Health & Wellness
Our Partner
Elite Pain Management and Recovery Center partners with SottoPelle’s hormone therapy program that can provide improvement to your life. Dr. Tutera founded SottoPelle® to bring his safe and natural method of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy delivery to millions of women and men worldwide.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
About Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)
Did you know that hormone replacement using pellet implants has been around for more than 70 years? In fact, scientists have published positive research on the benefits of this therapy in authoritative international journals for decades. Bioidentical pellet therapy was originally developed in Europe during the 1930s. It proved an excellent treatment for hormone deficiencies, especially in menopause. The highly-respected pioneer of Endocrinology, Dr. Robert B. Greenblatt, learned about this method and introduced it to his U.S. colleagues in 1939. Today, practitioners use pellet implants to restore hormonal balance in men and women of all ages. Best of all they are natural, safe, and effective.
Hormone Replacement Therapy Pellets (HRT) Strengthen the Body’s Systems
As we age, hormone deficiency causes the body’s systems to weaken. That’s why your bones lose calcium, your blood pressure may be a little (or a lot) higher than it used to be, your arteries are starting to show wear and tear, you can’t seem to lose weight, your sex life is suffering, and why you just don’t have the energy or vitality you used to. Wonder why you just don’t feel like yourself anymore? Because your body is not balanced.
Hormone Replacement Therapy Pellets replicate what the human ovaries and testicles did when you were younger – delivering the same steady, 24/7, low dosages of hormones that the body once created. This restores the body’s organs, systems and functioning to their healthy youthful state. As a result sexual performance is reinvigorated, energy and vitality is improves, bone loss decreases while muscle mass increases, and the body functions as it should.
Hormone Replacement Pellets the Ideal Hormone Delivery System
Avoid the Hormone Roller Coaster with the SottoPelle® HRT Pellet Method
Many patients who have been on creams, pills and patches discover that their hormone treatment can create side effects over time. Non-pellet methods provide an irregular and unreliable dosing amount, which produces a roller coaster-like effect in the body.
Over time, extra hormones that are stored in the body can spill back into your system and cause a progressive overdosing. This can cause a cascade of imbalances and problems that you were trying to treat in the first place!
Pellets deliver a steady and measured dose of the hormones your body needs, only as it needs them. From our decades of clinical experience, we have found that it is the only reliable way to provide optimal and balanced levels of hormones into the body.
The Power of Hormone Replacement Pellets®
When properly administered, the pellet delivery system provides safe and effective Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT). In fact, it remains the only form of delivery that closely mirrors what the human ovary and testicle do. This method ensures the same steady, around-the-clock, low dosages the body once created. You won’t have to change patches, rub on creams, or remember to take a pill. And you won’t experience the radical surges and drops in blood levels as with other methods. Pellet implants even deliver more when the body needs it—like during exercise or periods of stress.
1. Right Amount of Hormones
Creams, pills and patches all deliver wildly inconsistent amounts of hormones, unnaturally released into the body that does not mimic how the body naturally delivers hormones. Pellet delivery system is consistent and ongoing as the body requires it. You don’t have to worry about taking a pill, or a patch falling off, or a million other factors that make creams, pills, and patches an unreliable way to deliver hormones. Pellets remain the only delivery system that provides steady blood serum levels over time.
2. Simple Safe Hormone Pellet Insertion
Once inserted, a steady, low dose of natural hormone flows directly into the blood stream whenever the body needs it. This gives the body the ability to control the release of the hormone just as it did when the ovaries and testicles were working normally. Our method utilizes our proprietary dosing site, BioCalc (patent pending) to prescribe the precise hormones, specifically for your needs.
3. Promotes and Preserve Bone Density
As we age and our hormone levels shift dramatically, maintaining normal bone density becomes critical to good health. Fluctuating levels of estrogen and testosterone decrease bone strength and increase the chance of fractures. Women who undergo premature surgical menopause also remain at greater risk of developing osteoporosis, making it critical to check their hormone levels. Demonstrated by the four-fold increase in bone density over oral estrogen, 2.5 times greater than patches and 8.3% per year for pellet therapy.
