Hormones are essential chemical messengers that regulate nearly every function in the human body. From metabolism to mood, these substances travel throughout the body, maintaining balance and overall health. When hormones become imbalanced, they can disrupt the body’s natural state, leading to various conditions and diseases.
Here are seven common hormones in the body and the signs that they may be out of balance.
- Insulin
Insulin, produced by the pancreas, helps regulate blood sugar levels. It allows cells to absorb glucose for energy and prevents excess sugar from circulating in the bloodstream.
Signs of imbalance:
- Increased hunger and thirst
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss or gain
- Slow wound healing
- Numbness or tingling in hands and feet (a sign of diabetes)
- Cortisol
Known as the “stress hormone,” cortisol is produced by the adrenal glands and helps the body respond to stress, regulate metabolism, and control inflammation. Chronic stress and inflammation can contribute to a variety of health issues.
Signs of imbalance:
- Chronic fatigue
- Difficulty sleeping
- Weight gain, particularly around the abdomen
- Anxiety or depression
- High blood pressure
- Weakened immune system
- Thyroid Hormones (T3 & T4)
Produced by the thyroid gland, T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine) regulate metabolism, energy levels, and body temperature.
Signs of imbalance:
- Unexplained weight gain or loss
- Sensitivity to cold or heat
- Hair thinning or loss
- Fatigue
- Brain fog
- Mood swings
- Estrogen
Estrogen is primarily known as a female hormone, but it also plays an essential role in men. It regulates reproductive health, bone density, and mood.
Signs of imbalance:
- Irregular periods
- Hot flashes or night sweats
- Mood swings or irritability
- Decreased libido
- Unexplained weight gain
- Fatigue
- Testosterone
Testosterone is primarily a male hormone but is also important for women. It supports muscle mass, bone density, and libido.
Signs of imbalance:
- Low energy levels
- Reduced muscle mass
- Weight gain
- Depression or mood swings
- Decreased libido
- Difficulty concentrating
- Progesterone
Progesterone plays a crucial role in menstruation, pregnancy, and overall hormonal balance, especially in women.
Signs of imbalance:
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Insomnia
- Anxiety or mood swings
- Bloating
- Breast tenderness
- Headaches
- Growth Hormone
Produced by the pituitary gland, growth hormone is responsible for growth, metabolism, and muscle function.
Signs of imbalance:
- Fatigue
- Increased belly fat
- Decreased muscle mass
- Anxiety or depression
- Poor wound healing
When to See an Endocrinologist
If you experience persistent symptoms of hormonal imbalance, it may be time to consult an endocrinologist. These specialists diagnose and treat disorders related to hormonal imbalances, such as diabetes, thyroid diseases, and adrenal disorders. By analyzing a combination of symptoms, endocrinologists can pinpoint the underlying issue and develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
One leading expert in the field of endocrinology, Dr. Brian Fertig, provides an in-depth exploration of the relationship between hormones and metabolism in his books Metabolism & Medicine and Quantum Body: The New Science of Living a Healthier, Longer, and Happier Life. His work highlights the critical role of hormonal balance in achieving optimal health and longevity—offering invaluable insights for nutritionists, wellness practitioners, and physicians.