Tag: Hormones

Many people experience persistent bloating, fatigue, brain fog, and food sensitivities without realizing these symptoms could stem from an underlying gut issue. They may try different diets, medications, or lifestyle changes but continue to feel unwell. Often, they are told their symptoms are due to stress, aging, or simply bad luck. But what if there was a deeper root cause?

Leaky gut, or increased intestinal permeability, is an often-overlooked condition where the tight junctions in the gut lining become compromised. This allows undigested food particles, toxins, and pathogens to enter the bloodstream, triggering inflammation and immune dysfunction. Research increasingly validates the connection between leaky gut and chronic health issues, including autoimmune diseases, metabolic disorders, and neurological dysfunctions.

Symptoms of Leaky Gut

The signs of leaky gut often masquerade as common ailments, making it easy to overlook. These include:

• Digestive Issues: Bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, and acid reflux
• Chronic Fatigue: Persistent low energy, despite adequate sleep
• Brain Fog & Mood Disorders: Poor concentration, anxiety, and depression
• Food Sensitivities & Allergies: New or worsening intolerances to dairy, gluten, or other foods
• Joint Pain & Muscle Aches: Inflammation-related discomfort
• Skin Problems: Eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, or persistent acne
• Autoimmune Conditions: Hashimoto’s, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and others linked to gut dysfunction
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Low levels of iron, B vitamins, magnesium, and zinc due to impaired absorption

What Causes Leaky Gut?

A variety of factors contribute to increased intestinal permeability, including:

1. Poor Diet: A diet high in processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats damage the gut lining over time. Gluten, for example, has been shown to trigger zonulin release, which increases gut permeability. Food additives, preservatives, and artificial sweeteners can also disrupt gut flora, leading to an imbalanced microbiome that weakens intestinal integrity. Studies indicate that the standard Western diet, rich in ultra-processed foods and low in fiber, plays a major role in gut barrier dysfunction.
2. Chronic Stress: Prolonged stress leads to elevated cortisol levels, which not only weaken the immune system but also reduce the production of protective mucus in the gut. This makes the gut lining more vulnerable to damage and inflammation. Stress also negatively impacts digestion, leading to incomplete breakdown of food, further aggravating gut health. Research has shown that stress-induced gut permeability plays a role in inflammatory and autoimmune conditions.
3. Dysbiosis (Imbalanced Gut Bacteria): A healthy gut contains a diverse community of beneficial bacteria that help regulate the gut barrier. However, factors such as antibiotic overuse, poor diet, and infections can lead to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria or yeast, like Candida. This imbalance creates inflammation and increases permeability, allowing harmful substances to pass through the gut lining into the bloodstream. Emerging research suggests that an imbalance in gut microbiota can influence systemic inflammation and contribute to chronic diseases.
4. Environmental Toxins: Exposure to pesticides, heavy metals, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals from food, water, and household products can contribute to inflammation and gut permeability. Glyphosate, the active ingredient in many herbicides, has been linked to gut barrier dysfunction by disrupting the gut microbiome and impairing tight junction proteins. Reducing toxin exposure through organic food choices and clean household products can significantly support gut health.
5. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Frequent use of pain relievers like ibuprofen and aspirin damages the gut lining by inhibiting enzymes that help maintain intestinal integrity. Long-term use has been associated with increased permeability and gut inflammation, making it a common but often overlooked cause of leaky gut. Studies indicate that NSAID use is a significant contributor to gastrointestinal inflammation and damage.
6. Intestinal Infections: Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can directly damage the gut lining. Conditions such as SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) and H. pylori infections alter the gut environment, weakening its natural defenses and making it more susceptible to permeability issues. Addressing these infections with targeted antimicrobial therapy and gut-supportive nutrients can help restore balance.
7. Food Sensitivities: Consistently consuming foods that trigger an immune response—such as gluten, dairy, soy, and processed seed oils—can lead to chronic low-grade inflammation in the gut. Over time, this inflammation erodes the gut lining, exacerbating leaky gut and contributing to systemic symptoms. Identifying and eliminating trigger foods can be a crucial step in healing.

Functional Tests for Identifying Leaky Gut

Conventional medicine lacks direct tests for leaky gut, but functional medicine offers several diagnostic tools:

• Zonulin Test: Measures levels of zonulin, a protein regulating tight junctions. Elevated levels suggest increased permeability.
• Lactulose-Mannitol Test: Assesses how well the intestines prevent sugar molecules from passing into the bloodstream.
• Comprehensive Stool Analysis: Identifies markers of gut inflammation, dysbiosis, and potential infections.
• Food Sensitivity Panels: Tests for immune reactions to common trigger foods.
• LPS (Lipopolysaccharides) Test: Detects endotoxins that indicate bacterial translocation from the gut into the bloodstream.