4. Improves Sexual Function in Men & Women
Estrogen deficiency can result in vaginal pain and dryness, uncomfortable sex, and even urinary incontinence in women. Low testosterone in men can lead to sexual performance problems including erectile dysfunction or “ED”. Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Pellets can restore youthful hormone levels to alleviate these problems and improve sexual function and enjoyment in both women and men.
5. Protects Against Disease
Hormone decline is associated with many life threatening illnesses including heart disease, diabetes, and more. Maintaining proper hormone levels with Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Pellets can help prevent disease and maintain youthful vitality, health and energy.
Hormone Pellet Therapy for
Menopause Treatment
As women age, their hormone production declines & they lose both testosterone and estrogen. Signs of aging and other serious health issues may soon appear if they choose not to do any form of hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
The Importance of
Replacing Estrogen
with Hormone Therapy
The hormone decline and estrogen imbalance of menopause is associated with breast cancer, osteoporosis, and other serious health issues. Hormone replacement therapy to rebalance estrogen supports bone health, offers heart & artery protection, and can protect against cognitive decline.
Women commonly have a low risk for cardiovascular disease until Menopause, around age 50, when their hormone levels – particularly estrogen – plummet and the ratio of estradiol to estrone goes haywire. Menopause, and the resulting hormone decline and estrogen imbalance, are also associated with osteoporosis, breast cancer, and other serious health issues.
Research indicates that, besides heart and artery protection, hormone replacement therapy to rebalance estrogen levels can protect against cognitive decline during aging, and perhaps even against Alzheimer’s disease. The most common reason as to why women are at higher risk for developing Alzheimer’s is their reduced estrogen production after Menopause.
But epidemiological research has also linked hormone replacement therapy with a decline in the risk of developing Alzheimer’s, as well as osteoporosis, heart disease, diabetes and many other serious health problems.
Why Bioidentical Hormone Pellets are the Best Delivery System
Bioidentical hormones are identical on a molecular level to the hormones in the body, making them safer & more effective than synthetics. The pellet delivery method delivers them through the bloodstream 24/7. Pellets are the only BHRT method that can release hormones when the body needs them.
Remaining healthy into old age depends on many things including lifestyle and genetics. It also makes perfect sense to replenish what the body needs. That’s why we supplement vitamins and minerals. It’s also why we use hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to restore internal balance. Many physicians focus on simply relieving symptoms with pills, patches, injections or creams. However, in order to return the body to balance, it needs recognizable hormone substances and a precision delivery method to transport them through the bloodstream around the clock.
By far the safest, most effective and convenient method, bioidentical hormone replacement (BHRT) using pellet implants can restore the hormone levels the body needs. Hormone replacement pellets consist of low dose estradiol and testosterone that release slowly for 3 to 6 months, 24/7. It is the only BHRT method that can release more hormone when the body needs it.
After decades of treating women (and men) with this method, we’ve witnessed firsthand the life-changing impact hormone pellet therapy has had on thousands of patients: helping reverse serious osteoporosis, aiding Parkinson’s patients to make strides in mobility, and helping revive a marriage. Many say hormone replacement therapy has given them back what they thought they’d lost forever: their quality of life!
How Hormone Replacement Therapy Treats the Signs of Menopause
Hormone replacement therapy naturally restores the correct amount and balance of a woman’s hormones. This can restore a woman’s quality of life by eliminating the frustrating symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, decreased energy, low sex drive, weight gain and more.
Menopause is the end of the female reproductive cycle and is commonly diagnosed when a woman has not had her period for 12 months. The average age for the onset of Menopause is 51, but it can also occur as early as the late 30s.
The method of determining if a woman is in Menopause is to measure the amount of follicle stimulating hormone levels in the blood. Leading up to Menopause, the ovaries produce fewer & fewer hormones, which causes a variety of changes in a woman’s body.
Surgical removal of the ovaries and other medical conditions and treatments can also induce Menopause. The fluctuations in the hormones estrogen, testosterone and progesterone can cause your periods to become irregular and sometimes heavy. Other symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, brain fog, weight gain, increased belly fat, and headaches can soon follow.
However, hormone replacement therapy naturally restores the correct amount and balance of a woman’s hormones. Hormone replacement therapy can restore a woman’s quality of life by eliminating the frustrating symptoms of menopause and hormone decline. Even better, hormone therapy can reduce a woman’s risk of developing life threatening illnesses such as osteoporosis, heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and more.
