Hormones are the chemical substances or messengers which is produced by glands and it is released into the blood stream and from blood it travels to the targeted cells, tissues and organs. Living organism can’t perform any function without the help of hormones and is totally dependent on the hormones and the release of hormones is ultimately controlled by nervous system.
So, our human body functioning is controlled by two systems –One is Nervous system and another is Hormonal system. Hormonal system is also known as endocrinal system.
Hence any disbalance in the release of hormones that is when hormones are too high, too low, or not balanced properly, they can cause different diseases because every organ system depends on them for regulation
Below is the clear picture how hormone imbalance leads to diseases:
- Overproduction of hormones (Too Much Hormone)
When glands are overactive and producing too much hormones. Some examples are:-
Thyroid gland- When thyroid glands are producing excess amount of thyroid hormones it will cause HYPERTHYOIDISM, in which BMR increases, excess weight is there, excess sweat production occurs and intolerance to heat happens.
Pancreas- When beta cells of Pancreas produces too much of insulin in blood, Hyperinsulinemia can occur and the excess insulin increases the fat deposition in adipose tissues leading to overweight and obesity condition.
Stress hormones- Excess production of stress hormones such as Cortisol in the blood increases the risk of abdominal obesity and abdominal obesity will become risk factors for other co-morbidities such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disorders. - Underproduction of hormones (Too Little Hormone)
When glands don’t produce enough hormones, body functions goes slow down.
Thyroid gland- When thyroid gland releases less amount of thyroid hormones means thyroid gland is underactive due to which BMR goes down leading excess weight gain in short duration of time, there is hair fall, intolerance to cold, puffiness on face and fingers….this problem is called HYPOTHYROIDISM
Pancreas- (a) When Beta cells of pancreas are producing less amount of insulin, there is insulin deficiency in the blood and hence glucose update is hampered and its level increases in the blood leading to Diabetes mellitus.
(b) When Alpha cells of pancreas produces less amount of GLUCAGON Hormone glucose breakdown will not occur which is required at the time of emergency such as fasting, extra needs and in starvation condition( when no food is going in body) to maintain the energy levels of the body .Hence in absence person has weakness and low energy.
Besides all the problems mentioned above there are many other diseases which occurs due to hormonal imbalances in our body such as:-
PCOS, Menopause, infertility related issues, Obesity, stress, tension, anxiety and depression.
Here are natural and practical ways to support hormonal balance:
- Eat a Hormone-Friendly Diet
Healthy fats: avocado, nuts, olive oil, ghee, fatty fish → needed for making hormones.
High-fiber foods: whole grains, flaxseeds, veggies → help remove excess estrogen.
Protein at every meal → supports insulin and appetite-regulating hormones.
Avoid excess sugar & processed food → prevents insulin spikes. - Prioritize Quality Sleep
Aim for 7–9 hours of consistent sleep.
Sleep regulates cortisol (stress hormone) and growth hormone.
Keep a regular sleep–wake cycle (circadian rhythm). - Manage Stress
Chronic stress raises cortisol, which can disturb thyroid, sex hormones, and insulin.
Practices: yoga, meditation, deep breathing, journaling, nature walks. - Stay Active
Moderate exercise (walking, strength training, and yoga) improves insulin sensitivity.
Avoid over-exercising → it may increase cortisol.
