Stress and Hormone Balance

In order to achieve hormone balance, we must consider the effects of stress. Beyond the ‘sex hormones’-- estrogen, progesterone and testosterone--the body relies on many other hormones, such as insulin, cortisol, adrenaline, DHEA and pregnenolone , to regulate ongoing bodily functions. Disruption of the balance soon means problems elsewhere in the body.

What exactly is stress?

Stress can be physical, emotional or mental tension—or any factor that would cause these things. Physical stressors include such things as illness, severe injury, surgery, food allergies, chemical sensitivities, heavy metal exposure and poor nutrition. Emotional and mental tensions can result from a host of sources, such as job expectations, work overloads, parenting challenges and relationship problems. Any and all of these stressors can negatively affect mental health, bone health, colon health , cardiovascular health, immune function and menopause hormone balance.

How does all of this lead to hormone imbalance?

In response to a stressful event, the body revs up the sympathetic nervous system—the so-called ‘fight or flight’ mechanism.

The adrenal glands quickly release adrenaline and cortisol to provide the needed energy. A process called gluconeogenesis actually causes the breakdown of muscle protein so that amino acids can be released into the bloodstream. These aminos are then used by the liver to manufacture needed glucose, which raises the blood sugar level, supplying the brain with instant usable energy.

In a normal stress response—like a near-miss car collision—the body sends out substances after the event to normalize (reduce) the levels of cortisol and adrenaline. Our shaking hands and pounding heart eventually return to normal.

However, when we remain in a state of perceived stress for hours or days at a time, a host of problems can result due to the continued presence of cortisol. Blood sugar levels (insulin) remain elevated. Blood pressure can also remain elevated. Progesterone, needed for synthesis of cortisol, is being gobbled up by the adrenal system and is diverted away from other functions. Before long, a woman’s body can become progesterone-deficient and thyroid function may be compromised. (hypothyroid) A weakened adrenal system also fails to produce adequate levels of DHEA, leading to premature aging, low sex drive and cardiovascular problems.

How does all of this impact my menopause symptoms?

Progesterone is the primary hormone utilized to create adrenal hormones; therefore continued stress can result in adrenal exhaustion. Exhausted adrenals produce less and less progesterone and estrogen dominance results. Cortisol also appears to block the efficient conversion of thyroid hormones, resulting in fatigue, weight gain, depression, brain fog and joint/muscle pain.

Another adrenal hormone, aldosterone, is necessary for regulating the balance of minerals, chiefly sodium, potassium and magnesium. When stress causes a release of this hormone over an extended period of time, potassium deficiency and magnesium imbalance can occur, leading to high blood pressure and water retention. Cortisol may also contribute to hot flashes as it is thought to compete with estrogen and progesterone receptor sites.

What is the correlation between cortisol and weight gain?

Several herbal and nutritional supplement companies have jumped onto the scene, promising to rescue us from this stress hormone. You may have heard or seen ads promoting such products as Cortislim© and Relacor©. Of course, there is no such such thing as a magic diet pill--one must also change their diet and exercise habits. However, there is some science behind their claims.

Karen Collins of the American Institute for Cancer Research confirms the link to between stress, cortisol and weight problems and writes, “Some research suggests that cortisol may affect where body fat is stored. In one study, baseline levels of cortisol had no relation to women’s fat distribution. But those whose cortisol levels jumped the most in response to stress tended to have proportionally more waistline fat – even if they had a healthy weight. A greater proportion of fat at the waist was related to increased levels of ongoing stress related to work or finances, or lower levels of self-esteem. This waistline fat that gives people an apple shape poses the greatest health risks….”

What's the connection to osteoporosis? Stress causes magnesium to be excreted at an abnormal rate. Calcium, magnesium and potassium need to be present in proper levels to prevent bone loss. Also, the very presence of magnesium can lessen the stress response in the first place. For many reasons, it is a critical nutrient for healthy bones. To learn more about magnesium and your health, click here.

What can you do to combat the effects of stress?

Support your body with quality food choices and extra antioxidants, such as vitamin C and B-complex. Other supplements might include magnesium (see Natural Calm below), pantothenic acid, L-theanine and kava. Check with your doctor if you have questions.

Support your mind and mental health with physical exercise, supportive friends, and relaxation and/or meditation techniques. If you don’t already own one, consider adopting a pet at your local animal shelter. Make quality time a priority with your family. Volunteer in your community or get involved with a local church or synagogue.

Learn more about cortisol

Learn more about adrenal stress and fatigue

Disclaimer: This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or other medical condition. This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Please consult with your doctor should you have specific health questions or concerns.

References and resources:

1. John R. Lee, MD, with Virginia Lee, What Your Doctor May not Tell You about Menopause, New York: Warner Books, 1996.

2. Kate Neil and Patrick Holford, Balance Hormones Naturally: Freedom, CA, The Crossing Press, 1999.

3. Uzzi Reiss, M.D., Natural Hormone Balance, New York: Pocket Books, 2001.

4. Burton Goldberg and the editors of Alternative Medicine, Alternative Guide to Women’s Health 1, Tiburon, CA: Future Medicine Publishing, 1998.

5. Mildred Seelig, M.D. and Andrea Rosanoff, Ph. D., The Magnesium Factor, New York: Penguin Publishing, 2003.

6. Christiane Northrup, M.D., The Wisdom of Menopause, New York: Bantam Books, 2001.