Robert Seik, PharmD is a compounding pharmacist who owns two compounding pharmacies. He receives many questions regarding hormones and nutrition and since this is an area that Robert specializes in, he would like to speak a bit on the subject.What is hormone replacement therapy and why do we need it? The hormones produced by the endocrine glands are the main signals that organs use to communicate with each other and excite the body into action. These hormones include the adrenal hormones such as cortisol and DHEA as well as the sex hormones, progesterone, testosterone and estradiol, to name a few as well as the thyroid hormone, which regulates metabolism as well as many other functions.

Each hormone produced in the body may have about 400-500 metabolic functions. If one hormone is low or too high you will feel the effects of that hormone in terms of symptoms. The proper amounts of hormone levels are important because they can make us feel better, think quicker, move faster, improve our memory and keep inflammation down.

We face a number of challenges in modern times with nutrient deficiencies hence the founding of Triton Nutrition to support hormones and the proper nutrient balance. We are also exposed to an enormous amount of toxins daily called endocrine disruptors, which affect the proper hormone balance. Add to that the stress of overworking and overtraining and you'll find that many individuals experience overproduction or underproduction of certain hormones.

In order to maintain good functionality during menopause, andropause and the other daily stressors, it is important to focus on good nutrition and maintaining proper hormone levels. Hormone replacement therapy is one way to maintain optimal functioning for a healthy body, healthy mind and longevity.

By Robert Seik, PharmD