Marla Ahlgrimm is the co-author of "The HRT Solution" and "Self-Help for Premenstrual Syndrome."
Tuesday 20 December 2016
Marla Ahlgrimm | Sex Hormones
Q: What is estrogen and why is it so important to women’s growth and development?
Marla Ahlgrimm: Though estrogen occurs in both men and women’s bodies, it is one of the main hormones in a woman’s reproductive system. The three forms of estrogen, estriol, estrone, and estradiol, each have different functions. A deficiency of any of these can cause severe health conditions, including osteoporosis, chronic dry skin, mood swings, systemic inflammation, and fatigue.
Q: Which hormones are related to the menstrual cycle?
Marla Ahlgrimm: Levels of both estrogen and progesterone change depending on where a woman is in her menstrual cycle. Progesterone is commonly considered a counterpart to estrogen and helps encourage estrogen-driven growth of the uterine lining during fetal development. When these two hormones are out of balance, women may experience symptoms including headache, bloating, irritability, and possibly uterine fibroids.
Q: Do women have testosterone?
Marla Ahlgrimm: Though associated with masculinity, testosterone is vital for women’s health, in small amounts. A testosterone deficiency in women can cause fatigue and decreased libido.
Q: What is the most common steroid hormone in the human body?
Marla Ahlgrimm: DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone), which is the precursor to estrogen as well as testosterone. DHEA is released by the adrenal glands and has a profound effect on cognitive abilities and emotional health. DHEA works to decrease fat, maintain cardiovascular function, and support healthy bone development. Excessive DHEA can cause dermatological problems and liver dysfunction.
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