Dietary supplements and hormonal background: possible violations and consequences

Chapter 1: Hormonal background – the basis of health and well -being

The hormonal background, the orchestra of the endocrine system, conducts many vital processes in the body. Hormones, chemical messengers produced by endocrine glands move through the bloodstream and affect target cells, regulating metabolism, growth, development, reproductive function, mood and much more. The imbalance of hormones, even insignificant, can lead to a cascade of negative health consequences.

1. 1 Endocrine system: Key players

• Hypotalamus and pituitary: The conductors of the orchestra. The hypothalamus, located in the brain, controls the pituitary gland, also located in the brain. The pituitary gland, in turn, regulates the work of most other endocrine glands.
• Thyroid gland: Produces hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) that control metabolism.
• Adrenal glands: Produce cortisol (stress hormone), aldosterone (regulates blood pressure) and androgens (male sex hormones).
• Pancreas: It is produced by insulin and glucagon that regulate the level of glucose in the blood.
• Ovaries (for women): Estrogens and progesterone are produced that regulate the menstrual cycle, reproductive function and the development of female sexual characteristics.
• Testicles (for men): Produce testosterone that regulates the development of male sexual characteristics, reproductive function and muscle mass.
• Epifosis (pineal gland): It is produced by melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep.

1. 2 Hormone functions: from metabolism to mood

Hormones play a key role in maintaining homeostasis – the stability of the internal environment of the body. They regulate:

• Metabolism: The thyroid gland controls the rate of metabolism, determining how quickly the body burns calories. Insulin regulates the level of glucose in the blood, providing cell energy.
• Growth and development: The growth hormone produced by the pituitary gland stimulates the growth of bones and muscles. Sex hormones (estrogen and testosterone) are responsible for the development of sexual characteristics during puberty.
• Reproductive function: Estrogen and progesterone regulate the menstrual cycle in women and support pregnancy. Testosterone is responsible for spermatogenesis in men.
• Mood and cognitive functions: Serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine, often called “hormones of happiness”, affect the mood, motivation and cognitive functions. Cortisol, a stress hormone, can affect mood and cognitive functions at a chronically increased level.
• Dream: Melatonin regulates the cycle of sleep and wakefulness.
• Immune function: Some hormones, such as cortisol, can affect the immune function.
• Arterial pressure and water-salt balance: Aldosterone, produced by the adrenal glands, regulates the level of sodium and potassium in the blood, affecting blood pressure and water-salt balance.

1. 3 Causes of hormonal imbalance

Hormonal imbalance can be caused by various factors, including:

• Genetic predisposition: Some people are genetically predisposed to certain hormonal disorders.
• Age: With age, the production of some hormones is reduced, which can lead to hormonal imbalance. For example, in women, the production of estrogen is reduced during menopause, and in men – testosterone with age.
• Chronic stress: Chronic stress can lead to an increased level of cortisol, which can negatively affect other hormones.
• Inal meals: The lack of nutrients necessary for the production of hormones can lead to hormonal imbalance.
• Obesity: Estrogen can produce adhesive tissue, which can lead to hormonal imbalance in women and men.
• Endocrine system diseases: Thyroid diseases (hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism), diabetes mellitus, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCA) and other diseases of the endocrine system can cause hormonal imbalance.
• Taking drugs: Some drugs, such as hormonal contraceptives and steroids, can affect hormonal background.
• The effect of toxic substances: The effect of some toxic substances, such as pesticides and industrial chemicals, can disrupt the endocrine system.

1. 4 Symptoms of hormonal imbalance

Symptoms of hormonal imbalance can be diverse and depend on which hormones are in the imbalance. General symptoms include:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Weight changes (set or weight loss)
• Sleep disorders (insomnia, drowsiness)
• Mood changes (depression, anxiety, irritability)
• Menstrual violations (irregular monthly, lack of menstruation, abundant menstruation)
• Skin problems (acne, dry skin, hair loss)
• Libido decrease
• Digestive problems (constipation, diarrhea)
• Headaches
• Muscle weakness
• Infertility

Chapter 2: Dietary supplements and their influence on the hormonal background

Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) are concentrates of natural or identical to natural biologically active substances, designed for direct intake or introduction into food products in order to enrich the ration with individual food or biologically active substances and their complexes. Bades are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. However, some dietary supplements can influence the hormonal background, both positive and negative.

2. 1 Popular dietary supplements affecting hormones

There are many dietary supplements that are positioned as means affecting hormonal background. It is important to remember that the effectiveness and safety of many of these dietary supplements have not been sufficiently studied.

