Hormones are chemicals that your body uses to regulate a number of physical processes. Your body has two different types of glands that release hormones: endocrine glands and exocrine glands. Hormones must stay in balance for y...
Testosterone plays a key role in protein use and protects against protein breakdown. Men and women produce testosterone, and its levels decline with age. In addition to its effects on libido and energy levels, testosterone is t...
Hormone imbalance leads to a variety of health conditions, including increased risk for certain cancers. Estrogen and progesterone are sex hormones present in both genders, although fluctuations in hormone levels are experience...
It is the second most consumed beverage in the world, following water, according to a 2002 article in the "Journal of the American College of Nutrition." Studies of caffeinated and decaffeinated teas and health have e...
The beet, or beta vulgaris L., is a purplish-red root vegetable. Early civilizations in coastal Europe and Africa originally grew the plant for its leafy tops; it was eventually cultivated into a root vegetable. Beet varieties ...
Beets, which belong to the same plant family as spinach, Swiss chard and quinoa, contain a variety of compounds that are gaining attention for their ability to positively impact human health. Beets contain a unique combination ...
Thyroid disease affects millions of people in the United States, according to MedLine Plus. If your thyroid produces too much or not enough hormone, it can lead to problems ranging from weight changes and temperature sensitivit...
Estrogen is a female sex hormone produced by a woman's ovaries from the time she reaches puberty until she enters menopause. Although essential for normal function of the reproductive organs and during pregnancy, estrogen also ...
Fibroids are benign tumors that might develop in a woman's uterus, sometimes causing no symptoms. But in some cases, uterine fibroids might cause discomfort or other complications. According to the Mayo Clinic, as many as 75 pe...
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration doesn’t regulate the use of food additives, but encourages consumers to report any adverse health issues that might be caused by them. Several food additives are in a group called xen...
Stimulating an underactive child is important because activity is the key to physical fitness, and physical fitness lays the groundwork for health through the life span. Stimulating a child to become more active often comes dow...
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, or CAH, is a genetic disorder that affects adrenal gland functioning. The disorder impairs adrenal glands’ ability to produce vital hormones called corticosteroids. CAH causes these glands ...
The human body is marvelously complex and its internal mechanics rely heavily on the interactions of hormones and minerals such as estrogen and zinc. Abnormally elevated levels of these tiny players can wreak physiological havo...
It may also play a role in the fight-or-flight response, according to the textbook "Biology: Life on Earth with Physiology." Healthy levels of testosterone are correlated with low blood pressure and good cardiovascula...
As a source of vitamins, minerals and lean proteins, it also represents a healthy substitute for red meat. If you need to be especially careful with your diet because of thyroid issues, cod’s combination of iodine, omega-...
Bodybuilders require high testosterone levels to build competition-ready bodies. Some bodybuilders resort to taking banned substances, such as steroids, to boost their testosterone and muscle building abilities beyond what thei...
Testosterone is a male sex hormone important to many physiological functions in both men and women. Men produce about 15 times the testosterone as do women. The hormone is responsible for reproductive function and the stimulati...
A hysterectomy may affect your body's hormone levels more or less dramatically, but you're certain to experience some health changes related to changes in hormone production, ranging from menopausal symptoms to mood swings to c...
Making lifestyle changes can help, as can medications prescribed by a doctor. Additionally, some people turn to alternative treatments, such as kombucha tea, touted as a way to treat a variety of health conditions, including di...
Caffeine makes your breathing easier by relaxing air passages, and helps some muscles contract more easily. In addition to its other effects, caffeine stimulates the production of cortisol, a hormone your body secretes in respo...
The thyroid gland is situated in the throat behind the larynx and is primarily responsible for metabolism and energy production. Your thyroid needs a variety of nutrients to function properly and is sensitive to nutritional def...
A goiter can become large enough to notice visually and sometimes needs emergency medical treatment because it can inhibit swallowing and talking. Goiters are usually associated with reduced thyroid function, but not always. Wa...
When your thyroid no longer produces a sufficient amount of thyroid hormones, you may be diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Cytomel is one of many options to treat hypothyroidism. It's commonly used in conjunction with other thyroi...
If you've considered buying over-the-counter bovine or herbal thyroid supplements, you might wonder how they differ from the synthetic thyroid hormones prescribed by physicians. Like synthetic thyroid therapy, bovine supplement...
Testosterone is a male reproductive hormone that is also produced in smaller amounts by women. Testosterone determines male sexual characteristics and plays a role in some of the female signs of puberty, such as hair growth in ...
