FAQ

What Are Hormones?

Hormones are glandular products that are released into the bloodstream and are transported to target cells where they help regulate fundamental bodily functions. The processes regulated include growth, maturation, regeneration (healing and recovery), reproduction and controlling other hormones. A hormone molecule, released by one of about a dozen glands, travels through the blood until it reaches a cell with a receptor that it fits. Then, like a key in a lock, the molecule attaches to the receptor and sends a signal inside the cell. The signal may tell the cell to produce a certain protein or to multiply. When you laugh, become angry, cry; are intimate with your partner, feel hungry or fall asleep, your body is responding to hormones.

In healthy adults, hormones are at their peak between the ages of 20 to 25. Although this youthful time is typically marked with vitality and stamina, poor diet and a lack of exercise can negatively affect the health status.

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Why Hormones Decline?

At age 21, we have ten times more growth hormone in our blood than at age 60. This hormone decline accelerates in our thirties (about 14% per decade after age 25) and consequently, the obvious signs of aging. The complex endocrine system of our body controls the hormones that regulate many body processes. As we age, these systems become less efficient, leading to changes in our bodies such as menopause and andropause. After age 35, our body continues to manufacture human growth hormone (HGH) but releases less of it. The decline of HGH with age, sometimes referred to as somatopause, is directly associated with many of the symptoms of aging such as: gray hair, shrinking of organs (i.e. brain, kidneys; heart), increased risk of cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis.

It should be understood that aging (or senescence) changes are frequently associated with an increase in likelihood of mortality, but this is not necessarily the case. For example, graying of hair is a symptom of aging, but graying does not increase likelihood of mortality.

If human beings were free of disease and senescence the only causes of death would be accident, suicide and homicide. Under such conditions, it is estimated that from a population of one billion, a 12-year-old would have a median lifespan of 1,200 years and a maximum lifespan of 25,000 years. Since physiological changes, genetic factors, environmental influences, and eventual senescence, are to a large extent out of our control, the option of restoring hormones and growth factors to youthful levels as a means of rejuvenation and over-all well being, is comforting, appealing and uplifting.

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What is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)?

The process for Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) benefits both men and women by first identifying which hormones are deficient and then administering what is needed hormonally to the body through a carefully analyzed, custom-tailored regimen. As we age, hormone levels change and hormone restoration is needed to function optimally. Bio-identical hormones are safer, possessing the same properties as hormones which are made naturally by the human
body, matching the original and following normal metabolic pathways. A Spectrum Services network physician will evaluate your hormone picture to determine how your program should be designed and closely monitor your progress to determine if adjustments need to be made.

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Who Needs HRT?

Men who want to prevent or experience considerable improvement for: weight gain low libido fatigue reduced body hair poor concentration reduced erection strength memory loss low energy lower bone density prostate enlargement depression and irritability stress incontinence low sperm count heart disease wrinkles sore joints irregularity gum problems diminished eyesight sagging skin and age spots gray hair brittle nails heart palpitations high blood pressure

Women seeking to prevent, significantly improve or eliminate: hot flashes night sweats low libido memory loss mood swings irregular menstrual cycles bloating cramps weight gain sore breasts migraines hair loss low energy acne dry skin lack of membrane moisture depression early aging anxiety muscle loss wrinkles sore joints irregularity gum problems diminished eyesight sagging skin and age spots gray hair brittle nails heart palpitations high blood pressure

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Why Should A Man Seek Testosterone Replacement?

Testosterone levels in men decline steadily with age. Testosterone is the hormone which helps maintain a man's mental focus, energy level, metabolic activity; muscle mass, retarding weight gain and strengthening bones.

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Why might Women Require HRT?

Regardless of age, if a woman's hormones (estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone) are deficient and/or unbalanced, she is prone to suffering the ill effects of hot flashes, night sweats, depression; decreased vaginal moisture, fatigue and weight gain individually or in combination.

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When Should I Think About Replacing Hormones?

On average, men and women begin experiencing a decline in hormone levels by their mid to late twenties. By age 30 symptoms associated with decline are noticeable enough. The best time to consider replacing hormones is between age 30 and 35. However, it is never too late. We have men in their 80s that have found a new life as a result of our therapies.

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Why Do I Need A Blood Analysis Test To Qualify For Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Hormone Replacement Therapy is used to restore hormones to their optimum youthful levels. You need a blood test to determine your hormone profile, to determine if you qualify for HRT, and to calculate your required replacement dosages. Since most hormones used in HRT are dispensed by prescription only, you can't obtain them without a physician's approval.

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What Are The Side Effects Associated With
Bio-Identical Hormones?

Because bio-identical hormones are just like the ones made in your body, there are relatively few side effects. Side effects occur mainly when the dosage of hormone is too high for the individual or imbalances are produced. Spectrum Services monitors and reevaluates each patient consistently to ensure balanced dosage.

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Is It Safe?

Yes. There have been numerous studies recently published that confirm the safety of bio-identical hormone replacement. Remember, all of Spectrum's programs are supervised and medically monitored to offer you complete confidence and security. Only pharmaceutical grade hormones are used in our preparations.

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When Can I Expect To See Results After I Begin My Bio-Identical Hormone Treatment?

While it varies from person to person, and depends on which hormone therapy program is being used, you can expect, on average, to see results within three to six months.

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Do You Recommend Replacing Both Testosterone And Human Growth Hormones At The Same Time?

Hormones may be replaced separately or in any combination only if medically necessary. The combination of HGH with another hormone like testosterone is by far the most effective when compared to single hormone therapy. Scientists and anti-aging doctors believe the synergy of this combination occurs because HGH pushes the testosterone (and other hormones) into the tissues and cells where they are needed. Taking both HGH and testosterone increases the effectiveness of many types of replacement therapies. What's interesting is, HGH levels are optimally restored when other key hormones, such as Testosterone are also balanced.

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Why Should I Choose Spectrum Services?

Spectrum Services specializes in Advanced Anti-Aging medicine and is a leader in bio-identical hormone replacement treatments. We use only superior, certified compounding pharmacies to ensure you receive the best possible pharmaceutical grade preparations and formulations. Our nutraceutical supplements are specifically designed to complement your custom-tailored regimen.

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