Table of Contents

An Introduction to Bioidentical Hormones

Bioidentical hormones are identical in molecular structure to the hormones naturally produced in the human body. As we age, our hormone levels often decline, leading to unpleasant symptoms. Replacing these declining hormones with bioidentical versions can provide immense benefits.

At Balance Clinic, our exceptional endocrinologists specializing in hormones offer cutting-edge bioidentical hormone treatments to help patients regain their health, vitality, and quality of life.

What are Bioidentical Hormones?

Bioidentical hormones are synthesized from plant sources and tailored to be exactly the same as the estrogens, progesterone, and testosterone made naturally in the body. This makes them completely compatible with the body's hormone receptors, allowing for optimal effects.

In contrast, non-bioidentical hormones have slightly different structures, which may not fully bind with receptors. This can limit their effectiveness and lead to side effects.

Bioidentical hormones used at Balance Clinic include:

  • Estradiol
  • Progesterone
  • Testosterone
  • DHEA
  • Thyroid hormones T3 and T4

We customize unique bioidentical hormone regimens to suit each patient's needs.

Our Services

Why Hormone Levels Decline

Hormone levels begin decreasing around age 30, with more rapid depletion as we grow older. Reasons include:

  • Aging ovaries and testes producing less estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone
  • Increased sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), which binds hormones, so less is usable
  • Changes in endocrine glands like the adrenal glands and thyroid leading to hormonal disruption
  • Traumatic brain injuries, which can impair pituitary signaling
  • Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals

The decline of youthful hormone levels combined with elevated SHBG causes undesirable effects - which bioidentical hormone therapy can rectify.

The Vital Importance of Hormones for Health and Wellbeing

Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, thyroid hormone, and DHEA orchestrate a symphony of bodily processes that impact virtually all aspects of health. When these chemical messengers are deficient, the results can be profound.

By restoring hormones to optimal levels with bioidentical therapy, the entire body and mind benefit. Some of the key roles hormones play include:

Regulating Mood, Stress Resilience, and Cognitive Function

Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and DHEA exert protective effects on the brain and nervous system. They modulate neurotransmitters implicated in mood like serotonin and GABA while supporting nerve cell growth and connectivity.

With depleted hormone levels, many patients experience:

  • Depression and emotional dysregulation
  • Impaired memory, focus, and concentration
  • Anxious thoughts and excessive worrying
  • Irritability, impatience, and anger outbursts
  • Increased sensitivity to stressors and reduced resilience

Correcting hormonal deficiencies with bioidentical hormones from Balance Clinic often leads to enhanced mood stability, sharper cognition, greater stress tolerance, and an overall sense of calm and well-being.

Bolstering Energy Levels, Sleep Quality, and Physical Performance

Hormones are intricately involved in energy production processes in cells. They help regulate appetite signals and food intake to provide the raw materials for making cellular energy. Hormones also influence sleep-wake cycles and the rejuvenating sleep stages needed to combat fatigue.

Without optimal hormonal input, common effects include:

  • Chronic fatigue, low stamina, and feeling "wiped out"
  • Difficulty sleeping, frequent nighttime awakenings, or restless sleep
  • Afternoon energy crashes and needing naps to get through the day
  • Reduced muscle strength, athleticism, and slower recovery from workouts

Our specialized bioidentical hormone regimens counteract exhaustion by improving energy flows, aiding sleep quality, and enhancing fitness levels. Patients report feeling reenergized with more productive days and better physical functioning.

Hormone Decline Effects on Energy and Sleep Benefits of Replacement
Falling estrogen and progesterone Fatigue, insomnia, night sweats Increased stamina, deeper sleep
Low testosterone Muscle loss, reduced performance Greater strength and endurance
Thyroid deficiency Weakness, constant tiredness Heightened energy and alertness

With help from Balance Clinic and our expert bioidentical hormone doctors, you can reclaim your vigor, sleep better, and achieve peak physical performance!

Preserving Heart Health, Bone Density, and Metabolic Function

Hormones are fundamentally involved in cardiovascular health, bone integrity, and metabolic processes. Imbalances accelerate aging throughout the body.

  • Estrogen aids healthy cholesterol profiles, while testosterone helps cardiac muscle pump more powerfully
  • Falling estrogen undermines bone mineral density, increasing fracture risks
  • Thyroid hormones control body temperature and help determine basal metabolic rate

Bioidentical hormone treatment enhances heart health, bolsters bones against osteoporosis, and facilitates stable body weight. Patients often see measurable improvements in cholesterol markers, bone density scores, and body composition.

Check out our expert bioidentical hormone treatments and feel youthful again.

Diagnosing Hormone Imbalances with Lab Testing

The first step in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is diagnosing any deficiencies through comprehensive lab testing. At Balance Clinic, we specialize in state-of-the-art hormone assessments.