Most conventional doctors don't believe that adrenal fatigue actually exists, according to MayoClinic.com. Many alternative practitioners, however, diagnose adrenal fatigue in people who have several non-specific symptoms, incl...
Untreated hypothyroidism can make it challenging to lose weight even if you follow a specific diet plan. The pages of the best-selling book “Body for Life” show people who transform from being out of shape and overw...
Adrenals are two glands that sit right above each kidney. The adrenals produce hormones responsible for regulating stress and glucose levels. Adrenal glands also secrete other hormones like aldosterone, which supports functions...
Dandelion as an herbal remedy has several traditional and alternative medical uses, including one for the thyroid gland. However, research is lacking on this herb's effectiveness for treating any health condition, according to ...
Adrenal insufficiency, also known as Addison's disease, is the syndrome in which your adrenal gland fails to produce the hormone cortisol. In some cases, the adrenal glands may also fail to supply aldosterone, another hormone. ...
Estrogen is a hormone often associated with women, but the truth is both men and women produce estrogens. All humans must have a certain level of this hormone to be healthy. Overproduction of estrogen in men can have effects on...
Cortisol is a hormone produced by your adrenal glands, which lie on top of your kidneys. It is regulated by adrenocorticotropic hormone from your pituitary gland. When the adrenal glands cannot work properly and cortisol levels...
The HCG diet, devised by Dr. Albert Simeon in the 1940s, uses the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin, or HCG, which is produced by the placenta during pregnancy, as a weight-loss adjunct. The latest version of the diet utiliz...
Your thyroid gland proves essential to your daily functioning, helping to regulate your energy levels, maintain a consistent body temperature and control your metabolism. Subacute thyroiditis -- an inflammatory condition that a...
Hyperthyroidism refers to a condition where your thyroid gland produces too much hormone. It results in an abnormally elevated metabolism. Symptoms include weight loss, rapid heartbeat, increased appetite and restlessness. Whil...
Losing weight can have a broad effect on your health and well-being. Your hormone levels fluctuate as your health changes and they are also affected by weight gains and losses. Your progesterone levels are of concern when tryin...
A number of conditions can necessitate vocal cord surgery. Examples of vocal cord surgery are the removal of masses and the repair of scarring that interferes with speech and breathing. If you’re about to undergo vocal co...
Milk contains the amino acid tyrosine, which is involved in regulating thyroid function. Consuming more dairy products throughout the day can help regulate your thyroid hormones and raise your waking temperature.
As an alternative to conventional medicine, people often choose the path of spiritual healing medicine. Spiritual healing medicine incorporates spirit minerals, which are stones and crystals that are believed to contain energy ...
If your knowledge of pheromones is limited to information delivered by late-night TV commercials that promise to harness the power of pheromones to allow you to effortlessly attract a dazzlingly attractive partner, you may auto...
As of October 2011, not a lot of clinical studies have been done to learn about the effects that huckleberries have on people. The fruit does contain a pigment that is an antioxidant and an anti-coagulant. Because huckleberries...
Butter has long been considered a health issue, with its saturated oils that impact the heart and cholesterol. Compared to other dairy products, butter is packed full of hormones. In a study published in "Food Chemistry&qu...
However, the full range of health effects from taking aloe are not yet known, and aloe might cause side effects. Aloe has yet not been linked to hormonal imbalances, but it might have an effect on some hormones produced in the ...
Xanax is a pharmaceutical drug that is prescribed to treat anxiety, depression and panic disorders. Natural progesterone also is sometimes used to combat anxiety, mood swings and depression, including symptoms of pre-menstrual ...
Hormone replacement therapy counteracts the typical symptoms of menopause, such as night sweats, hot flashes, vaginal dryness and sleep problems. Some who undergo hormone replacement therapy experience negative side effects, su...
If you are a runner, you are part of a unique group of individuals who takes physical activity to the next level. The National Sporting Good Association estimates that more than 32 million Americans participated in running or j...
Believe it or not, estrogen and vitamin D are both technically steroid hormones, produced by the cholesterol in your body. They work synergistically and both are important influencers on your bone health. Low estrogen is a know...
The thyroid gland, an endocrine gland, is crucial in the secretion of hormones that are responsible for regulating the body's metabolism rate. When excess or insufficient hormones are secreted by the gland or when trauma or aut...
Proponents of kombucha, a fermented drink, claim that it has a wide variety of health benefits, including boosting immune and liver function, preventing cancer and curing hypothyroidism. However, there are no human clinical stu...
The health of your thyroid gland is paramount -- and your diet is an important part of keeping your thyroid functioning as it should. Consider adhering to the Rice Diet, a specialized obesity reversal diet, to boost the health ...
