10 Best Supplements for Hormonal Imbalance

Hormones are chemical messengers secreted by the endocrine glands, comprising the hypothalamus gland, pituitary gland, thyroid gland, adrenal gland, pancreas, testes, and ovaries. Hormones travel through the bloodstream and signal the organs to perform crucial bodily functions such as growth, sleep cycle regulation and metabolism. A hormone imbalance occurs when there is excess or too little secretion of these hormones, which creates an imbalance in the body. Ahead in the blog, we will understand what hormonal imbalance is, the causes behind it, its symptoms, and the best supplements for hormonal imbalance that you can use to prevent or manage hormonal disorders for optimal health.

Understanding Hormonal Imbalance 

What is hormonal imbalance?

Hormones are responsible for managing different bodily functions such as growth and development, reproduction, sexual functions, homeostasis, mood regulation, and many more. A hormone imbalance mainly happens when hormones are present in too much or too little quantity in the body. This can hamper the overall normal functioning of the body. Some hormone imbalances can be managed by lifestyle changes, whereas some severe ones require medical treatment to mitigate negative impacts, which may lead to a deteriorated quality of life in the long run.

Common causes of hormonal imbalance:

• Stress: Stress can severely affect the endocrine system triggering hormonal imbalances that can lead to the release of cortisol or stress hormones further aggravating symptoms such as cramps, night sweats, anxiety, and depression. High levels of stress can decrease the secretion of T3 and T4, which inhibits the TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone), disrupting the metabolism. Moreover, stress can negatively impact insulin levels, increasing the risk of developing stress-induced hyperglycaemia (type 2 diabetes) due to a rise in cortisol levels.
• Medications: Hormone imbalances may occur due to the administration of various medicinal drugs for prolonged periods that may create abnormalities by altering the mechanism of some hormones. Certain drugs, such as birth control medications, can hamper the production of oestrogen and progesterone in females leading to irregular menstrual cycle and ovulation period. Overconsumption of anabolic steroids, certain antidepressants, corticosteroids and beta blockers can also cause hormonal disruptions and extreme use can cause irreversible organ damage.
• Disease condition: Chronic or auto-immune diseases, tumours and injuries particularly of the endocrine gland can cause various metabolic and hormonal disorders, including disruptions in the secretion of androgens, progesterone, oxytocin, and prolactin resulting in hormonal imbalance.
• Precocious puberty: Puberty is primarily the result of increased secretion of steroidal hormones like testosterone and oestrogen. However, precocious puberty is the release of the secondary hormone before time leading to breast development and the early menstrual cycle in females and male genital and pubic hair growth in males during the childhood period. These early sexual developments in children are due to an imbalance of hormones.
• Obesity: Obesity is the accumulation of excess fat in the body. It can be because of various reasons such as a sedentary lifestyle and genetics. Obesity conditions can lead to hormonal imbalances which further lead to the release of cortisol (stress hormone), PCOS in women, metabolic syndrome, thyroid hormone deficiency, growth hormone deficiency, diabetes, etc. Also, an imbalance of appetite-regulating hormones like ghrelin and leptin can lead to an increased intake of food and lower energy expenditure leading to obesity.
• Bad lifestyle habits: Modern lifestyles and poor dietary habits such as the consumption of empty-calorie foods, smoking, consumption of alcohol, sedentary lifestyles, long sitting hours, and irregular sleep cycles may lead to hormonal imbalances. These lifestyle choices can make you more susceptible to severe medical conditions such as diabetes, PCOD, early ageing, and complications during pregnancy.
• Eating disorders: Eating disorders are more prevalent in women than men. Bulimia, anorexia nervosa, restrictive eating disorder, and binge eating disorder can disrupt nutritional levels in the body, which is directly linked to hormonal imbalance. For example, bulimia and anorexia can lead to increased levels of cortisol which can cause anxiety or depression impacting reproductive hormones like progesterone and oestrogen and affecting fertility. Binge eating disorder can lead to the accumulation of excess fat deposits in the body, resulting in insulin and leptin resistance and altering hormonal balance.
• Iodine deficiency: Iodine deficiency is one of the main reasons for thyroid-related diseases which can cause imbalances in thyroid hormone production leading to disease conditions like goitre and hypothyroidism (under-active thyroid). It raises the risk of symptoms such as weight gain, enlarged thyroid (goitre), fatigue, and tiredness.

Symptoms of hormonal imbalance:

 Common Symptoms of hormonal imbalance include fatigue, weight gain or loss, constipation, depression, and Acne.

• Irregular menstrual cycles:  Both high and low hormonal levels can cause hormonal imbalance in the entire reproductive system, which causes conditions like PCOD or PCOS. As a result, females with irregular menstrual cycles and unpredictable ovulation times can develop problems like infertility. Men with low testosterone levels can face severe muscle loss, erectile dysfunction, and fertility issues.
  