Why Testing Matters

Patients often struggle with non-specific complaints like fatigue, weight gain, and low libido without realizing hormonal depletion is the root issue. Identifying specific shortfalls is key for developing targeted treatment plans.

We screen for optimal levels of key hormones based on age and gender using blood, saliva, or urine. This allows us to tailor bioidentical regimens to each patient's unique needs.

Trying to correct vague symptoms without accurate lab work is akin to throwing darts blindfolded - you might hit the target, but you'll likely miss. Testing first provides clarity.

What We Test For

Standard medical checks rarely include hormonal analyses. At Balance Clinic, we dig deeper with advanced assessments of:

Key Hormones: - Estradiol, estrone, estriol - Progesterone - Total and free testosterone, DHEA-S - T3, Free T3, T4, Free T4 - FSH, LH

Relevant Biomarkers: - Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) - Insulin, glucose, hemoglobin A1c - Inflammatory markers like HS-CRP, homocysteine - Vitamins D, B12, folate - Thyroid antibodies

We can also test cortisol, melatonin, pregnenolone, and IGF-1 levels. Compiling a holistic hormone profile guides treatment.

Without accurate testing, hormone therapy becomes guesswork. At Balance Clinic, we offer cutting-edge assessments for true personalization.

Nebraska Leaders in Bioidentical Hormones

When struggling with hormone-related symptoms, finding an experienced bioidentical hormone doctor is paramount. At Balance Clinic, we've helped thousands recover energy, mental clarity, and wellness through customized plans.

Our Unique Approach

  • We listen carefully to understand root causes of imbalance, not just symptoms
  • Our endocrinologists specializing in hormones create treatment regimens tailored to each patient's needs
  • We provide ongoing monitoring and adjustment as needed over months and years
  • We address nutrition, fitness, stress management, and lifestyle factors essential for results
  • We educate patients to become experts in their own health journey

Why Choose Balance Clinic?

  • 10 years helping Nebraskans optimize hormones and slow aging
  • Regularly attend conferences and continually upgrade knowledge
  • Use advanced testing methods for accurate diagnoses
  • Stock quality compounded bioidentical hormones not accessible elsewhere
  • Seamless insurance billing assistance; competitive self-pay rates
  • Warm, caring staff focused on patient satisfaction

At Balance Clinic, we blend up-to-date expertise with accessibility and compassion. Contact us today to explore your treatment options!

Bioidentical Estrogen and Progesterone for Women

Declining estrogen and progesterone after menopause generate an array of unpleasant effects. Bioidentical hormone therapy can provide tremendous relief.

Why Estrogen and Progesterone Decline

The ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone leading up to menopause, with output plummeting at the final menstrual period. Lower levels cause issues like:

  • Hot flashes, night sweats, and sleep disruption
  • Vaginal dryness and discomfort during intercourse
  • Accelerated skin aging and collagen/elasticity loss
  • Mood swings, irritability, and mental fog
  • Weight gain and altered fat distribution

Bioidentical estrogen and progesterone from Balance Clinic balance hormones for symptom control.

Treatment Options

We offer varied regimens pairing bioidentical estrogen and progesterone to fit each woman:

  • Oral tablets or capsules
  • Sublingual drops
  • Transdermal creams or gels
  • Patches (estrogen only)
  • Vaginal inserts like rings or suppositories

Pellet implants placed under the skin, which release steady hormone amounts over months, are also available.

We thoughtfully adjust combinations until optimal based on follow-up testing.

Safety Considerations

Despite alarming warnings, bioidentical hormone therapy is safer than many believe when professionally monitored. The dose and delivery method make a major difference regarding risks like blood clots or breast cancer.

We prescribe the lowest effective doses for symptom relief rather than aiming to recreate youthful levels. This minimizes adverse effects, unlike the excessive doses used in older studies. We also regularly monitor patients - adjusting as needed to avoid excessive stimulation.

For patients with a uterus, progesterone balances estrogen's effects on uterine tissue. Those without can use estrogen alone.

With an individualized approach from Balance Clinic specialized doctors, bioidentical hormone therapy can safely ease menopausal changes.

Restore your health with bioidentical hormones.

The Benefits of Testosterone for Men's Health

Testosterone powers libido, fertility, muscle mass, motivation, and more in men. When "low T" strikes, replacing depleted hormones with bioidentical testosterone improves vitality.

Why Testosterone Declines

Testosterone peaks during adolescence/early adulthood, then slowly drops about 1% yearly. More rapid depletion occurs in mid-life, causing:

  • Reduced sex drive and erectile difficulties
  • Loss of strength, endurance, and "alpha" confidence
  • Weight gain, particularly centralized abdominal fat
  • Emotional blunting and depressive tendencies
  • Cognitive issues like brain fog and forgetfulness

Restoring youthful virility and function with testosterone therapy relieves these burdens.