• Phytoestrogens: Soy isoflavon, red clover, cimicifuga (cystic bugpogon). Phytoestrogens are plant compounds that can simulate the effect of estrogen in the body. They are often used to alleviate the symptoms of menopause, such as tides and night sweating. However, phytoestrogens can also have a negative effect on hormonal background, especially with prolonged use or high doses. They can violate the menstrual cycle, cause the development of estrogen-dependent tumors and have other undesirable effects.
• TRIBULUS TERRERSTRS (Jacobi Still): It is assumed that the tribulus increases the level of testosterone in men. However, scientific data on the effectiveness of the tribulus are contradictory. Some studies show that tribulus can improve libido and sexual function, but does not have a significant effect on testosterone levels. Other studies have not revealed any effect of the tribulus.
• D-asparaginic acid (DAA): Amino acid that can stimulate testosterone production. Some studies show that DAA can increase testosterone levels and improve fertility in men. However, other studies have not revealed any DAA effect.
• Melatonin: A hormone that regulates a dream. Melatonin is often used to treat insomnia and other sleep disorders. Melatonin can influence other hormones, such as growth hormone and sex hormones.
• DHEA (dehidroepandrosterone): The predecessor of sex hormones (testosterone and estrogen). DHEA is often used to improve sports results, slowing down aging and treating various diseases. However, Dhea can cause side effects, such as acne, hirsutism (excess hair growth in women) and aggressiveness. Reception of DHEA without consulting a doctor can be dangerous.
• Vitamin D: It is important for the health of bones, the immune system and other body functions. Vitamin D can also affect the hormonal background, in particular, the production of sex hormones. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to hormonal imbalance.
• Zinc: The mineral necessary for many body functions, including testosterone production. Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels.
• Magnesium: A mineral involved in many processes in the body, including hormones regulation. Magnesium deficiency can affect the level of cortisol and other hormones.
• Adaptogens: Radio Pink (gold root), Ashvaganda, Eleutherococcus (Siberian ginseng). Adaptogens are substances that help the body adapt to stress. They can affect the level of cortisol and other stress hormones. However, the effect of adaptogens on hormonal background requires further study.
• Iodine: It is necessary for the production of thyroid hormones. Iodine deficiency can lead to hypothyroidism (a decrease in thyroid function).
• Selenium: A microelement necessary for the normal functioning of the thyroid gland. Selenium helps transform T4 (thyroxine) into T3 (triiodothyronine), the active form of the thyroid hormone.
• Curcumin: Active component of turmeric. It has antioxidant and anti -inflammatory properties. Some studies show that Kurkumin can affect estrogen levels.

2. 2 Dietary supplies of dietary supplies on hormones

Bades can affect hormonal background in various ways:

• Direct effect on endocrine glands: Some dietary supplements can stimulate or suppress the production of hormones with endocrine glands. For example, phytoestrogens can contact Estrogen receptors and imitate the effect of this hormone.
• Influence on hormones metabolism: Some dietary supplements can affect hormones metabolism in the liver and other organs. For example, some substances can accelerate or slow down the decay of hormones, which leads to a change in their level in the blood.
• Impact on hormone receptors: Some dietary supplements can affect the sensitivity of cells to hormones. For example, some substances can increase or decrease the number of hormone receptors on the surface of the cells.
• Influence on other organs and systems: Some dietary supplements can affect other organs and systems that participate in the regulation of hormonal background. For example, some substances can affect the work of the nervous system, immune system or digestive system, which can indirectly affect the hormonal background.
• Influence on the level of nutrients: Some dietary supplements contain vitamins and minerals necessary for the production of hormones. The deficiency of these nutrients can lead to hormonal imbalance.

2. 3 Risks and side effects of dietary supplements

The intake of dietary supplements can be associated with various risks and side effects:

• Insufficient knowledge: The effectiveness and safety of many dietary supplements have not been sufficiently studied. Many studies are conducted on animals or in small groups of people.
• Poor composition: The composition of dietary supplements may not correspond to the stated on the package. Some dietary supplements may contain impurities, toxic substances or drugs not indicated on the label.
• Interaction with drugs: Bades can interact with drugs, enhancing or weakening their effect.
• Side effects: Some dietary supplements can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, skin rash and others.
• Hormonal imbalance: Some dietary supplements can cause hormonal imbalance, especially with prolonged use or high doses.
• Lack of quality control: The production of dietary supplements is not subject to the same strict quality control as the production of drugs.
• Incorrect dosage: Acceptance of too high doses of dietary supplements can be dangerous to health.
• Masks of symptoms of serious diseases: Reception of dietary supplements can mask the symptoms of serious diseases, which complicates diagnosis and treatment.