Symptoms of Menopause That Hormone Replacement Therapy Can Alleviate
Brain Fog
Headaches
Anxiety | Depression
Vaginal Dryness
Low Sex Drive
Low Energy
Dry Skin
Increased Body Fat
Hair Loss
Men’s Hormone Replacement Therapy
Testosterone Treatment for “Low T”
More men are realizing the importance of testosterone in their system. Decreased levels of testosterone – “Low T” – can cause muscle loss, fat gain, erectile dysfunction (ED), thinning hair, decreased sex drive, and more – as well as increase the risk of life-threatening illnesses such as heart disease.
Men’s Hormone Replacement (HRT) for Low T & Optimal Health
Men’s hormone replacement therapy (HRT) naturally restores the correct amount and balance of a man’s hormones. Hormone replacement therapy can restore men’s quality of life by eliminating the frustrating sexual symptoms and body changes associated with “Low T” (decreased testosterone).
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone. It is what makes a man, a man. It helps males develop larger muscles, grow facial and body hair, and have deep voices. Testosterone also fuels the libido, helps to produce sperm, and contributes to firm and long-lasting erections. But, as a man ages testosterone levels decline. This condition – often called “Low T” – can lead to erectile disfunction, low sex drive, thinning hair, and other problems that impact a man’s quality of life.
Testosterone also directly affects bone density, metabolism of salts, maintains fluid balance, regulates red blood cells, cholesterol profiles, and manages different functions of the brain including energy levels, moods, and cognitive functions. It is what keeps you feeling young and vital.
The good news is that men’s hormone replacement therapy (HRT) naturally restores the correct amount and balance of a man’s hormones. Hormone replacement therapy can restore men’s quality of life by eliminating the frustrating sexual symptoms and body changes of “Low T”. Even better, hormone replacement therapy can reduce a man’s risk of developing life threatening illnesses such heart disease, diabetes, and more.
Why Bioidentical Hormone Pellets are the Best Delivery System
Bioidentical hormones are identical on a molecular level to the hormones in the body, making them safer & more effective than synthetics. The pellet delivery method delivers them through the bloodstream 24/7. Pellets are the only BHRT method that can release hormones when the body needs them.
Conventional or traditional men’s hormone treatments are administered by pills, injections or rubbing gels onto the body. Typically, these treatments use synthetic hormones that are not real hormones, but rather imperfect, lab-created imitations of the body’s hormones. However, Bio-identical Hormone Replacement pellets use only 100% natural hormones from plant-derived sources that are identical in molecular structure to the body’s hormones.
There can be many side effects from using synthetic hormones, and they can end up creating as many symptoms as they relieve. Additionally, the “one size fits all” solution of synthetic hormones from big pharmaceutical companies does not adjust the ratios of hormones for individual patients. And, shots, pills and creams are not a natural delivery method into the body for hormones.
However, bioidentical hormones are identical to the body’s own hormones, so they are much more effective and safer – without many of the side-effects of lab-created hormones. And, the unique pellet delivery system time-releases the hormones sub-dermally – just like the body does – for constant and consistent hormone levels.
Millions of men are suffering from hormone loss and “Low T” and unsuccessfully trying pharmaceutical drugs to regain their sex drive and clear up their brain fog – without realizing that bio-identical hormones are even an option! But bio-identical hormones have been studied extensively and safely used since 1935, without the negative side effects that synthetics have been known to produce.
What is “Andropause”? And How Hormone Therapy Can Help!
Low testosterone levels are associated with E.D, increased cardiovascular risk, high bad cholesterol, loss of muscle mass, diabetes and more. However, SottoPelle® hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can restore a man’s testosterone levels with a single treatment that lasts up to six months.
Testosterone is classified as a steroid hormone in the Androgen group. The decline of testosterone is known as Andropause, and is sometimes referred to “Male Menopause” or “Low T”. Beginning at 30, a man’s body makes less and less testosterone and around 40-55 the levels drop dramatically.
