Harvey Kryger

Stress is an unavoidable part of life, but chronic stress can take a toll on the body, particularly by disrupting hormone balance. When the body perceives a threat—whether real or psychological—it activates the stress response system, primarily involving the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This triggers the release of cortisol, adrenaline, and other stress hormones that prepare the body for a fight-or-flight reaction. While this response is essential for short-term survival, prolonged activation can lead to hormonal imbalances, affecting metabolism, mood, immune function, and overall well-being. Understanding the relationship between stress and hormones can help you adopt strategies to regulate this response and promote long-term health. The Impact of Cortisol on Hormonal Balance Cortisol, often referred to as the "stress hormone," plays a key role in managing the body’s response to stress. In short bursts, it helps increase alertness, regulate blood pressure, and...

Hormones are essential to many aspects of our health and well-being, influencing everything from energy levels and metabolism to mood and reproductive health . Our bodies go through natural hormonal shifts as we age, and understanding these changes can help us manage them more effectively. These hormonal transitions are a part of life and can present challenges, but they also offer opportunities for growth, self-awareness, and enhanced well-being. In this article, we will explore the hormonal shifts experienced at various stages of life, what to expect during these periods, and strategies to thrive during each phase. Puberty and the Early Years Puberty is the first major hormonal shift in a person’s life, usually occurring between the ages of 8 and 14 for girls and 9 and 16 for boys. This period is marked by significant physical and emotional changes driven by increasing levels of sex hormones, particularly estrogen and testosterone. For girls, puberty involves the development of breas...