Hormone Optimisation

The hormonal system (also known as the endocrine system) is a network of glands and organs throughout the body that produce hormones. Hormones are essentially the body’s chemical messengers. They are produced by various glands in the endocrine system and are released into the bloodstream. Once in the bloodstream, hormones travel to different tissues and organs, where they bind to specific receptors on the target cells (think of a lock and key scenario). This binding triggers a series of responses that can influence many processes such as growth, metabolism, mood, and reproduction.

Understanding how hormones work is key to grasping their role in maintaining health and how imbalances can lead to various medical conditions.

From a longevity and preventative health perspective we follow the hormone hierarchy pyramid concept that suggests certain hormones have more influence within the body’s endocrine system. This hierarchy is important because it implies that to balance hormones higher up in the pyramid, you must address those at the base.

This hierarchy emphasizes the interconnectedness of hormonal functions and the importance of a balanced endocrine system for overall health.

Hormones are an intricately connected in a delicate system.

They work best when they are in balance with one another. Imbalances (especially at the base of the hormone pyramid) can disrupt the entire system).

There are 3 tiers to the hormone hierarchy pyramid:

Tier 1: the foundational tier.

  • Cortisol -“stress hormone”

  • Insulin – “energy storage hormone”

These hormones directly impact all others and need to be balanced first

Tier 2

  • DHEA - “converts into sex hormone”

  • Pregnenolone – “converts into cortisol and DHEA”

Tier 3

Each of these hormones have multiple functions in the body depending on the target tissue and receptors.

  • Thyroid hormones - “metabolism regulating hormones”

  • Melatonin – “circadian rhythm hormone”

  • Progesterone – “supports menstruation and pregnancy”

  • Oestrogens – “main female hormone”

  • Testosterone – “main male hormone”

The stability of tier 3 depends on the balance of tiers 1 and 2.