Blog

The Pituitary Gland: What is it and what does it do?

There are numerous hormones in the body and each serve a different purpose. These little messengers control various bodily functions which means that without them, your body will not function properly. This is why people who experience hormonal imbalance immediately undergo treatments such as androgen replacement therapy in Florida to help replace the hormones that your body cannot produce or are produced but in small amounts only.

Several hormones in the body are controlled by the pituitary gland, which is a small gland that’s part of the endocrine system. It’s located at the base of the brain, between the eyes, near the hypothalamus.

There are numerous hormones in the body and each serve a different purpose. These little messengers control various bodily functions which means that without them, your body will not function properly. This is why people who experience hormonal imbalance immediately undergo treatments such as androgen replacement therapy in Florida to help replace the hormones that your body cannot produce or are produced but in small amounts only.

Several hormones in the body are controlled by the pituitary gland, which is a small gland that’s part of the endocrine system. It’s located at the base of the brain, between the eyes, near the hypothalamus.

The pituitary gland is also considered the ‘master endocrine gland’. However, it’s still under the control of the hypothalamus. 

Parts of the pituitary gland

The human pituitary gland has two parts: the anterior pituitary and the posterior pituitary. Both of these parts release different hormones which affect the body differently.

The anterior pituitary releases these hormones:

  • Adrenocorticotropic hormone – This hormone is released when a person experiences something stressful. It also increases the release of cortisol.
  • Growth hormone – This encourages growth, as well as cell reproduction and growth.
  • Thyroid stimulating hormone – This hormone prompts the production of thyroxine in the thyroid gland.
  • Prolactin – This is the hormone that allows women to produce milk.
  • Luteinizing hormone – For women, this triggers the release of eggs from the ovaries or the process of ovulation; in males, it stimulates testosterone.
  • Follicle-stimulating hormone – This hormone controls growth and development. In addition, this is also responsible for reproductive processes and puberty.

Meanwhile, the posterior pituitary releases these hormones:

  • Oxytocin – Since the posterior pituitary is extension of the hypothalamus, oxytocin is released from the hypothalamus. This is essential for social bonding and sexual reproduction. It also plays a big role in a woman’s body during and after she bears a child. In childbirth, oxytocin is used as a medication to prompt contractions and start or increase the speed of labor.
  • Antidiuretic hormone – This hormone increases blood pressure, as well as regulate water, salt, and glucose in the blood. It is also responsible for the absorption of water in the kidneys.

In summary, the hormones released and controlled by the pituitary gland is what regulates many body processes. Without the pituitary gland, people will not be able to grow or even reproduce. 

Diseases of the Pituitary Gland

Like other parts of your body, the pituitary gland is susceptible to diseases. Here are some of the health complications that you might encounter:

  • Hyperpituitarism and hypopituitarism – The former refers to the increased secretion of hormones in the pituitary gland. On the other hand, the latter refers to the decreased production of hormones.
  • Pituitary tumors
  • Pituitary adenomas – Tumors that are not cancerous
  • Gigantism and arcomegaly – Conditions where the gland produces an excess of growth hormones in children and adults, respectively.
  • Hypothyroidism – This is a disease wherein the thyroid gland is not able to produce sufficient amounts of thyroid hormone.
  • Panhypopituitarism – A condition wherein there is a decrease in the production of one or more hormones that are usually produced in the pituitary gland.

Even though the pituitary gland is only a small part of the brain, it helps regulate many of the body’s processes. As a result, your body is healthy and working properly.

Share -

History of the HCG Diet

History of the HCG Diet Bioidentical HRT in Florida – and other parts of the US – is a treatment that is used to cure hormonal imbalance.

Bioidentical HRT in Florida – and other parts of the US – is a treatment that is used to cure hormonal imbalance. Numerous clinics use this to treat individuals who have low/high level of particular hormones in the body, as well as their negative effects.

Often, medical facilities that offer BHRT also offer other services like HCG. Human chorionic gonadotropin, or HCG, is a hormone that is used for weight loss products. As a matter of fact, it is essential in the HCG diet, which is a food regimen that can help people lose weight.

