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The high energy state of the body is not only characterized by good thyroid function but also by optimal levels of natural protective anti-aging and anti-stress hormones: pregnenolone, progesterone, and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). These hormones neutralize inflammatory substances and have protective effects on the body. In this article, we will delve into the benefits and formation of pregnenolone and progesterone, as well as how they can help improve thyroid replacement therapy.
Two essential hormones that play significant roles in the body are pregnenolone and progesterone. Often dubbed as "the mother of all hormones," pregnenolone acts as a starting point for the synthesis of other vital hormones in the body, including progesterone.
Pregnenolone is a naturally occurring hormone produced by the adrenal glands and serves as a building block for producing other hormones, including sex hormones like progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone. It also helps synthesize other hormones involved in the body's response to stress and regulation of immune function. By serving as a precursor, pregnenolone maintains hormonal balance and supports various physiological processes that contribute to overall wellness.
The adrenal glands produce pregnenolone as part of the body's stress response, enabling the synthesis of other hormones that help manage stress, such as cortisol. Sustained exposure to stress can deplete pregnenolone levels, which may disrupt hormonal balance and impair the body's ability to cope with stress. Therefore, managing stress effectively is critical to maintaining hormonal health and overall well-being.
Endogenous progesterone refers to the progesterone produced by the body naturally. It plays a significant role in regulating the menstrual cycle, promoting fertility, and maintaining pregnancy. Progesterone is also essential in modulating the immune system and supporting proper nervous system function. As a sex hormone, it works in tandem with other hormones to ensure hormonal equilibrium and maintain general health.
Pregnenolone synthesis is the first step in the production of all the body’s steroid hormones. It is synthesized from cholesterol and requires thyroid hormone and vitamin A for the conversion process. Once synthesized, pregnenolone is converted by enzymes into either progesterone or DHEA, depending on the tissue's location. As we move forward, we will discuss the benefits of these hormones and their role in thyroid treatment.
Firstly, pregnenolone and progesterone can be used as energy-supportive supplements in a safe manner. While DHEA has many beneficial effects, caution should be taken as excessive amounts can be converted into estrogen and testosterone, especially in people with low thyroid functions and low levels of pregnenolone and progesterone. Dr. Ray Peat recommends using pregnenolone instead and allowing the body to produce a natural amount of DHEA.
Furthermore, pregnenolone has many beneficial actions, including:
Improving memory
Protecting the brain against stress
Calming emotions
Improving joint mobility and arthritis
Preventing tumors caused by estrogen
Preventing edema
Normalizing stress hormones
Improving thyroid and other gland functions
Similarly, progesterone, being the body's most protective hormone, offers numerous advantages such as:
Promoting secretion of thyroid hormones
Enlarging the thymus gland for immune function
Balancing out excess specialized hormones
Benefiting both men and women
It is important to note that symptoms of low progesterone include acne, anxiety, arthritis, asthma, depression, edema, fatigue, fibroids, fluctuating weight, glaucoma, infertility, insomnia, memory problems, osteoporosis, and many other issues.
The immune system and hormonal balance are intricately linked. Hormones like pregnenolone and progesterone can modulate immune responses, while imbalances in these hormones can contribute to a weakened immune system. Maintaining hormonal equilibrium is thus essential for optimal immune function and safeguarding against various health issues.
Now that we understand the benefits of these hormones, let's explore how they aid in thyroid hormone replacement therapy. When starting thyroid hormone replacement therapy, including natural desiccated thyroid (NDT) supplements like VitaliThy, using pregnenolone and progesterone can help prevent adverse side effects. If you've had low thyroid for an extended period, it is common to have high-stress hormones. However, as you begin thyroid replacement therapy, stress hormones (adrenaline and cortisol) are lowered, potentially causing symptoms if the body cannot compensate with increased synthesis of pregnenolone and progesterone from cholesterol.
In simple words, supplementation with pregnenolone and progesterone can be beneficial for those undergoing thyroid replacement therapy. These anti-aging and anti-stress hormones support overall health and improve thyroid function, helping you maintain a balanced and energetic state. By understanding their benefits and appropriate use, individuals can achieve seamless integration into their treatment plan for hypothyroidism.
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