What Is Hormonal Imbalance? How It Impacts Your Body?

We have heard the phraseology, ‘hormonal imbalance’ flung around in several conversations—all centered around women’s health and well-being. But these indeterminate conversations in no way help us discern the cause, avail the requisite treatment or squash the many myths around this increasingly prevalent concern. That’s right. According to staggering reports, over 80% of females suffer from hormonal imbalances-ranging from Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) to thyroid abnormalities. And over 70% of women live with these hormone related-afflictions, totally incognizant of its root cause!

To help clear the air of misinformation while solidifying our knowledge base, Beauty Book reached out to Dr Theertha Shetty. The leading Obstetrician & Gynaecologist answers some of the burning questions on hormonal imbalances. Scroll further for the enlightening Q&A with Dr Shetty.

Word to the wise, if you suspect any hormone-related dysfunction in your body (taking a toll on your physical, mental or emotional)—we recommend reaching out to your health professional at the earliest.

Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Dr Theertha Shetty

Beauty Book: What Does Hormonal Imbalance Mean?

Dr Theertha Shetty: Your body produces hormones for its maintenance and upkeep. There are 50 odd hormones in your body, indispensable to an array of biological processes. These chemical messengers, secreted by the endocrine glands, take care of everything — from your menstrual cycles to body temperature regulation, to metabolism, to your mood. In medical terms, it’s called homeostasis. Whenever the production increases or decreases, tipping the balance of these hormones- it’s termed hormonal imbalance.

Beauty Book: What Are Some Examples Of Common Hormonal Imbalances?

Dr Theertha Shetty: The common types of hormonal imbalances that women grapple with are as follows:

• Hypo/hyperthyroidism (involving the thyroid gland)
• Hyperprolactinemia( wherein the prolactin hormone balance is disturbed)
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome (involving a number of systems and glands right from the hypothalamus and pituitary in the brain to the ovaries to the adrenal glands)

Beauty Book: What Are Some Symptoms Of A Hormonal Imbalance?

It should be noted that the symptoms vary, based on the type of hormone-related dysfunction. If your body is under distress and you suspect hormonal imbalance as the cause, please reach out to your family doctor. On that note, some of the most common symptoms of a hormonal imbalance can be stated as follows.

1. Irregular cycles
2. Acne
3. Heat/Cold intolerance
4. Hair loss
5. Hirsutism i.e. hair growth on the chin, sideburns
6. Anxiety
7. Weight gain/weight loss

Beauty Book: What Are Some Causes Of A Hormonal Imbalance?

Dr Theertha Shetty: The exact cause is not specifically ascertained, however citing some probable causes, below

1. Sudden weight gain/loss(eg: 3-4 kg weight gain/loss, in 15-30 days)
2. Stress
3. Heredity
4. Environmental pollutants
5. Sedentary lifestyle
6. Lack of physical activity

Beauty Book: What Are Some Foods and Supplements To Help Alleviate Hormonal Imbalance?

Dr Theertha Sheety: It’s true when they say, ”For your health, eat like your grandmother did.”
Load up on a variety of fruits, vegetables — your plate should look like a rainbow, complete with greens and seasonal fruits. Consumption of good fats in the form of ghee, nuts and olive oil is essential. Protein in the diet is non-negotiable! It helps the body to recuperate from wear and tear which is why you ought to include it in every meal, or as many meals, as possible. Limit your intake of alcohol, caffeine and junk food.

Omega 3 fatty acids either in the form of supplements or through food (oily fish, walnuts, chia seeds) works wonders for your heart and brain health.