Considering Bioidentical Hormone Therapy

[DebM]

Doggygirl - kind of a different subject but what do you do at Curves on the off days? Aren't you supposed to rest your muscles for 48 hours between workouts? I have been going since June and go 3x a week. Just wondering what they would have me do the other days?

Thanks!

DebM

[Doggygirl]

Originally Posted by DebM

Doggygirl - kind of a different subject but what do you do at Curves on the off days? Aren't you supposed to rest your muscles for 48 hours between workouts? I have been going since June and go 3x a week. Just wondering what they would have me do the other days?

Thanks!

DebM

Do they have the new SMART system at your Curves? I assume maybe not? It's all about the intensity that you work on the circuit with the resistance machines. Since I go Monday through Saturday, on Monday I work at 100% intensity, Tuesday 80%, Wednesday 100%, etc. With SMART I just go by the computer read out to guide my pace. But you could still do this on your own without the smart system. The key is the keep the pace on your "off" days to what qualifies as an aerobic workout - not working the muscles to failure on the resistance machines.

I rarely work to failure on my 100% days - that's really (from my understanding) the level of workout you need to avoid doing two days in a row with the same muscle groups.

At least that's my take on it!!

DG

[DebM]

Yes, they just got Smart this month and I was trained on Saturday. What do you do then just workout in the "yellow" some? I probably couldn't get there 5 days so I've never discussed with them what to do on the off days! Thanks!

[Doggygirl]

Originally Posted by DebM

Yes, they just got Smart this month and I was trained on Saturday. What do you do then just workout in the "yellow" some? I probably couldn't get there 5 days so I've never discussed with them what to do on the off days! Thanks!

Hi again Deb. No - you would still "go for the green" even on consecutive days. The computer keeps track, and automatically adjusts you to a target of 80%. I can definitely tell the difference between the 80% and 100% push that is managed by the system.

One thing you might find disconcerting (I don't any more, but did at first) is that you follow the green while on the circuit, but the computer reading after your workout will probably show mostly yellow dots on the first screen on your 80% days. That does NOT mean you didn't work hard enough - so long as you stayed in the green on the actual machines. (when you sit down at the terminal to view your results - the screen with the woman's body on it, and the yellow, green or red dots on the various muscle groups)

I really like the system because it pushes me and keeps me honest. Before SMART, I did NOT work out nearly as hard. Now I have a hard time doing much talking on the circuit, especially on 100% days! But I'm there to get a good workout first, and enjoy the social stuff and games second. So folks have learned that I'm just one of the folks that doesn't talk much until my workout is over.

Hope you enjoy it!!!

DG

[DebM]

So on the bio-identicals - do they make you have a period as long as you are on them .....into your 70's? The only thing I'm wondering is I have endometrosis or did (supposedly in menopause for one year but then had 2 periods after the year!!!) and I'm wondering if that would make it act up?

[nonstickpam107]

DebM...if you are POST meno than if you stay on both estradiol and progesterone (daily) than you do not have a 'period' but some using progesterone for the first time actually notice some 'spotting'. Progesterone is used to 'slough the lining' of the uterus (the endometrium) so that a post menopausal women with a uterus is opposing the incoming estradiol (estrogen) and isn't at risk for getting endometrial cancer.

Women without a uterus (as in surgical menopause due to hysterectomy, etc.) are sometimes given ONLY estradiol...although progesterone is useful for other body systems, like the thyroid and other endocrine systems.

Women who are NOT post meno and are just going into perimeno, usually use progesterone only until they need estradiol too (progesterone is the FIRST hormone to go low in peri menopause...not estrogen).

Menopause is NOT based on when you had a period, but based on your progesterone, estradiol, estriol and free testosterone labs results. It is not based on an FSH either.

Pam

[Doggygirl]

Hi again Deb. And of course thank you Pam for the technical answer!!

In my own situation, I could have "cycled" to continue having periods, or not. For whatever it's worth, I was at the stage where my periods were getting farther and farther apart - the last one before I started bio-identicals had been almost five months previous if memory serves me right.