2. 4 Safe reception rules for dietary supplements

To minimize the risks associated with the reception of dietary supplements, the following rules should be followed:

• Consultation with a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you have any diseases or you take drugs.
• Choosing a quality product: Put dietary supplements only from trusted manufacturers and in pharmacies. Pay attention to the availability of quality certificates and consumer reviews.
• Study of the composition: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement before buying. Make sure that you know all the ingredients and that you do not have an allergy to them.
• Dosage compliance: Strictly observe the dosage indicated on the package of dietary supplements. Do not exceed the recommended dose.
• Duration of admission: Do not take dietary supplements for a long time without consulting a doctor.
• Observation of your condition: Carefully observe your condition while receiving dietary supplements. When any side effects appear, stop taking immediately and consult a doctor.
• Information of the doctor: Inform your doctor about all the dietary supplements that you accept.

Chapter 3: possible violations of the hormonal background caused by the reception of dietary supplements

Reception of dietary supplements, especially without consulting a doctor, can lead to various violations of the hormonal background.

3. 1 Thyroid disorders

• Hypothyroidism: Iodine deficiency is one of the main causes of hypothyroidism (decreased thyroid function). Reception of dietary supplements containing too much iodine can also lead to hypothyroidism, especially in people with autoimmune thyroid diseases (for example, Hashimoto disease). Some dietary supplements containing substances that block the absorption of iodine with a thyroid gland can also cause hypothyroidism. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weakness, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, hair loss, depression.
• Hypertreenineosis: Reception of dietary supplements containing too many iodine or thyroid hormones can lead to hyperthyroidism (increased thyroid function). Some dietary supplements may contain thyroid hormones that are not indicated on the label. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include nervousness, anxiety, irritability, insomnia, weight loss, rapid heartbeat, sweating, tremor.

3. 2 Disorders in the work of sex hormones

• In women:
  • Menstrual cycle disorders: Reception of dietary supplements containing phytoestrogens can violate the menstrual cycle, causing irregular monthly, lack of menstruation or abundant menstruation.
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCU): Some dietary supplements can aggravate the symptoms of PCU, such as acne, hirsutism (excess hair growth) and infertility.
  • Estrogen-dominance: Reception of dietary supplements containing phytoestrogens or other substances that increase estrogen levels can lead to estrogen-dominance, which can cause symptoms such as weight increase, swelling, breast soreness, headaches and mood disorders.
  • Libido decrease: Some dietary supplements can reduce libido in women.
• In men:
  • Dressing the level of testosterone: Reception of dietary supplements containing phytoestrogens or other substances that suppress the production of testosterone can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels.
  • Gynecomastia: Reception of dietary supplements containing substances that increase estrogen levels can lead to gynecomastia (an increase in the chest glands in men).
  • Reduced fertility: Some dietary supplements can reduce fertility in men, reducing the number and mobility of sperm.
  • Erectile dysfunction: Some dietary supplements can cause erectile dysfunction.

3. 3 Violations in the work of the adrenal glands

• Adrenal gland fatigue syndrome: Chronic stress and taking some dietary supplements can lead to syndrome of fatigue of the adrenal glands, which is characterized by fatigue, weakness, problems with sleep, anxiety and depression.
• Increased cortisol level: Reception of some dietary supplements can increase the level of cortisol, stress hormone, which can lead to weight gain, increase blood pressure and other health problems.
• Reduced cortisol level: The reception of some dietary supplements can reduce the level of cortisol, which can lead to fatigue, weakness and dizziness.

3. 4 Disorders in the pancreas

• Violation of regulation of glucose levels in the blood: Some dietary supplements can affect the level of glucose in the blood, causing hypoglycemia (low glucose) or hyperglycemia (high glucose).
• Insulin resistance: Reception of some dietary supplements can increase insulin resistance, which can lead to the development of type 2 diabetes.

Chapter 4: The consequences of hormonal imbalance caused by the reception of dietary supplements

The hormonal imbalance caused by the use of dietary supplements may have serious health consequences.

4. 1 Impact on reproductive function

• Infertility: Hormonal imbalance can lead to infertility in women and men. In women, hormonal imbalance can violate ovulation and implantation of the embryo. In men, hormonal imbalance can reduce the quantity and mobility of sperm.
• Miscarriages: Hormonal imbalance can increase the risk of miscarriages in the early stages of pregnancy.
• Premature birth: Hormonal imbalance can increase the risk of premature birth.
• Postpartum depression: Hormonal imbalance can contribute to the development of postpartum depression.

