Hormone Health Hub: Expert Insights on Testing, Balance & Better Living — Bipolar Disorder

  By Dr. Tracy Tranchitella, ZRT Laboratory. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) stands as the most prevalent neurodevelopmental condition among children. Nevertheless, boys receive diagnoses at a rate of two to nine times higher than girls (1). While girls do experience ADHD, it frequently evades detection due to its distinct presentation compared to boys. Typically, girls exhibit quietness and inattentiveness, whereas boys commonly display hyperactivity and disruptiveness. The symptoms of ADHD in children may manifest as inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, or a combination thereof, although these symptoms might also vary or evolve over time. The presentation of ADHD in girls is typically...

Hormones are like the body's messengers, orchestrating various physiological processes. While they play essential roles in growth, metabolism, and reproduction, they also have a profound impact on your mood and emotions. The delicate balance of hormones can sway your emotional state, leading to mood swings, irritability, or even mood disorders. In this blog, we'll explore the intricate relationship between hormones and mood changes. 1. The Key Mood-Modulating Hormones Several hormones have a direct influence on your mood:a. Serotonin: Often referred to as the "feel-good" hormone, serotonin plays a crucial role in regulating mood. Low serotonin levels are associated with depression,...

The Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR) — the 50% surge in cortisol that occurs in the first 30 minutes after waking — is one of the most sensitive markers of HPA axis health. Discover how CAR differs from the standard diurnal cortisol curve, which conditions are linked to blunted or exaggerated CAR, and how three timed morning saliva samples can reveal adrenal function in ways a single cortisol test cannot.

DHEA and DHEA-S are the most abundant steroid hormones in the body and play a critical role in brain health, mood regulation, and cognitive function. This article explains the biochemical distinction between the two, how they act as neurosteroids, and why measuring DHEA-S is the gold standard for assessing adrenocortical activity.