call "hormonally vulnerable."  Any additional changes can kick off more hair loss.  So, when you add in more changes, then what is likely to happen? Yes, more loss on your head.  This is so very frustrating, I know.  But, experimenting often comes with a high price.  You should make sure that there is a medical reason for any additions that you (and your doctor) consider.  And, I firmly believe that you should try topicals first.

It's a common misconception that women don't have AGA (genetic thinning) or if they do, you'll see the male pattern of balding with thinning at the crown, temples, or top of the head.  This is not always true at all. Women have AGA in increasing numbers and no genetic history is needed.  And, women with AGA can lose hair in a diffuse pattern or on the sides and / or in the bang area.  That's why AGA is often confused with CTE (chronic telogen effluvium.)

Again, treatment is geared toward fixing the problem without kicking off another round of loss.  And, once you address the underlying problem, you'll need to successfully stimulate your scalp to produce thick, healthy, high quality hairs that are properly nourished and are not miniaturized.

Menopause and Natural BioIdentical Hormone Replacement Therapy

Hormones and Their Functions

Hormones are chemical messengers, produced by the endocrine system (produced by one organ), that circulate in your bloodstream giving instructions to your cells (another organ/system). For example, the thyroid gland's hormone, thyroxine (T4), governs and monitors your body's rate of metabolism and energy production. The hormones that are most vulnerable to the aging female are called sex steroid hormones produced by a woman's ovaries.

Sex (Gonadal) Steroid Hormones

Estrone (E1), Estradiol (E2), and Estriol (E3): Categorized as 'the estrogens', each of these ovarian hormones has its particular functions. Estradiol, the most potent estrogen, primarily aids in the cyclic release of eggs from the ovaries for potential fertilization and preparation of the uterus for pregnancy. In addition to its role in cycling and pregnancy, estradiol also has powerful beneficial effects on heart, bone, brain and colon. It is the reduction in the level of estradiol that causes common menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats. Estriol is produced in large quantities during pregnancy and is considered by some to be the 'gentle' estrogen providing some of the protection without exposure to the risks associated with stronger estrogens. Estrone, which can be converted to estradiol in some women, is the primary estrogen in postmenopausal women and is generated in fat cells.

Progesterone: Produced cyclically by the ovaries, progesterone maintains the uterine endometrium to nurture a fertilized egg and allows for fetal development throughout a pregnancy. Progesterone has been labeled the body's anti-estrogen, partnering with estradiol to maintain the delicate balance required between a woman's reproductive hormones. A woman's progesterone level diminishes, along with that of estradiol, as she approaches and enters menopause and, in most women, drops to low postmenopausal values.

As a woman ages (in her 40's or 50's)there is the slow decline of ovarian hormone production beginning with the irregular cycling of perimenopause which can last several years followed by menopause which is defined as not having cycled for twelve consecutive months. Though menopause brings with it a variety of desirable changes in a woman's life such as no more menstrual cycles, contraception or PMS, there can be many undesirable symptoms. These include: 1. Hot flashes, night sweats 2. Vaginal dryness 3. Dryness and thinning of skin, nails, hair 4. Bone loss 5. Mood swings 6. Decrease in libido (sex drive) 7. Memory problems 8. In addition to the decline in estradiol and progesterone levels, a woman's testosterone and DHEA levels continue to drop throughout her lifetime and are responsible for some menopausal symptoms.

Surgically Induced Menopause Removal of a woman's ovaries will result in immediate menopause creating a series of rapid and intense symptoms that can be debilitating and can be addressed successfully with the appropriate form of hormonal intervention.

Diseases Associated with Hormones and the Aging Process > Heart disease is the number one killer in America and the leading cause of death in women over age 65. As a woman's estradiol level decreases, her risk of heart disease increases. Older women are 10 times more likely to die from heart disease than breast cancer. > Osteoporosis, a disease that occurs when bone is breaking down faster than it is being rebuilt, makes bones more fragile and susceptible to fracture. Testosterone has also been shown to help protect against osteoporosis. > Alzheimer's Disease affects more than four million Americans a year with women at greater risk than men. Women taking estrogen therapy have a significantly lower risk of the dementia. In addition, recent animal studies indicate that testosterone may also have a protective effect against Alzheimer's Disease. > Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States with women at greater risk than men. Estradiol is now being studied as providing protection against this disease though the mechanism is still unclear.

What is Hormone Replacement Therapy?

HRT is the administration of steroid hormones (either natural, synthetic or animal-derived) to make up for the decline in those hormones (that drop naturally with age). Natural HRT or bio-identical HRT refers to a regimen of hormones that is bio-identical in structure and physiological activity to what the body produces. Importantly it also refers to the correct ratios of hormones. For example the correct ratio of E1:E2:E3 and E2:P. Natural progesterone is derived from Mexican Wild Yam, but must be manipulated in the lab. The wild yam is only active in humans once pharmaceutical conversion has taken place. Natural HRT brings with it the following benefits:

> Better tolerance (less unwanted side effects) such as blood clots, gallbladder disease. > Better therapeutic profile, since the ratios are correct for humans. > Improved long term patient acceptance.

Currently, more and more women and men are opting for natural HRT. Given both the short and long term health benefits, HRT is now considered by many healthcare providers as the preventive medicine of the 21st century for women and men in the second half of life. On the average, a female HRT user can expect to live up to 3 years longer than a non-user.

Replacing the body's declining hormones with natural, bio-identical hormone replacement is quite different from what might be considered 'natural' menopausal choices that can include:

> Maintenance of a healthy lifestyle such as frequent exercise, no smoking and minimal stress > Dietary intervention with plant estrogens (such as those in soy products) > Herbal intervention such as with dong quai, black cohosh or licorice (see below)

While there are scientific studies showing that some of these solutions do address short-term symptoms such as hot flashes, research is on going as to the long-term benefits of natural, non-hormonal solutions. This topic is evoking much interest especially with breast cancer patients and survivors who are experiencing severe menopausal symptoms and hesitate to intervene with hormones. While there is some concern about the estrogenic effects of these phytoestrogens they are weak at best and do not come close to the potency of E2. It is said that about 25% of postmenopausal women with breast cancer and 15% of postmenopausal women without breast cancer use these products. This is the conclusion by researchers at the Univ. of Pittsburgh studying the effects of Dong quai, vitex, Chinese ginseng, American ginseng, black cohosh, red raspberry leaf, licorice root, wild yam root. Soy based compounds such as tofu, soy milk, roasted soy nuts, (and in one study 60 grams of soy protein daily caused a 33% decrease in not flashes after 4 weeks and 45% reduction after 12 weeks) are useful in reducing menopausal symptoms.

