Sometimes, symptoms that we associate with aging or stress, such as memory issues and fatigue, could actually be indications of hormonal imbalances. HuffPost UK sought insight from Mike Kocsis at Balance My Hormones to uncover the subtle signs of hormonal imbalances and discuss potential remedies.
Five subtle indicators of hormonal imbalances
5. Regular occurrences of memory problems
Certainly, occasional forgetfulness is typical, especially when managing a busy schedule and household tasks. However, Kocsis suggests that if you’re experiencing more forgetfulness than usual, it could signal an underlying problem.
Kocsis elaborates: “Low testosterone levels can contribute to memory problems or worsen forgetfulness. While testosterone is commonly associated with males, it also plays a role in females. If your levels fall below the normal range, you may notice a decline in cognitive functions, including memory.”
To increase testosterone levels, Kocsis recommends maintaining a regular exercise routine, following a balanced diet, and ensuring sufficient sleep.
4. Experiencing increased fatigue compared to your typical level
As we grow older, feeling tired is almost considered a normal part of life. However, Kocsis warns that persistent fatigue and trouble concentrating could indicate hormonal imbalances.
Like memory issues, heightened tiredness may indicate lower-than-normal testosterone levels. Kocsis suggests prioritizing quality sleep by avoiding phone use before bedtime and maintaining a comfortable room temperature.
If sleep modifications don’t alleviate fatigue, participating in light exercises such as yoga or gentle Pilates, even when feeling tired, can greatly enhance alertness.
3. Encountering elevated levels of stress
Kocsis highlighted that excessive and chronic stress can disrupt the balance of cortisol, increasing the risk of various health issues. “Cortisol, often referred to as the ‘stress hormone,’ plays a crucial role in the brain’s response to stress,” Kocsis explained.
Additionally, cortisol regulates blood pressure and inflammation. When overproduced, typically due to high stress levels, it can contribute to anxiety and depression. While some stressors are unavoidable, there are methods to promote calmness.
Kocsis recommends: “Practicing mindfulness, meditation, regular exercise, and ensuring sufficient sleep can help regulate cortisol levels. If you’re experiencing ongoing struggles despite adopting healthy habits, consulting a doctor may help identify underlying issues.”
2. Heightened thirst or appetite
If you’ve observed an increase in your water intake but still feel consistently thirsty, Kocsis advises that this might indicate insufficient production of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which helps regulate water retention in the body. To determine if this is the case, a doctor can conduct a blood test to assess your ADH levels.
For individuals who experience menstrual cycles, it’s beneficial to track your cycle to determine whether the thirst is related to a hormone imbalance or menstrual cycle fluctuations. Kocsis explained, “Both estrogen and progesterone influence the body’s water balance, so changes in these hormone levels, particularly at the beginning of your period, can result in increased thirst.”
1. The growth of facial or body hair in females
It’s perfectly normal for women to have body hair. However, if you notice hair growth in new areas such as the face, nipples, or stomach, or if the hair appears thicker and grows more quickly, it could suggest elevated testosterone levels.
Kocsis also points out that this may indicate an underlying condition such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), which affects ovarian function and is commonly associated with hormonal imbalances.
PCOS is a common condition, affecting one in ten women in the UK. If you suspect you may have PCOS, it’s recommended to seek advice from a doctor.
Ways to regulate your hormone levels
Kocsis stresses the significance of a diet rich in protein for hormone equilibrium, encompassing not only animal products like meat and fish but also plant-based options such as beans and lentils.
Consistently engaging in physical activity, even if it’s low-intensity, is also advantageous. Kocsis suggests integrating stress-relief techniques like meditation and mindfulness into your routine, as they can greatly assist in hormone regulation.
If you have concerns, it’s essential to seek further guidance from your general practitioner.