Testosterone regulates the activity of a number of tissues, including skin and hair follicles, prostate and testes in men, and ovaries in women. Taking herbal testosterone supplements -- supplements that contain ingredients tha...
Unlike tofu, tempeh is fermented, which allows easier digestion of its protein and reduces the harmful affect of its phytic acid. Like all soy products, tempeh contains plant hormones known as phytoestrogens, specifically calle...
This is caused by the hormone adrenaline, also called epinephrine. The adrenal cortex is the outer portion of your adrenal gland responsible for making two steroid hormones. Cortisol and aldosterone affect your blood pressure a...
Hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid, occurs when the thyroid gland makes excessive amounts of the thyroid hormones. Increased iodine intake, Graves disease, thyroiditis or tumors in the gland can lead to hyperthyroidism. Fat...
You may have concerns as to whether consuming cattle treated with hormones affects your health. The safety of consuming such beef is still under debate and so far, science lacks enough data to reach a conclus
Low thyroid function is known as hypothyroidism, a condition in which your thyroid gland doesn't produce adequate amounts of thyroid hormone. Hypothyroidism may be barely noticeably in its earliest stages; however, one of the f...
Progesterone is a hormone that helps maintain the uterine lining in preparation for a pregnancy. Birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy and pills to regulate menstrual cycles often contain a synthetic form of progeste...
Caffeine may stimulate the production of some of these hormones in healthy adrenals but by itself does not cause or affect primary or secondary adrenal insufficiency. However, taking a break from the stimulating effective of ca...
Many cultures have consumed quinoa for centuries. Native to South America, quinoa is a grain containing more nutrients than other cereal grains. Although no particular food improves thyroid function specifically, thyroid proble...
Estrogen plays a vital role in a woman’s health throughout her lifetime. There comes a time, however, when estrogen may do more harm than good. Only menopause or surgical removal of the ovaries will completely prevent est...
Thyroid disorders can be a cause of hyponatremia, or low blood sodium, which is why you may associate thyroid medication with low blood sodium. However, thyroid medications do not typically cause hyponatremia; in fact, they may...
Its roots are harvested and used in herbal medicine when the plant is three to six years old. Ginseng has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for 5,000 years to treat and prevent a variety of health conditions, including ...
Cushing’s syndrome is a medical condition caused by pathologically high cortisol levels. Cortisol is a stress hormone that is critical to life, but it can cause severe health consequences if it is persistently high. Caffe...
Hormone imbalances occur in women whose estrogen and progesterone levels have become unstable. Although symptoms can range from mild to severe, hormone imbalances at any level can cause disruptions in your quality of life. Fort...
The thyroid gland is found on the front of the neck and is essential for secreting hormones that help the body to gain energy from food. An underactive thyroid most commonly occurs among women after age 40, but the condition ca...
Of course, birth control pills and hormone replacement medications are among the most common ways women supplement to get more estrogen in their bodies, but there's more diversity in estrogen replacement than you may think. Rin...
The glands in question require several amino acids, vitamins and minerals to produce the necessary regulatory hormones, one of which is zinc. Zinc is involved in the synthesis of several hormones related to cell metabolism. A d...
Your adrenal glands produce a variety of essential hormones. Adrenal insufficiency causes a measurable decrease in adrenal hormones within your body, while adrenal fatigue refers to symptoms that occur in the absence of obvious...
People often choose to eat a vegan diet for health or ethical reasons. Research has suggested that a following a vegan diet is healthier than a following a traditional diet, and that it may help reduce the risk of heart disease...
Like most tissues in your body, the cells in your uterus respond to hormonal stimulation, and fibroids grow larger when estrogen is present. Many foods contain estrogen-like compounds called phytoestrogens, and some of these su...
Hashimoto's disease is an autoimmune condition in which your immune system mistakenly attacks your thyroid gland. Symptoms include, an enlarged thyroid gland, fatigue, muscle weakness and weight gain. Other endocrine disorders,...
Cushing's disease is a challenging condition that may significantly impact an individual's quality of life. The disease is a result of a hormone imbalance that can have serious effects on both mental and physical states, incl...
Hormones are the chemical messengers of the human body. Hormones regulate your blood pressure, affect your sex drive, manage your metabolism, control your sleep and determine how you respond to pain. Hormones are regulated by t...
Plant foods supply the major dietary source of calcium in the U.S. and around the world, according to information from the Office of Dietary Supplements. Estrogen is a hormone produced by the human body, present in both men and...