The Mutli-Faceted Approach For Healing Leaky Gut

Healing the gut requires a multi-faceted approach addressing diet, lifestyle, and supplementation. The 5R Protocol is a foundational strategy:

1. Remove: Eliminate inflammatory foods (gluten, dairy, sugar, processed foods) and potential infections (SIBO, Candida, parasites).
2. Replace: Support digestion with stomach acid (HCl), digestive enzymes, and bile acids.
3. Reinoculate: Restore healthy gut flora with probiotics and prebiotics.
4. Repair: Use gut-healing nutrients like L-glutamine, collagen, zinc carnosine, and aloe vera.
5. Rebalance: Address stress, sleep, and lifestyle factors that impact gut health.

If left unchecked, leaky gut can lead to more serious health concerns. Understanding leaky gut isn’t just about treating symptoms, it’s about restoring systemic health. By addressing the root causes and implementing personalized protocols, we can help individuals reclaim their health and vitality. If you are struggling with any of the symptoms mentioned, schedule a consultation and let’s get you back to feeling your best!

Sources:

Camilleri M. Leaky gut: mechanisms, measurement and clinical implications in humans. Gut. 2019 Aug;68(8):1516-1526. doi: 10.1136/gutjnl-2019-318427. Epub 2019 May 10. PMID: 31076401; PMCID: PMC6790068. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31076401/

Hasan N, Yang H. Factors affecting the composition of the gut microbiota, and its modulation. PeerJ. 2019 Aug 16;7:e7502. doi: 10.7717/peerj.7502. PMID: 31440436; PMCID: PMC6699480. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6699480/

Odenwald MA, Turner JR. Intestinal permeability defects: is it time to treat? Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2013 Sep;11(9):1075-83. doi: 10.1016/j.cgh.2013.07.001. Epub 2013 Jul 12. PMID: 23851019; PMCID: PMC3758766. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23851019/ 

Fasano A. Leaky gut and autoimmune diseases. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol. 2012 Feb;42(1):71-8. doi: 10.1007/s12016-011-8291-x. PMID: 22109896.

Bischoff SC, Barbara G, Buurman W, Ockhuizen T, Schulzke JD, Serino M, Tilg H, Watson A, Wells JM. Intestinal permeability–a new target for disease prevention and therapy. BMC Gastroenterol. 2014 Nov 18;14:189. doi: 10.1186/s12876-014-0189-7. PMID: 25407511; PMCID: PMC4253991.

Libido, or sexual desire, is a complex interplay of hormones, neurotransmitters, and overall health. While many factors influence sexual desire, one of the most significant is hormonal balance. When key hormones are out of sync, libido often declines, leaving both men and women frustrated and confused about why their desire has diminished.

Uncovering the root causes of low libido rather than just treating symptoms is key. By addressing hormonal imbalances, underlying metabolic dysfunction, and lifestyle factors, it’s possible to restore a healthy sex drive and overall well-being.

Let’s dive in!

Signs and Symptoms of Hormone-Related Low Libido

Low libido due to hormonal imbalances often presents alongside other symptoms. Understanding these signs can help identify the root cause:

• Low Testosterone: Testosterone is the primary hormone responsible for libido in both sexes. Symptoms of low testosterone include reduced motivation, fatigue, difficulty building muscle, and increased body fat. Men may experience erectile dysfunction, while women might notice vaginal dryness and a lack of arousal. Low testosterone can also contribute to depression and brain fog, further reducing sexual interest.
• Estrogen Imbalance: Both low and high estrogen can impact libido in women. Low estrogen is often associated with perimenopause and menopause, leading to vaginal dryness, discomfort during intercourse, and mood changes. High estrogen (estrogen dominance) can result in heavy periods, bloating, and irritability. Estrogen also plays a key role in increasing blood flow to sexual organs, so imbalances can lead to decreased sensation and arousal.
• Progesterone Deficiency: This hormone plays a role in balancing estrogen levels. Low progesterone can cause anxiety, sleep disturbances, and mood swings, which indirectly contribute to a diminished sex drive. It also works with estrogen to regulate dopamine and serotonin, neurotransmitters that influence pleasure and emotional well-being.
• Cortisol Dysregulation: Chronic stress leads to high cortisol, suppressing sex hormone production. Symptoms include weight gain (especially around the midsection), brain fog, poor sleep, and low energy—factors that significantly impact libido. Over time, high cortisol can lead to adrenal fatigue, further reducing hormone production and sexual desire.
• Thyroid Dysfunction: Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can lead to decreased libido. Hypothyroidism often causes fatigue, weight gain, and depression, while hyperthyroidism can result in anxiety and rapid weight loss. The thyroid regulates metabolism and energy levels, so dysfunction can lead to sluggishness and a lack of interest in intimacy.
• Insulin Resistance: Poor blood sugar regulation contributes to inflammation, hormone imbalance, and weight gain—all of which negatively impact libido. Elevated insulin can suppress sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), leading to increased estrogen in men and reduced testosterone in women, both of which negatively affect sexual desire.

