Are Your Hormones Out of Sync?
Dr Sohère Roked, GP, Functional Medicine and Hormone expert explores how our hormones play a vital role in our overall well-being, and even slight imbalances can affect how patients feel., and outlines some signs which can indicate that your hormones may be out of sync.
Mood Swings
Hormones like oestrogen, progesterone, and cortisol play a key role in regulating mood. When these hormones fluctuate, we might experience unexplained shifts in emotions, from irritability and anxiety to low mood or even depression.
Fatigue
If constantly exhausted, even after a full night’s sleep, hormonal imbalances could be at play. Thyroid hormones regulate energy production, and if they’re too low we may feel sluggish. Cortisol, when too high or too low can also lead to persistent tiredness. Low progesterone can also contribute to poor sleep, exacerbating fatigue.
Weight Changes
Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight can be linked to imbalances in insulin, cortisol, or thyroid hormones. High insulin levels encourage fat storage, while a sluggish thyroid slows metabolism, making it harder to burn calories.
Sleep Struggle
Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up tired can indicate imbalances in cortisol, melatonin, or progesterone. Elevated cortisol levels at night can keep us wired and unable to relax. Low melatonin can make it difficult to fall asleep, and low progesterone may contribute to restlessness. Poor sleep, in turn, can further disrupt hormone balance, creating a vicious cycle.
Problematic Skin
Hormonal imbalances can cause breakouts, dryness, or other unexpected changes in the skin. High androgen levels (male hormones e.g. testosterone) can trigger acne by increasing oil production, and low oestrogen can lead to dryness and loss of elasticity.
Hair Changes
Thinning hair, hair loss, or excessive hair growth can be linked to hormonal shifts. High levels of male hormones can lead to excessive hair growth in unwanted areas, while low oestrogen can cause thinning hair or increased shedding. High cortisol levels from prolonged stress can also contribute to hair loss.
Irregular Periods
Changes in the menstrual cycle often point to hormonal imbalances. Oestrogen and progesterone regulate the cycle, so disruptions (such as PCOS, thyroid disorders, or perimenopause) can lead to irregularities.
Libido
A noticeable decrease in sex drive can be caused by imbalances in oestrogen, testosterone, or cortisol. Low testosterone levels (in men and women) can lead to a reduced interest in sex. Oestrogen imbalances, particularly during menopause, can contribute to vaginal dryness and discomfort. High cortisol from chronic stress can further suppress libido.
Digestive Issues
Bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, or other gut problems may be influenced by hormone fluctuations. Oestrogen and progesterone affect gut motility, so imbalances can lead to sluggish digestion or irregular bowel movements. High cortisol can also disrupt gut bacteria, leading to inflammation, bloating, and discomfort.
Hot Flashes or Night Swests
Sudden episodes of intense heat or sweating, particularly at night, are common signs of hormonal imbalance, especially in perimenopause and menopause. These are usually caused by fluctuating oestrogen levels, which affect the hypothalamus (the body’s thermostat). High cortisol and thyroid imbalances can also contribute to temperature regulation issues.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it might be time to check your hormone levels through blood tests or consulting a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause. Don’t ignore your body’s signals.
