Educational Information
We hope this page can answer your questions about our services. You can contact us at any time with further inquiries.
Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)
This means that the hormone composition within the pellet is of the exact same
chemical and molecular structure to the hormones made in our body. This allows the hormone (our “key”) to act directly on the receptor (“lock”). B/c it is bio-identical, it can do so in the same way as our own natural hormones do.
Hormones are involved in most of the body’s basic functions like digestion, appetite, immune function, brain function, libido, and mood. Low or imbalanced hormone levels can have widespread effects on your health and feeling of well-being. For many people, the solution is hormone replacement therapy, which just as it sounds, is the use of medications to replace the hormones your body isn’t producing. Hormones are messenger chemicals that tell other parts of the body how and when to work. They control almost all tasks in the body. Low or imbalanced hormone levels can have widespread effects on your health and feeling of well-being.
As men age, they experience a decline in their vitality as testosterone levels fall. This typically starts around age 40, however, most men will not experience symptoms till they are in their 50s. Symptoms associated with declining testosterone levels include:
- Fatigue
- Declining muscle mass
- Weight gain
- Sleep disturbance
- Irritability
- Reduced libido
- Loss of stamina
- Possible erectile dysfunction
There are also clinical studies which have shown that a declining testosterone level is associated with an increased risk for poor cardiac health, elevated lipid levels, diabetes, reduced bone density, and prostate cancer.
Bioidentical hormone replacement (BHRT) via the use of pellets is a specific form of hormone replacement therapy that involves the gentle insertion of small, solid pellets containing hormones into the body. In men, hormone replacement pellet therapy is typically used to treat symptoms of andropause, which is the male equivalent of menopause. Some potential benefits of hormone replacement pellet therapy for men may include:
- Improved energy levels and vitality
- Enhanced sex drive and performance
- Improved mental clarity and focus
- Increased muscle mass and strength
- Improved mood and quality of life
It is important to note that hormone replacement pellet therapy is not right for everyone and may not be suitable for men with certain medical conditions or taking certain medications. It is important to discuss the potential benefits and risks of hormone replacement pellet therapy with a healthcare provider before starting treatment.
In women, BHRT is used primarily to treat the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. However, hormone imbalances can occur at any age, even in women in their 20s. Bioidentical hormones, which are man-made from plant estrogens, have the same molecular structure and act the same as natural human hormones. The most common hormones used in BHRT for women are estrogens (estradiol (E2) and estriol (E3)) and progesterone. Testosterone, progesterone, and/or DHEA may also be part of a treatment plan for some patients.
In women, testosterone is a vital hormone for eliciting necessary physiological effects in multiple body tissues. It is important to note that testosterone is the most active sex hormone in women throughout her lifespan. As women age, reduction in testosterone leads to increased abdominal fat, hair loss, irritability, anxiety, depression, fatigue, reduced libido and orgasm potential, headaches, and a lack of well-being. There is also the benefit of reduced cardiovascular disease, reduced breast cancer risk, and improved bone density.
The 6 Key Benefits of BHRT (Women)
- Menopause Management The most common use of BHRT is to treat the symptoms of menopause in women. These can include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, sleep problems, fatigue, weight gain, loss of muscle mass, foggy thinking, and mood changes.
- Loss of Bone Density Postmenopausal osteoporosis affects many women during the first decade following menopause. Bones become brittle, fragile, and easily fractured. It is one of the most common postmenopausal problems that doctors treat.
- Improved Heart Health Until women reach menopause, they are protected from many cardiovascular problems by their hormones. However, once estrogen and certain adrenal hormones start to decline, women may need hormone replacement therapy to help protect their heart and blood vessels.
- Sexual Dysfunction BHRT may help with vaginal dryness in women, decreased libido in both sexes, and sexual functioning issues in men.
- Muscle and Strength Loss Men and women can lose muscle mass and strength as hormone levels decrease. Hormone replacement can help patients continue enjoying their favorite sports and activities.
- Mood Disorders Hormonal changes in menopause or andropause can cause or worsen mood swings, anxiety disorders, or depression. In addition to worry, fear, agitation, irritability, nervousness, and irrational thoughts, patients can have physical symptoms — rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, nausea, numbness, lightheadedness, shakiness, and high blood pressure.
Bioidentical hormone replacement (BHRT) via the use of pellets is a specific form of hormone replacement therapy that involves the gentle insertion of small, solid pellets containing hormones into the body. In women, hormone replacement pellet therapy is typically used to treat symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. Some potential benefits of hormone replacement pellet therapy for women may include:
- Relief of menopausal symptoms: Hormone replacement pellet therapy can help to alleviate the symptoms of menopause and improve quality of life.