The most common complaint associated with “Low T” is low sex drive (libido). Any man experiencing erectile dysfunction (“ED”) should get his testosterone level checked. The decline in testosterone can also make it more difficult to conceive a child. Men may also start to have signs and symptoms of low testosterone levels such as lower energy, decreased muscle mass and bone density, and anemia.
Low testosterone levels have also been associated with increased cardiovascular risk, mortality and increases in bad cholesterol. However, SottoPelle® hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can restore a man’s testosterone levels with a single treatment that lasts up to six months – and requires no daily pills, no weekly injections, no conspicuous patches, and no messy creams.
Symptoms of Low Testosterone
Hormone Replacement Therapy Can Alleviate
Headaches
Brain Fog
Anxiety | Depression
Low Energy
Low Sex Drive
Erectile Dysfunction
Dry Skin
Diabetes
Loss of Muscle Mass
Hormone Replacement Therapy Quiz
Find out if you might be suffering from a hormonal imbalance
Is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Safe?
The landscape of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. From the one-size-fits-all synthetic hormones that came into popularity in the 1960s to today’s widely used, personalized bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), a lot has changed.
Today, Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) improves the health, well-being, and vitality of millions of women and men every year. But thanks to some outdated studies conducted back in the 1990s, some patients still harbor reservations about hormone therapy.
In this article, the SottoPelle Method BHRT experts explain the journey from older forms of hormone therapy to today’s revolutionary BHRT. We explore the impeccable safety profile of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy – and share the wealth of clinical evidence supporting BHRT’s transformative health benefits for women and men.
Flaws in Older Hormone Replacement Therapy Studies
Several decades ago, hormone therapy was shrouded in uncertainty due to reliance on synthetic hormones that didn’t mirror the body’s natural counterparts. A pivotal study, the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI), conducted by the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health from the 1970s to the 1990s aimed to assess hormone therapy’s impact on women’s health. That study, which was later revealed to be flawed, erroneously claimed that HRT had more detrimental than beneficial effects. As a result, HRT use dropped dramatically.
However, subsequent scrutiny revealed that the WHI study had limitations in its design and interpretation, which led to conclusions that didn’t fully capture hormone therapy’s safety and effectiveness. This study’s shortcomings resulted in misconceptions about the risks associated with hormone therapy, creating a hesitancy among both medical professionals and patients.
In the following years, a re-analysis of the erroneous WHI trial was performed, and the new results showed that the use of HRT in younger women or in early postmenopausal women had beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system, reducing coronary disease and lowering the likelihood of death from all causes.
Today supporting research has shown that properly administered BHRT also reverses osteoporosis, reduces the risk of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes, improves sexual function, helps stave off cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease, and offers a host of other health benefits for both women and men.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) Safety
The advent of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) has further ushered in a new era of hormone therapy, rooted in safety, precision, and efficacy.
BHRT sets itself apart by utilizing hormones that are molecularly identical to the body’s own hormones, ensuring seamless integration with the body’s natural processes. This alignment drastically minimizes the potential for adverse effects while maximizing the therapeutic benefits of hormone therapy.
Though discovered in the 1940’s, plant-based bioidentical hormone therapy was not widely used until much more recently. Previously, doctors relied on one-size-fits-all, standard dosage synthetic hormone pills. Dr. Gina Tutera pioneered the use of bioidentical hormones as early as the 1970s – and in 1992, Dr. Tutera founded SottoPelle® to bring his safe and natural method of BHRT delivery to millions of women and men worldwide.
Because Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy utilizes hormones that are molecularly identical to those naturally produced by the body, it is both safer and more effective than synthetics. The fundamental match between the body’s hormones and BHRT hormones is pivotal in reducing risks and side effects while maximizing results and therapeutic benefits.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Customized Dosing is Safer & More Effective
One of the biggest safety advantages of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy lies in personalization. Detailed blood tests are conducted to determine each individual patient’s exact hormone levels, imbalances, and deficiencies.
Then a customized BHRT treatment plan is tailored to each individual’s unique hormonal requirements, mirror the body’s innate healthy hormonal state. Unlike standard dose pills, by dosing each patient individually, SottoPelle Method BHRT ensures that each patient gets exactly what they need. This also eliminates any patient getting too much of a hormone – which is why many who take standard pills have unwanted side effects.