While countries in the European Union have banned hormone use in beef because of the potential health risk, in the United States, the use of hormones in beef cattle is a standard practice. The Food and Drug Administration claim...
A goiter can result from inflammation, iodine deficiency, benign or malignant nodes, pregnancy or disease. Herbs may help shrink some goiters naturally. Consult your healthcare provider for a diagnosis before starting herbal tr...
Herbal teas made from adaptogen herbs may have a beneficial effect in restoring the balance of the adrenal glands and other hormone centers. Licorice, asian ginseng and ashwaganda are three adaptogen herbs that may be particula...
Estrogen is an important hormone in a woman's reproductive system. It is secreted by the growing follicle at the beginning of each menstrual cycle and plays a variety of roles. The maintenance of normal reproductive function is...
Dehydroepiandrosterone, or DHEA, is the most abundant steroid hormone in the human body. It is produced in the adrenal glands and fatty tissue in both men and women, and in the testes in men. Low DHEA levels have been implicate...
Creatine is a permissible supplement in most governed sports leagues and has been used by several notable athletes. One risk of performance-enhancing drugs is that many produce unwanted side effects, such as changes to your hor...
Certain foods have naturally occurring or added hormones or substances that act like female hormones in your body. These have the capacity to alter your body's hormonal balance, and can sometimes lead to adverse health effects.
Your thyroid gland plays a vital role in metabolism regulation, and consequently, your overall health. As part of the endocrine system, the thyroid releases hormones that travel throughout the body to stimulate the metabolism a...
Many superior exercises exist, and replacing the side squat with some or all of them will increase your strength with less risk of injury. Conventional exercises such as the squat and front squat work the same muscles through a...
Thyroid conditions are manageable with Western medications, but holistic approaches to healing like Ayurveda may also be an option for some individuals. Hypothyroidism can be a serious medical condition, so talk with your docto...
Crinone is a natural form of the female hormone progesterone, used for fertility, to support a healthy menstrual cycle and to ease menopausal symptoms. Crinone is a brand-name product available through prescription only and the...
In addition to environmental and emotional factors, such as stress, exercise and lifestyle, diet and nutrition also play a significant role in your body’s ability to regulate hormones. For best results, reduce your intake...
Maca root is a nutritionally rich plant native to certain mountainous areas of Peru. Traditionally used as food, maca has been linked to a variety of health benefits including improved stamina, enhanced fertility and increased ...
Decreased testosterone levels are sometimes signs of chronic illness, according to MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institutes of Health. Mineral supplements such as zinc increase testosterone levels, according to a study...
Selenium and iodine, along with iron and zinc, are trace elements essential for normal thyroid function. The thyroid gland is about 2 inches long, sits at the front of your neck and helps to regulate your metabolism. For men an...
The ketogenic diet is a low-carb diet that was originally developed as an epilepsy diet. Beginning in the 1970s, Dr. Robert Atkins has popularized a ketogenic weight-loss regimen based on principles similar to those of the orig...
The adrenals are triangle-shaped glands that sit on top of the kidneys. They are an integral part of the neuro-endocrine system, receiving messages from the brain to secrete hormones that exert effects the body. The adrenal g...
They are starting their periods earlier, too. Girls who mature faster in this way have a higher risk of some serious illnesses, including breast cancer and heart disease, say a group of British scientists in the journal "P...
Many women don’t need treatment for menopausal symptoms during perimenopause, when a woman’s body slowly shifts from hormone-supported ovulation cycles to permanent infertility. Exercise and good nutrition may be al...
Cortisol, a naturally-occurring corticosteroid hormone, is produced by your adrenal glands, which are situated atop the kidneys. It helps control your blood's sugar levels, as well as blood pressure and circulation. Cortisol al...
Millions of Americans have some form of thyroid disease, and millions more suffer from gluten intolerance that causes conditions such as celiac disease. Research is discovering that thyroid disease and celiac disease are linked...
Soybeans contain chemicals called isoflavones, some of which can mimic the effects of estrogen, the predominant female reproductive hormone. You may worry that consuming too much soy can flood your body with estrogen and stifle...
The supplement most often used to increase progesterone levels is wild yam. This plant contains a natural hormone-like substance that has been known to help alleviate some menopausal symptoms. As with any supplement, wild yam c...
The thyroid, a small, butterfly-shaped gland found in your neck, pumps out hormones that control metabolism. When your thyroid is out of whack, it may influence your weight and mood. Adjust your nutrient intake to include vitam...
Hormonal changes in the body sometimes contribute to changes in your weight and body fat percentage. Some minor change over time is normal, but changes relating to the thyroid can send weight levels fluctuating considerably. So...