Brief information about the body

The body contains a particular amount of fat. Some of them are necessary while others are unhelpful. Here are the 3 types of fat that can be found in the body:

  1. Normal fat – The body needs these type of reserved fats to use as energy source.
  2. Structural fat – This is the type of fat that acts as a “packing material” and it can be found around the organs inside our body
  3. Abnormal fat – This one is not supposed to be in our bodies; in fact, it is known to cause obesity. Abnormal fat is usually found along the stomach, hips, thighs, buttocks, back, knee, underarms and even at the back of the neck

Once the formation of abnormal fat starts, it’s best to eliminate them as soon as possible. The normal ways to lessen abnormal fat is through continuous exercised and proper diet. However, there are people who cannot seem to lose unwanted fat. This is where the HCG diet comes in. 

Explanation of the HCG diet

The HCG diet began in the 1950’s, thanks to Dr. ATW Simeons who conducted rigorous studies that involves injecting small doses of a pregnancy hormone called HCG to obese patients. This resulted to a decrease in appetite and weight loss. He also noticed how the diet helped remove particular amounts of weight situated around the stomach, thighs, hips, and the buttocks.

Brief history of HCG diet

As previously mentioned, Dr. ATW Simeons was the pioneer of the HCG who discovered how it can be used to eradicate abnormal fat in the body. He is a British endocrinologist who has exerted around 10 years of study in order to come up with this diet.

The Human Chorionic Gonadotropin contains 244 amino acids and it is commonly produced in huge amounts in a pregnant female’s placenta. The hormone is extracted from her urine. Back then, its main purpose was to treat infertile women and help them ovulate. For the men, it was used as a precursor to develop their low testosterone levels. However, as time went by, it was discovered that it can also be used to help eliminate abnormal fat. The HCG affects the hypothalamus gland, an organ responsible for the production of abnormal and normal fat in the body.

Since then, the diet became popular around the world. By 1967, Dr. Simeons was able to publish “Pounds and Inches” wherein he shared a new way to counter obesity that will enable health care professionals to further understand his studies. After that, he was started the “Fat Clinics” which was a continued analysis of his study.

HCG has been an ongoing treatment that aid people who struggle with weight. Consult your doctor if you wish to undergo this treatment.

Share -

Erectile Dysfunction: Its Causes and Symptoms

Erectile Dysfunction: Its Causes and Symptoms There are men who develop a disease called hypogonadism wherein problems in the pituitary glands

There are men who develop a disease called hypogonadism wherein problems in the pituitary glands or testicles lead the body to produce inadequate amounts of testosterone. Fortunately, there are clinics that offer testosterone replacement therapy in Florida and other parts of the US. This type of treatment can help improve the condition of men who have hypogonadism.

Another issue that men encounter is erectile dysfunction. This is a condition where a man is incapable of keeping his erection firm. Learn all about it here.

Psychological impotence

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is also classified as a psychological impotence. This is because, instead of physical incapability, the condition is sometimes caused by thoughts. This happens during sexual activity wherein the man is unable to have an erection or keep his erection firm. The penile erection is the result of blood entering the sponge-like bodies in a man’s penis because of sexual arousal. When a man is aroused, signals are sent from the brain and onto the nerves located in the penis. 

Symptoms of ED

You should remember that erection problems every now and then are not that uncommon. However, if the issue persists, you should consult your doctor immediately. Erectile dysfunction can be sign that you have other undetected health problems. This is why you should visit your doctor if you experience the following symptoms:

  • Problems getting an and keeping erection firm
  • Lack of sexual desire
  • Other sexual problems

It is important to consult a doctor or a general practitioner who specializes in male genital problems (urologist) or in hormonal systems (endocrinologist) if such symptoms persist. 

Causes of ED

ED can be caused by a multitude of factors. Arousal involves numerous things like hormones, muscles, blood vessels, and emotions; if you experience problems in any of these things, it might lead to erectile dysfunction.