My doctor discussed the pros and cons of 'cycling' (adjusting the hormones to continue having a period each month) or not. I chose not to.

As Pam mentioned, even with this approach there is still a period or two remaining as things "clear out." (my non scientific way of putting it LOL!)

A good doctor should be able to discuss the implications of both options and of course let you know what seems most appropriate for you.

DG

[skeeweeaka]

Great info on bioidenticals for the peri and menopausal group considering them...

TJ

[Doggygirl]

Hi all. This thread has sort of become my "Anti-Aging Journal" although I am hit and miss with updates! I have been working hard to re-build my life in a much healthier way, so the hormones are essential, but there are a few more things going on. Here is a quick summary of the changes I've made since May 22, 2008:

1. Quit drinking alcohol. (also quit smoking in Feb 2007)
2. Started exercising at Curves usually 6X per week - rarely under 5X
3. Went back to faithful low carb eating.
4. Had my thyroid tested - it was low and went on Armour as you already know from reading this far.
5. Had several other key hormones tested and am on Progesterone, Estrogen, and a little Testosterone all compounded.
6. Have been gradually moving forward on the more organic / no anti-biotics or hormones path.

Today we put a deposit on 1/2 a milk and meadow raised calf and 1/2 a pig raised on the same farm. Of course we will also be adding another freezer to the family basement! So another step forward.

Yesterday was my every 4-week weigh and measure at Curves. I am now officially within 10 pounds of my goal weight. My body fat % started at 39.3% and is now at 28.5% according to Curves. I'm quite happy with that progess! (still more work to do, of course!)

On Halloween, I had a presentation to give at a standing weekly meeting. Of course being a goofball, I dressed in black and put on a GothWitch face just to get into the spirit of the day. Mr. Doggy wanted to take pictures. Just for grins I looked at my "before" picture taken on May 31, 2008 compared to the "now" on 10/31, 2008.

Now I understand why they call 'em Anti-Aging doctors. And the change on the inside is JUST as dramatic (if not more) than the change on the outside. For anyone reading this who isn't sure if seeing a GOOD hormone doctor is worth it - you be the judge. Of course it's a complete package of that + a few key lifestyle changes.

May 31, 2008:


October 31, 2008 - about 42 pounds down (and that *IS* Halloween makeup - *NOT* my every day look! ):


And a whole lot more fit:


I have yo yo'd on a off low carb over the last 10 years. I will never stray again. I want the body in picture #1 to be gone for good. Sugar? NO WAY!! Booze? NOT ON YOUR LIFE!!! Etc.

My next Doc appointment is in early December, so I'm sure there will be another report then!

Hope this provides encouragement to somebody out there. Never lose hope!! Keep fighting and keep looking for answers.

DG

[skeeweeaka]

Originally Posted by Doggygirl

Hi all. This thread has sort of become my "Anti-Aging Journal" although I am hit and miss with updates! I have been working hard to re-build my life in a much healthier way, so the hormones are essential, but there are a few more things going on. Here is a quick summary of the changes I've made since May 22, 2008:

1. Quit drinking alcohol. (also quit smoking in Feb 2007)
2. Started exercising at Curves usually 6X per week - rarely under 5X
3. Went back to faithful low carb eating.
4. Had my thyroid tested - it was low and went on Armour as you already know from reading this far.
5. Had several other key hormones tested and am on Progesterone, Estrogen, and a little Testosterone all compounded.
6. Have been gradually moving forward on the more organic / no anti-biotics or hormones path.

Today we put a deposit on 1/2 a milk and meadow raised calf and 1/2 a pig raised on the same farm. Of course we will also be adding another freezer to the family basement! So another step forward.

Yesterday was my every 4-week weigh and measure at Curves. I am now officially within 10 pounds of my goal weight. My body fat % started at 39.3% and is now at 28.5% according to Curves. I'm quite happy with that progess! (still more work to do, of course!)