Your body's endocrine system releases hormones that regulate many physical and mental processes. What you eat changes this system on a daily basis. Nutrients affect women differently than they affect men, according to a Februar...
To generate these sensations, caffeine has effects on your brain that trigger the release of two key hormones, epinephrine and norepinephrine. Understanding how these hormones affect your body help you understand why caffeine m...
However, the right amount of sodium is crucial to your health. Sodium is the primary mineral in your extra-cellular fluid, which is the fluid outside of your cells. Your adrenal glands, which are part of your endocrine system, ...
Licorice, a perennial native to Europe and Asia, has been used in Chinese herbal medicine for over 3,000 years. Licorice provides a variety of health effects and has been used to control respiratory infections and alleviate dig...
Historically, bladderwrack is used in herbal medicine to reduce fat absorption, to promote hormonal balance in women and to address thyroid disorders. Bladderwrack is also attributed with supporting adrenal function, although t...
The right combination of training, rest and nutrition allows you to add muscle mass and strength. By ensuring that the bulk of your diet is based on healthy carbohydrates, you have plenty of energy to both train and recover. By...
Testosterone is classified as a sex hormone, and while it plays a crucial role in the development of the male reproductive system, this hormone is also found in women. Although the primary responsibilities of testosterone are t...
Chicory is a common pasture and roadside weed that's native to Europe, Australia and North America and naturalized in the Middle East and South Africa. The bitter roots are roasted, ground and used as a caffeine-free coffee sub...
The pituitary gland is situated beside the hypothalamus area of the brain and attached by nerve fibers. From its seat at the bottom of the brain, it produces hormones vital to life processes. Acupuncture can aid healthy pituita...
Alli is an over-the-counter drug that can help you lose 3 to 5 lbs. more each year than you would by just dieting and exercising, according to MayoClinic.com. However, if you have thyroid disease or another medical condition, s...
The presence of hormones in our food supply has caused concern among health-conscious consumers, prompting research on the impact of artificial hormones on human health. In response to health concerns, many countries, including...
Following the adrenal diet might help you manage symptoms of adrenal insufficiency, an endocrine disorder that results when your adrenal glands do not produce enough of certain hormones. Adrenal insufficiency has numerous sympt...
Physical activity has a broad range of health benefits, including improved cardiovascular fitness and weight loss. The exact mechanisms underlying these effects remain unknown, but they could involve exercise-induced changes in...
Cortisol is a hot topic known in the media as the “stress hormone,” and it is touted as causing stress-induced weight gain and other harmful side effects. Although physical or emotional stress can increase cortisol ...
Hormones are the chemicals produced and discharged by the endocrine glands in the body. Hormonal imbalances are related to a number of different health issues, such as insomnia and the symptoms of menopause. Acupuncture is use...
During this phenomenon, commonly known as the “fight or flight” response, the adrenal glands increase their output of hormones. Acupuncture has been shown to affect the adrenal glands and may be an effective treatm...
The long-term effects of elevated estrogen, particularly as it regards the increased risk of breast cancer, is a growing concern among women and men. Foods are a healthy way to naturally lower or reduce estrogen and the re-abs...
The menstrual cycle in women is controlled by a variety of hormones, and changes in these hormone levels can lead to a cluster of symptoms known as premenstrual syndrome, or PMS. Low levels of progesterone may trigger PMS, but ...
Mass production of meat for the U.S. market often involves administration of hormones or growth promoters to beef and cattle. If you want to buy meat that has not been given hormones, it's best to go with meat labeled “no...
The condition, called exercise-induced amenorrhea, occurs when rigorous exercise changes hormone secretions that control menstruation and bone development. Reducing exercise can help if you have exercise-induced amenorrhea, alt...
Creatine is a compound made in your liver, but it's often taken in supplement form by athletes and bodybuilders. It works by boosting ATP, the main energy molecule, and attracting water into cells. This sends a signal to increa...
Horsetail is used to treat many conditions including osteoporosis, urinary tract infections, kidney stones, menstruation, fluid retention and burns, rheumatic disease and brittle nails. Regardless of why you're considering its ...
Small and triangular in shape, the twin adrenal glands sit atop your kidneys. Each gland has two main components -- the cortex and medulla. The adrenal cortex secretes hormones essential to normal human function, while the adre...
B-12 can be found in various dietary sources, and most people in the United States receive enough of the vitamin in their diet. Although no scientific research links hormone imbalances to vitamin B-12 deficiency, some alternati...
The most common disorders of the thyroid gland are hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland secretes too much thyroid hormone, and hypothyroidism results in insufficient amou...
