Hormones

The “Chemical Nervous System”

Hormones are the chemical messengers of the endocrine system, also called the “chemical nervous system.” Nearly every bodily process depends on hormones. Some hormones decline with age and this decline is believed to contribute to the aging process. Such hormones include:

DHEA: (dehydroepiandosterone)

This “master hormone” produced by the adrenal glands. It can be converted into other steroid hormones including sex hormones and corticosteroids. Levels of DHEA often drop dramatically after the age of 35.

Low DHEA levels are linked to diabetes, obesity, elevated cholesterol levels, arthritis, heart disease, and autoimmune disease. Supplementation may be useful in these conditions.

DHEA may help prevent age-related memory loss, joint discomfort, fatigue, insomnia, depressed immunity and diminished muscle mass by maintaining many other hormones at youthful levels.

Learn more about DHEA here.

Melatonin

This hormone manufactured from serotonin by the pineal gland. It helps regulate the sleep/wake cycle and set the Circadian rhythms (24-hour cycle) of the body. This, in turn, sets the “rhythm” of release of all other hormones.

Melatonin is also a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the central nervous system against injury, disease and aging. Melatonin increases production of immune cells and is often used in cancer medicine for its immune-enhancing, antioxidant effects. (Do NOT use in leukemia and lymphoma until more is known).

Many researchers consider melatonin to be one of the most powerful anti-aging substances available.

Learn more about melatonin here.