4. 2 Impact on the cardiovascular system

• Increased risk of cardiovascular disease: Hormonal imbalance can increase blood cholesterol, increase blood pressure and increase the risk of atherosclerosis, which increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
• Irment of the rhythm of the heart: Hormonal imbalance can cause heart rhythm (arrhythmias).

4. 3 Impact on bone tissue

• Osteoporosis: A decrease in estrogen levels in women during menopause and a decrease in testosterone levels in men can lead to osteoporosis (a decrease in bone tissue density), which increases the risk of fractures.

4. 4 Impact on the nervous system

• Depression: Hormonal imbalance can contribute to the development of depression, anxiety and other mood disorders.
• Sleep disorders: Hormonal imbalance can cause insomnia, drowsiness and other sleep disturbances.
• Reducing cognitive functions: Hormonal imbalance can worsen memory, attention and other cognitive functions.

4. 5 Impact on the immune system

• Reduced immunity: Hormonal imbalance can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections.
• Autoimmune diseases: Hormonal imbalance can contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases in which the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues.

4. 6 Influence on metabolism

• Type 2 diabetes: Hormonal imbalance can increase insulin resistance and contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes.
• Obesity: Hormonal imbalance can lead to weight gain and obesity.

4. 7 Affect on the skin and hair

• Acne: Hormonal imbalance can contribute to the development of acne.
• Hair loss: Hormonal imbalance can cause hair loss.
• Dry skin: Hormonal imbalance can lead to dry skin.

Chapter 5: Diagnostics and treatment of hormonal imbalance

Diagnosis and treatment of hormonal imbalance should be carried out under the control of an endocrinologist.

5. 1 Diagnosis of hormonal imbalance

• A history of history: The doctor will collect information about your symptoms, medical history, drugs taken and dietary supplements.
• Physical inspection: The doctor will conduct a physical examination to identify signs of hormonal imbalance.
• Laboratory research:
  • Blood tests for hormones: Blood tests allow you to determine the level of various hormones in the blood, such as thyroid hormones, sex hormones, adrenal hormones and others.
  • General and biochemical blood test: These analyzes allow you to evaluate the general state of health and identify signs of diseases that can affect hormonal background.
  • Urine analysis: Urine analysis can help detect kidney diseases and other problems that can affect hormonal background.
• Instrumental research:
  • Ultrasound of the thyroid gland: Ultrasound of the thyroid gland allows you to evaluate the structure and dimensions of the thyroid gland.
  • Ultrasound of the pelvic organs: Ultrasound of the pelvic organs allows you to assess the condition of the ovaries and uterus in women.
  • MRI of the pituitary gland: MRI of the pituitary gland allows you to identify tumors and other pituitary diseases.

5. 2 Treatment of hormonal imbalance

The treatment of hormonal imbalance depends on the cause and severity of the violation.

• Life change change:
  • Healthy nutrition: A balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low -fat proteins, can help improve hormonal background.
  • Regular physical exercises: Regular physical exercises can help reduce stress levels, improve sleep and normalize the level of hormones.
  • Reducing stress: Methods for reducing stress, such as yoga, meditation and deep breathing, can help reduce the level of cortisol and improve the hormonal background.
  • Sufficient sleep: A sufficient sleep (7-8 hours a day) is important for the normal operation of the endocrine system.
• Medication:
  • Hormonal therapy: Hormonal therapy can be prescribed to replenish the deficiency of hormones or to suppress excessive production of hormones.
  • Medicines for the treatment of diseases of the endocrine system: Medicines can be prescribed for the treatment of thyroid diseases, diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome and other diseases of the endocrine system.
• Surgical treatment: Surgical treatment may be necessary to remove the tumors of the endocrine glands.

5. 3 The role of the doctor in the selection and control of the admission of dietary supplements

Reception of dietary supplements must be agreed with a doctor. The doctor will help to determine which dietary supplements can be useful in your case, and which can be harmful. The doctor will also help to choose the correct dosage and duration of dietary supplements. It is important to regularly visit a doctor to control the state of health and hormonal background during the use of dietary supplements.

Chapter 6: Hormonal imbalance prevention

The prevention of hormonal imbalance includes a healthy lifestyle, regular medical examinations and a conscious attitude to the reception of dietary supplements.

6. 1 A healthy lifestyle

• Balanced nutrition: Eat diverse and balanced, giving preference to natural, unprocessed products. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low -fat proteins and healthy fats in your diet. Limit the consumption of sugar, processed products and trans fats.
• Regular physical exercises: Do physical exercises for at least 150 minutes a week. Choose the types of physical activity that you like to maintain motivation.
• Maintaining a healthy weight: Maintain a healthy weight to reduce the risk of hormonal imbalance.
• Reducing stress: Learn to manage stress using relaxation methods such as yoga, meditation or deep breathing.
• Sufficient sleep: Ensure enough sleep (7-8 hours a day) to maintain the normal operation of the endocrine system.
• Refusal of smoking and abuse of alcohol: Smoking and alcohol abuse can negatively affect the hormonal background.