This personalized approach enhances both safety and effectiveness, making BHRT a superior choice for individuals seeking hormone balance.
Studies on Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Safety in Women
Clinical research consistently underscores Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy safety. Notable among these studies is a comprehensive review published in the International Journal of Women’s Health.1 This review compiled findings from various clinical trials and concluded that BHRT, in comparison to synthetic hormone therapy, offers a safer option for women seeking relief from menopausal symptoms. This comprehensive assessment supports BHRT’s safety and effectiveness in addressing hormone-related concerns.
In other articles we have written about clinical studies showing BHRT’s ability to reverse osteoporosis, prevent heart disease, and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s Disease, and Type 2 Diabetes.
Studies on Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Safety in Men
And, Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy’s benefits and safety profile extend to men as well. Rigorous clinical studies confirm BHRT’s positive impact on men’s health and well-being. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism2 explored the effects of BHRT on aging men. The results indicated that BHRT improved bone density and muscle mass, among other benefits. These findings further validate the safety and efficacy of BHRT, emphasizing its personalized approach in addressing specific hormonal needs.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Reduces Death from All Causes
A groundbreaking study entitled The effect of hormone replacement therapy on the survival of UK women 3 highlights BHRT’s potential to reduce death from all causes. This retrospective study, spanning from 1984 to 2017, investigated the effect of hormone replacement therapy on the survival of women in the UK. The study concluded that BHRT contributed to reduced mortality rates from all causes, providing compelling evidence not only of BHRT’s safety, but of its holistic benefits beyond symptom relief.
Safe, Natural Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
BHRT’s bioidentical nature, coupled with personalized dosing and extensive clinical evidence, solidifies its safety and efficacy. As individuals seek comprehensive solutions for hormonal imbalances, Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy offers symptom relief, reduces the risk of many serious diseases, and provides hope for a long life of holistic healing and enduring wellness.
Talk to your physician about SottoPelle® Method Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy today. Or you can find a physician in your area who is a Certified SottoPelle® hormone therapy provider using our Physician Finder HERE.
Safe, Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as general information only and is not intended to be used as medical advice. While the benefits of hormone replacement are well documented through clinical research, we are not representing that hormone therapy is a “cure” for any disease. Only your treating physician can determine if hormone replacement may be a beneficial part of your healthcare regimen, based on your age, overall health, risk factors, and lifestyle.
Resources:
1. National Library of Medicine, The Safety and Effectiveness of Compounded Bioidentical Hormone Therapy. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562865/
2. Nanette Santoro, et al, Compounded Bioidentical Hormones in Endocrinology Practice. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, Volume 101, Issue 4, https://doi.org/10.1210/jc.2016-1271
3. Nurunnahar Akter et al, The effect of hormone replacement therapy on the survival of UK women: a retrospective cohort study 1984−2017, (2021). DOI: 10.22541/au.162505075.57308701/v2
The Cosmetic Benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy
In addition to living longer and with more vitality, one of the benefits of taking care of one’s health is maintaining a more youthful and attractive physical appearance. As a person journeys through life, being confident in the way one looks continues to hold significant emotional and psychological benefits, particularly as we age.
‘Looking good’ not only boosts a person’s self-esteem and confidence but also enhances their overall quality of life. Studies have shown that the emotional and psychological benefits of looking good as one gets older extend far beyond mere aesthetics. A positive body image actually improves social interactions and gives people a greater sense of vitality and happiness.
In recent years, an increasing body of research has shed light on the remarkable cosmetic and aesthetic benefits of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). While HRT is most commonly associated with its role in alleviating symptoms of menopause, emerging evidence suggests that it also possesses the power to enhance the appearance of hair, skin, and body composition.
In this article, the hormone replacement therapy experts at SottoPelle® delve into the science behind the appearance rejuvenating effects of HRT and explore how it can help you maintain a more youthful and vibrant appearance.
Hormone Replacement Therapy for Hair Restoration
ne of the most frustrating visible signs of aging is the gradual thinning and loss of hair. However, hormone replacement therapy has shown promising results in promoting hair growth and reversing the effects of age-related hair loss.
