Why bioidentical hormones are better than synthetic hormones
Hormones are a critical component in your body. They control the internal communication between essential bodily functions, such as immune function, mood, digestion, appetite, and libido.
When your hormones become out of balance, even slightly, the result can have a significant impact on your overall health and well-being.
Often, when people’s hormones drop or become imbalanced, they turn to hormone replacement therapies.
Hormone therapy comes in different forms using either bioidentical hormones or synthetic hormones.
This article will explore both and explain why bioidentical hormones are better than synthetic hormones.
Bioidentical hormones vs. synthetic hormones
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) uses humanmade hormones produced from plant estrogens to mimic the exact hormones the human body produces.
The most commonly replicated hormones are estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.
When you replicate the precise chemical mixture, the body produces, replacing the missing hormones comes with fewer side effects.
Since compounded bioidentical hormones are identical to what the body produces, they may be safer and more natural than synthetic hormones.
Traditional HRT using synthetic hormones from the urine of pregnant horses and other synthetic hormones during treatment.
The FDA has approved some bioidentical hormones that have been tested for safety.
Benefits of BHRT
BHRT is commonly used to treat perimenopausal and menopausal women.
Men also may need hormone balancing as they ago, too.
It's used to boost the levels of hormones that have become depleted and to alleviate moderate to severe menopause symptoms, including:
- Mood changes
- Night sweats
- Weight gain
- Sleep problems
- Low libido
- Memory loss
- Dry, flaky skin
- Vaginal atrophy or dryness
- Painful sex
- Reduces headaches
Hormone replacement therapy may also reduce the risk of tooth loss, cataracts, and diabetes. Other evidence suggests it can provide skin hydration, thickness, elasticity, and even minimize fine lines and wrinkles.
Research has shown that for those undergoing cancer treatments that affect estrogen levels, hormone therapy may improve their overall well-being and quality of life.
In one study, people with cancer, who chose BHRT, found some relief from treatment-related symptoms such as insomnia, low libido, incontinence, and migraines.
The same study also found that there was no higher than average occurrence of breast cancer for those undergoing BHRT.
How to take BHRT
When you decide to take bioidentical hormones, you have different choices. BHRT comes in the following forms:
- Creams
- Gels
- Injections
- Patches
- Implanted pellets
Before beginning treatment, it's essential to talk to your doctor and determine which type is right for you and your lifestyle. You'll likely need to have ongoing monitoring once you begin BHRT.
Take Away
Bioidentical hormones and synthetic hormones are both used to rebalance depleted or low levels of hormones in men and women.
However, customized bioidentical hormones are natural and mimic the exact compounds in your body.
Synthetic hormones contain unnatural chemical ingredients not found in the human body.
While hormone replacement comes with pros and cons, regardless of the mixture, it’s always better to choose a more natural choice like bioidentical hormones. Especially if you need HRT.
