Hormone deficiencies occur when the body does not produce enough of a certain hormone. Some common hormone deficiencies include: Testosterone Deficiency Testosterone is an essential hormone produced mainly in the testes. Its key functions are maintaining muscle mass, regulating sex drive/male fertility, producing red blood cells, and contributing to overall vitality and well-being. Common symptoms of low testosterone include low libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, inability to build/maintain muscle, increased body fat, mood disorders, and low concentration span. As men age, their bodies naturally tend to produce less testosterone, but young men can be deficient too (often due to injury/illness in the testes area). Thyroid Hormone Deficiency The thyroid gland produces thyroid hormones T3 and T4 that regulate crucial body functions such as metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, mood/energy, and digestive health. Common symptoms of low thyroid hormone include weight gain, constantly feeling cold, muscle weakness, excessive tiredness, dry skin/brittle hair, constipation, cardiovascular issues, depression, and trouble getting pregnant/balancing menstrual cycles. Estrogen Deficiency Key functions of the estrogen hormones are regulating the menstrual cycle, keeping bones strong, maintaining heart health, improving insulin sensitivity/glucose tolerance, regulating cholesterol levels, and contributing to overall mood, libido, and energy. Symptoms of low estrogen include hot flashes/night sweats, vaginal dryness, urinary issues, disrupted sleep, mood changes, trouble focusing, fatigue, thinning of hair, brittle nails, heart palpitations, and loss of muscle mass. Insufficient estrogen typically starts to occur during menopause due to the ovaries no longer producing as much estrogen as before, but young women can experience deficiencies as well. If you suspect hormone imbalances, get your levels checked by a doctor. Most deficiencies can be treated by medications, natural supplements, healthy diet/lifestyle, HRT or bioidentical hormones. Managing signs/symptoms early helps avoid long-term health risks. Know your body and seek help if your symptoms are significantly impacting everyday life!