On Halloween, I had a presentation to give at a standing weekly meeting. Of course being a goofball, I dressed in black and put on a GothWitch face just to get into the spirit of the day. Mr. Doggy wanted to take pictures. Just for grins I looked at my "before" picture taken on May 31, 2008 compared to the "now" on 10/31, 2008.

Now I understand why they call 'em Anti-Aging doctors. And the change on the inside is JUST as dramatic (if not more) than the change on the outside. For anyone reading this who isn't sure if seeing a GOOD hormone doctor is worth it - you be the judge. Of course it's a complete package of that + a few key lifestyle changes.

May 31, 2008:


October 31, 2008 - about 42 pounds down (and that *IS* Halloween makeup - *NOT* my every day look! ):


And a whole lot more fit:


I have yo yo'd on a off low carb over the last 10 years. I will never stray again. I want the body in picture #1 to be gone for good. Sugar? NO WAY!! Booze? NOT ON YOUR LIFE!!! Etc.

My next Doc appointment is in early December, so I'm sure there will be another report then!

Hope this provides encouragement to somebody out there. Never lose hope!! Keep fighting and keep looking for answers.

DG

Wow...you look fabulous... I CANNOT BELIEVE THAT IS YOU!!!

TJ

[Doggygirl]

Thanks for your post TJ. Yep - it's me. What I can't believe is that the BEFORE picture is me. I can't even describe how happy I am to be in a different place physically, mentally, and emotionally.

For anyone struggling to find your own success formula, NEVER GIVE UP!!

DG

[skeeweeaka]

Originally Posted by Doggygirl

Thanks for your post TJ. Yep - it's me. What I can't believe is that the BEFORE picture is me. I can't even describe how happy I am to be in a different place physically, mentally, and emotionally.

For anyone struggling to find your own success formula, NEVER GIVE UP!!

DG

Girl...with all due respect...you look so much older in the first picture and so much younger in the after pictures...almost like mother and daughter... I'm feeling like I look old these days because of the weight...those pictures give me so much hope that I just gotta keep on pushing!

Thanks for the inspiration!

TJ

[Doggygirl]

LOL TJ - I certainly think I look a lot older in the "before" too. Someone mentioned to me yesterday the "mother/daughter" look and I was thinking to myself this morning....."that's an insult to my mother!"

Yes - extra weight really does add on a lot of negative things including making us look older. (and more stressed out etc. etc.) So keep plugging away.

DG

[skeeweeaka]

Curves sounds like it helped you a great deal.... I might have to consider that! Was it a very supportive environment?

Also, I was looking at your thyroid numbers and I had mine taken last year and they were similiar to your levels. However, she did not take Free T3...so I have an appointment in two weeks to have some new bloodwork taken so that I can get complete panels done...TSH, T3 free, T4 free, antibodies, estradiol, estrone, estriol, progesterone, testosterone, dht, dhea, cortisol, and melatonin... I'm also going to ask her to test my vitamin d levels...

Hope you're having a great day!

TJ

[Doggygirl]

Good luck with your tests! I think you will like having the data to work with rather than any guessing you might be stuck trying to do now. I can't believe what a difference the hormones have made for me - especially the thyroid since technically, I was in the "normal" range! I couldn't lose more than a pound a month to save my life! And that was being 50+ pounds over weight AND working out 4 - 6X per week.

From everything I have heard, the "culture" at my local Curves is pretty reflective of the culture that the Curves corporation tries to foster among the franchises. Of course the people have a lot to do with it, so I'm sure there are local variances. I LOVE my local Curves. I have never ever in my adult life found anything that I could stick with for exercise like I stick with this. There are lots of reasons for that ranging from liking the circuit and feeling SAFE with the design of the machines (I had back surgery a few years ago). To all (well, most LOL) of the ladies there - customers, owners and employees. IMO, definitely worth checking out your local one to see how it is.

Anyway...keep me posted on your test results and progress! Best wishes!!!