This can be attributed to the role of hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone, in stimulating hair follicles and promoting hair growth. Estrogen, in particular, helps extend the growth phase of hair, leading to thicker, healthier strands. Similarly, testosterone aids in preventing hair loss and promoting hair regeneration in both men and women.
In a study entitled Hair loss in women: medical and cosmetic approaches to increase scalp hair fullness, the researchers highlighted the significance of hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone, in stimulating hair follicles and regulating hair growth. The study concluded that hormonal imbalances, including those occurring during menopause, can contribute to hair thinning and loss and laid the groundwork for understanding the connection between hormones and hair health. [1]
By restoring hormonal balance through HRT, many individuals can experience improved hair quality, density, and overall appearance.
Hormone Replacement Therapy for Skin Rejuvenation
Hormones also play a crucial role in maintaining the health and vitality of the skin. Estrogen, for instance, contributes to the production of collagen, a protein that provides structural support and elasticity to the skin. With age, the decline in estrogen levels leads to a reduction in collagen synthesis, resulting in sagging skin, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity. By replenishing estrogen levels through HRT, individuals can stimulate collagen production, leading to firmer, more supple skin with reduced wrinkles and fine lines.
Hormones also influence the hydration and oil production of the skin. Estrogen helps maintain optimal moisture levels, preventing dryness and enhancing the skin’s natural radiance. Testosterone, on the other hand, regulates sebum production, preventing excessive oiliness and reducing the likelihood of acne breakouts.
In a 2017 clinical study, researchers investigated the impact of hormone therapy on skin aging in postmenopausal women. The researchers analyzed the effects of estrogen and progesterone therapy on various skin parameters, including elasticity, hydration, and wrinkle formation. The results demonstrated that hormone therapy significantly improved skin elasticity and hydration, while reducing the severity of wrinkles. The study concluded that hormone therapy could have positive effects on skin aging in postmenopausal women. [2]
Another study conducted in 2019 examined the influence of hormone replacement therapy on skin texture and appearance in postmenopausal women. The researchers evaluated skin elasticity, firmness, hydration, and pigmentation in women undergoing hormone therapy. The findings indicated that hormone replacement therapy resulted in improved skin elasticity and firmness, increased skin hydration, and a reduction in pigmentation irregularities. The study concluded that hormone therapy positively affected several skin parameters, suggesting its potential for skin rejuvenation. [3]
By restoring hormonal balance, hormone replacement therapy can contribute to a more youthful, hydrated complexion, and improved skin texture.
Hormone Replacement Therapy for Fat Loss
Hormone imbalance can also significantly impact body composition, leading to increased fat accumulation and loss of muscle mass. Hormone replacement therapy can help address these concerns and promote a leaner, more toned, and aesthetically pleasing physique.
In many patients, HRT can help to promote fat loss. This is because hormones, such as estrogen, play a role in fat metabolism. Estrogen helps to break down fat and promote fat loss. Estrogen, also helps regulate fat distribution, favoring a more feminine pattern by depositing fat in the breasts, hips, and buttocks, while minimizing abdominal fat.
This is why menopausal women often start accumulating fat “in all the wrong places” – especially the belly. As estrogen levels decline, fat can accumulate.
In a 2019 research study, a total of 120 menopausal women were randomly assigned to receive either HRT or placebo for 12 months. After 12 months, the HRT group had a significant decrease in total abdominal fat (P = 0.003), visceral fat (P = 0.001), and subcutaneous fat (P = 0.002) compared with the placebo group.
Hormone replacement therapy can help to replace depleted estrogen levels in women and promote fat loss.
Hormone Replacement Therapy for Building Muscle
Testosterone, on the other hand, aids in preserving lean muscle mass and promoting fat metabolism. By balancing hormone levels through hormone replacement therapy, both men and women can achieve a healthier and more attractive body composition, with reduced body fat and increased muscle definition.
Moreover, HRT can contribute to improved bone density, mitigating the age-related decline commonly associated with osteoporosis. Stronger bones provide a more supportive framework for the body, enhancing posture and overall appearance.
SottoPelle® Method Hormone Replacement Therapy
The health benefits of hormone replacement therapy have long been understood. Now, as added benefit HRT has been clinically proven to cosmetically improve hair, skin, and body composition.
