Balancing Hormones for Better Mood: Comprehensive Benefits of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)
Navigating the complexities of hormonal changes, particularly during menopause, can be daunting. However, Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) offers a promising solution. This comprehensive guide explores the multifaceted benefits of BHRT, focusing on balancing hormones for a better mood, and covering its impact on menopause symptoms, mood regulation, and anti-aging.
Understanding Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)
What is BHRT?
Bioidentical hormones are structurally identical to the hormones produced by the human body. Unlike synthetic hormones, bioidentical hormones are derived from plant estrogens, making them a natural alternative that the body can metabolize more efficiently.
Differences Between Bioidentical and Synthetic Hormones
Bioidentical hormones mimic the body’s natural hormones more closely than synthetic versions, which can have slightly different structures. This close match can lead to fewer side effects and better integration with the body’s natural processes.
Menopause and BHRT: Restoring Balance and Vitality
Symptoms of Menopause
Menopause brings a host of symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. These symptoms result from the body’s attempt to adjust to lower hormone levels, leading to disruptions in daily life and overall well-being.
How BHRT Alleviates Menopause Symptoms
BHRT offers a tailored approach to managing these symptoms by replenishing hormone levels to a more balanced state. By stabilizing hormone levels, BHRT helps to mitigate symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats, allowing for better sleep quality and overall comfort.
Balancing Hormones for Better Mood with BHRT
Hormones and Mood Regulation
Hormonal imbalances can lead to mood swings, anxiety, and depression. Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone play crucial roles in neurotransmitter activity, which directly impacts mood and emotional well-being.
Role of Estrogen, Progesterone, and Testosterone in Mood
Estrogen influences serotonin, the “feel-good” chemical. During periods of hormonal imbalance, such as menopause, a decrease in estrogen can lead to a drop in serotonin, resulting in mood swings and irritability. Progesterone has calming effects on the brain, and its decline can contribute to anxiety and sleep disturbances. Testosterone contributes to feelings of vitality and motivation, and lower levels can lead to fatigue.
Personalized BHRT Plans
A personalized BHRT plan is essential for addressing individual hormonal needs. Each person’s hormonal profile is unique, requiring customized treatment plans that consider specific symptoms and health goals.
Lifestyle Changes for Mood Management
A holistic approach to mood regulation with BHRT involves lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques. Exercise increases endorphin levels, and a healthy diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals supports brain health.
Anti-Aging Benefits of BHRT
Hormonal Decline and Aging Symptoms
As we age, hormone levels decline, contributing to physical and physiological changes like decreased energy, muscle mass, and bone density. Skin changes, such as reduced elasticity and increased dryness, are also common.
Benefits of BHRT for Skin Health
Estrogen promotes collagen production, which is essential for skin elasticity and firmness. By replenishing estrogen levels, BHRT can improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and enhance overall skin health.
Muscle Mass and Bone Density Improvement
Testosterone is crucial for maintaining muscle mass and strength. Lower testosterone levels can lead to decreased muscle mass and fatigue. BHRT that includes testosterone can help restore these levels, improving muscle strength and energy.
Cognitive Function and Mental Clarity
Hormones also influence cognitive function and mental clarity. Estrogen has neuroprotective effects and supports brain health. By maintaining optimal hormone levels, BHRT can help improve cognitive function, memory, and overall mental clarity.
Creating a Personalized BHRT Plan
Comprehensive Testing and Assessments
Creating a personalized BHRT plan involves comprehensive testing to assess hormone levels. This includes blood tests, saliva tests, and urine tests to measure key hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.
Developing a Customized BHRT Plan
Based on test results, healthcare providers can develop a customized BHRT plan tailored to individual hormonal needs and health goals. This may involve prescribing bioidentical hormones in various forms, such as creams, gels, pills, or patches.
Regular Monitoring and Adjustments
Regular monitoring is crucial for a successful BHRT plan. Hormone levels can fluctuate, and adjustments to the treatment plan may be necessary to maintain balance and effectiveness. Healthcare providers conduct follow-up tests and assessments to track progress and make any needed modifications.
Lifestyle Recommendations
A personalized BHRT plan often includes lifestyle recommendations to support overall health and well-being. This may involve dietary changes, exercise routines, stress management techniques, and supplementation with vitamins and minerals.
Conclusion
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy offers a natural and effective way to manage hormonal imbalances, improve mood, and combat aging. By working closely with healthcare providers, individuals can develop personalized BHRT plans that address their specific needs, ensuring safety and efficacy. Embrace the benefits of BHRT to achieve hormonal harmony and enhance your quality of life.