In addition, here are other causes of ED:

  • Potassium deficiency
  • Neurological problems such as trauma
  • Diabetes
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Side effects of drug usage
  • Hormonal insufficiencies
  • Alcoholism
  • Sleep disorders
  • Obesity
  • High cholesterol
  • High blood pressure
  • Metabolic syndrome
Share -

Hormonal Imbalances: The Cause and Effect of Chronic Insomnia

Most women who are having sleepless nights would probably just try drinking some over-the-counter sleeping pills to try and get some shut-eye.

Most women who are having sleepless nights would probably just try drinking some over-the-counter sleeping pills to try and get some shut-eye. However, when falling asleep becomes a regular challenge, it may already be a case of chronic insomnia. And when it comes to addressing this condition, consistently drinking sleeping pills is not advised. Not only does the effectiveness of sleeping pills drop when used regularly; it can also be a path leading to addiction.

So what are you to do when faced with chronic insomnia? The path to a solution begins with understanding the root cause of the problem. And while it may seem far-fetched, a hormonal imbalance can be related to it.

Knowing the Enemy

But how exactly does a hormonal imbalance trigger this condition, or gets triggered by it? Simply put, hormones regulate sleeping patterns. The hormone estrogen manages the release of energy, while progesterone encourages sleep. If the delicate balance between the two is disturbed, expect sleep to be disrupted.

This means that during your menstrual cycle or at the onset of your menopause, you may experience insomnia, as fewer amounts of those hormones are produced.

On the flip side, stress or anxiety can cause insomnia; the lack of sleep can affect the body’s production of hormones. With your hormone production affected, you can experience sleeplessness. This also starts a dangerous cycle wherein a hormonal imbalance causes insomnia, which then in turn affects hormone production.

Keeping Track and Treatment

That’s why keeping a sleep diary is important. In this diary, you should note the days and times you’re having problems falling asleep, as well as any emotions you’re feeling at that moment. This can help in identifying whether the insomnia is related to the menstrual cycle or is tied to some external factors.

Make sure to keep one even before seeing a specialist. That way, you already have data on hand to present on your first consultation. This data can help the specialist spot any patterns to your insomnia and prescribe the right treatment.

Now, when it comes to treatment of insomnia, there are many options available. These may be as basic as lifestyle changes, such as creating a sleep schedule or going on an exercise routine. However, if the condition persists, an adrenal test may be ordered and hormone replacement therapy may be prescribed.

And when talking of hormone replacement therapy, you have to make sure that you’re consulting the experts. That’s where we at Genemedics come in. With our team composed of certified medical professionals, you are sure to get the help you need. Contact us today and we’ll help you get your sleep back.

Share -

6 Natural Ways to Increase Your Human Growth Hormone Level

Numerous people visit human growth hormone (HGH) therapy clinics in Florida, California, and other parts of the US to undergo treatment that would help improve

Numerous people visit human growth hormone (HGH) therapy clinics in Florida, California, and other parts of the US to undergo treatment that would help improve or boost the number of growth hormone in their bodies.

Aside from going through treatment, some of these individuals also follow various practices to improve their HGH levels. Here are ways to naturally boost your body’s growth hormone production.

Lose Excess Body Fat

Several researches have been done on body fat and HGH, as well as the connection between the two. Studies show that the amount of fat in your body is directly linked to your HGH production. People with high levels of body fat in any part of their bodies (but most especially in their bellies) are more likely to have impairment in their HGH production. They are also more likely to contract various diseases.

This means that aside from undergoing medication, one should also get rid of their excess body fat to help optimize the HGH levels in their body and improve their overall health. 

Fast Intermittently

Intermittent fasting is the use of dietary approach where an individual creates and follows an eating pattern which cycles between periods of eating and fasting. This diet can be done in several different ways. One example would be having a daily 8-hour eating window, with a 16-hour window for fasting.

