Hormones: How they affect your body and health

Story by: Regina Bless

Hormones are chemical messengers produced by glands in the body. They travel through the bloodstream and help control many important functions, including growth, metabolism, sleep, mood, reproduction and sexual development.

Hormonal changes are a normal part of life. However, when the body produces too much or too little of certain hormones, it can lead to different health problems.

For example, changes in oestrogen and progesterone can affect menstrual periods, fertility and symptoms experienced before or during menstruation. Insulin helps regulate blood sugar, while thyroid hormones influence metabolism, energy levels and many other body functions.

Hormonal imbalance may sometimes cause symptoms such as unexplained weight changes, irregular periods, acne, excessive hair growth or hair loss, tiredness, mood changes, difficulty sleeping and changes in appetite. However, these symptoms can have many different causes and do not automatically mean that a person has a hormonal disorder.

Factors such as stress, certain medications, pregnancy, ageing, sleep problems and some medical conditions can affect hormone levels.

Maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly and managing stress can support overall hormonal health. If symptoms persist or interfere with daily life, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional. They may recommend an examination or blood tests to determine whether a hormonal problem is present.

Health reminder: Hormones play a major role in how the body functions, but hormonal symptoms should not be self-diagnosed. Proper medical evaluation is important before starting hormone-related medication or supplements.