Specialists on our Team:
Dr.Ac Lalonde 🇬🇧
“As a clinician and leader, I see myself not only as a caregiver but also as a teacher—empowering patients with the knowledge and tools they need to take charge of their health. By educating and guiding them, I can help transform their lives far beyond the treatment room, creating lasting wellness that they can carry with them. – Dr. Tammy Lalonde”
Caring for people is my true passion and one of life’s greatest callings. With years of experience as both a Paramedic and Acupuncturist, I’ve supported patients through obvious and invisible injuries alike. I’ve been there during moments of deep crisis—whether delivering babies in cars parked roadside, providing care at 30,000 feet aboard a domestic flight, or flying emergency medevacs over the Arabian desert. Through these experiences, I’ve learned not only how to care for those in urgent need but also how to recognize the long-term impact that lifestyle, diet, and fitness can have on overall health.
As my career has evolved, so has my focus. I now concentrate on helping more people earlier, preventing minor concerns from escalating into more complex and costly illnesses. A key part of this shift is my role in leading our Hormone Health program, which empowers patients to address hormonal imbalances that affect energy, mood, and overall well-being. This program has far-reaching impacts, not only improving individual lives but also strengthening the health of entire communities. By helping people regain balance, we’re preventing chronic diseases and fostering long-term wellness. Through a combination of my background in emergency medicine and women’s health, I offer a unique, integrative approach. I draw on the strengths of oriental medicine, along with the expertise of top practitioners, to deliver care that restores balance to the body, mind, and spirit.
My academic journey has allowed me to seamlessly blend oriental medicine with Western healthcare, creating a holistic approach to patient care. My expertise lies in navigating high-stress, complex situations, and I have a deep passion for managing care and treating conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD—especially among Armed Forces and Emergency Services personnel. In addition to my extensive background, I have advanced training in Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) through Worldlink Medical, which enhances my ability to help patients achieve hormonal balance and long-term wellness. With a long-standing career spanning North America and the Middle East, I have been privileged to serve as a respected clinician, clinical educator, and fire and emergency medical dispatcher. I hold active licensure and registration with the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), the College of Acupuncturists of Alberta (CAA), the California Acupuncture Board, and the Alberta Herbalists Association (AHA). Additionally, I have served as a Board Director with the Alberta Pain Society and am a current member of the CAA Competence Committee.
Education:
- Doctorate of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine (DACM), American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Master of Science (MS) – Traditional Chinese Medicine, American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Master of Science (MS) – Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, cum laude, South Baylo University
- Bachelor of Science (BS) – Holistic Science, South Baylo University
- Diploma – Emergency Medical Technician (Paramedic), Augustana University
Licensure
- RAc – Registered Acupuncturist of the College of Acupuncturists of Alberta (CAA)
- RH – Registered Herbalist of the Alberta Herbalists Association (AHA)
- LAc – Licensed Acupuncturist of the California Acupuncture Board
- Dipl.Ac – Diplomate of Acupuncture of the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM)
Dr.Ac Lalonde 🇬🇧
CEO, Acupuncture, Herbalism
“As a clinician and leader, I see myself not only...
Dr. McCarthy 🇬🇧
Dr. Lorraine McCarthy is a Naturopathic Doctor who has been serving the communities of Ottawa and Edmonton since her graduation from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in 2004. Her extensive background in Naturopathic Medicine has paved the way for diverse opportunities, including her involvement in the regulation of natural health products at Health Canada and her roles as a health advisor and physiology instructor at the Guanacaste Waldorf School in Costa Rica. Her current residence is in Rio Terrace, situated in the west end of Edmonton, where she lives with her husband and three children.
Dr. McCarthy’s utmost dedication lies in fostering the health and well-being of families. As a mother herself, she deeply understands the profound concern parents hold for the health of their children, and she shares the common desire of many parents to seek natural remedies and approaches. Dr. McCarthy also acknowledges the responsibility many individuals feel in providing care for their aging parents, which fuels her commitment to advocating for complementary health practices for seniors. Her extensive experience in administering Naturopathic Medicine to patients, as well as addressing the health issues of her own family, positions Dr. McCarthy to offer invaluable counsel and support.
Expanding beyond family health, Dr. McCarthy’s expertise extends to addressing a diverse range of health matters for individuals of all ages. Her particular areas of interest and proficiency encompass:
- Offering solutions for behavioural concerns in children
- Assisting seniors in achieving improved aging, increased energy, and overall well-being
- Implementing biotherapeutic drainage to reduce individuals’ toxic load
- Providing treatment for digestive ailments
- Utilizing the Bowen Technique to facilitate healing for pain and various injuries, including concussions
Dr. McCarthy’s legacy as a dedicated advocate for holistic wellness and an accomplished Naturopathic Doctor ensures that her patients receive comprehensive support and guidance towards optimal health.