Testosterone is the male sex hormone, but it is found in both sexes. Men produce it in the testes while females produce it in the ovaries. The higher levels of testosterone in men are responsible for their larger muscle mass, s...
It’s responsible for numerous functions, from sex drive to muscle strength. Maintaining your testosterone level is vital for overall health, especially since low testosterone is associated with a greater risk for anemia.
Your body produces cortisol in response to a perceived threat, promoting the burst of energy that allows you to run or fight. Although your distant ancestors may have benefited from this physiological response, a modern lifesty...
Your metabolism is controlled by your thyroid gland, and when this gland produces too much or too little thyroid hormone, it can cause side effects. Graves' disease is a form of hyperthyroidism, but with good nutrition, symptom...
Your two adrenal glands measure about 3 in. across and they sit in your lower back, on top of your kidneys. These glands secrete essential reproductive hormones and regulate body functions such as blood pressure levels. They a...
The pancreas is the unsung hero of your digestive system. Nestled safely behind your stomach and in front of your spine, your pancreas secretes more than 1.5 quarts of fluid into your small bowel each day. Digestive enzymes tha...
There are even steroid medications. While the term "steroid" colloquially refers to a drug taken to increase muscle mass, these so-called "anabolic steroids" are only one group of steroid molecules. Other types of steroids incl...
Kelp is edible seaweed. Do not take kelp to help your thyroid unless it is recommended by your physician. Doses of kelp can cause problems in a healthy thyroid gland and exacerbate problems in a dysfunctional thyroid gland. The...
Goiter, or enlargement of the thyroid gland, can result from your thyroid gland producing too much or too little thyroid hormone. Diet does not constitute an official treatment for this condition, but certain foods may affect t...
During a woman's childbearing years, progesterone plays a vital role in preparing her body for pregnancy, and subsequently, in sustaining a pregnancy. After childbirth, a woman's progesterone level plummets. In some women, prog...
The term "estrogen" refers to a group of chemically-similar hormones, including estrone, estradiol and estriol, produced in the male and female body. Estrogen plays a vital role in the growth and development of the fe...
Although coffee enjoys a long history as a favored beverage, the caffeine in coffee may cause certain side effects. Some previous claims of coffee causing health problems, such as cancer and heart disease, remain unsubstantiat...
The pituitary, thyroid and adrenal glands are examples of glands that produce hormones, or endocrine glands, MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institute of Health, says. Magnesium is a mineral that helps balance your hormo...
Although these two glands are close in location, their functions are unrelated. The thyroid is responsible for regulating metabolism, so too much thyroid hormone can be associated with weight loss, and too little with weight ga...
When you suffer from adrenal fatigue, it is difficult to manage your day efficiently without feeling overwhelmingly exhausted. This is because the adrenal glands are not functioning at their best and are not delivering the righ...
During adolescence, young people develop the ability to think abstractly and move toward greater independence from their parents. They also are prone to mood swings, depression, irritability and acne. Parents sometimes wonder h...
Hormonal balance is important for proper growth and development, helping you reach and maintain your ideal weight and keeping your moods on an even keel. Many plant foods and some animal foods contain compounds with hormone-lik...
Stress increases the amount of cortisol hormone your body produces. This increase occurs during both psychological stress and physical stress, including exercise. During exercise, your body uses cortisol to help metabolize fat ...
In autoimmune thyroid disease, your immune system produces antibodies that attack your thyroid tissue; these are known as autoantibodies. The mineral selenium helps promote healthy immune function, but a deficiency may affect a...
While most people associate testosterone with men, women also produce small amounts of this sex hormone. Women who suffer from premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, may have elevated levels of this hormone prior to the beginning of th...
For those who are obese, a quick fix might be a weight-loss aid. An athlete or bodybuilder, meanwhile, might turn to steroids to improve his performance or muscle definition. Although these products may provide temporary result...
Your thyroid gland is in your neck and produces hormones that control growth, body temperature, heart rate and metabolism. An overactive thyroid is a condition known as hyperthroidism, which means the gland produces too many ho...
The American Thyroid Association states that three of the most common causes of low thyroid are autoimmune conditions, radiation treatments and thyroid surgical removal. Before using diet to help reverse your thyro
Estrogen also can influence the psychological development of young women. Low levels of this hormone during puberty may lead to stunted growth, reproductive problems and psychological disorders such as anorexia.
Your thyroid gland, located at the base of your neck in front of your esophagus, is responsible for the regulation of metabolism and body temperature. If your thyroid gland is healthy, you generally don't have to watch your die...