Vitamin E (800 IU per day) has been shown in studies as far back as the late 1940's to alleviate menopausal symptoms. A trial period of no less than 3 months is recommended.

Vitamin C (1200 mg daily) was studied in the mid 1960's and reports concluded that in combination with the bioflavonoid hesperidin ameliorate menopausal symptoms.

Herbals with weak estrogen-like actions have similar effects they include Licorice, Alfalfa, Red clover, Black cohosh, Vitex, Dong quai, Ginseng and Sage (useful in profuse sweating) have been tested by Germany's Commission E. It is recommended that before starting any herbal patients should consult with their physician especially a nutritionally minded physician. While herbal preparations are somewhat effected the compounded NHRT creams and prescriptions are the most potent form of replacing low hormone levels.

Women who lead sedentary lifestyles are more likely to have menopausal symptoms. In one trial menopausal symptoms were reduced immediately after aerobic exercise. Aerobic exercise is certainly recommended for other health benefits as well.

To start, get tested. FSH and LH for women unsure if they are perimenopausal, and E2, P and T levels for those over 50-years that are pretty sure they are. One site that offers hormone testing is http://www.eStatLabs.com, and AtroGene Telemedicine offers consultation with hormone physicians from the comfort of your own home via computer/telephone.

Are You Having HRT Side Effects?

The side effects of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) fall into two categories. First are the immediate side effects, such as headaches, nausea and vomiting and many others. Not all women will experience such side effects, and generally speaking these side effects resolve themselves once the HRT is stopped. Then there are long term risks such as increased risk of breast cancer (and other risks too). These longer term consequences of HRT are not reversible and in some cases are lethal. We'll start by answering the question "What is hormone replacement therapy?" Then we'll look at the advantages of bioidentical hormones, and finally at the side effects and risks associated with hormone replacement therapy.

Hormone Replacement Therapy

Now let's look at hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Actually HRT is no longer routinely recommended for relief of menopausal complaints. It's too risky.

For a long time, doctor's thought that HRT was a cure all. Then some major studies, particularly the Women's Health Initiative revealed the risks associated with HRT. But before looking at the risks of HRT, let's make sure that we understand what it is.

The name "hormone replacement therapy" implies that HRT is replacing the estrogen and progesterone lost. It is, but not with the same hormones that our body makes. So its not replacing apples with apples. It's more like replacing apples with watermelons, and that's the main reason for the risks associated with HRT.

The economics of bioidentical hormones

Why doesn't modern medicine use bioidentical hormones (hormones identical to what our body makes) to "replace" what is missing? It's sad to say, but the main reason is that there is no money in it.

Pharmaceutical companies can only patent what they invent in a laboratory. They are not able to patent what Nature makes. And its only through holding a patent on a drug that they can mark up the price enough to make a good profit.

(The mark up on drugs like Premarin and Prempro is very high, with mark up on many drugs upwards of 10,000%. Premarin is available in Europe for $8.95/100, in Canada for $22.46/100 in the United States for $55.42. Price variations for Prempro are $5.75/28 in Europe, $14.33/28 in Canada and $31.09/28 in the United States). These price variations begin to reveal the profit margins pharmaceutical companies have with these drugs. They are really a cash cow for these companies.

So the medical profession insists on using what it is familiar with, and that is drugs. Bioidentical hormones are becoming more familiar to doctors, and more and more doctors are willing to prescribe them. But its far from the majority--many will not.

Why bother with bioidentical hormones? Wouldn't they have the same side effects as what doctors now prescribe. Doctors who use them say no, that they do not have the side effects and risks of drug HRT. While most women are already aware of the risks associated with hormone replacement therapy, it may be helpful to look at the issue quickly.

Risks of HRT

Many studies have underscored the risks of HRT. The biggest is The Women's Health Initiative. The study followed 160,000 women between 1993 and 1998. It compared the health of women on different combinations of HRT with women who were not.

The study reported that the women on HRT had greater risk for a variety of health problems. The study showed that the women on HRT had a significantly increased risk for breast cancer, heart attack, stroke and blood clots. The study showed that HRT benefited some conditions, decreasing the risk of colorectal cancer and of hip fractures due to osteoporosis.

A follow up study to the Women's Health Initiative showed that not only did it increase the risk of breast cancer, but that the type of breast cancer was more deadly. Other studies show that HRT also increases risk for gall stones, kidney stones, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer and uterine bleeding.

Side effects of HRT

While the press has spoken more about the risks of HRT recently, one doesn't hear much about side effects. Shorter term complaints or side effects that women have with HRT include nausea and vomiting, breast tenderness, vaginal bleeding, skin discoloration (particularly patches on the face), headaches, depression, anxiety, nervousness and irritability, fluid retention and bloating, acne and greasy skin.

It's not a very rosy picture. The majority of women are now deciding against hormone replacement therapy for relief of menopausal complaints. Instead they are turning to natural approaches such as herbs that contain estrogen like molecules, and estrogen rich foods.

What Does HGH Do?

There are changes that transpired in our body as we reach our mid-life. Our body starts to slow down once we reach the age of 40s. This is because our body is not anymore as capable of producing human growth hormones as it was when we were on the early stage of our life.

The hormone that is responsible on the secretion of human growth hormone is called Somatostatin. Once secretion of Somatostatin lessens, it also lessens our capacity to live to the fullest. HGH is the hormone that is responsible to the major parts of our body system. These hormones directly affect your skin, hair, heart, kidney, metabolism and even memory retention.

What does HGH Do?

Therefore, as more HGH is released, the more we become active. Mobility is not the only aspect that is affected with increased HGH levels. With a high percentage of release of HGH, skin remains fair and firm. Skin is wrinkle free. Hair remains thicker and livelier. Metabolism is on its normal function. There is also a high percentage of memory retentiveness and mental alertness. On top of this all, energy is on its peak.

