Hello folks. This is a continuation of a previous discussion we started to have about how important hormone balance is to women, and how often our hormones fluctuate during turning points in our life such as purberty and change of life.
Another common cause of both depression and lethargy is a vitamin D deficiency. This deficiency is being seen more commonly in recent years. If a test is not ordered for this and you have complaints of chronic fatigue, you could request it of your doctor. A vitamin D deficiency can be corrected through supplementation and diet.
Thyroid disorders are common in women. Testing for thyroid function is very important for complaints of low energy and weight gain. The thyroid directly affects metabolism and energy. There is some debate recently over levels that are “normal” for our optimum functioning. A delicate balance is needed to feel our best. Too much thyroid medication can affect the heart’s health and cause it to beat too quickly. Too low of a level leaves us sluggish and fatigued with a low metabolism.
Cortisol levels often are not regularly checked unless certain symptoms are apparent on top of fatigue. Your cortisol levels indicate the quality of the functioning of your adrenal glands. A holistic doctor is more likely to do a saliva test for adrenal function more regularly before seeing signs of adrenal failure.
Progesterone levels decreasing as women age can cause PMS symptoms, headaches and menstrual irregularities or excessive bleeding. These levels can be checked and progesterone can be given. Progesterone supplementation, however, has been linked to a higher risk of breast cancer. So, the benefits and risks need to be carefully assessed.
People do not think of women needing a healthy level of testosterone but we do need a certain level of that hormone also. A drop in the normal level can lead to a low libido and low energy. Women should not ignore excessive fatigue or extreme metabolic changes or think it is an inevitable part of aging. It is well worth a visit to the doctor to rule out medical causes so you can be more vital and engaged in life as you age.