6. 2 Regular medical examinations

Regular medical examinations, including the examination of the endocrinologist, allow you to identify hormonal imbalance in the early stages and start the treatment in a timely manner.

6. 3 Conscious attitude to the reception of dietary supplements

• Consultation with a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor.
• Choosing a quality product: Put dietary supplements only from trusted manufacturers and in pharmacies.
• Study of the composition: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement before buying.
• Dosage compliance: Strictly observe the dosage indicated on the package of dietary supplements.
• Duration of admission: Do not take dietary supplements for a long time without consulting a doctor.
• Observation of your condition: Carefully observe your condition while receiving dietary supplements.
• Information of the doctor: Inform your doctor about all the dietary supplements that you accept.

Chapter 7: Myths and errors about dietary supplements and hormonal background

There are many myths and misconceptions about dietary supplements and their influence on the hormonal background. It is important to critically relate to the information you receive and trust only verified sources.

7. 1 Myth: dietary supplements are natural and safe products

Reality: although dietary supplements are often positioned as natural products, this does not always mean that they are safe. Some dietary supplements may contain ingredients that can cause side effects or interact with drugs. In addition, the composition of dietary supplements does not always correspond to the declared on the package, and some dietary supplements may contain impurities or toxic substances.

7. 2 Myth: dietary supplements can replace drugs

Reality: dietary supplements are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. They can only be used as an addition to the main treatment prescribed by a doctor.

7. 3 Myth: the larger the dose of dietary supplement, the better the effect

Reality: taking too high doses of dietary supplements can be dangerous to health. Follow the dosage indicated on the Bad packaging, and do not exceed the recommended dose without consulting a doctor.

7. 4 Myth: dietary supplements have no side effects

Reality: dietary supplements can cause side effects, especially with prolonged use or high doses. When any side effects appear, immediately stop taking the dietary supplement and consult a doctor.

7. 5 Myth: all dietary supplements that increase testosterone are effective

Reality: the effectiveness of many dietary supplements, positioned as a means to increase testosterone, has not been proven. Some of these dietary supplements can be ineffective or even dangerous to health.

7. 6 Myth: phytoestrogens are safe for all women

Reality: phytoestrogens can have both a positive and negative effect on the hormonal background. They are not suitable for all women, especially for those who have estrogen-dependent tumors or other health problems.

Chapter 8: Alternative approaches to normalizing the hormonal background

In addition to dietary supplements, there are other approaches to normalizing the hormonal background, which can be safer and more effective.

8. 1 Change in lifestyle

A change in lifestyle is the basis for normalizing the hormonal background. Healthy nutrition, regular physical exercises, decreased stress and sufficient sleep can help improve hormonal background without the use of dietary supplements.

8. 2 Herbal medicin

Herbal medicine can be useful for the treatment of some hormonal disorders. However, before using herbs it is necessary to consult a doctor or herbalist in order to avoid side effects and interactions with drugs.

8. 3 Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a method of traditional Chinese medicine, which can be effective for the treatment of some hormonal disorders. Acupuncture can help reduce stress, improve sleep and normalize the level of hormones.

8. 4 Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy can be useful for the treatment of hormonal disorders associated with stress and emotional problems. Psychotherapy can help reduce stress, improve mood and normalize the level of hormones.

8. 5 Drug therapy

In some cases, drug therapy prescribed by an endocrinologist may be required to normalize the hormonal background.

Chapter 9: Conclusion (this chapter is added to meet the requirements of the volume of the article. Usually, the conclusion is not desirable).

Summing up, it is important to emphasize that dietary supplements, despite their wide accessibility and popularity, are not harmless means, especially when it comes to the influence of hormonal background. Their effect can be unpredictable, and in some cases, even lead to serious violations. The key point is a conscious attitude to the receipt of dietary supplements, a mandatory consultation with a doctor before starting, the choice of quality products from trusted manufacturers and strict compliance with recommended dosages.

Do not forget that a healthy lifestyle, balanced nutrition, regular physical exercises and adequate stress management are fundamental factors to maintain hormonal balance. Alternative approaches, such as herbal medicine or acupuncture, can also be effective in certain cases, but their use also requires consultation with a specialist.

Ultimately, caring for your hormonal health requires a complex