If human growth hormone production slows down, premature aging takes place. Our degree of energy will drop down. Our skin would dry and wrinkle is not so far anymore. Metabolism slows down. This means we will likely sag and gain weight. Our aging process increases.

How to increase your HGH levels naturally?

This is the reason why companies have come up with a supplement that could enhance the production and release of more human growth hormone. HGH releasers enable your body to produce more hormones naturally with no side effects.

This stimulates a natural process of feeling and looking younger. An increase of human growth hormones regulates the system of our body. An increase of secretion of human growth hormones contributes good physical condition. It is not limited to good physical appearance. It transgresses to physical wellness as well. This could make you more beautiful and healthy as well.

Just imagine a life with no hindrances of aging. It is a life where we could accomplish more with vigor and vitality of the youth. This is an all natural supplement that is totally safe and accessible for any one. This is life with HGH Releaser. HGH Releasers promise a life of youthful promise in the most natural way. You can even give it a try before you have to pay the full retail price.

The Truth About Bioidentical Hormones, Does the Risk Outweigh the Benefit?

Suzanne Somers starts her day injecting herself with growth hormone (IGF1). It is quite true that growth hormone levels decline with age. Indeed, growth hormone injections are a centerpiece of the strategy promoted by "anti-aging" clinics. Promotional hype by these clinics often involves an advertisement of an older person looking much fitter and younger than typical for their age. It is an extremely high-risk protocol, as the use of IGF1 is clearly linked to an increased risk of diabetes, potential fueling of cancer development and progression, cancer mortality, and breast cancer - a far cry from anything to do with anti-aging.

The simplistic idea of replacing something that is apparently missing makes sense to many people, especially when a lab test can show that the hormone levels are lower than a younger person's or when taking the hormone suppresses a symptom. And that is where the simplicity ends - and the risks begin to elevate.

In a JAMA study of 57 women and 74 men, ages 65 to 88, IGF1 was given over a 26-week period. While body fat declined during the study there were only marginal increases in strength - indicating the IGF1 was not performing normally (not binding to the ideal receptors). Indeed, there was a dramatic increase in insulin resistance and diabetes in this relatively short period of time. By definition, this means that a critically important fat hormone called adiponectin had to be declining in response to the IGF1, as this invariably occurs when insulin resistance sets in. Low adiponectin is now associated with the invasiveness of breast cancer.

Any woman taking bioidentical hormones at a level higher than her body naturally produces is simply asking for trouble, and is far from natural. By improving your health you can naturally support the ability of your glands to make hormones, and you can get hormone receptors working in a naturally healthier way. Byron J. Richards is an independent journalist, health author, and clinical nutritionist who has researched hormones and health for over 25 years. He cuts through the confusion of bioidentical hormone truths and myths and provides women with valuable information in his article dated June 24, 2009: Oprah's "Crazy Talk" - Bioidentical Hormones - Helpful or Harmful? (Part 2).

Male Menopause Symptoms and Treatment

Male menopause (or Andropause,) is a condition of gradual changes in hormone status. Male menopause afflicts some men between the ages of 40 and 60 of age. The hormone imbalance has the biggest impact on testosterone and cortisol (the stress hormone).

So as men age, they become experience a range of andropause symptoms that are the same symptoms that women experience in menopause. But menopause in women represents a well-defined period in which hormone production stops completely. Testosterone decline in male menopause is a slower process. Many psychological signs can manifest as a result of experiencing the various physiological male menopause symptoms.

Andropause Symptoms These male menopause symptoms include:

• Erectile Dysfunction


• Muscle Loss


• Decrease in libido or Sex Drive


• Mood changes, Irritability, Fatigue Sleep Apnea, Depression


• Weight Gain * Urinary Problems


• Hot Flashes in Men


• Gynecomastia (male breasts)


• Hair Loss

The imbalance of even one hormone causes imbalance in other hormones. Men may not experience all of the above symptoms of andropause, but instead commonly experience a combination of symptoms. While these symptoms are signs of andropause, they may also be symptoms of other conditions like adrenal fatigue and poor thyroid health.

Male menopause symptoms relief Contrary to popular opinions, none of the listed andropause symptoms manifest signs of old age. These male menopause symptoms may reduce through bioidentical hormone replacement therapy which is also called as androgen replacement therapy. This method is a lifelong treatment, since testosterone deficiency is generally a permanent condition. But, as with hormone replacement therapy in women, testosterone replacement therapy does have some potential risks and side effects. For example, some resources found that replacing testosterone may cause prostate cancer and increase the risk of heart diseases.

Natural male menopause solutions Alternative to hormone replacement therapy are natural ways. It is possible to manage testosterone levels naturally. The following three options constitute a good, safe way to start.

Exercise

Researches reported that regular exercise at least twice per week can increase muscle strength by more than 30 percent, while also boosting bone density, speeding up metabolism and pushing up production of testosterone and other sex hormones.

Nutrition

To reduce male menopause symptoms diet should contains enough good carbohydrates, protein and good fat. Studies found that protein helps maintain lean muscle mass. Lack of carbohydrates can lead to decreased serotonin levels and consequently, irritability. It also takes a certain amount of fat to keep testosterone production at healthy levels. Some studies show that alcohol decreases testosterone levels.

Supplements Vitamins B group can help with stress and boost energy.

Vitamins stabilizes production of stress hormones.

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)

The number one over the counter dietary supplement for male menopause treatment is dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). This supplement builds block for sex hormones that the body naturally produces, but tends to decline rapidly with age. Some studies suggested that it's ingredients derived from yams can improve skin, sex drive, mood and strength in aging men.

Fish oil

Fish oil or omega-3 supplements is also popular supplement used for male menopausal symptoms. It have been shown to improve cognitive function, boost energy and prevent heart attacks. L-arginine L-arginine is an amino acid that helps dilate constricted blood vessels associated with erectile dysfunction.

Herbs

Herbs such as ashwagandha and ginseng are very benefit for hearth of male sexual energy.

A lot of men feel uncomfortable speaking about their andropause symptoms. So they often do not treat them. Early diagnosis, hormone replacement therapy and supplements can significantly improve male menopause symptoms.