This approach can help optimize your HGH levels in two ways. Firstly, it can help you out in reducing body fat. Secondly, it will also keep your insulin level low throughout the day, which is necessary because insulin spikes can deter the natural growth hormone production in your body. 

Diminish Sugar Intake

Sugar and refined carbs can raise your insulin levels. Also, as mentioned above, insulin is bad for your growth hormone production. This is why it is important to reduce your intake of food and beverages with high amounts of sugar.

Aside from directly impacting the amount of insulin in your body, excess sugar intake is also an important factor that leads to obesity, and gaining weight can also affect your HGH levels.

It is essential to achieve a well-balanced and healthy diet. This means you can still have a sweet treat every once in a while or during special occasions but aside from that, watch your sugar intake. 

High Intensity Exercise

One of the key things you can do to effectively raise your HGH levels is through exercising at a high intensity. Amongst all forms of training, this has a higher chance of improving your HGH levels the most because it leads to an increase in lactic acid and also because of its metabolic nature.

High-intensity exercises can also help you optimize your hormone function and reduce body fat; this will benefit you in the long run because it will increase your HGH levels.  

Optimize Your Sleep

The majority of HGH is being released when you are asleep. Studies show that lack of sleep can reduce the number of HGH that your body produces overnight. They say that one of the best tactics to improve your long-term HGH production is by getting a satisfactory amount of deep sleep every night.

In order to sleep better at night, here are few tips for you: avoid blue light before bedtime, read a book in the evening, make sure that your bedroom is at a temperature you are comfortable with, and refrain from consuming caffeine late in the day.

Follow these tips; they will not only increase the HGH level in your body, they will also help you maintain a healthier lifestyle!

Share -

Hair Loss and Your Hormones: Addressing the Root of the Problem

A person’s scalp has about 100,000 hair strands, and each has its own life cycle. Losing 50 to 100 strands per day shouldn’t be a problem because

A person’s scalp has about 100,000 hair strands, and each has its own life cycle. Losing 50 to 100 strands per day shouldn’t be a problem because these will eventually grow back. But if you are starting to lose hair faster than you can grow it, then you are suffering from hair loss.
While hair loss is typically associated with aging men, this condition can affect both men and women and it can occur at any age. Hair thinning or loss has many causes, including stress, genetics, hair products, and medical treatments. However, the most prevalent cause of this condition is hormone imbalance.
Hormone Imbalance and Hair Loss
DHT or dihydrotestosterone plays a major role in the balding process. This hormone is synthesized from testosterone and is stored in a hair follicle’s oil gland. An excess in DHT can shrink the hair follicles and prevent the production of healthy hair. Now, hormones operate synergistically. In the same way that hair loss can be triggered by a rise in male hormone levels, it can also be initiated by decreasing female hormone levels. If the baldness is caused by an increase in DHT levels, it is called androgenic alopecia; if by a decrease in estrogen levels, it’s called estrogenic alopecia.

These are some of the signs that your hair problem is caused by hormone imbalance:
  • Brushing or washing causes hair to fall out in clumps
  • Small bald patches start to appear on the scalp
  • Hair thinning on front, sides, or top of head
  • Oily and itchy scalp
  • Reviving Your Crowning Glory

At Genemedics Health Institute, we understand how losing one’s hair can profoundly affect a person’s life. The condition can change one’s appearance and negatively impact a person’s self-confidence. Finding the root of the problem is crucial to addressing the symptoms of hair loss. Get tested today for hormone imbalance and treat the condition before it worsens. Our clinics in Michigan and Arizona offer hormone level testing and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. For more information about how we can help you address hair loss and other problems caused by hormone imbalance, please call 800-277-4041 or leave a message on our Contact Us page.

Share -

How Hormone Changes Affect Skin Health

In many states, including California, hormone replacement therapy is considered as treatment for diseases that affect the hormone production of the body.

In many states, including California, hormone replacement therapy is considered as treatment for diseases that affect the hormone production of the body.

