Wednesday, April 28, 2004

Understanding hormones

By Dr. Veronique Desaulniers

Taber’s Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary defines hormones as: “A substance originating in an organ, gland or body part that is conveyed through the blood to another body part, chemically stimulating that part to increase or decrease in functional activity.” The Greek root actually means to “urge on.”

Thus, hormones are messengers that control and balance many body functions. Research has shown that balanced hormones may enhance and even prolong life.

Unfortunately, the “sickness industry” has taken a myopic approach when it comes to hormones. “Got a sluggish thyroid? Take this pill. Going through menopause? No problem. Take this synthetic hormone made from horse urine.” Rather than looking at the body as a whole unit, intricately connected by numerous chemical and electrical channels, the “pop-a-pill” approach is used.

Modern living bombards our bodies with emotional, physical, and chemical stressors every day. This continuous stress causes shifts and imbalances in our hormonal systems. In his book “Stress Without Distress,” Dr. Hans Seyle described the effects of chronic stress in the body:

• Weakened adrenal glands — imbalance in blood sugar.

• Increased corisol production — gastro-intestinal ulceration.

• Shrinking of lymph nodes — decreased immune system function.

• Increase loss of minerals — increased formation of free radicals.

Surprising to many people, Nature’s table offers a variety of whole foods that provides precursors to healthy hormone function. For example, carrots and red peppers contain small amounts of DHEA precursors. Walnuts and other raw nuts contain essential fatty acids that insure optimal delivery of nutrients to the endocrine glands; corn, tomatoes, and brown rice are melatonin rich foods. Many patients have commented how well they are sleeping at night since they have been feasting on raw, whole foods and hydrate their bodies regularly with pure water. Trace minerals found in all whole foods trigger enzyme reactions, act as powerful antioxidants and activate sluggish hormones trapped in the liver.

There are several nutrients that enhance the function of the endocrine System. For example, Black Cohosh has an estrogen-like effect that helps alleviate menstrual cramps and reduce hot flashes. Dong Quai enhances the effect of ovarian hormones. It reduces vaginal dryness, hot flashes and PMS and menopausal symptoms. Red raspberry has a relaxing effect on the uterine muscles and has been shown to reduce menstrual bleeding. It is also beneficial for menstrual cramps and hot flashes. Wild yam root is a good source of sterol compounds similar to progesteone. It has been used in the treatment of fibroids, PMS and menopausal symptoms. It is beneficial for relieving mood swings, depression and irritability. Chaste tree leaves and berries have hormone balancing effects and therefore help alleviate PMS symptoms and hot flashes. They are also beneficial in treating fibrocystic breasts, endometriosis and uterine fibroids.

The list of nutrients is also endless. B-complexes, Vitamin A, C, Magnesium, Zinc, Boron, Selenium, Potassium, etc. all have synergistic effects on the endocrine system.

In order to assess any hormonal imbalances, there are several testing procedures that are available. For example: saliva tests, blood tests, Kinesiological Reflex Testing and Bio-Energetic Testing, or Electro-Dermal Screening.

Bio-energetic testing, a computer generated procedure, consists of reading the electrical resistance of specific reflex points on the body to determine any weaknesses in the communication systems and to test for compatibility of certain nutrients. Sadly, thousands of dollars spent on vitamins and herbs are simply creating “expensive urine,” because they are not compatible with a particular body and are therefore not being absorbed into the cell.

Here are a few steps to establish hormonal balance and normal body rhythms:

• Eliminate junk food, sugar and caffeine.

• Learn relaxation and breathing techniques.

• Try to be in bed by 10 p.m. The Adrenal Glands “reset” themselves between 10 and 12 midnight. One hour of sleep before midnight is equal to two after.

• Expose yourself to a least one hour of sunlight or natural outdoor light every day.

• Exercise (outdoors preferably), for at least 30 minutes, 3-4 times per week.

• Eat whole foods and other raw unprocessed foods. Their hormone enhancing nutrition will bring balance to your body and life.

• Consult a licensed physician who specializes in wellness and is proficient in bio-energetic testing procedures. Begin a supervised program of herbal and nutritional supplements to enhance and nourish your endocrine system.

(The above statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This information is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose. Consult your primary health care professional for any medical advice.)