Hormones & the Aging Woman

Times are constantly changing, science and the understanding of nature is moving forward in leaps and bounds. Truths we used to take for granted change frequently. The way I see it, within few years a trend will develop that will liken human body to a car. Young people will be instructed how to manage every part and the totality of it correctly to prevent disease and delay aging. If and when a bodily organ performs below a set standard, the individual organ will be replaced (I’m thinking stem cells: you grow your own new kidney, without the risk and mess of a surgery or as it is the case with transplantation, the need for anti-rejection drugs.) If you imagine a classic car, in the next 20 years or so, people will be able to maintain themselves on a given schedule, replace used up or malfunctioning parts and quite possibly double their lifespan.

The Role of Hormones in Aging and Anti-Aging

Right now, scientists believe that hormones play a huge role in aging. Actually, you don’t need to be a scientist to notice that certain physical changes coincide with hormonal – and other chemical – changes in our bodies. (I’m talking about natural substances produced naturally by human bodies.) As we age the amounts we naturally produce drop much lower or the natural production seizes altogether.

Human Growth Hormone (HGH) is produced generously by growing bodies. It is currently believed that HGH is a sort of “fountain of youth” that “restores” youthful functions of the body. It is credited with helping to develop lean muscle and reducing fat tissue; increasing energy levels; improving memory; speeding up several processes within the body therefore stimulating faster renewal.

Female Hormones (Estrogen, Progesterone). It’s not a secret that once the menstrual cycle stops woman’s aging rapidly accelerates. We know it. Susanne Somers advocates hormone replacement with natural, bio-identical hormones (not synthetic ones!). The principle is somewhat similar to HGH. Make no mistake, the goal isn’t to restore reproductive function but to prolong youth, improve stamina and elevate mood. (Incidentally, the same applies to the male hormone, testosterone: low testosterone levels accelerate aging in men.)

A good example of other substances typically produced by younger bodies in higher amounts is Hyaluronic Acid (NOT a hormone) which is somewhat of nature’s lubricant and can be found in the fluid surrounding our eyes; in our joints and skin.

The role of hormones in aging and anti-aging is proven. Whether supplementation with substances that are produced in minuscule amounts or not at all anymore by our own bodies, can restore function, appearance, stamina and joy of life is still being debated. This approach has enthusiasts as well as opponents.

In the end, I can’t help myself: we’re biological computers that are limited in capacity and time by the condition of our biological packaging. If we can extend our biological capacity – that’s what I think – we could conceivably remain functional either till our last day, or… forever. If I’m right on the latter: great! If I’m wrong, wouldn’t you want to have a healthy and fulfilling life for as long as possible? Don’t we owe it to ourselves to – at least – explore the options?

From where I’m standing, if supplementation – either with bio-identical hormones or taking supplements such as Hyaluronic Acid, for instance – can improve the QUALITY of my life, I’m all for it!