Through the restoration of hormonal balance, HRT can rejuvenate hair, revitalize the skin, eliminate or redistribute fat, and help build muscle in many individuals – for a more youthful and vibrant appearance.
If your skin, hair and body are starting to show frustrating signs of aging, ask your doctor about about the anti-aging benefits of SottoPelle Method hormone replacement therapy. Or find a certified SottoPelle® Method BHRT provider in your area HERE.
A certified SottoPelle® Method provider can conduct blood testing to assess your hormone levels – and develop a hormone replacement therapy plan to help you feel and look younger so you can live life with health, vitality and confidence now and for years to come.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as general information only and is not intended to be used as medical advice. While the benefits of hormone replacement are well documented through clinical research, we are not representing that hormone therapy is a “cure” for any disease. Only your treating physician can determine if hormone replacement may be a beneficial part of your healthcare regimen, based on your age, overall health, risk factors, and lifestyle.
Citations:
- Rieder EA, et al. (2016). Hair loss in women: medical and cosmetic approaches to increase scalp hair fullness. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5328147/
- Thornton MJ, et al. (2017). Hormones and the hair follicle: a guide for clinicians. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6273829/
- Carrasco DJ, et al. (2019). Effects of hormonal replacement therapy on the skin of postmenopausal women: a prospective, randomized, controlled study. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6547756/
- Zhang Y, Zhang H, Zhang L, et al. (2019) Effects of hormone replacement therapy on abdominal fat distribution in menopausal women: a randomized controlled trial. Menopause. 2019;26(1):109-116. https://academic.oup.com/menopause/article/26/1/109/5254864
Always Exhausted? It May Be Adrenal Fatigue. Bioidentical Hormone Therapy May Help!
Adrenal fatigue is a term used to describe a collection of symptoms that occur when the adrenal glands – which are responsible for producing hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline – become overworked and unable to function properly.
The hormones cortisol and adrenaline play crucial roles in maintaining the proper functioning of the human body – including energy and vitality. But prolonged periods of stress can deplete these essential hormones.
Unfortunately, some ‘old school’ doctors still debate the existence of adrenal fatigue as a distinct condition, leaving their patients undiagnosed, untreated, and frustrated. But patients experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, and the mood swings that are consistent with adrenal fatigue will tell you that adrenal fatigue is very real.
The good news is that bioidentical hormone therapy has emerged as an effective treatment option for individuals with adrenal fatigue, helping to restore hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms of exhaustion and anxiety.
What is Adrenal Fatigue?
The adrenal glands are small, triangular-shaped glands located on top of each kidney. They are responsible for producing a variety of hormones that help to regulate the body’s response to stress, including cortisol, adrenaline, and aldosterone. When the body experiences stress, the adrenal glands release these hormones into the bloodstream, allowing the body to respond appropriately.
Cortisol, often referred to as the “stress hormone,” helps regulate the body’s response to stress by mobilizing energy reserves, increasing blood sugar levels, and enhancing metabolism. Cortisol also aids in suppressing inflammation and supporting the immune system, assisting the body in combating infections and diseases. Additionally, cortisol is involved in the regulation of blood pressure and also plays a role in the sleep-wake cycle.
Adrenaline helps initiate the “fight or flight” response, enabling the body to respond to perceived threats effectively by increasing heart rate and respiration. Aldosterone is responsible for maintaining electrolyte balance and blood pressure regulation.
However, chronic stress can lead to overworking of the adrenal glands, causing them to become fatigued and unable to produce these very necessary hormones at optimal levels.
What Causes Adrenal Fatigue?
There are several factors that can contribute to adrenal fatigue, however chronic stress is the primary culprit. And, honestly, who isn’t under some form of chronic stress these days? Financial concerns, an uncertain job market, demanding careers, and taking care of kids or elderly parents keep most of us in a steady state of stress.
But the body doesn’t know the difference between the stress of modern daily life and the stress our ancestors faced when they were chased by a saber-toothed tiger! So, the adrenal glands go into overdrive, pumping out stress hormones until they are so fatigued that they can no longer produce adequate hormone levels.