Vitamin D and Steroids

Steroids are frequently prescribed by physicians for a variety of clinical disorders such as asthma, low back pain, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, M.S., and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Quite often, patients stay on steroids for a long duration. And end up experiencing serious side-effects, which are sometimes even worse than the original disease, such as avascular necrosis of hip or shoulder, serious infections, diabetes, high blood pressure, glaucoma, macular edema, proximal myopathy, severe osteoporosis which can lead to fragility fractures.

Steroids and Vitamin D

While there are several mechanisms how steroids can cause their side-effects, vitamin D deficiency appears to be a major pathway. Steroids antagonize the beneficial effects of vitamin D. For example, in bone, vitamin D enhances bone formation by stimulating osteoblasts, increasing calcium absorption from intestines and preventing secondary hyperparathyroidism. Steroids do exactly the opposite: they have inhibitory effect on osteoblasts, decrease calcium absorption from intestines, increase calcium wasting from kidneys and cause secondary hyperparathyroidism. In this way steroids cause a rapid bone loss (osteoporosis).

In addition, Vitamin D boosts up immune system whereas steroids suppress it. Vitamin D reduces blood pressure whereas steroids increase it. Vitamin D reduces insulin resistance whereas steroids increase it. Vitamin D builds up muscles whereas steroids cause myopathy.

It is pretty obvious that steroids antagonize the effects of vitamin D.

What is the mechanism?

One mechanism is that steroids alter the vitamin D receptor. Steroids also cause obesity, and consequently, decrease the available circulating vitamin D. There could be other mechanisms as well.

From a clinical point, steroids rob you off the beneficial effects of Hormone D in as little as 5 days. Therefore, I recommend my patients to double the dose of vitamin D while they go on steroids, and pay close attention to their serum and urine calcium. Salt restriction to 3 grams per day and use of a thiazide diuretic can reduce the urine calcium wasting.

"Prevention is better than cure" is your best bet when it comes to steroid-induced osteoporosis because no drug available currently can effectively treat this type of osteoporosis.

3 Natural Ways To Relieve Your Baby's Gas Pains

Discomfort and pain caused by gas and colic can make your baby cranky and irritable. You can relieve gas pains by using time tested natural techniques. These are preferred over medication that may promise to ease the pain but are unable to do so effectively. Reflexology is a healthy way of encouraging the body to heal itself, naturally. It involves gently pressing and massaging the body's reflex points. The impact of reflexology can be immediate. It calms and relaxes the body and helps it seek balance.

Reflexology for babies
Babies are often afflicted by pain caused by gas and constipation. This condition can be easily and quickly relived by gently massaging your baby's hands and feet. You may like to get a reflexology massage yourself in order to experience its wonderful effect. This experience will also teach you how to tenderly massage your baby's pains away. It will also calm him or her and help your baby sleep peacefully. The power of massage has been acknowledged in virtually all cultures across the world. You can use it to help your baby feel better.

An herbal compress
Create an herbal compress by putting fresh mint and fennel leaves in a soft cotton cloth and wrap them. Now soak the compress in warm water for about two minutes. In the meantime, lay your baby on his or her back and keep the abdomen bare. Place the herbal compress on your baby's tummy for about five minutes. Then again soak the compress in warm water and apply on the infant. Repeat the process four or five times.

The aroma of mint and fennel calms the senses and has a healing effect. Both the herbs are also well known for treating digestive ailments. Placing the warm compress on your baby's tummy also facilitates painless release of the gas from the body.

Getting rid of the gas
Another time tested way of helping a baby release gas is by placing him or her on your lap, on the baby's abdomen. Now gently rub your infant's back. This pressure will help ease the gas out and restore balance in the digestive system. You can also choose to hold the baby upright, against your body, and place his or her head on your shoulder. Try to burp the baby by massaging the back tenderly. Do remember to place a burp cloth on your shoulder before you burp your young one.

You can help your baby's digestive system work efficiently by massaging him or her before bath time. Help the baby do some gentle leg exercises by pushing the knees towards the stomach, or moving the legs in a cycling movement. This will get rid of gas. A warm bath can also help make a baby feel better and reduce gas pains.

Synthetic Hormones - Huh, What Were You Thinking?

For women ages 35 to 55, the reality, and the very real discomfort and pain, of aging is becoming more and more noticeable each and every day. The changes in a woman's body, whether mental, physical, or emotional, stem from the body no longer producing the amount of hormones it did in the past. For women noticing the beginning of the aging process, these hormones that are in decline may include:

o Estrogen
o Progesterone
o Testosterone
o Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)

The deficiency in these hormones in women, as well as men less prevalently, can lead to a whole host of health problems, body changes, and other symptoms that many to most people find extremely uncomfortable. Typically, these symptoms will be chalked up as simply part of the aging process, however, the aging process can be greatly slowed, if not altogether arrested, and doctors have been doing so for over fifty years. Unfortunately, as this article relates, one of the most common methods of hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, using synthetic hormones to replace depleted natural hormones only exacerbates the harm done to a women's body. Today, bioidentical hormones, or BHRT, is a safe and effective alternative to the battling the aging process using dangerous synthetic hormones, or SHRT.

For women seeing the first signs of aging, the symptoms may seem only mildly inconvenient initially, but unfortunately, these symptoms and minor complaints will only progressively get worse over time. In fact, some lethal diseases that are potentially prevented, if not at the very least delayed in onset, by bioidentical hormones are the direct result of lacking hormones in a woman's body stemming from the aging process. Some of the initial symptoms appearing in women facing declines in their body's natural hormone levels typically will include:

o Inability to sleep through the night
o Hot flashes
o Emotional irritability
o Depression
o Aching bones and muscles
o Wrinkles
o Vaginal dryness
o Hair thinning or loss
o Decreased sex drive
o Memory loss
o Incontinence
o Chronic fatigue

The symptoms mentioned above, generally appearing gradually and in combination with one another, will prompt a woman to seek the counsel of their physician. Though these symptoms can truly turn a woman's life unmanageable, especially the inability to sleep, hot flashes, and ensuing depression, there are much more sinister side affects of the aging process as well. If left untreated by hormone therapy, woman experiencing the aging process make themselves much more vulnerable to other serious diseases of aging including:

o Osteoporosis
o Parkinson's disease
o Arthritis
o Diabetes
o Hypertension
o Heart disease
o Cataracts
o Glaucoma

For a woman's comfort and overall health, many doctors have turned to hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, as a means of rectifying the hormone loss associated with aging, and in turn, the aforementioned symptoms. Unfortunately, the prevailing information ascribed to by both woman and even their doctors is wrong when it comes to hormone replacement therapy, as this article will now further explain.

