Hormones can be sensitive at the best of times, but there is nothing like motherhood to create a hormone storm like no other. Here are ten of the most common signs that your hormones may be out of sync:
Low energy
Adrenal and thyroid hormones are largely responsible for our energy. Excessive stress hormones from the adrenals can exhaust the system and create energy dips throughout the day. A thyroid imbalance can leave us feeling wiped out no matter how much sleep we get.
Weight gain
Insulin resistance can lead to weight gain, and, if left unchecked, Type 2 diabetes. A diet rich in plants and healthy protein instead of processed carbohydrates will help enormously.
Persistent belly fat
The ‘spare tyre’ around the middle is one of the most common signs of excessive stress hormones, as a body under stress will lay down body fat for future energy stores.
Period problems
Excessively heavy, very light, painful or clotted periods can indicate an imbalance between oestrogen and progesterone, or thyroid issues.
Irritability, anxiety and mood issues
Mood issues can be linked to hormones, especially when they coincide with certain stages of the menstrual cycle.
Skin problems
Monthly break-outs around the chin area can signify an imbalance in oestrogen and progesterone.
Insomnia
Excessive stress hormones, unsurprisingly, can interfere with sleep as they affect the entire hormonal system, including the sleep hormone melatonin.
Cravings
Adrenal fatigue, insulin resistance and stress hormones can trigger food cravings. Try to observe a pattern when it comes to cravings to gain clues as to what your body is trying to tell you.
Fertility issues
It will be of no surprise to those struggling to conceive that a hormone imbalance can create fertility issues, affecting every stage of the menstrual cycle. Thyroid issues can also have a significant impact on your chances of getting pregnant.
Low libido
A range of hormones affect the libido, including oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone. Insomnia has a significant affect on sex hormone production, as do chronic high levels of stress.
Please note that many of these symptoms can be linked to other physical problems, and a simple blood test can help get to the root of your issues.
Next time, we’ll look at how you can help balance your hormones naturally.
Fiona O'Farrell is a Licensed Acupuncturist and Naturopath. She runs The Gate Clinic in Greystones, Co. Wicklow, Ireland. See www.thegateclinic.ie for more information.