• Thyroid issues or conditions: Sudden weight loss and gain along with chronic fatigue can be symptoms of thyroid imbalance.  When the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone it speeds up the metabolism, resulting in sudden excessive weight loss, this condition is called hyperthyroidism.

Hypothyroidism is the opposite of hyperthyroidism. It is also termed "under-active thyroid, which happens when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones to meet the body’s requirements.

Without the secretion of enough thyroid hormones, metabolic functions slow down, which may result in weight gain and trigger depression, fatigue, muscle and joint pain, irregular menstrual cycles, and fertility issues.

• Cushing syndrome:  Cushing’s syndrome is directly linked to a rise in cortisol (stress hormone) levels over a long period of time. Cushing’s syndrome may disrupt other hormone functions and trigger obesity, excess hair growth on the neck, chest, abdomen, and face in women, irregular menstrual cycles, and decreased fertility due to the production of too much cortisol hormone.
  
• Unexpected weight gain or weight loss: Unexpected weight gain and weight loss are symptoms of metabolic disruptions which can occur due to an imbalance in the regulation of leptin, ghrelin and insulin hormones, leading to altered metabolism and appetite patterns.
  
• Mood swings (anxiety issues): Hormonal fluctuations often trigger mood swings by affecting mood-regulating neurotransmitters (dopamine or serotonin) leading to irritability, anxiety and depressive episodes. These can be the result of disrupted cortisol levels or sex hormone fluctuations impacting neurotransmitters in females during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy or menopause.
  
• Skin and hair issues: Hormonal imbalance can show symptoms such as excessive shedding or hair loss, dry or oily skin which can affect both men and women because of stress, hypothyroidism or imbalanced cortisol and oestrogen levels. For some, it can also have issues of acne, especially in females.

Top Supplements for Hormonal Imbalance

Given below is a list of the best supplements for hormone imbalance that may help you recover from symptoms of hormonal disorders and support your overall well-being.

• Ashwagandha: It is also known by the name Withania sominfera and is an ancient adaptogenic herb that is considered beneficial to regulate cortisol levels (stress hormone) and helps overcome stress and anxiety, promote sleep and improve cognitive function. It can positively impact the endocrine system by regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which leads to fertility improvement. It also helps in improving testosterone levels by enhancing dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), which is later converted into testosterone. It has also shown improvements in the reproductive system by restoring levels of the oestrogen hormone. However, there is more research needed on Ashwagandha to make it one of the most promising supplements for hormonal balance. As an adaptogenic herb, it supports in lowering stress levels which is partially linked as a causative factor of hormonal imbalance.
• Chasteberry (Vitex Agnus Castus): Chasteberry, also known as monk’s pepper, is a herb that may help overcome premature ovarian ageing and improve fertility in women. It may help decrease the concentration of estradiol and FSH to support ovulation. Moreover, Chasteberry contains compounds that can interact with the pituitary gland to influence the production of luteinizing hormone (LH) and prolactin. It may also help relieve PMS symptoms. Chasteberry also decreases levels of prolactin hormone that helps in rebalancing other hormones including oestrogen and progesterone levels.
• Multivitamin (B12, B6, Magnesium, Iodine, Selenium): Multivitamins can play an important role in supporting the endocrine system by providing crucial nutrients to the body to manage hormonal imbalances. However, it is important to note that multivitamins are not a replacement for a well-balanced diet but complementary to it. They provide nutrients that may be lacking in the diet.
• Vitamin B12: Low levels of vitamin B12 may affect reproductive hormones as it is associated with lower levels of testosterone leading to hormonal imbalance, impacting male fertility.
• Vitamin B6: Vitamin B6 is a key nutrient that supports optimal functioning of adrenal and pituitary glands. It plays a major role in the regulation of the growth hormone, insulin, corticosterone, testosterone, epinephrine, and luteinizing hormone (LH). Thus, deficiency of vitamin B6 can disrupt the functions of the endocrine system, leading to hormonal imbalances, for example, alleviated symptoms of PMS, infertility, mood swings, and irregular menstrual cycles in women.
• Magnesium: Magnesium helps balance the secretion of thyroid hormones to eliminate thyroid hormone dysfunction by converting inactive thyroid hormone (T4) to active thyroid hormone (T3). It promotes balanced secretion of progesterone and cortisol (stress hormone) to manage functions such as interaction between the hypothalamus, pituitary, and adrenal gland axis (neurobiological hormones) by modulating the neurotransmitter system to regulate many bodily processes such as mood, emotions, immunity, and energy balance of the body.
• Iodine: Iodine deficiency is one of the main causes of thyroid-related diseases. It can lead to imbalances in thyroid hormone production leading to conditions like hypothyroidism (under-active thyroid). Iodine deficiency in females can also result in fertility issues. Thus, it is advised to consume the recommended dose of iodine supplement to regulate thyroid function for balanced hormone levels.
• Selenium: Oxidative stress and inflammation can cause disruptions in the thyroid functioning, leading to hormonal imbalance. Selenium is not only required for optimal functioning of the thyroid hormone but also helps in the production of the follice stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH) —the reproductive hormones. With more studies and research, selenium can become one of the highest-quality hormonal imbalance supplements, as it has the potential to improve thyroid health and fertility issues. For example, selenium helps in protecting sperm from free radical damage and supports fertility.
• Pine Bark Extract: Pine bark extract is rich in polyphenols and other phytonutrients that act as antioxidants. These can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, decreasing cortisol levels and supporting adrenal health. It also moderates hormonal imbalances related to thyroid dysfunction and symptoms of menopause such as depression, hot flashes, fatigue, and irritability.
• Dashmool: Dashmool is an Ayurvedic formula. Its name translates to “a mixture of ten roots.” It is used to manage several hormonal disorders because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can negatively impact hormone regulation. It supports postpartum recovery and helps address infertility disorders by enhancing reproductive health. The combination of these 10 roots effectively manages Vata dosha along with menstrual discomfort to support overall reproductive well-being. Dashmool is a vital component of ancient Indian healing practices and can be incorporated into your routine to deal with hormonal imbalance. However, it is advised to consult a healthcare professional to evaluate the symptoms and dosage according to individual requirements.
• Omega-3: Omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA, are essential for maintaining hormonal balance. They are responsible for the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which helps in reducing inflammation that is linked to various hormonal disorders making it one of the best supplements for hormone imbalance. Omega-3 also helps reduce the production of cortisol, lowering stress. Omega-3 fatty acids aid the regulation of the menstrual cycle and help in modulating the effects of PCOS, menopausal but more research studies are needed to justify.
• Vitamin D: Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a critical role in hormone regulation such as reducing the risk of autoimmune attacks on the thyroid gland by reducing inflammation and lowering thyroid antibody levels. It curbs the risk of developing Hashimoto’s disease which is an auto-immune disease linked to hypothyroidism. Furthermore, women suffering from PCOS often develop insulin resistance which can lead to hormonal imbalance, A 2019 study found that Vitamin D has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, making it one of the prominent best supplements for hormonal imbalance in females with PCOS condition.