A good level of hormone production contributes to a person’s good health and appearance. Meanwhile, negative changes in hormone production levels might cause several problems such as the development of acne. Teenagers are usually the ones who experience hormone related acne cases because of puberty, but it also happens to women going through menopause. Lately, this skin condition is becoming more common in men and women up to their fifties. 

Hormones and Acne

Hormones can influence our bodies to overreact and cause acne. Hormone-related causes of acne include excess production of sebum by the oil glands, the increase of acne-causing bacteria, inflammation of the skin, and the clogging of pores as well as hair follicles.

Hormonal acne also happens when a woman gets acne around the time of her period. Dirt and dead skin cells, together with the excess oil produced by the skin caused by hormones, can lead to breakouts. The hormone behind all of this is androgen. Androgen is the male hormone that is found in both men and women, and this is what makes the oil glands overreact. It also contributes to the development of excess hair and irregular periods. Androgen levels stay the same throughout a woman’s menstrual cycle, while estrogen and progesterone levels go down – this is what’s influencing the oil glands to produce more sebum.

Once the progesterone levels go back up, the skin becomes inflamed and the pores close. This traps the sebum inside and causes a buildup. Testosterone levels also go up during a woman’s period, also contributing to the excess sebum production and, later on, the development of acne. 

Treatment

In order to treat hormonal acne, one simply has to stick to a routine and take care of their skin better so that the breakouts won’t get worse.

You can also try lowering your testosterone levels in order to treat this skin condition. However this has some unfortunate side effects such as tender breasts and irregular periods, together with fatigue and headaches.

Meanwhile, one good way to avoid acne is by maintaining a good hygiene. Aside from keeping your skin clean, you should also avoid touching your face and you should wash hands regularly. Cleaning one’s mobile phone is also recommended since there can be bacteria on it which might be transferred to your skin once the device comes in contact with your cheek, chin, or jawline. In addition, quitting smoking is a big help, too.

However, if the acne is too severe, it would be best to see a dermatologist as they can prescribe medication to help treat your condition. Some treatments include Accutane, which is used to treat cystic acne, and antibiotics to treat deep pimples. These treatments should not be done alone and you must always consult a doctor before undergoing them. Dermatologists can also perform other treatments such as chemical peels or laser therapies, as well as injections with medication and surgery.

Changes in hormone levels might bring negative effects to your skin. Fortunately, there are various treatment options available to people experiencing hormone-related skin problems such as acne. If you are one of these people, consult your doctor in order to effectively treat your skin condition.

Share -

Adrenaline: The Fight and Flight Hormone

Have you ever been in a situation where you felt your heart pounding and the need to escape is strong? Don’t worry; that is your body’s natural response to danger

Have you ever been in a situation where you felt your heart pounding and the need to escape is strong? Don’t worry; that is your body’s natural response to danger or threat. If you have any questions about your body’s reaction, feel free to visit a hormone replacement therapy clinic in Florida or anywhere in the US.

In the meantime, you should learn more about the hormone that’s causing you the flight and fight response – adrenaline. It is produced by the adrenal glands, which are located on tops of your kidneys. Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is also used for medical purposes. Doctors use this hormone for treating cardiac arrest, anaphylaxis, and superficial bleeding. 

What is the function of adrenaline?

Adrenaline is the hormone responsible for the body’s response in situations where survival is crucial. This reaction causes the air passages to become larger, providing the muscles with more oxygen to either fight or flee. It also triggers the blood vessels to contract so that blood can be transported to major organs in the body, like the heart and lungs. A person’s pain tolerance also increases thanks to adrenaline, a reason why an individual or even an animal can still run or fight even after sustaining injuries. Adrenaline also causes a noticeable increase in strength, speed, and performance, as well as enhanced awareness especially during stressful times. 

What is the fight-or-flight response?

It is a physiological reaction that occurs in animals in response to a detected dangerous event, attack, or survival threat. This was first described by American physiologist Walter Bradford Cannon. In his theory, he stated that animals react to threats with a discharge coming from the sympathetic nervous system, preparing the animal for fleeing or fighting. 

What are the problems a person can experience from adrenaline?