DG

[skeeweeaka]

Originally Posted by Doggygirl

Good luck with your tests! I think you will like having the data to work with rather than any guessing you might be stuck trying to do now. I can't believe what a difference the hormones have made for me - especially the thyroid since technically, I was in the "normal" range! I couldn't lose more than a pound a month to save my life! And that was being 50+ pounds over weight AND working out 4 - 6X per week.

From everything I have heard, the "culture" at my local Curves is pretty reflective of the culture that the Curves corporation tries to foster among the franchises. Of course the people have a lot to do with it, so I'm sure there are local variances. I LOVE my local Curves. I have never ever in my adult life found anything that I could stick with for exercise like I stick with this. There are lots of reasons for that ranging from liking the circuit and feeling SAFE with the design of the machines (I had back surgery a few years ago). To all (well, most LOL) of the ladies there - customers, owners and employees. IMO, definitely worth checking out your local one to see how it is.

Anyway...keep me posted on your test results and progress! Best wishes!!!

DG

Yes that is what gets me about your story, that you, too, were in the NORMAL range and they still treated you... It's been difficult finding a doctor that thinks outside of the box in terms of what is "normal" and will in fact treat the symptoms... Getting the tests done is the first step, then seeing the doctor is the second step. I know for sure he prescribes Armour and Bioidenticals so that is a good start!

Have you thought about the fact that taking the hormones made you feel better so the consistency was much easier with working out...???


TJ

[Doggygirl]

Hey TJ - have you had your round of tests now? Let me know how it all goes.

Today is a special day as I reached the top end of my goal range!!!! Now I have to get really serious about making all the mental and game plan shifts to move into maintenance. I already stopped counting carbs and calories in early October - I just go by my "eat / don't eat" list in my head and try to use good judgement with items requiring portion control. Scary...but I've continued moving towards my goal without a problem. Now I am going to have to start increasing calories a bit, and maybe upping carbs a little but NO grain products for me. Even more veggies and fruit will be my strategy.

I need to get another "after" picture that does not involve fake tattoos on my face with matching false eyelashes!!

It sure feels good to be back in the skinny jeans! What's with these new fangled "slightly below the waist" britches? Some are way more "slightly" than others. This 50 year old is just grateful to be getting into them! I hope I get over that feeling that my butt crack will be showing at any moment!

Have you thought about the fact that taking the hormones made you feel better so the consistency was much easier with working out...???

YES!! In fact having my hormones optimized has positively affected my energy levels which impacts EVERYTHING in life. I used to have very poor energy throughout the day, but still not be able to sleep well at night. Now I sleep good and feel good all day.

Initially I was taking thyroid in the morning only, and my progesterone doses were evenly split morning and evening. I was feeling low energy in the afternoons. We made a change so I split my Armour and take part of it between 11AM and noon, and I take more progesterone at night, and a lower dose in the AM. That worked for me.

I love the support I have gotten here!! You all are the BEST!

DG

[skeeweeaka]

Originally Posted by Doggygirl

Hey TJ - have you had your round of tests now? Let me know how it all goes.

Today is a special day as I reached the top end of my goal range!!!! Now I have to get really serious about making all the mental and game plan shifts to move into maintenance. I already stopped counting carbs and calories in early October - I just go by my "eat / don't eat" list in my head and try to use good judgement with items requiring portion control. Scary...but I've continued moving towards my goal without a problem. Now I am going to have to start increasing calories a bit, and maybe upping carbs a little but NO grain products for me. Even more veggies and fruit will be my strategy.

I need to get another "after" picture that does not involve fake tattoos on my face with matching false eyelashes!!

It sure feels good to be back in the skinny jeans! What's with these new fangled "slightly below the waist" britches? Some are way more "slightly" than others. This 50 year old is just grateful to be getting into them! I hope I get over that feeling that my butt crack will be showing at any moment!



YES!! In fact having my hormones optimized has positively affected my energy levels which impacts EVERYTHING in life. I used to have very poor energy throughout the day, but still not be able to sleep well at night. Now I sleep good and feel good all day.