- Improved bone health: Estrogen, which is one of the hormones that can be replaced with hormone replacement pellet therapy, plays a role in bone health. Hormone replacement therapy has been shown to reduce the risk of osteoporosis, a condition that causes the bones to become weak and brittle.
- Improved cardiovascular health: Some studies have suggested that hormone replacement therapy may reduce the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke in postmenopausal women.
It's important to note that hormone replacement pellet therapy is not right for everyone and may not be suitable for women with certain medical conditions or taking certain medications. It's important to discuss the potential benefits and risks of hormone replacement pellet therapy with a healthcare provider before starting treatment.
Vitamins and Supplements
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is important for maintaining healthy bones and teeth, as it helps the body absorb calcium. Vitamin D is also thought to have a number of other health benefits, including:
- Boosting the immune system: Vitamin D may help to strengthen the immune system, which can help to protect against infections and diseases.
- Regulating blood pressure: Some studies have suggested that vitamin D may help to regulate blood pressure, which can help to reduce the risk of hypertension and heart disease.
- Reducing the risk of certain cancers: Some research has suggested that vitamin D may help to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast, prostate, and colon cancer.
- Improving mental health: Vitamin D may be involved in the regulation of mood and may be helpful in the treatment of certain mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety.
Vitamin D is produced by the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight, and it is also found in certain foods, such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foods. Some people, such as those who have limited sun exposure and those with certain medical conditions, may be at risk of vitamin D deficiency and may benefit from taking vitamin D supplements. It's important to discuss vitamin D supplementation with a healthcare provider to determine if it is necessary and to determine the appropriate dosage.
What is ADK?
ADK is a balanced formulation of nutrients - vitamins A, D3 and K2 - that work together to maximize bone building, calcium optimization and cardiovascular health. In the case of ADK, each vitamin provides a number of health benefits that are enhanced when they work in conjunction with the other vitamins in the formula.
Vitamin A - Supports the rejuvenation of health bones and ensures bone density
Vitamin D3 - Aids calcium absorption to support bone and cardiovascular health
Vitamin K2 - Guides calcium to the bones and away from blood vessels
This pentadecapeptide (15-amino acids) was discovered and isolated from human gastric secretions.
Potential Benefits:
- Tissue repair – especially injured muscles / tendons / ligaments / bone via increased production of type 1 collagen in these tissues.
- Promotes healing of traumatic brain injury (TBI).
- Ideal for deep skin burns and corneal injuries.
- Cardio / neuroprotective.
- Acts systemically in the digestive tract (as it is cytoprotective) to combat leaky gut syndrome, IBS, gastro-intestinal cramping, and Crohn’s disease.
- Provides liver protection from toxic damage (i.e., alcohol / antibiotics)
- Side Effects: Minimal.
- Note: BPC-157 has been studied in several human clinical trials and is generally considered safe and relatively free of side effects, though it has not yet been approved for human use outside of clinical trials.
Copper peptides are small proteins that contain copper and are thought to have various health benefits. Some potential benefits of copper peptides include:
- Promoting wound healing: Copper peptides have been shown to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, which are proteins that are important for the repair of damaged tissue. Copper peptides may therefore be useful in promoting wound healing.
- Reducing inflammation: Copper peptides have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may make them useful in the treatment of conditions that involve inflammation, such as arthritis.
- Improving skin health: Copper peptides are sometimes used in skin care products because they are thought to improve the appearance of the skin. They may help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, improve skin texture, and reduce the appearance of scars.
It's important to note that the effectiveness of copper peptides for these and other uses has not been definitively established, and more research is needed to determine their safety and effectiveness. Copper peptides should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Creatine is a natural substance found in muscle cells, and it plays a crucial role in providing energy during high-intensity exercise. Supplementing with creatine has been shown to have several potential health benefits, including:
- Increased muscle strength: Creatine supplementation has been shown to improve strength and power in athletes and non-athletes alike. It may also help to reduce muscle damage and soreness after exercise.
- Enhanced muscle growth: Creatine has been shown to increase muscle mass in both young and older adults. It may also help to improve muscle quality by increasing the production of proteins involved in muscle growth.
- Improved athletic performance: Creatine supplementation can help to improve performance in activities that require short bursts of high-intensity effort, such as sprinting, weightlifting, and jumping.
- Neuroprotective effects: Some studies suggest that creatine supplementation may have neuroprotective effects, which could potentially benefit people with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
- Increased endurance: Creatine supplementation may help to increase endurance by improving the body's ability to produce energy during long periods of exercise.