Adrenaline is essential for the body to survive. However, there are times when the body will release this hormone when it is under stress and not when facing danger. This can cause the person to feel dizzy, lightheaded, and experience blurry vision. The production of adrenaline can also induce the release of glucose, which the body uses as energy. If there is no real threat and the extra energy is there, it will leave the person irritable and restless.

Overproduction of adrenaline in the body is rare but it can happen. If a person has tumors on his adrenal glands, for example, his body may produce too much adrenaline. This can lead to anxiety, weight loss, rapid heartbeat, palpitations, and hypertension. Too little adrenaline in the body is also rare; in this case the body’s ability to respond properly in dangerous situations would be limited.

The adrenaline hormone rarely causes problems to an individual. However, ongoing stress can cause complications associated with adrenaline. These problems must be addressed immediately in order to prevent further health problems from arising. Ask your doctor if you are not sure on how to deal with excessive adrenaline production and how to reduce stress as well as its symptoms.

Share -

How Hormones Affect Our Mood

As people grow older, their moods might start to fluctuate more often. The things that did not matter much to them in the past might start to bother them

As people grow older, their moods might start to fluctuate more often. The things that did not matter much to them in the past might start to bother them as their bodies mature. In some cases, this is a result of hormone imbalance – something that bioidentical hormone therapy in Florida or anywhere in the country can rectify. Although hormones are not always the reason why someone might be moody, there is still an undeniable connection between the two.

Recently, science has discovered the relationship between certain hormones, the brain, and how an individual is affected by it. Apparently, gonadal hormones – which are the estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone – are produced in response to the precursor hormones found in the pituitary gland. These gonadal hormones have an impact in the brain chemistry, allowing them to manipulate an individual’s emotions, mood, and even behavior.

Women’s Hormones

Women produce two gonadal hormones: the estrogen and the progesterone. The estrogen is known as the “protective” agent in the brain. Research indicated that estrogen has a direct impact on dopamine and serotonin, which are the brain chemicals associated with the development of depression and psychosis.

Before a woman’s menstrual cycle, she experiences a phenomenon called PMS, or premenstrual syndrome. Symptoms can range from intense mood swings, food cravings, and fatigue. In some cases, women might develop a severe case of depression per month; a condition that called premenstrual dysphoric disorder (or PMDD). PMDD is a serious depression that renders a woman incapable of functioning properly before her menstruation. Its symptoms are more severe compared to PMS. Fortunately, this can be treated through antidepressants which will help modulate the serotonin levels in the brain.

A woman’s gonadal hormones can impact the mood in many other life stages. During puberty, major hormonal change occurs. This results into the developing girl to experience various mood swings and other changes in mental health. When the woman transitions to menopause, she experiences major hormonal shifts once again. There is a possibility that she will experience perimenopausal depression – a condition wherein a woman experiences depression, irritability, poor concentration, low self-esteem, and poor sleep patterns.

Perimenopausal depression is often treated with antidepressant therapies or hormone therapies. However, it is important to remember that each woman is different; while some are very sensitive to even a tiny shift in gonadal hormones, there are others who are not. 

Men’s Hormones

Science also suggested that men, like women, also get affected by their gonadal hormones. In fact, low levels of testosterone can lead to an age-related condition called andropause.

Andropause, sometimes called “men’s menopause”, is caused by a decline in testosterone levels. As a result, they experience erectile problems, diminished libido, and a decrease in muscle strength as well as bone mass.

In some cases, testosterone replacement was used successfully to cure andropause. However, it needs to be administered under strict medical supervision since its possible side effects might cause complications. Some of them are increased rage, high cholesterol levels, and even prostrate problems.

More research is needed regarding the role of gonadal hormones and their impact on mental health. It is important to remember that mood swings are fairly normal. However, if you feel like the changes in your mood are preventing you from living a fulfilling life, then it might be time to seek professional advice. Consult your doctor regarding the possible treatments applicable to you and your situation.