Are Bioidentical Hormones Safe?

With the premature termination of the 2002 by the Women's Health Initiative, which linked hormone replacement therapy with increased breast cancer risk, many women dropped taking their hormone medication almost overnight. And although their breast cancer rate decreased, their quality of life also decreased. Symptoms of estrogen and progesterone imbalances like: irritability, mood swings, anxiety, depression, decreased sex drive, sleep problems, weight gain, fatigue, food cravings, water retention, bloating, headaches, joint pain, acne, PMS, irregular menstrual periods and brain fog were once again having to be dealt with that were eliminated almost magically before by taking the hormone replacement therapy had once again surfaced as an almost unbearable way to live.

This caused women to seek out possible safer alternatives to standard hormone replacement therapy (HRT). This is when bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) entered the stage as a possible way to get back to a normal way of life again. The bio-identical hormones were made from natural substances instead of pregnant horse urine. The question arose, if HRT is unsafe then how can we be certain that BHRT is safe and will not cause cancer like the hormones that were taken before. Estrogen is a pusher, driver hormone. It makes things grow. When you are twenty, this hormone makes a women a women. Estrogen decreases appetite, improves mental capacity, stabilizes mood, acts as a antidepressant, promotes sex drive, works synergistically with growth hormone to keep your skin thick and tight preventing wrinkles, it helps prevent osteoporosis, heart disease and Alzheimer's disease. This hormone ensures health of the ovaries and vagina so it is vital for pregnancy.

This all sounds good, to feel like you are twenty when you are fifty is what every women wants so they reach for the powerful antidote to all their symptoms of less than optimal health. There is one catch- if you force the body to do all these wonderful things when it is fifty then you also increase cell growth and increase your risk of cancer significantly. Here lies the dilemma that you must choose: door number one is to take hormones and feel great but end up with cancer and die prematurely or door number two which is to not take hormones and struggle through life with unbearable symptoms that at times make you want to end your life prematurely yourself! To take or not to take safer bio-identical hormone replacement therapy that is the question.

This BHRT issue has not had enough research yet to come to a conclusion but if you look at BHRT from a physiological standpoint you can finally see a picture of having the best of both worlds: Taking supplemental hormones making you feel great and NOT increasing your risk of cancer. This can be achieved when you balance all the systems of the body in priority along with balancing the biochemical and mental/emotional states. Once you balance the whole then the individual parts like your hormone levels will balance also as God intended them to.

Adrenal Fatigue - The Reason You're So Tired

Imagine you're walking through the woods one afternoon and come upon a bear. Instant fear elevates your adrenaline levels and sets off your fight or flight instinct. You turn and run, not looking back, until you're at a safe distance from the bear.

Only after you're out of harms way does your adrenaline level return to normal and your body calms itself down. This is how an adrenal gland operates, unless you're experiencing one of three stages of adrenal fatigue.

3 Stages of Adrenal Fatigue

Stage One: A normal functioning adrenal gland produces many hormones, the most important being cortisol, a hormone that helps the body deal with stress. Stage one of adrenal fatigue occurs when the adrenal gland increases production of cortisol. When cortisol levels elevate, it's similar to seeing a bear in the woods and becoming frightened. In this stage, the body will stay in a high stress state, never calming down and never being able to escape the bear.

High cortisol levels occurring in stage one usually causes increased sugar cravings, anxiety and depression.

Stage Two: In stage two cortisol levels are unstable. They fluctuate up and down, sometimes from week to week, day to day, or even hour to hour. A person who suffers from stage two adrenal fatigue may feel fine one day and then the next be extremely fatigued. The adrenal gland will first give the body a low period, where it doesn't pump any cortisol, but then it becomes stressed and compensates by pumping too much cortisol.

In stage two a person will generally crave more sugar to increase energy levels.

Stage Three: The third stage in adrenal fatigue is complete fatigue. The adrenal gland ceases to pump out hormones causing low levels of cortisol, serotonin, DHEA and epinephrine. A person generally feels very depressed in the third stage.

When a person reaches this stage and seeks medical help, physicians often place them on anti-depressant drugs instead of looking at adrenal gland function.

Symptoms of Adrenal Fatigue

*Fatigue- trouble getting out of bed
*Insomnia
*Afternoon lows- extreme fatigue mid-afternoon
*Sugar cravings
*Depression and anxiety
*Inability to lose weight
*Decreased sex drive
*Inability to handle everyday stresses
*Light headedness upon standing
*Often getting sick - cough, sore throat, cold and flu
*Thyroid disorder
*Hot flashes- not associated with menopause

Other Effects on the Body

Adrenal fatigue can be very taxing on the body. Not only does it affect the immune system but also gut health. It can affect the stomach's intestinal lining, breaking down the integrity of the intestines and causing diarrhea, constipation, inflammation and irritable bowel syndrome.

Hormones such as progesterone, estrogen and DHEA are affected by adrenal function. These hormones are decreased as the adrenal gland places its focus on producing more cortisol. Lower levels of these hormones can cause many other complications.

Cortisol levels also have an effect on blood pressure, elevating levels when more cortisol is produced, and lowering blood pressure when there is less. Over time, however, blood pressure will become elevated, as well as higher cholesterol levels and chance of developing diabetes.

Treatment Options

Testing adrenal function is done through a simple saliva test. After assessing the results, there are a number of different treatment options, which vary from case to case.

People live very busy and hectic lives. They often burn the candle at both ends and don't take the time they need to relax and bring the body out of stress mode. A huge part of treatment is stress control. This can be done through meditation, yoga, running, reading or however the individual is able to calm the body down.

A healthy diet is also very important for healthy adrenal function and should consist of less sugar and carbohydrate based foods. Breakfast and lunch should never be skipped, and should include more protein based foods and vegetables with small portions of complex carbs. If a person is too busy to eat, then they most likely have an adrenal issue, and they need to take a few minutes to relax and enjoy a bowl of oatmeal or a piece of fruit.

