A hormone imbalance can cause a range of symptoms from insulin resistance to hair loss to infertility, explains MayoClinic.com. While you cannot control the genetic factors, you can reduce your risk of developing a hormone issue through proper nutrition. The body depends upon your nutritional intake for a myriad of life processes related to hormone production.
Causes
A hormone imbalance can be caused by several different factors. A genetic defect may cause a gland to produce too much or too little of a hormone. In the case of juvenile diabetes or Type 1 diabetes, the pancreas does not produce insulin, causing the health issues associated with blood sugar. Hypothyroidism is caused insufficient production of hormones by thyroid gland. In both these conditions, dietary changes are necessary because of the effects of the hormone imbalance.
Nutritional Intake
Nutritional intake plays a major role in hormone production. Steroid hormones such as estrogen depend upon cholesterol for their synthesis. In this case, cholesterol serves an important health function. Nutrients such as iodine and vitamin D are essential for hormone production. Nutritional deficiencies can lead to the symptoms of a hormone imbalance, necessitating the need for a healthy diet.
Dietary Supplements
Some cases of hormonal imbalance are caused by natural fluctuations in hormone production such as pregnancy and menopause. Some dietary supplements may help alleviate some of these symptoms. A 2010 study published in the "Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology" found that cinnamon supplementation could help treat and prevent symptoms of hormonal imbalance from Type 2 diabetes.
Risk Factors
Several risk factors can increase your chances of developing a hormone imbalance. Sex and age often play a role in your risk. For example, MayoClinic.com says women older than 50 are more likely to develop hypothyroidism. High blood levels of triglycerides can increase your risk of diabetes. The American Heart Association recommends a diet low in saturated fats to help manage your triglyceride levels.
Prevention/Solution
Good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle can help prevent the development of a hormone imbalance. Maintaining a normal weight can prevent metabolic syndrome, a collection of symptoms which can increase your risk of developing coronary heart disease and other health problems, warns the American Heart Association. The foundation of good health depends upon making healthy choices regarding your diet. In this way, you can help prevent a hormone imbalance and its symptoms.
References
- American Diabetes Association: Diabetes Basics - Type 1
- MayoClinic.com: Hypothyroidism
- "Principles of Anatomy and Physiology"; G. Tortora et al; 2005
- St. Edward's University: Steroids - Introduction
- "Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology"; Cinnamon: Potential Role in the Prevention of Insulin Resistance, Metabolic Syndrome, and Type 2 Diabetes; B. Qin et al; May 2010
- MedlinePlus: Type 2 Diabetes - Risk Factors