- Lowered risk of injury: Creatine may help to reduce the risk of injury by improving muscle strength and quality, which can help to support joints and reduce the risk of falls.
It's important to note that while creatine is generally safe for most people to use, it may not be suitable for everyone. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
Microneedling
Microneedling creates microscopic openings in the surface of the skin. It causes the tissue to develop new collagen and elastin, resulting in smoother, firmer skin.
Benefits:
- Minimally invasive. Relatively gentle on your skin with minimal bruising and/or bleeding.
- Increased collagen production. Collagen is responsible for keeping your skin looking healthy and youthful.
- Decreases the appearance of scars. This occurs through stimulated production of new skin cells which help to fill in and smooth out old and new scars.
- Minimizes pores. Reduced poor size is beneficial in helping your skin look smoother and more youthful.
- Reduces wrinkles.
- Reduces the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. As microneedling creates tiny punctures in the skin it helps stimulate collagen production which in turn reduces the appearance of dark circles under your eyes. Generally, once your skin has healed you should see a noticeable improvement.
You may hear microneedling referred to as percutaneous collagen induction because the treatment increases collagen in your skin. Collagen is the supportive scaffolding of youthful, smooth skin. It naturally declines with age. By inducing the creation of collagen (as well as elastin), microneedling leads to smoother, plumper, firmer skin.
The Microneedling Process
Modern treatments use an automated pen-like device. It’s handheld. The head of the device contains a circular arrangement of tiny needles. The device is set to penetrate the skin at a certain depth, making the treatment highly customizable. As the provider passes the head of rotating needles across the skin, the needles make tiny openings in the epidermis. These minuscule punctures prompt a healing response in the skin without damaging tissue. Opening the skin’s pores for nourishing topicals: Another benefit of microneedling is that the skin is essentially opened via the tiny channels made, and can thereby better absorb any variety of rejuvenating topical ointments, creams and other skin products chosen by you and the provider.
How Long Does It Take to Heal from Microneedling?
Microneedling is minimally invasive, but your face will be flushed and red for about 24-72 hours after the appointment. During this time, don’t apply facial cosmetics. We know it is tempting to conceal the redness, but microneedling opens the pores of your face, so the last thing to do is clog all those channels into the epidermis with makeup.
What should I expect my skin to look like immediately after the procedure?
For 24-48 hours, it is normal to experience peeling, dryness, swelling and bumps. The results will continue to improve over the next couple of months as new collagen and elastin forms.
There are a few activity limitations for the first 72 hours following microneedling. During this time, we recommend that you avoid sun exposure and strenuous exercise, because sweating and excess blood flow can cause irritation and hinder results. Minimizing sun exposure for a full week after the procedure is advised and will maximize the results of the procedure.
As a general rule of thumb, microneedling treatment can be safely done about once a month or every 4 to 6 weeks. This is the frequency that works best for the majority of patients of all skin types, but some patients find that microneedling treatment more or less frequently than this range works best for their skin and their aesthetic goals.
Semaglutide
Semaglutide is an injectable prescription medicine most commonly used along with diet and exercise to improve blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes. However, it is also widely available as an off-label use for weight loss.
It falls in a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists and it works by stimulating the release of insulin from your pancreas when your body is exposed to glucose. It regulates your blood sugar, but it also targets that area in the brain that sends the signal of feeling full or not.
Semaglutide is a medication that is used to improve glycemic control in people with diabetes and has also been shown to cause weight loss. Some potential benefits of semaglutide for weight loss include:
- Significant weight loss: Studies have shown that semaglutide can cause significant weight loss in people with obesity. In one study, people who took semaglutide lost an average of 13.8% of their body weight over 6 to 8 weeks, while those in the placebo group lost an average of 1.8%.
- Sustained weight loss: In some studies, the weight loss caused by semaglutide has been found to be sustained over time. This suggests that semaglutide may be a useful option for long-term weight management.
- Improved blood sugar control: In addition to causing weight loss, semaglutide has been shown to be effective at improving glycemic control in people with diabetes. This can be beneficial for people with obesity who are at increased risk of developing diabetes.
It's important to note that semaglutide is not a weight loss medication and should not be used as such unless it has been specifically prescribed by a healthcare provider. Semaglutide should only be used as part of a comprehensive weight loss program that includes a healthy diet and regular physical activity.
You must continue to exercise, eat a well-balanced diet (HIGH protein / LOW CHOs), reduce your alcohol consumption, and follow-up with your healthcare provider annually.