While aging is inevitable, how we age can be significantly influenced by various factors, including hormone health.

While aging is inevitable, how we age can be significantly influenced by various factors, including hormone health. “Functional aging” refers to the way our bodies develop in terms of physical and cognitive abilities, rather than just chronologically. Maintaining hormone health is crucial for optimizing functional aging, as hormones play a vital role in regulating metabolism, energy levels, mood and overall physiological function.

Unlike chronological aging, which is merely the passage of time, functional aging is concerned with how well the body performs daily activities. Key aspects include maintaining muscle mass, strength, mobility, mental clarity and emotional well-being. These factors are deeply intertwined with hormone health, as imbalances can significantly impact these areas.

HOW HORMONES INFLUENCE AGING Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate many bodily processes, including growth, metabolism, mood and reproductive functions. Over time, the levels of certain hormones decline, which can contribute to the symptoms commonly associated with aging. Key hormones involved include:

Estrogen and progesterone In women, these levels drop significantly during menopause, leading to symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings and bone density loss. This shift also increases the risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular diseases.

Testosterone In men, these levels gradually decrease with age, a condition often referred to as andropause. Low testosterone can lead to reduced muscle mass, fatigue, decreased libido and mood changes.

Growth hormone These levels decline with age, leading to reduced muscle mass, increased fat accumulation and decreased skin elasticity. This hormone is crucial for cell regeneration and overall vitality.
Thyroid hormones These regulate metabolism. Hypothyroidism can lead to weight gain, fatigue and cognitive decline.

Cortisol The levels of this “stress hormone” can become dysregulated with age. Chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels can accelerate the aging process, leading to issues like insulin resistance, abdominal fat accumulation and immune system suppression.

BOOSTING HORMONE HEALTH Here are some strategies to support hormonal balance:
Balancing nutrition A diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables and healthy fats, supports hormone production and function. Consuming adequate amounts of omega-3 fatty acids can help balance cortisol levels and reduce inflammation.

Moving regularly Exercise, particularly strength training and aerobic activity, helps maintain muscle mass and supports the production of hormones like testosterone and growth hormone. It also helps regulate insulin and cortisol levels.

Managing stress Chronic stress negatively affects hormone health, particularly cortisol levels. Practices like mindfulness, meditation and yoga are essential for managing stress and supporting hormonal balance.

Sleeping well Sleep is vital for hormone regulation. Aim for seven to nine quality hours each night.

Getting tested Regular monitoring of hormone levels through blood tests can help identify imbalances early. Early detection allows for proactive management, which can help maintain functional aging and overall well-being.

Healthy aging is not just about adding years to life but about adding life to years, ensuring we remain active and vibrant as we grow older.

Army veteran Jennifer Campbell is a certified personal trainer with a master’s degree in nutrition education. She is past commander of the California Legion’s 24th District and Hollywood Post 43.