Hormone Descriptions

DHEA

Clinical studies have demonstrated that DHEA has a beneficial effect on immune response, sex drive, metabolism and emotional stability. Its effect on the immune system via distribution of stress hormones and its use as a powerful antioxidant demonstrate potent age-resisting capabilities. Other health-related benefits, including support of cognitive function, help the body cope with stress and protect against heart disease through its effects on lipids and body fat.

Pregnenolone

Failure of memory and lack of mental clarity can be among the most frustrating aspects of aging. Studies indicate that pregnenolone might be beneficial against age-related cognitive decline. Nicknamed the "mother hormone," pregnenolone is a precursor and necessary building block to DHEA, which in turn can convert to testosterone, estrogen and progesterone.

Thyroid

This metabolic hormone secreted by the thyroid gland regulates temperature, metabolism and cerebral function, which generate energy and warmth. Insufficient thyroid levels result in fatigue, increased cholesterol levels and increased risk of coronary artery disease. With age, thyroid hormone levels gradually decline resulting in a decreased metabolism, which effects all cells and organs. Low thyroid causes low energy, loss of motivation and thinning hair, skin and nails.

Estrogen and Progesterone

As the first commonly replaced hormone, estrogen has experienced a bumpy ride over the last four decades. Conclusions of studies, like the Women's Health Initiative, have left women scared and vulnerable after menopause. The WHI study only focused on the synthetic non-biologically identical hormones which can have negative effects on the female body. Bio identical estrogen mimics exactly what the body makes. It is essential for muscle tone, skin smoothness, hair texture and sex drive. It may also help deter osteoporosis, Alzheimer's and heart disease. Bio identical progesterone (exactly the molecule your body produces) should always be viewed as the life-long partner of estrogen. They balance each other out and work synergistically to promote optimal female health. Progesterone helps stimulate bone growth, healthy heart function and boosts mood and well-being.

Testosterone

Although testosterone is the primary male hormone, women also benefit from its supplementation. Levels of testosterone decline with age in men and women. At optimal levels, testosterone increases bone density and bone formation, enhances energy and sex drive, decreases body fat, increases muscle strength, lowers blood pressure and modulates cholesterol levels. Testosterone is an essential hormone that neither men nor women should be without as they age.

Melatonin

Melatonin regulates the circadian rhythm as well as the deep stage of sleep. Studies suggest that the immune system is stimulated during these periods of deep rest. In the January, 1997 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine, melatonin was praised as a powerful antioxidant and a potential anti-cancer agent. In light of hundreds of studies showing that melatonin can scavenge free radicals, induce youthful sleep patterns and possibly slow the aging process, it's a perfect candidate for the anti-aging roster.

Human Growth Hormone

Growth hormone is the most abundant hormone produced by the pituitary gland. However, after the age of thirty, HGH declines at a rate of 14% per decade. Studies have shown that supplementation of HGH increases positive changes in body composition, increases bone mass, improves cardiac function and exercise ability, enhances skin texture and improves wound healing. This hormone has the potential to support the body's healing from the deterioration associated with the aging process.