6 Things Disrupting Women's Hormones (and How to Balance Hormones Naturally)
Dr. Josh AxePublished on February 17, 2025
Summary authored by editor@wellifi.com
TLDR Summary
Dr. Josh Axe discusses the importance of addressing hormonal imbalances in women through natural methods, such as dietary changes, stress management, and supplements. He emphasizes that normal blood work does not always reflect true health and encourages looking deeper into hormonal health.
Key Points
- Normal blood work doesn't guarantee good health; deeper issues may exist.
- Common hormonal imbalances in women include infertility, PCOS, and painful PMS.
- Birth control pills and stress are significant contributors to hormonal imbalances.
- Diet and lifestyle changes can significantly affect hormonal health.
- Peptide therapy can be considered if other methods fail.
Understanding Hormonal Imbalances: A Guide by Dr. Josh Axe
Are you tired of doctors dismissing your symptoms or, worse, making you feel crazy? Just because your blood work comes back normal does not mean your health is where it should be. Think of your blood like a delivery truck carrying nutrients and hormones, but the real payoff happens when your cells open the package and use what's inside.
If your cells are stuck in what's called the cell danger response, triggered by stress, toxins, or infections, they go into protective mode. In this state, cells close off and don't properly take in or utilize the hormones or nutrients they need from the bloodstream. This makes blood work often appear normal, leaving doctors to miss the deeper issue. The result? You may feel tired, gain weight, experience mood swings, and deal with other symptoms while your cells remain in a state of limbo.
In this article, we will explore how to naturally balance your hormonal health, addressing everything from infertility to PCOS and painful PMS, as well as what to do after menopause. We will delve into healing through diet, herbs, supplements, and lifestyle changes.
Top Reasons for Hormonal Imbalances
Dr. Axe highlights the top six reasons why women today are facing hormonal distress:
1. Birth Control Pills
About 65% of women in the U.S. under 49 report using some form of contraception, with birth control pills being the most common. These pills disrupt the natural menstrual cycle and can lead to:
- Mood swings
- Bacterial overgrowth
- Weight gain
- Altered stress responses
- Depleted nutrient stores
Long-term use can lead to hypothyroidism, with nutrient depletions affecting methylation, essential for mitochondrial and thyroid health.
2. High Stress
More than 50% of U.S. adults report frequent stress that disrupts their functioning. High stress leads to elevated cortisol levels, which can negatively impact other hormones like progesterone and testosterone, causing further hormonal imbalances.
3. Insulin Resistance
One in three Americans is insulin resistant, which can lead to conditions like PCOS, affecting menstrual cycles and fertility. Insulin resistance occurs when cells do not respond effectively to insulin, leading to inflammation and hormonal disturbances.
4. Being Overweight or Obese
Over two-thirds of adults in the U.S. are overweight or obese, which can lead to hormonal imbalances related to reproduction and stress hormones.
5. Poor Thyroid Function
About 12% of the population experiences thyroid conditions. Poor thyroid function can lead to symptoms like fatigue, hair loss, weight changes, and menstrual irregularities.
6. Endocrine Disruptors
Thousands of man-made chemicals, such as BPA and processed soy products, can interfere with hormonal balance, leading to excess estrogen and other issues.
Strategies for Hormonal Balance
Dr. Axe emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to restore hormonal balance. Here are some strategies:
Dietary Changes
Your diet can significantly impact hormonal health. Dr. Axe recommends:
- Consuming organic meats, vegetables, and healthy fats like avocados and olive oil.
- Including phytoestrogens from sources like organic soy and flax seeds.
- Focusing on nutrient-dense foods that support hormonal health based on your cycle.
Supplements
Key supplements include:
- B Vitamins for hormone production
- Probiotics for gut health
- Omega-3 fatty acids for inflammation
- Adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha
Stress Management
Finding ways to reduce stress is crucial for hormonal balance. Techniques can include:
- Mindfulness and meditation
- Regular physical activity
- Prioritizing relaxation and self-care
Peptide Therapy
If dietary and lifestyle changes aren't sufficient, consider peptide therapy options such as:
- Kisspeptin for PCOS and fertility
- Thymosin beta-4 for tissue repair
- BPC-157 for gut health
Conclusion
Women experiencing hormonal imbalances have options beyond hormonal replacement therapy. By focusing on diet, lifestyle changes, and natural supplements, significant improvements in hormonal health can be achieved.
For more personalized advice, visit Beyond Bloodwork to learn how you can start changing your health in as little as 30 days.
Thank you for tuning in to Dr. Josh Axe's insights on balancing hormonal health!