Poor diet, lack of sleep, and other lifestyle factors also contribute to adrenal fatigue. Some medical conditions, such as autoimmune disorders, can also contribute to adrenal fatigue by causing inflammation and disrupting hormonal balance. And in some cases, medications such as steroids or antidepressants can also affect adrenal function and contribute to adrenal fatigue.
Symptoms of Adrenal Fatigue
The symptoms of adrenal fatigue can vary widely, but may include fatigue, lack of energy, difficulty sleeping, mood swings, anxiety, depression, brain fog, and decreased libido. Other symptoms may include weight gain, digestive issues, and decreased immune function.
And because adrenal fatigue can present so many different symptoms – many of which can also be caused by other conditions – it is often missed or misdiagnosed. Doctors may attribute these symptoms to menopause, ‘getting older,’ lack of sleep, poor diet, etc. – leaving the patient without answers and still feeling exhausted.
Diagnosing Adrenal Fatigue
Because adrenal fatigue is not a distinct medical condition but a cluster of issues, there is no single, standardized diagnostic test for this condition. However, doctors who are willing to look ‘at the big picture’ can use blood and/or saliva tests to measure cortisol levels and assess adrenal function.
In general, adrenal fatigue is characterized by low cortisol levels or irregular cortisol patterns throughout the day. The cortisol saliva test involves collecting saliva samples at various times throughout the day, which are then analyzed for cortisol levels. This test can help to identify abnormalities in cortisol production and provide information about the body’s stress response.
In addition to cortisol, there are other hormones that may be measured in blood work to assess adrenal function. For example, DHEA-S (dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate) is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that can also be measured in blood work. Low levels of DHEA-S may be indicative of adrenal dysfunction or fatigue.
Other tests that may be used to evaluate adrenal function include the ACTH stimulation test, the insulin tolerance test, and the dexamethasone suppression test. These tests are somewhat more entailed and may not be used as frequently as the cortisol saliva test.
But remember, the symptoms associated with adrenal fatigue can also be caused by other medical conditions, so a comprehensive evaluation and testing by a trained doctor is necessary to rule out other potential causes.
Bioidentical Hormone Therapy for Adrenal Fatigue
Bioidentical hormone therapy has emerged as an exciting and effective treatment option for individuals with adrenal fatigue, as it can help to restore hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms.
Bioidentical hormones are identical in chemical structure to the hormones produced by the body and are derived from natural, plant-based sources such as soy or yam. Unlike synthetic hormones, which are made in a laboratory and may not be identical to the body’s own hormones, bioidentical hormone therapy has been shown in clinical studies to be safer, more effective, and better tolerated by the body than synthetics.
Recent clinical studies have shown promising results in treating adrenal fatigue with bioidentical hormone therapy. One study published in the journal Integrative Medicine found that bioidentical hormone therapy improved symptoms of fatigue and sleep disturbance in individuals with adrenal fatigue. Another study published in the journal Endocrine found that a combination of bioidentical hormones, including cortisol, DHEA, and progesterone, improved symptoms of depression, anxiety, and fatigue in individuals with adrenal fatigue.
Of course, like any medical treatment, bioidentical hormone therapy delivers the best results as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes lifestyle modifications such as stress management, healthy diet, and adequate sleep.
SottoPelle® Method Bioidentical Hormone Therapy for Adrenal Fatigue
If you have been suffering from fatigue, anxiety, weight gain, and other frustrating symptoms that your current doctors aren’t explaining, a SottoPelle® Method certified doctor can help! Physicians who have undergone SottoPelle® Method training and certification are trained in recognizing, diagnosing, and treating hormonal imbalances that are impacting your health and quality of life. Once a diagnosis has been made, your SottoPelle® Method certified doctor can determine if bioidentical hormone therapy is right for you.
And because the symptoms associated with adrenal fatigue can also be caused by other medical conditions, a SottoPelle® Method certified doctor can also help to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms and develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your individual needs.
Bioidentical Hormone Therapy for Adrenal Fatigue
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as general information only and is not intended to be used as medical advice. While the benefits of hormone replacement are well documented through clinical research, we are not representing that hormone therapy is a “cure” for any disease. Only your treating physician can determine if hormone replacement may be a beneficial part of your healthcare regimen, based on your age, overall health, risk factors, and lifestyle.
