If you’ve been struggling with fatigue, stubborn weight gain, mood swings, brain fog, or hot flashes, your hormones might be out of balance. Many women chalk up these symptoms to aging or stress—but they don’t have to be your “new normal.”

Hormones influence nearly every aspect of your health, from metabolism and energy levels to sleep and cognitive function. When they shift—whether due to perimenopause, menopause, or other factors—your body feels it.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is often recommended to ease these symptoms, but not all approaches are created equal. At Radiant Health and Wellness, we take a Functional Medicine approach, focusing on root-cause healing rather than a one-size-fits-all fix. Let’s explore how HRT can be used safely and effectively to help you feel like yourself again.

Why Do Hormones Become Imbalanced?

Hormonal changes don’t just happen overnight. While estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone naturally decline with age, other hidden factors can contribute to imbalances at any stage of life:

• Chronic stress (elevates cortisol, throwing off hormone levels)
• Poor diet (nutrient deficiencies impact hormone production)
• Environmental toxins (plastics, pesticides, and household chemicals act as endocrine disruptors)
• Gut health issues (a sluggish digestive system affects hormone metabolism)

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, your hormones might need a reset:

• Fatigue and low energy
• Weight gain (especially around the midsection) Brain fog and trouble concentrating
• Mood swings, anxiety, or depression
• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Sleep disturbances
• Low libido

The Two Types of Hormone Replacement Therapy: Which Is Better?

Conventional HRT: Traditional hormone therapy often uses synthetic hormones, which can relieve symptoms but may also carry risks like increased blood clots, stroke, and certain cancers.

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT): BHRT uses plant-derived hormones that are molecularly identical to what your body naturally produces. These hormones can be customized to your body’s needs, allowing for more precise dosing and lower risks than synthetic versions.

Functional Medicine favors BHRT because it mimics the body’s natural hormones and can be adjusted based on individual biochemistry.

Functional Medicine’s Approach to Hormone Balance

HRT alone isn’t a magic fix—it works best when combined with comprehensive hormone testing, nutrition, and lifestyle changes. Here’s how we do things differently:

Comprehensive Testing: We go beyond basic hormone panels and look at:

• DUTCH test (urine hormone analysis)
• Thyroid function tests
• Cortisol and adrenal health
• Metabolic and inflammatory markers

Personalized Treatment Plans: Your hormone therapy should be customized to YOU, factoring in age, lifestyle, genetics, and environmental toxin exposure.

Supportive Lifestyle Strategies: The right habits enhance hormone balance naturally:

• Anti-inflammatory diet: Whole foods, healthy fats, fiber, and hormone-friendly nutrients (flaxseeds, cruciferous veggies, etc.).
• Liver detox support: The liver metabolizes hormones—help it out with detox-friendly foods like dandelion tea and leafy greens.
• Stress management: High cortisol disrupts hormones. Meditation, deep breathing, and sleep help rebalance.
• Strength training & movement: Exercise regulates estrogen, insulin, and cortisol.
• Reducing endocrine disruptors: Switch to glass containers, avoid synthetic fragrances, and use clean beauty products.

Is HRT Right for You?

Not every woman needs hormone replacement therapy, and for those with a history of hormone-sensitive may not be the best choice. That’s why a personalized evaluation is key.

A Functional Medicine provider can assess your symptoms, test for imbalances, and create a holistic plan that helps you regain your energy, clarity, and well-being—safely and naturally.

The Bottom Line

HRT can be a game-changer, but it’s not the only answer. A root-cause approach, combined with lifestyle changes and the right kind of hormone support, is the key to long-term hormonal health.

If you’re ready to feel like yourself again, Radiant Health and Wellness is here to help. Contact us today to explore your options for personalized, holistic hormone support.