Cures for Hormone Imbalance

The endocrine system is responsible for the production, storage and function of hormones. Hormones are chemicals that are synthesized in the endocrine glands then circulated throughout the body to bind with receptors, where they regulate activities, such as energy, growth and response to stress. There are more than 60 hormones exerting an effect on different parts of the body. Any cure for hormonal imbalances must address the specific hormone.

Endocrine Glands

• The major endocrine glands are the pituitary, pineal, thyroid, adrenals, pancreas and gonads. The pituitary regulates many different body activities, from growth and reproduction to urine volume and blood pressure. The pineal produces melatonin, which controls the sleep/wake cycle. The thyroid gland controls metabolism and maintains a constant level of calcium in the blood. The adrenal glands provide epinephrine and norepinephrine, which control the many physical reactions related to the "fight-or-flight" response. The pancreas produces the hormones that control blood glucose. The gonads manage all hormones related to reproduction and sexuality.

Hormone Imbalance

• Hormones maintain the balance that is required for the body's health. For example, they trigger an increase in glucose if the body needs more energy or they release another hormone to decrease levels if they are too high. Hormones perform their jobs by changing the physiological activities at the cellular level. An imbalance can mean either too much or too little hormone is available. There are many possible causes. The gland itself may be damaged or the organ responsible for alerting the gland to produce and secrete hormones may not be functioning properly. Hormone imbalance can cause disease, but some diseases result in disrupting the hormonal balance. Endocrine disruptors--chemicals found in everyday products--may interfere with the production or activities of hormones. Cures for hormone imbalances must be directed toward the cause, whether that is underlying illness or other factors.

Medical Treatment

• Liver sclerosis, brain injury and cancer are examples of physical disorders that can cause an imbalance of hormones. If a physical issue is causing the problem, then it must be addressed as a step toward curing the hormone imbalance. When there is insufficient hormone being produced or secreted, prescription medications can be used to replace the missing hormone. Another possible treatment is supplementation with nutrients that play a role in the synthesis of the hormone.

Alternative Medicine

• Depending on the cause and which hormone is imbalanced, alternative therapies, such as herbal remedies and supplements, may be available. The University of Maryland Medical Center has a complementary medicine section on its website. It can be searched using a specific diagnosis, resulting in detailed information about recommended alternative treatments.

Lifestyle Changes

• Lifestyle changes may be all that is needed or they may be used along with other treatments. Techniques that reduce stress, a healthy diet, regular exercise and adequate sleep all help to maintain a balance of hormones. In addition to a healthy diet, nutritional supplements will help to ensure the endocrine system has the support it needs to properly function.

Cure Versus Treatment

• There are some hormone conditions that can be treated but not be cured. The endocrine system is so complex that medical professionals should be consulted to target the hormone that is experiencing imbalance and to determine the best course of action.