Progesterone and progestin (fake progesterone). You might think these are the same and you’d be justified in this belief because that's how physicians and the pharmaceutical industry like to present them.
But they’re not the same. Progesterone is a female reproductive hormone. Progestin is the synthetic form.
If you've been on oral contraceptives or hormone therapy you’ve probably been told that your medication contains progesterone. Actually oral contraceptives usually contain progestin. Hormone therapy often uses the synthetic version progestin as well.
Why is this important?
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the key differences between progesterone and progestin and some of the risks of using progestins.
What is progesterone?
It may also help to lower blood pressure, stimulate hair growth, and improve sleep.
What happens to progesterone during perimenopause and after menopause?
During perimenopause progesterone levels drop. This is a gradual decline that can start in the late 30s. By the time you reach your 40s, you may see irregular periods and it becomes more difficult to become pregnant and to sustain a healthy pregnancy. Lower progesterone levels contribute to some of the symptoms of menopause like hot flashes.
What are the symptoms of low progesterone?
When progesterone levels are low you may suffer from the effects of estrogen dominance. You can also have irregular menstrual periods, mood changes, trouble sleeping, anxiety and depression.
Low progesterone during pregnancy can result in spotting and miscarriage.
What are progestins?
They are often used as contraception and as part of hormone replacement therapy.
They also have other uses for hormone related treatments.
Most progestins are made from testosterone, although some are built from progesterone. Because they are not exactly the same as progesterone they can bind to androgen and estrogen receptors as well as progesterone receptors.
What are the side effects of progestins?
While progesterone has several health benefits, progestins can have some side effects that should be considered. The side effects depend on the type of progestin and whether it is used with estrogen. The side effects include:
Headaches
Elevated blood pressure
Breast tenderness
Changes in appetite and digestive issues
Bloating
Mood swings, irritability, and anxiety
Weight gain via water retention and/or fat gains.
There are also serious side effects including a higher risk of developing blood clots when used along with estrogen, and an increased risk of breast cancer.
Natural sources of progesterone
Aside from the production of progesterone in your body, there are natural sources of progesterone available. Natural progesterone is extracted from soybeans or yams and is found in cream or pill form. The cream form is more easily absorbed into the bloodstream than the pill form.
How to maintain healthy progesterone levels
Progesterone levels will naturally drop as you approach menopause, but there are ways you can help to keep levels as high as possible.
Adding these foods to your diet can help:
beans
broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables
nuts
spinach
Along with adding these foods to your diet, you should also try to reduce stress. If you are under too much stress your body will convert progesterone to cortisol.
Summary
Keeping hormone levels balanced and healthy is tricky. I can provide you with an eating plan that balances hormones and optimizes fat loss that is customized for you and your uniqueness. You will find that your personal food prescription will help to swiftly balance hormones and lift progesterone levels. Book your free call here.
References
Warm wishes,
Vicki Witt | Clinical Nutritionist | Holistic Coach | Reiki Master | Certified LEAP allergy therapist Over 25 years of successfully helping you achieve optimal health and weight loss 🍏 | www.vickiwittweightloss.com
Certified and Registered Nutritionist
About Vicki:
Vicki Witt is a Clinical Nutritionist, Holistic Health Coach, and Reiki Master. She has been practicing over 25 years and specializes in holistically customizing diet and lifestyle plans to each individual for weight loss and hormonal control. Her clientele often report they feel the best they have ever felt and wish they had started sooner. One of the USA and Australia's top Nutritionists, she has won multiple awards for her services in the industry.
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