These processes take place in the liver and kidney. Deficiencies in vitamin D are associated with various disorders such as rickets in children and osteoporosis in older adults. Additionally, much research has looked at vitamin...
Today, it is available in a variety of forms including capsules, tablets and liquid extracts and is useful for treating an array of diseases and conditions including ones associated with hormone imbalances. Of course, this natu...
Its proper function is essential to your overall health and well-being, so if you have thyroid problems, such as underactive thyroid, or other hormone-related health issues, you may wonder about the effect of exercise on your t...
But current scientific evidence does not indicate that vitamin B5 supplements can bring those hormones into balance if it is ever necessary. This nutrient is available from a variety of foods. If you suspect you have a vitamin ...
Melatonin, a sleep-inducing hormone, can reduce oxidative stress, a condition in which byproducts from the interaction of oxygen with molecules cause cell damage. Hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland is undera...
Produced with neither antibiotics nor artificial hormones, organic meat poses fewer health risks to consumers. Although antibiotics and growth hormones provide economic benefits to livestock producers, government officials in t...
The thyroid, a small gland located in the front of your neck, is responsible for producing thyroid hormones that affect your metabolism. It is possible to develop hypothyroidism, where you do not produce enough of this hormone,...
In recent years medicinal and edible mushrooms have become increasingly popular throughout the world, with research showing benefits in immune function, cognitive function and endocrine and hormone health. Mushrooms contain act...
Before surgical or pharmacological intervention is possible, however, emergency treatment of symptoms serious enough to be an imminent threat to your health is imperative. One such symptom of Cushing's disease is severe hypokal...
Although estrogen has no known functions in men, it is essential for women. Estrogen promotes the development of the female sexual organs and supports a healthy reproductive system. It is important to keep estrogen levels balan...
Coffee naturally contains caffeine -- a central nervous system stimulant that gives coffee the ability to kick-start your morning or afternoon. Consuming coffee causes physical changes in your body making it a topic of research...
Foods do not contain estrogen, however many plants possess chemically similar compounds called phytoestrogens. When eaten in the human diet, phytoestrogens can bind to estrogen receptors and weakly mimic the effects of estrogen...
Chasteberry is not likely to increase testosterone levels. It does contain progestins, which are steroidal hormones, but these compounds should not alter the level of testosterone in your body, based on available scientific evi...
Green tea is made from the Camellia sinesis plant and undergoes minimal processing, resulting in a substance with a high amount of potent antioxidants called polyphenols. Although green tea is associated with several benefits, ...
Kelp compose a variety of seaweeds eaten as part of Japanese, Alaskan and Hawaiian diets. Their nutrient content make them a good source of a number of vitamins and minerals. One of those nutrients, iodine, is present in such h...
Your thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate your metabolism. While a healthy thyroid gland functions properly regardless of what you eat, roughly 20 million Americans have a thyroid disorder that complicates dietary matt...
Hyperthyroidism is characterized by over-activity of your thyroid gland, or any condition that causes excess thyroid hormone in your body. This health problem is most commonly experienced by women and people between the ages of...
Cushing's disease, also referred to as Cushing's syndrome, occurs when the adrenal glands in your body produce too much of the steroid hormone cortisol. Doctors call cortisol the stress hormone because it regulates the changes ...
Estrogen is a natural hormone essential for female breast and sexual development. It governs your menstrual cycle, controls functioning of the ovaries and uterus and stimulates the normal growth and division of breast cells. We...
An underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, is a condition that occurs when your thyroid gland is underproductive and doesn't produce enough of certain hormones. This underproduction can affect your metabolism and lead to obesit...
Natural treatments such as exercise have become increasingly popular. Anaerobic and aerobic exercise can safely balance your hormones. Talk to your doctor before starting an exercise regimen.
Thyroid dysfunction is a common health problem among Americans, especially American women. The National Thyroid Institute states that millions of people in the United States have been diagnosed with thyroid conditions, includin...
Eating chocolate can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, according to a September 2010 article in the "Archives of Biochemistry and Biophysics." The mechanism underlying this effect remains unknown, but it could involve...
Although all macromolecules consist of oxygen, hydrogen and carbon, the amino acids that make up proteins contain between 15 and 25 percent nitrogen and some contain sulfur. Your body needs 20 different amino acids to build and...
Luteinizing hormone is a gonadotropin that stimulates the testes in men and the ovaries in women. Your anterior pituitary gland secretes this important hormone, which is vital to your reproductive health. LH is a large glycopro...
Hormones affect both women's and men's bodies in numerous ways beyond sexual function. Progesterone in particular is important for women, not just for reproduction. It is often noted as a natural antidepressant, and you may be ...