Share -

6 Tips to Keep Your Skin Hydrated This Autumn

The skin undergoes a lot of changes as a person grows older. The natural passage of time, alongside excessive exposure to the sun and changing hormone levels

The skin undergoes a lot of changes as a person grows older. The natural passage of time, alongside excessive exposure to the sun and changing hormone levels, can lead to the thinning of the epidermis, a decrease in melanocyte cells, and reduced skin strength and elasticity. These, in turn, encourage the emergence of wrinkles and sun spots and cause the skin to become very thin and dry.
The cold, dry air during fall and winter may spell many uncomfortable moments for people who have drier and less elastic skin. This type of weather can make them more susceptible to dry skin problems, like itching, tightening, and getting more blackheads and pimples.

The best way to avoid these issues is by centering your skincare routine on proper hydration. Here’s how you do it:
  1. Treat your skin from sun damage. Address hyperpigmentation, fine wrinkles, dull skin, and other forms of sun damage by using deeply hydrating masks and serums.
  2. Stock up on hydrating cleansers. Harsh soaps can strip off natural moisturizers from your skin. Try using hydrating cleansers and creamy body washes instead.
  3. Bring out your oil-based body scrubs and cleansers. Non-clogging oil-based skin products are great for cleansing your skin and keeping it hydrated at the same time.
  4. Shift to a thicker moisturizer. Thin, watery moisturizers just won’t cut when it comes to keeping your skin hydrated during the cold seasons. Opt for thicker creams and ointments that help retain moisture by creating a protective layer around your skin.
  5. Pay special attention to your lips and hands. Invest on a good hand cream and make sure you always use it after washing your hands. A lip balm, on the other hand, will help keep your lips from drying out and chapping.
  6. Don’t forget to put on sunscreen. Your skin is more sensitive during the cold seasons, so you should remain vigilant when it comes to sun protection.

How Genemedics Can Help

Aside from the changing seasons, your skin problems can also be aggravated by menopause, andropause, and other conditions that are marked by changing hormone levels. Get in touch with Genemedics today to find out if your skin problems and other discomforts can be addressed by hormone replacement therapy. Call 800-277-4041 today or leave a message on our Contact Us page to schedule a consultation at our clinics in Michigan and Arizona.

Share -

7 Clear Signs That Your Diet Isn’t Working For You

Dieting has always been an accessible method of controlling one’s weight. But this doesn’t mean that it’s the easiest. There are a lot of factors that go into choosing a diet plan, such as your goals for your body, current lifestyle, and health conditions. Dieters should also be prepared to overcome situations that can cause them to cheat or quit.

Despite your dedication to your current meal plan, you should remember that some diets can do you more harm than good. So how can you know if your current food choices are not working for you? If you’re shifting from one diet to another, how can you tell if your body is simply going through an adjustment period or if your new menu isn’t compatible with your lifestyle? These are clear signs that your eating habits aren’t doing your body any favors.

Dieting has always been an accessible method of controlling one’s weight. But this doesn’t mean that it’s the easiest. There are a lot of factors that go into choosing a diet plan, such as your goals for your body, current lifestyle, and health conditions. Dieters should also be prepared to overcome situations that can cause them to cheat or quit.
Despite your dedication to your current meal plan, you should remember that some diets can do you more harm than good. So how can you know if your current food choices are not working for you? If you’re shifting from one diet to another, how can you tell if your body is simply going through an adjustment period or if your new menu isn’t compatible with your lifestyle? These are clear signs that your eating habits aren’t doing your body any favors.