Initially I was taking thyroid in the morning only, and my progesterone doses were evenly split morning and evening. I was feeling low energy in the afternoons. We made a change so I split my Armour and take part of it between 11AM and noon, and I take more progesterone at night, and a lower dose in the AM. That worked for me.

I love the support I have gotten here!! You all are the BEST!

DG

Hey nice to hear that you are doing so well and at a major milestone! I am so happy for you. I know it has been a huge relief to find out what the problem was!

It is so very frustrating trying to lose weight and nothing happens, let alone all of the other problems that I have that have gone untreated! I would give anything just to have some energy because when I do exercise, I am dead afterward!

I just had an appointment with my personal doc trying to get them to order the tests that I want but they would not budge at all! They would not do the T3 free test at all! Gave me some lame excuse that insurance wouldn't pay for it and that if TSH and T4 are "NORMAL" T3 will be normal, but I called and insurance will pay for it...the doc simply has to order it! I am frustrated but haven't given up. I have an appointment with a holistic doc in March but I need to call them and make sure that they treat subclinical hypothyroid and that they give bioidenticals!

If not, there is another doc on the list that I need to contact that was recommended on the stopthethyroidmadness site...

Yesterday I was doing some research on thyroid and I have test results from late last year and my TSH was 2.32 with range of (.40-4.50) and my T4 Free was 1.2 range of (.8-1.8). I was reading online and it stated that a TSH over 2.0 should be followed and treated if the patient is experiencing any of the symptoms of hypothyroid... Well I have all of them! My eyes and skin are so very dry these days...can't keep my contacts in and have to wear my glasses and my energy is in the toilet!

I also called another doc I found who was on the list and listed on the internet, but I think perhaps she isn't here any longer, but I'm going to research this more!

Thanks for following up. I'll keep plugging along and call the other doc back tomorrow to make sure they do treat even if the labs aren't identifying the problem!

TJ

[Doggygirl]

TJ, keep searching for a doctor that is at leasting willing to test you! I don't understand a doctor who REFUSES to give you a simple blood test (actually, just another test on the blood already drawn!) that you are asking for. It would be one thing I suppose if we were asking for a really expensive test with insurance paying, or for a test that had risks like radiation or something. I don't understand what's the big deal!

Sounds like with your regular doctor, it might be a waste anyway because it sounds like he won't treat unless your numbers are wildly off.

KEEP HUNTING and don't give up!

DG

[skeeweeaka]

Originally Posted by Doggygirl

TJ, keep searching for a doctor that is at leasting willing to test you! I don't understand a doctor who REFUSES to give you a simple blood test (actually, just another test on the blood already drawn!) that you are asking for. It would be one thing I suppose if we were asking for a really expensive test with insurance paying, or for a test that had risks like radiation or something. I don't understand what's the big deal!

Sounds like with your regular doctor, it might be a waste anyway because it sounds like he won't treat unless your numbers are wildly off.

KEEP HUNTING and don't give up!

DG

Thanks DG...Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

TJ

[RW City Sue]

Hi DG, I followed the link over to this thread from the Diet Cure thread. Your pics speak for themselves--it looks like you've come across the fountain of youth!

You've inspired me to look up an anti-aging Dr. close by where I live. Thanks for all you've shared here.

[Doggygirl]

I got an interesting comment from my hair dresser this week. I've been seeing her since shortly before I got on my current program - probably about 7 or 8 months ago.

She has of course commented along the way about my weight loss. But on Tuesday, she said something like "I am amazed that you have lost all this weight and your hair is HEALTHIER than it was when you first came to me. The Cuticles are thicker and your hair is generally shinier and stronger. Most of my clients who lose weight also lose quantity and quality of hair."

Not sure if that's LC alone, or the supplements alone, or some combination, or even the thyroid and progesterone and estrogen fixes, or a combo of all of the above.

If anyone has any thoughts, speak up! I was sure glad to hear that though.

DG

[skeeweeaka]