Hormone Therapy for Women in San Clemente, CA
Our approach to systemic hormone therapy focuses on addressing the root causes of hormonal imbalances by optimizing diet, lifestyle, and supplementation. This holistic approach is personalized and considers the relationship between diet, stress, gut health, detoxification pathways, and hormonal systems.
There are many types of hormone therapy that help women treat menopausal symptoms, but a holistic approach to dealing with typical menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, depression, mood swings, insomnia, irritability, offers a more wide-ranging consideration of therapy for postmenopausal women.
The nutritional method for estrogen therapy is one way to address the symptoms of menopause and estrogen deficiency that can affect women's health. The use of bioidentical hormones, which are artificial hormones that are chemically and structurally equivalent to female hormones produced in the body, is another method of menopausal hormone therapy for women who are experiencing the effects of hormone imbalance. But the nutritional approach can be one of the most highly effective treatment options for balancing hormone levels.
The holistic approach to hormone therapy is also ideal for women over the age of 40 or 50 who are not ideal candidates for other hormone replacement therapy treatments, including women with an increased breast cancer risk or have been diagnosed or treated for breast cancer, uterine cancer, or ovarian cancer, as well as women at risk or treated for blood clots, or a history of stroke, heart disease, or cardiovascular disease.
Our Functional Nutrition Approach to Hormone Balance
We also provide information on bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) which requires a doctor’s prescription and monitoring.
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BLOOD SUGAR BALANCE
Consuming a balanced diet with a focus on stabilizing blood sugar levels is crucial. This includes eating regular meals that combine protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. High-glycemic foods, refined sugars, and simple carbohydrates are minimized to prevent insulin spikes, which can disrupt hormone balance.
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HEALTHY FATS
Essential fatty acids (omega-3s, omega-6s) are important for hormone production. Foods like fish, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts support hormone synthesis and reduce inflammation.
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PHYTONUTRIENTS
Incorporating foods rich in phytoestrogens (like flaxseeds, soy, and legumes) can help modulate estrogen levels. Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, kale, cauliflower) contain compounds that support estrogen metabolism. These can also help to prevent and treat osteoporosis.
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GUT HEALTH
The gut plays a vital role in hormone regulation. Dysbiosis (imbalance of gut bacteria) can lead to issues like estrogen dominance. A diet rich in fiber, fermented foods, and probiotics helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome, which is essential for hormone balance.
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DETOXIFICATION SUPPORT
Hormones, particularly estrogen, are detoxified in the liver. Supporting liver function through a diet rich in antioxidants, sulfur-containing vegetables (like garlic, onions, and cruciferous vegetables), and adequate hydration helps ensure efficient hormone detoxification. Avoiding environmental toxins, alcohol, and processed foods also reduces the burden on the liver.
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STRESS MANAGEMENT
Chronic stress leads to elevated cortisol levels, which can disrupt the balance of other hormones like progesterone and estrogen. Integrating stress-reducing practices such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and adequate sleep is crucial.
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PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Regular, moderate exercise supports hormone balance by reducing stress, improving insulin sensitivity, and supporting weight management. However, over-exercising can lead to hormone imbalances, particularly in women, so the intensity and frequency should be personalized.
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MONITORING AND ADJUSTMENTS
Hormone levels should be regularly monitored through blood tests, and dietary and lifestyle interventions should be adjusted based on the individual's response. This ongoing assessment ensures that the approach remains effective as the body adapts.
TARGETED SUPPLEMENTATION
Adaptogens: Herbs like ashwagandha, Rhodiola, and maca can help balance cortisol levels and support adrenal health with fewer health risks.
Micronutrients: Nutrients like magnesium, vitamin D, B vitamins, and zinc are vital for hormone production and balance. Supplementation may be necessary if dietary intake is insufficient.
Herbal Support: Certain herbs like Vitex, or Chaste Tree Berry are known to support hormone balance, particularly to treat symptoms for conditions like PMS and menstrual irregularities.