It regulates your body temperature, thyroid activity, hormone production, fertility and growth by releasing chemicals, also called hormones, into your bloodstream. It controls your physical response to the environment so your b...
Women naturally produce two sex hormones until menopause: estrogen and progesterone. Some menopausal and post-menopausal women take hormone replacement therapy, which contains estrogen and progesterone, to alleviate the symptom...
Caffeine can not cause hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is rarely caused by diet -- the only dietary factor that influences thyroid function is iodine. And since salt was iodized in the U.S. and most developed nations -- specific...
This small gland has a big role: regulating metabolism and maintaining your body's calcium balance. Zinc is a vital mineral, important in thyroid hormone production. Typically, those with hyperthyroidism have high levels of ser...
"Is Your Thyroid Making You Fat?" is a book by Dr. Sanford Siegal, D.O., M.D., that describes a series of steps you can take over a 28-day period to monitor your thyroid. Over the 28-day period, Siegal says, this diet generates...
It is commonly studied in the medical field because it naturally contains a substance that affects many biological pathways in the human body. In particular, natural licorice heavily impacts cortisol, commonly known as the st...
Located just beneath your Adam's apple, your thyroid traps iodine from your bloodstream and incorporates it into hormones that control cellular energy consumption, protein synthesis and metabolic function. When your thyroid bec...
Thyroid cancer or another thyroid disorder can necessitate a thyroidectomy, or removal of all or part of the thyroid gland. If you take thyroid replacement hormone, you must follow specific instructions as to the time you inges...
Cortisol, also called the stress hormone, increases during your body's "fight of flight" response, an automatic reaction to stressful situations. In most healthy people, the surge of cortisol stops, and the cortisol level lower...
It is about the size of a pea and is located between the optic nerves. The pituitary gland is sometimes called the "master gland" because it controls hormone functions. Since this gland plays such an important role in the body,...
The word "testosterone" is often associated with muscles and strength, but this hormone is important for promoting a range of effects other than improving body composition. Testosterone is also involved in your sex drive, bone ...
Grapefruit adversely reacts with many prescription drugs. It can elevate the level of medication in your blood, increasing your risk for serious side effects. However, Synthroid, a brand-name thyroid replacement medication, doe...
Some patients have hypothyroidism, in which the thyroid gland is underactive. Ask your doctor about the merits and drawbacks of kelp and other natural substances in treating this health problem.
Potassium is a vital dietary mineral found in a number of food sources, including bananas, potatoes with skin and dried prunes. It is also an electrolyte, responsible for conducting electricity in your body. Potassium is the ma...
Chakras are energy points that exist along the body's vertical axis, according to Hindu and Buddhist philosophical traditions. They are subtle doorways, or points of light, that connect the body's energy channels. When they are...
Your ancestors needed that boost of energy to chase after dinner or protect their family from marauders in the old days. Proper amounts of stress and cortisol trigger growth and increased capability in terms of cardiovascular h...
In the next 20 years, nearly 40 million people will transition into menopause, the life stage characterized by reduced female hormones and the cessation of menstruation. The menopausal symptoms that develop due to the reduction...
The pancreas gland secretes insulin, the main hormone needed to move glucose from your bloodstream into cells. These three hormones can become imbalanced from natural aging or due to health complications.
So a well-balanced diet is important to health maintenance. Selenium, a trace mineral, plays a role in maintaining a healthy metabolism. Selenium, along with iodine, helps your thyroid gland produce hormones and function optima...
There are several causes of a magnesium deficiency. The hormonal cause for the electrolyte imbalance, hyperaldosteronism, involves your adrenal glands. Low magnesium, or hypomagnesemia, becomes dangerous without intervention. T...
Progesterone is a female hormone that regulates ovulation and menstruation along with estrogen. Natural progesterone creams, also known as bio-identical hormones, are available as over-the-counter remedies for the relief of per...
Hormones serve as chemical messengers. They are transported through your bloodstream to your organs and tissues where they help exert a wide variety of biological functions. Hormones are necessary for reproduction, metabolism a...
A decrease in iodine in your body can worsen symptoms of hypothyroidism, a condition where your thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. The hormones produced by your thyroid gland are essential for regulating your metab...
If you're a woman and you have bad acne -- especially if you have acne combined with an irregular period -- you've probably wondered if your hormones have anything to do with your condition. Hormones can affect both. You may su...
and Canada eating significantly more beef each year than Europeans. Mass-production of beef cattle is a huge industry in the U.S., with animal-fattening facilities known as feed lots used to produce the most beef in the shortes...
