What Exactly are Bioidentical Hormones?
About Bioidentical Hormones
Bio-identical Hormones or ‘natural hormones’ as they are more commonly connoted are very specific hormones which are identical in molecular structure to the hormones which are naturally produced in your body. Those with a scientific inclination would indeed find it fascinating that the mechanism of action of these hormones is similar to those produced by the human body. Some of the more commonly used bioidentical hormones are estrogen, progesterone, DHEA and testosterones.
Experts are of the opinion that the term “natural” could be a misnomer considering the fact that although these hormones are identical to the hormones produced by the human body, they are not naturally found, rather they are synthetically produced under lab conditions usually from a derivative of the wild yam plant.
The Mechanics of Hormones and Menopause
Estrogens are normally produced by the ovaries in women. With advancing age there is a significant drop in levels leading to menopause. The most common symptom is hot flashes which are best controlled by administering ‘natural’ hormones like bioidentical hormones.
The Debate around Synthetic and Bioidentical Hormones
Hormones are known to fit into the cell receptors and hence send out the right signals for optimal functioning. When the secretion of these hormones falls ‘hormone replacement therapy’ is prescribed by physicians so as to restore normal functioning and physiology.
While synthetic hormones do fit into these cell receptors there is a perceptible difference in molecular structure as compared to the naturally secreted counterparts. Thus the results are not very beneficial.
On the contrary bioidentical hormones sourced from wild yams and soy are identical in structure to the natural hormones and hence they fit precisely into the cell structure. This ensures that the results are equally beneficial. This makes it more than evident that bioidentical hormones are the pick of options and the observational studies have now concluded that when used in menopausal women the results are very encouraging.
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