Treatment Considerations

We administer bioidentical testosterone via:

  • Intramuscular injections, either weekly or longer-acting pellets implanted every 4-6 months
  • Transdermal gels, solutions, or patches applied daily

Oral testosterone is ineffective, as stomach enzymes break it down.

We recheck levels at intervals to maintain ideal numbers. Anti-estrogens or DHEA may complement regimens.

Maximizing Safety

Concerns around cardiovascular and prostate health with testosterone therapy have been overstated. Carefully managed regimens like those at Balance Clinic show minimal adverse risks. We monitor:

  • Hematocrit (red blood cell levels)
  • PSA scores to catch potential prostate changes

We also advise patients on lifestyle factors like fitness, diet, and stress reduction that optimize treatment outcomes.

Balance Clinic offers cutting-edge bioidentical testosterone restoration for frustrated men lacking energy and vitality.

Thyroid Hormones: The Metabolic Master Key

Triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) govern metabolic processes like digestion, temperature regulation, heart rate, and calorie-burning. Low thyroid function causes weight gain, fatigue, and more premature aging. Replacing missing hormones alleviates this.

Why Thyroid Levels Drop

The thyroid gland secretes less T3/T4 during aging, while increased inflammation and antibodies bombarding the thyroid also contribute to low output.

Common hypothyroidism symptoms are:

  • Stubborn weight gain and puffy appearance
  • Cold sensitivity and low body temperature
  • Chronic fatigue, weakness, and move slowly
  • Severe brain fog, poor memory, and fuzzy thinking
  • Hair thinning or loss, dry skin, and brittle nails

Bioidentical T3/T4 tablets quickly resolve these issues by restoring metabolic processes.

Options for Replacement

Tablets containing T4 levothyroxine are commonly prescribed, but some patients continue experiencing mild hypothyroidism. This is because conversion of T4 into the more active T3 is impaired.

For enhanced effects, we provide:

  • T3/T4 combination tablets
  • Sustained-release T3 (liothyronine)
  • Thyroid glandular supplements

We tailor doses to symptoms and lab test results rather than outdated reference ranges. Relief comes quickly!

Help for Hashimoto's Sufferers

We also specialize in Hashimoto's thyroiditis – an autoimmune condition causing inflammatory destruction of the thyroid. Our protocols incorporating T3-only options, thyroid glandulars, vitamin D, selenium, and gut healing allow patients to reduce antibodies and dependence on T4.

If you struggle with stubborn, low thyroid symptoms, our innovative bioidentical thyroid treatment can help you finally feel better.

Additional Hormone Therapies

While estrogen, testosterone, and thyroid hormones are cornerstones of bioidentical therapy, customized programs may also incorporate:

DHEA

DHEA provides buffering effects during stress while supporting immunity, sexual function, cellular repair, and inflammation regulation. Oral capsules easily restore youthful levels.

Melatonin

Melatonin enhances sleep initiation, quality, and brain rejuvenation. We offer fast-acting tablets to take at bedtime.

Cortisol

Imbalances of the "stress hormone" cortisol intervene with other hormones, accelerating burnout. We test patterns and craft solutions using herbs, mind-body techniques, and lifestyle changes to optimize adaptation.

Growth Hormone

Injectable growth hormone peptides reset the body composition and sometimes increase IGF-1 production. It requires frequent administration under the skin. Balance Clinic monitors progress every 6 months due to potential side effects.

No two patients are alike. Balance Clinic designs fully personalized anti-aging hormone treatments catered to your needs.

Lifestyle Strategies That Optimize Hormone Therapy Outcomes

Bioidentical hormones form the foundation for combating symptoms of aging. But nutrition, activity levels, stress reduction, and other behaviors greatly impact treatment success. Our doctors provide guidance to help patients maximize improvements.

Nutrition That Nurtures Hormones

Certain foods and nutrients can help or hinder hormonal balance. We offer tips like:

  • Choosing organic foods whenever possible
  • Emphasizing produce colors representing flavonoids protective against hormonal cancers
  • Incorporating cruciferous vegetables, which support estrogen detoxification
  • Using iodized salt for thyroid nourishment
  • Supplementing with targeted nutrients like zinc, boron, and vitamin D

Too much sugar, alcohol, and caffeine worsen hormone-related symptoms. An anti-inflammatory diet is ideal.

Master Stress with Mindfulness

Unrelenting demands from work, relationships, and obligations strain hormonal pathways. Learning stress management and mindful presence techniques like meditation profoundly lessen the impacts through physiological changes. Balance Clinic provides stress-busting guidance.

Better Sleep for Hormone Health

Rejuvenating sleep facilitates hormonal balance and tissue repair. We offer simple tips for improving sleep hygiene like:

  • Establishing fixed bed/wake times
  • Optimizing sleep environments
  • Winding down before bed with non-stimulating activities

Addressing hormone imbalances directly improves sleep quality as well in a recip

Other locations

Get Free Consultation