Adrenal fatigue is often treated with nutrients, as well as B and C vitamins. Some herbs that are commonly used are rhodiola, ginseng and Glycyrrhiza (licorice).

It is very important to note that each person is different and therefore each treatment is different. A person that feels they may suffer from adrenal fatigue should always consult a naturopathic physician before beginning to take any herb.

Original Article Source: http://www.holistichealingnews.com/?p=4331

How to Naturally Raise Libido (Sex Drive)

Libido refers to one's desire to have sex. Additionally it refers to overall well-being and motivation. As people age, hormone levels tend to decrease, and unfortunately this can affect libido substantially.

Men who are experiencing hormone level reduction can see a myriad of symptoms, including irritable mood, lack of motivation, erectile dysfunction, and an overall lack of interest in sex.

Women may experience the same issues along with a more substantial drop in hormones due to menopause. This often leads to hot flashes, vaginal dryness, night sweats, and a stopping of menstrual periods.

There are medications to address erectile dysfunction in men, and these may help women's issues as well. However, the medication will not address the underlying source of the problem with libido reduction.

There are 3 primary areas of treatment that can help increase one's libido:

1. Lifestyle factors - including obesity, inadequate sleep, stress

2. Hormone replacement - bioidentical hormones provide natural hormones that are the same in structure as what the body produces.

3. Nutritional supplements - using various nutrients and herbs to help sexual function.

Lifestyle factors should be addressed as an essential component of the equation for increasing libido. If the person handles stress terribly, it may "kill the mood" on a continual basis. There are stress management techniques which can help put things in perspective and help patients gain insight into why stress is handled the way it is and how to work towards better management of it.

Getting adequate sleep is important, however, it is well known that hormonal imbalances and stress may affect sleep. So it can become a chicken vs the egg situation. Handle the stress better and receive hormone replacement, and one's sleep may get a lot better, both in quality and quantity.

Being considerably overweight or obese may affect libido. In men, additional fat may produce estrogen, which works against testosterone and decreases sexual function and/or desire. In women (and men) excess weight changes self-image, which can adversely affect sexual desire. Exercise, meditation, changing eating habits may all be essential ingredients to the best frame of mind for a renewed libido.

Bioidentical hormone replacement is increasing in popularity since it involves the same natural hormones as the body produces, not laboratory synthetic ones. Estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and DHEA are replaced back to optimal levels. This will improve libido, diminish menopausal symptoms, improve bone health, along with increasing energy and vitality.

Nutritional supplements and herbal remedies are often included in an effective program by naturopathic doctors. Specifically, gingko biloba, niacin, and L-arginine have evidence to back up their erectile function assistance. Also in women, maca root, chaste berry, and black cohosh can improve sexual response and decrease menopausal symptoms.

These various methods of improving libido should be "quarterbacked" by a naturopathic doctor. He or she can work with the patient and put into place an integrated plan which will put the person on a new track for success which will include increased libido and overall improved heal

How to Recognize and Overcome Forgetfulness

Are you having a hard time remembering names, phone numbers, and other important dates? Do you constantly misplace your car keys or forget were you parked it in a parking lot? When leaving the house to run errands, do you go back in the house to make sure you locked the doors or turned off all the appliances? Do you often forget how to spell a common word? If you answered yes to any of these questions, here's some good news: there is a solution! 

With a few simple devices, it's within most people's power to have a super memory. Age is not the reason you are being forgetful. You need to focus more on what you are doing and pay more attention to the tasks at hand. 

First remember to remember. If you are trying to remember the name of someone, try to reinstate as much as possible of what your know surrounding the person. Face, color or hair, car they drive, house they live in, doing this exercise will help you memory to recall that persons name. 

Make a picture in your mind about those keys as you place them on the table. Slow down and make yourself picture were you parked that car. Using your vocal cords will also help you to remember different things. Talking to yourself is not crazy, it allows you to re-enforce what you want to remember. Make lists. Lists are always a good for a memory boots. Our short-term memory has limited capacities, there's only so much space available. Writing out lists helps to assure you of remembering what is important to you. 

Read, read, and read some more. If you're having a problem forgetting words, it's probably because you don't use them enough. Your vocabulary is rusty, so the more words you put into your memory the more you'll remember. 

Many things can contribute to forgetfulness. At the root of some forgetfulness is liquor or certain drugs such as diet pills, blood pressure medication, or antihistamines. Check with your doctor if you believe they maybe affecting your memory.

Women May Reverse Menopause Bloating With Phytoestrogens

During menopause, bloating is typically not a problem. Researchers have studied many different symptoms that are often associated with menopause, bloating is more commonly associated with pre-menstrual syndrome and occurs more often during pre or peri menopause. Numerous efforts have been made to stop or reverse menopause effects, with little success.

Despite claims by users and promoters of bio-identical hormones, this therapy does not reverse menopause. Menopause is a natural part of a woman's life. Many experts believe that a woman's attitude towards aging significantly affects the number of symptoms that she has. Others claim that it is strictly hormonal and that attitude has nothing to do with it, but they cannot explain why many menopausal symptoms respond to placebo.

According to surveys, the most common symptoms associated with menopause are hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal dryness. In women who had not been using hormone replacement therapy, the most common reason for seeking treatment and beginning hormone use was to relieve these symptoms. About 50% of all women experience hot flashes during menopause or the years following menopause. About 10% of all women suffer from them for three or more years before menopause. Unlike other menopausal symptoms, no one is sure what causes hot flashes or night sweats.

Vaginal dryness is directly related to decreased estrogen production. Dryness and decreased elasticity of the skin are also associated with decreased estrogen levels. These symptoms typically respond well to creams containing estrogen or a combination of ingredients. There are several moisturizing lubricants specifically designed to reverse menopause vaginal dryness. Some research has been conducting concerning the effectiveness of red clover, which contains a plant estrogen, in relieving dry skin and improving skin elasticity.

About 3% of all women surveyed in recent menopause research experience a weight gain of 3 or more pounds during menopause. This is a small percentage and is not believed to be directly related to changing hormonal levels. A person's caloric needs change as part of the aging process. Those people who continue to eat follow the same diet in their 40s and 50s that they used in their 20s and 30s will likely gain weight.