  1. Excessive weight loss or gain – Gaining or losing too much weight after a diet change can mean that the food you are eating is filled with empty calories and/or lacks nutritional value.
  2. A perpetual state of fatigue – Lethargy can be caused by unstable sugar levels in the body, or a diet lacking in proteins, unsaturated fats, carbohydrates, and nutrients.
  3. A hunger that never goes away – This is typically caused by eating foods that lack protein, unsaturated fat, and fiber, all of which give you the feeling of being full.
  4. Inability to concentrate – This may mean that your diet lacks omega-3, the fatty acids that play a crucial role in optimizing brain function.
  5. Poor immune system – The immune system requires various micronutrients like copper, iron, selenium, and zinc, as well as vitamins and minerals, to function properly.
  6. Oral health issues – Dental caries indicate high sugar intake, while tooth loss and bleeding or swollen gums can be caused by low levels of vitamin C.
  7. Digestive problems – A diet lacking in soluble fiber can lead to slow nutrient absorption and bowel movement disruptions.
    Our Personalized Nutrition Plans

At Genemedics Health Institute, we offer personalized nutrition plans based on the client’s lifestyle, fitness goals, exercise schedule, baseline body composition, and — believe it or not — food preferences. Learn more about how we can help you adopt and maintain healthy eating habits that work. Get in touch with us by calling 800-277-4041 today and scheduling a consultation with our clinics in Michigan and Arizona.

Share -

Dealing with the Symptoms of Menopause

Going through andropause is difficult, especially with the heat in Florida. Testosterone replacement therapy might be a solution for those experiencing

Going through andropause is difficult, especially with the heat in Florida. Testosterone replacement therapy might be a solution for those experiencing the symptoms of andropause, but what about those going through menopause? Hormone replacement therapy can also help alleviate the discomfort caused by menopause. However, aside from hormone therapy, there are also other ways to deal with its symptoms. 

What is Menopause?

Menopause happens when a woman’s menstrual cycle stops, which renders her unable to bear children. It usually happens between the ages of 49 and 52 years of age. However, in some instances, it occurs before a woman’s middle years especially if the uterus is taken out surgically. A woman who has not had any bleeding for a year is considered to be going through menopause. During this time, there is a big drop in the hormones produced by the ovaries. 

Symptoms

Before the actual menopause, a woman may have irregular periods of varying flows and length. They can be longer, shorter, lighter, or heavier.

Hot flashes may also occur; the lengths range from a few seconds to ten minutes. In some cases, menopausal women experience what is called “slow hot flashes”, wherein the flashes are less intense and it takes place for at least half an hour. They usually experience this heat with sweating and shivering.

Some of the other symptoms might be vaginal dryness, difficulty sleeping, and mood swings. Vaginal dryness is caused by the changes in hormone production during menopause. 

Management

Since menopause is a naturally occurring stage in a woman’s life, it is not an illness, a disease, or a disorder. This means that it doesn’t actually need any kind of treatment, but if the symptoms become disruptive and become difficult to deal with, some therapy might be needed.

One of the things that can be considered is hormone replacement therapy. Through this procedure, hormones that are lost or that the body is unable to produce are replaced. In hormone therapy, estrogen is given or administered to women who have had their uterus removed. Meanwhile, both estrogen and progestin are administered to women who still have their uterus. This treatment can help reduce the hot flashes that menopausal women experience.

If a woman is experiencing vaginal dryness, she can use vaginal moisturizers. Meanwhile, if she encounters difficulties when having sex, she can use lubricants. It is important to remember that moisturizers can’t be used for sex and lubricants are not moisturizers, which means that it can only be used during sex.

Hot flashes can be managed by drinking cold drinks, staying in cool places, and not wearing extra clothing. A woman struggling with this should also avoid anything hot such as drinking warm drinks and eating spicy food. Wearing light and thin clothing can also help. If these flashes happen during the night, consider using lightweight sleepwear and removing thick blankets. Putting a pack of frozen peas under the pillow might also do the trick.

If a woman experiences bad mood swings or dips in emotion, counseling may help as menopause often brings feelings of confusion, anxiety, and depression.

Doing exercise can help if a menopausal woman is having trouble sleeping. Since exercising releases feel-good hormones, it can also help with the mood swings.

Menopause is a subjective experience, so these advices may or may not work for others. However, it is still important to take note of the tips stated above. Doing so might help you deal with the symptoms of menopause. In the end, it’s important to note that aging is not a sign of your decline; rather it is a celebration of your experience and collected wisdom.

Share -