Natural Strategies to Enhance Libido

Restoring a healthy sex drive requires a comprehensive approach. Here’s how to support the key libido-enhancing hormones:

1. Optimize Testosterone Naturally

• Strength Training: Resistance training, such as weightlifting, increases testosterone levels.
• Zinc & Vitamin D: Zinc supports testosterone production, while vitamin D acts as a hormone regulator.
• Healthy Fats: Avocados, nuts, and omega-3-rich fish support hormone synthesis.
• Adequate Sleep: Poor sleep reduces testosterone levels, so aim for 7–9 hours per night.
• Reduce Alcohol & Endocrine Disruptors: Excess alcohol and exposure to xenoestrogens (found in plastics and certain chemicals) can lower testosterone levels.

2. Balance Estrogen & Progesterone

• Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts help metabolize excess estrogen.
• Seed Cycling: Flaxseeds and pumpkin seeds support estrogen production in the first half of the cycle, while sesame and sunflower seeds promote progesterone in the second half.
• Chasteberry (Vitex): An herbal remedy that supports progesterone levels.
• Reduce Xenoestrogens: Avoid plastic containers, conventional dairy, and personal care products with endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
• Support Liver Health: The liver helps metabolize estrogen, so consuming foods rich in sulforaphane (e.g., Brussels sprouts) and drinking plenty of water supports detoxification.

3. Regulate Cortisol and Stress Levels

• Adaptogens: Herbs like ashwagandha and rhodiola help regulate cortisol.
• Mindfulness Practices: Meditation, deep breathing, and yoga lower stress and improve hormone balance.
• Consistent Sleep Routine: Going to bed at the same time each night supports cortisol rhythm.
• Magnesium: This essential mineral calms the nervous system and supports adrenal health.
• Cold Exposure & Exercise: Brief cold showers and regular movement can improve resilience to stress and lower excessive cortisol levels.

4. Support Thyroid Function

• Iodine & Selenium: Essential nutrients found in seaweed and Brazil nuts that support thyroid health.
• Reduce Gluten & Processed Foods: Many individuals with thyroid dysfunction benefit from a gluten-free diet.
• Test & Treat Deficiencies: Ensure adequate iron, B vitamins, and vitamin D levels.
• Incorporate Adaptogenic Herbs: Herbs like guggul and ashwagandha can support thyroid hormone production.

5. Improve Insulin Sensitivity

• Reduce Sugar Intake: Excess sugar spikes insulin, leading to hormonal imbalances.
• Prioritize Protein & Fiber: These nutrients help regulate blood sugar levels.
• Regular Movement: Strength training and walking improve insulin sensitivity.
• Berberine Supplementation: This natural compound has been shown to lower blood sugar and improve metabolic function.
• Intermittent Fasting (IF): IF can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation when done appropriately.

Low libido isn’t just a result of aging – it’s a sign that something in the body is out of balance. By addressing the underlying hormonal imbalances and implementing targeted lifestyle changes, it’s possible to restore a vibrant sex drive and overall well-being.

If you struggle with persistent low libido, consider functional testing for hormonal imbalances and begin incorporating nutrient-dense foods, stress management techniques, and hormone-supportive practices into daily life. We/I can help – schedule your consultation today!

Sources:

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Davidson JM, Chen JJ, Crapo L, Gray GD, Greenleaf WJ, Catania JA. Hormonal changes and sexual function in aging men. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 1983 Jul;57(1):71-7. doi: 10.1210/jcem-57-1-71. PMID: 6602143.

Santoro N, Worsley R, Miller KK, Parish SJ, Davis SR. Role of Estrogens and Estrogen-Like Compounds in Female Sexual Function and Dysfunction. J Sex Med. 2016 Mar;13(3):305-16. doi: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2015.11.015. PMID: 26944462.

Hamilton LD, Rellini AH, Meston CM. Cortisol, sexual arousal, and affect in response to sexual stimuli. J Sex Med. 2008 Sep;5(9):2111-8. doi: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2008.00922.x. Epub 2008 Jul 4. Erratum in: J Sex Med. 2008 Nov;5(11):2735. Erratum in: J Sex Med. 2010 Nov;7(11):3803. PMID: 18624961; PMCID: PMC2703719.

Mathis Grossmann, Merlin C. Thomas, Sianna Panagiotopoulos, Ken Sharpe, Richard J. MacIsaac, Sophie Clarke, Jeffrey D. Zajac, George Jerums, Low Testosterone Levels Are Common and Associated with Insulin Resistance in Men with Diabetes, The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, Volume 93, Issue 5, 1 May 2008, Pages 1834–1840, https://doi.org/10.1210/jc.2007-2177

Anastasiadis AG, Davis AR, Salomon L, Burchardt M, Shabsigh R. Hormonal factors in female sexual dysfunction. Curr Opin Urol. 2002 Nov;12(6):503-7. doi: 10.1097/00042307-200211000-00011. PMID: 12409881.