Estrogen does have an affect on bowel motility and when menopause bloating is a problem it may be related to constipation. Increasing fiber in the diet should relieve or reverse menopause bloating. Dietary supplements containing estrogen-like plant components may be helpful, as well.

Male Breast Enlargement Pills - How Do They Work?

Males who wish to have their breasts enlarged, have many options today. One of the most popular option is male breast enlargement pills.

But what kinds of pills are there? Can males use any breast enlargement pill? Who should use them?

First of all, there are many breast enlargement pills on the market, but these were made for women. Most of these pills contain Phytoestrogens which mimic the female hormone, Estrogen. It is the amount of Estrogen in a female or male body which determines the size of her or his breasts.

Because the composition of breast tissue in males and females is similar, males react to Phytoestrogens just as females do. But males need to be careful. Don't use any female breast enlargement pill. Make sure that the pills that you choose have been taken by males and have shown the kind of results that you're seeking.

Male breast augmentation pills come in two major forms: Herbal and hormonal.

Herbal pills are the pills I have already outlined which are based on Phytoestrogens. These can provide excellent results and develop naturally looking and feeling breasts. Herbal pills target the breast tissue only, so the only feminization changes you will see are in your breast area.

On the other hand, hormonal pills may bring about other feminine changes apart from an increase in your breast size. These work by inducing your body to develop more estrogen and to decrease the production of male hormones. This may bring about other feminine characteristics such as feminine body odor, figure, softer voice and more.

If you only wish to have more feminine breasts, than herbal pills are a good choice. But if you desire a wider feminization process, than hormonal feminization pills are more suited for you.

Whatever you do, I wish you the best of luck in fulfilling your dreams.

Andropause Therapy - Male HRT

Andropause therapy or male HRT is becoming increasingly popular, with more and more conventional doctors recognizing the fact that men go through a stage in life which has many similarities to the female menopause. Like the menopause, the andropause is caused by drops and fluctuations in hormones. In men, the predominant hormone is Testosterone. The symptoms of the male and female menopause both usually begin in the 40's and are surprisingly similar.

With women, the menopause is defined as the time when menstruation stops. The time preceding the menopause (the perimenopause) is a time when the main symptoms can occur. For men, there is no such cut off point as although testosterone levels can drop significantly, men can retain fertility into old age.

Andropause Symptoms

* Irritability

* Depression

* Tiredness and fatigue

* Lack of interest in life

* Erection difficulties/impotence

* Weakness

* Lowered sex drive

Diagnosis Of The Andropause

A blood test will usually be performed to check the levels of testosterone and other hormones within the body. In addition, a doctor will usually take note of the symptoms which are being experienced and perform a physical check to confirm there is no other underlying cause for these.

Andropause Therapy

If Male HRT is decided to be the most appropriate treatment, this can be given in patch form or injected. Although this is often seen as an easy treatment, it does not come without side effects. Taking testosterone can cause weight gain, water retention, headaches, swollen ankles and reduced fertility. In addition, it should never be taken by anyone with a family history of heart disease, prostate or breast cancer (in males) or by men who have themselves suffered from diabetes, high blood pressure, or any forms of cancer.

If HRT is not considered the most appropriate andropause therapy, doctors may decide to treat individual symptoms in isolation. For example, if a man is suffering from depression as a result of the andropause, antidepressant treatment may be given. In addition, many men prefer not to use synthetic hormones because of the possible adverse effects and prefer to use a natural treatment method.

Perimenopause Periods - What it Is, What to Do

You've been period-free for the past 2 months. You think you're pregnant (again), so you buy a pregnancy home-kit (again). You tested negative. You'd like to think of a possible explanation. You say you're actually glad that you don't have one, especially because you always experience the worst PMS ever known to womankind.

Unfortunately for you, today is your day (just when you wore white). It is not only the most excruciating pain you have ever felt, but you also feel that something's terribly wrong. You want to go to the doctor, but he just might give you something just for the pain again.

What do you do?

I know the pain that you feel. But ironically, good news is that you are not alone in your suffering. If you're between 40 to 50 years old (possibly earlier but not below 35), then you may be suffering from perimenopause periods. This is an affliction silently suffered by most women in that age bracket, in preparation for menopause. Irregular periods are characterized by long or short cycles, a heavy or very light blood flow, sometimes just spotting, painful cramps, blood clots, or simply missed periods.

When both estrogen and progesterone shows low productivity, this is where the imbalance will set in. The first casualty will always be your menstrual cycle. This combined with additional stress levels will always have your periods at an irregular rate, sometimes not even appearing for whole months!

A ton of other related symptoms also contribute to irregular periods. Eating disorders, diabetes, thyroid problems, weight gain (or loss), smoking, over-exercise, excessive alcohol and caffeine intake, liver disease and recent miscarriage or birth is just some of the symptoms. If you just gave birth and you're breastfeeding, it is a natural contraceptive that also allows your menstrual period to just stop completely. Ovarian diseases and uterine abnormalities (fibroids, polyps, etc.) and tuberculosis could also be possible reasons. So to rule the last 3 symptoms out, be sure to visit your doctor and have yourself tested for these just in case your gut feel tells you it's something more than perimenopause.

Now when do you really need to see a doctor? When you have heavy, extended bleeding for more than a week, severe abdominal pain, and spotting, unexplained weight gain and if you're bleeding after intercourse, then this would be a good time to lose your fear of hospitals and go to a doctor.

To prevent that from happening, take a break from work or home (if only for a while). Relax. Meditate. Have a healthy diet consisting of leafy greens and fruits. Consider alternative medicine first before thinking of surgery. If you can't take it anymore, visit your health care provider and ask for alternative remedies.

Forever Young With Anti-Aging Age Management Therapies

A lot of people dream of staying young forever. However, aging is a natural process that even the most advanced technologies in medicine cannot stop. It continues to take over the lives of many people when they basically reach the stage of adulthood. On the other hand, recent studies show that it is possible to make the process progress in a much slower pace. At certain cases, aging signs can be reversed with the aid of the best anti-aging therapies out there. Now, there are a lot of anti-aging therapies that you will be able to find these days. It will be most efficient if the best natural treatment methods are used when you want to effectively control and reduce the effects of aging. Age management therapies utilize natural ingredients to promote the delay of anti-aging effects on the body.