• Shatapushpa (Anethum Sowa): Shatapushpa has been found effective in regulating menstrual cycles because of its phytoestrogenic properties, which can promote hormonal balance by balancing the excessive production of androgens. Shatapushpa is effective for conditions like amenorrhea, irregular menstruation, and oligomenorrhoea often used as a natural remedy for hormonal disorders in women. However, more research is needed to reap the full potential of Shatapushpa as one of the best supplements for hormonal imbalance.
• Shatavari: Shatavari, is a traditional medicinal plant and an adaptogenic herb useful for regulating hormones produced by pituitary,  adrenal and hypothalamus glands. It is an Ayurvedic formulation that helps combat menopausal symptoms such as reduction in hot flashes, insomnia, anxiety, nervousness, vaginal dryness, and loss of libido. Shatavari also has properties that can balance Pitta dosha, which is responsible for digestion and regulation of metabolic and hormonal functions in the human body. Shatavari contains phytoestrogens that mimic the effects of oestrogen. It is crucial for eliminating discomfort associated with menopause and regulating the menstrual cycle. Shatavari is a noteworthy option for managing women’s hormonal health. However, more long-duration research is required. However, with further research, it will become one of the most prominent supplements for hormonal imbalance.
• Curcumin: Curcumin is an extremely viable antioxidant derived from turmeric. Its antioxidant properties can protect the body from oxidative stress. It can help maintain hormonal balance by preventing free radicals from damaging cell membranes, which can disrupt the endocrine system. Its pain-relieving effects can help curb symptoms of PMS and dysmenorrhea. However, further research is needed to establish their efficacy and safety to consider it one of the best supplements for hormonal imbalance.

Conclusion:

To sum up, the above-listed supplements for hormonal imbalance can play an essential role in managing hormone levels for optimal health. Prolonged hormonal imbalance can result in various issues such as depression, anxiety, fatigue, and mood swings. It may also worsen your quality of life by inducing sleep disturbances, immune dysfunction, impairment in cognitive function, and weight fluctuations. Thus, effective management of hormonal imbalances can be achieved through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and supplementation, whether through Ayurvedic herbs or natural plant extracts like Ashwagandha, Chasteberry, and Shatavari or with the help of supplements like vitamin D capsules and omega-3 capsules, which are necessary for regulating the endocrine system. However, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional before starting any hormonal imbalance supplements to ensure safety and efficacy.