Basically, when you use these kinds of therapies you will improve your current health condition and slow down the aging process. Widely used therapies today are the bioidentical hormone therapy and growth hormone therapy. Bio identical hormone therapy utilizes hormones that are identical to one's found in the human body. It basically uses hormones like estrogen and progesterone in women and testosterone for men. The health care professional will prescribe the dosage of these bioidentical hormones to candidates of age management therapies depending mainly on a candidate's needs.

Some benefits of this bioidentical hormone replacement therapy are restoration and achievement of a sound mental functioning, promotion of a youthful sleep, reduction of any wrinkle formation, enhancement of immune function and many more. Growth hormone therapy, on the other hand, utilizes the growth hormone that is naturally secreted by the pituitary gland. It will function as a healing hormone because it basically makes adults heal and halt deterioration.

Benefits that will be experienced when undergoing a hormone replacement therapy include increase in cardiovascular function, improvement in lung function and capacity, improvement in wound healing, restoration of a youthful immune system, enhancement of a person's sexual performance and generally increasing the physical and physiological well being of a person. These therapies are clinically proven to yield good results to both men and women. With these therapies, it will not be necessary anymore to go into the extent of acquiring painful and unnecessary plastic surgeries just to be able to look youthful. When old age becomes a problem, the best solution is the natural one.

Male Hormone Restoration

Men's health is the focus of this article. What is men's health you may be wondering? It refers to health issues specific to human male anatomy. It is a fact that men need to restore their testosterone levels after their 40s because this very important hormone begins to decrease slowly as you advance in age. By the time you hit 80 years, your testosterone levels will be about half of what it was when you were a strapping 20 year old youth.

When your testosterone levels are low, you are unable to function optimally sexually and this results in anxiety and stress, especially, if you are married. Testosterone also plays an important role in maintaining youthful neurological structure, alleviation of depression, and inducing fat loss in those who can't reduce body weight regardless of diet and exercise. Low testosterone is also associated with metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Male hormone replacement to youthful ranges in middle-aged and obese men may result in an increase in insulin sensitivity and a reduction in total cholesterol, fat mass, diabetes, and the metabolic syndrome. Male hormone restoration also plays a vital role in improving erectile function and sexual functional capacity in human males with heart weakness.

What are the Factors that Affect Testosterone Levels in Men?

• Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone produced from cholesterol. DHEA can yield either estrogens or testosterone via a two step enzymatic conversions. The level of DHEA does play a critical role in determining the levels of testosterone and estrogen in your blood. In aging men, DHEA alone can't sufficiently induce male hormone replacement.

• Aromatase is one of the most important factors that affect testosterone levels in men. Aromatase is an enzyme that converts testosterone to estrogen thus developing the hormone levels.

• Obesity can reduce testosterone levels as well even in very young men below the age of 40.

• You liver removes excess estrogen and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) from the bloodstream. If your liver isn't functioning optimally then the result will be less testosterone and more estrogen leading to hormonal imbalance.

Male Hormone Replacement Therapy:

A growing number of men are taking testosterone to check the gradual decline of this important hormone. The hormone is not taken as a pill because it can affect your liver. Testosterone is known to be toxic to the liver.

For safety reasons you do need a physician's prescription before you can embark on an effective testosterone replacement therapy. An experienced physician will most likely prescribe bioidentical testosterone creams which you can buy from a local compounding pharmacy.

Other physicians may choose to prescribe prepackaged, hormonal patches and gels that have been approved by the FDA. Bioidentical testosterone increase free male hormone in the blood. Prepackaged testosterone gels are extremely expensive as compared to compounded versions.

The hormone is readily absorbed through the skin and all you have to do is rub it in. Spread it daily on the upper arms, shoulders and abdomen particularly after a sweet morning shower. For more information on male hormone replacement you may want to visit his website now.

Thanks for you visit.

PMDD Treatment

What is the difference between PMS and PMDD?

The list of physical symptoms is the same for PMDD and PMS. The emotional symptoms are very similar, but they are far more pronounced with PMDD. Generally PMS emotional symptoms are sadness and mild depression. With PMDD, however, significant major depressive symptoms are present and the sufferer may feel suicidal or homicidal.

Thirty to fifty percent of women between the ages of 30 to 40 with regular menstrual cycles suffer from PMS (premenstrual syndrome) with regular symptoms every month. Three to five percent of these women experience much more severe symptoms, called PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) on a monthly basis.

Women with PMDD complain of very depressed moods, anger and severe irritability, crying spells for no reason and temper tantrums and verbal outbursts. In addition to these symptoms, some women complain of insomnia, and physical symptoms such as headaches, painful joints and bloating.

What primarily differentiates PMDD from other mood disorders is it appears during the week before and ends a couple days after the menstrual period. The symptoms are severe enough to disrupt daily functioning.

PMDD Treatment

PMDD Treatment - Causes

The exact cause of PMDD is not known, however, several theories have been proposed. One theory states that women with PMDD react to the normal fluctuations of hormone levels of estrogen and progesterone with a decreased level of serotonin levels in the brain. Evaluating the levels of serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine and GABA levels to gain data of what levels are.

Doctors taking a medical history try to identify if the following symptoms are present, indicating PMDD:

During a year's time, during most menstrual cycles, five or more of the following symptoms must be present:

- Depressed mood
- Anger or irritability
- Moodiness
- Difficulty in concentrating
- Increased appetite
- Insomnia or hypersomnia
- Feeling overwhelmed or out of control
- Symptoms that inhibit occupational, social or physical functioning

PMDD Treatment - Options

PMDD is sometimes treated with bioidentical natural progesterone in suppository or tablet form. You can choose between brand name formulas, such as Prometrium, or custom-compounded USP (bioidentical) progesterone from specialty pharmacies. Women taking progesterone should have their hormone levels checked every three to six months to ensure that the progesterone is not being converted into estrogen. Other women find that they respond well to different birth control pills. Certain antidepressant medication can also alleviate the symptoms of PMDD or at least lessen them.