Education:Â
- Naturopathic Doctor, Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine
Licensure:Â
- Registered Naturopathic Doctor, College of Naturopathic Doctors of Alberta
Dr. McCarthy 🇬🇧
Naturopathic Doctor
Dr. Lorraine McCarthy is a Naturopathic Doctor who has been...
Sarah Hennings 🇬🇧
“Every patient deserves a healthcare provider who listens, investigates, and treats the root cause of their concerns with compassion and expertise.” – Sarah Hennings, NP
Sarah Hennings, a dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner and graduate of Worldlink Medical’s advanced training in Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) Workshop Series, lives by this mantra, which stems from her diverse healthcare background and unwavering commitment to patient-centered care. With a unique blend of experience in primary care, mental health, occupational health, and various nursing specialties, Sarah brings a holistic and collaborative approach to addressing the health needs of her patients.
Graduating from Athabasca University in 2020 with a focus on primary care for all ages, Sarah’s passion for healthcare began long before. Her journey started in 2007 when she obtained a degree in healthcare administration from the University of Calgary, followed by a supervising role in the EMS division of Capital Health, where she honed her skills in patient transport and working with PFCC.
As a Registered Nurse since 2012, Sarah has gained extensive experience in medical/surgical nursing, palliative care, addiction and mental health, home care, and long-term care. Her commitment to education led her to teach supportive living sites across Alberta about proper antipsychotic use and dementia care. Most recently, Sarah worked in acute mental health, emergency, rural, and outpost nursing in various locations throughout British Columbia, further expanding her skill set.
Sarah’s experiences in OH&S in the oilfield and primary care have sparked her interest in addressing the unique barriers men face when accessing care services and the importance of women’s health and hormone balance. She believes in getting to the root of health problems through proper investigation and personalized treatment regimens, valuing collaborative teamwork and input from various disciplines.
To further enhance her skills, Sarah has completed additional education and certifications in hormone replacement therapy, addictions, cosmetic and migraine injections with Botox and fillers, pain therapy and joint injections, emergency nursing, and occupational health. Her advanced training in Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) through Worldlink Medical’s Workshop Series has equipped her with the latest medical treatments in the prevention of chronic disease, with a hormone foundation. This knowledge allows Sarah to empower her patients with life-changing information and drive protocols and results based on academic journals and peer-reviewed content.
When not dedicating herself to her patients, Sarah is a proud mother of a 15-year-old son and an avid Edmonton Oilers fan. Together, they are learning to become pilots, showcasing Sarah’s love for travel and her commitment to personal growth alongside her professional development.
Education:
- Bachelor of Health Administration, Athabasca University
- Bachelor of Nursing, University of Calgary
- Master of Nursing, Nurse Practitioner Family of All Ages, Athabasca University
Licensure:
- NP – College of Registered Nurses of Alberta
Sarah Hennings 🇬🇧
Nurse Practitioner
“Every patient deserves a healthcare provider who listens, investigates, and...
Allie Kusnierczyk 🇬🇧
Allie Kusnierczyk is a passionate and dedicated Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner with a deep commitment to holistic women’s health across the lifespan. She recognizes that menopause is often poorly screened and managed in primary care and is focused on bridging this gap through personalized, evidence-based care. Allie is driven by the privilege of helping women improve their quality of life, particularly in the areas of hormone health and mental well-being.
With over 8 years of experience across diverse healthcare settings—including obstetrics, psychiatry, adult critical care, and emergency medicine—Allie’s approach is both comprehensive and integrative. She specializes in women’s health, with a particular focus on BHRT, menopause management, and mental health, especially in relation to suicidality during menopause and the perinatal period. Allie understands the physical and mental toll that unmanaged menopause can have and is committed to providing the care and support women need to navigate these challenges.
At Red Leaf Wellness, Allie is dedicated to creating individualized care plans that empower women to take control of their health. She emphasizes long-term, trusting relationships, ensuring her patients feel heard, supported, and empowered to actively participate in their care.
Outside the clinic, Allie enjoys exploring the outdoors through hiking, canoeing, and backcountry camping with her husband and their dogs.
Education:
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Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner Diploma – Western University, London, Ontario
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Master of Nursing – Western University, London, Ontario
- Critical Care Nursing Certification – George Brown College
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Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Minor in Psychology – Ryerson University, Toronto, Ontario
Licensure:
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Nurse Practitioner – College of Nurses of Ontario
- Nurse Practitioner – College of Registered Nurses of Alberta
Allie Kusnierczyk 🇬🇧
Nurse Practitioner
Allie Kusnierczyk is a passionate and dedicated Primary Health Care...
Jess Roberts 🇬🇧
“Effective patient care is built on trust, communication, and a commitment to seeing each patient as an individual with unique needs.” – Jess Roberts, Patient Care Coordinator
Jess Roberts embodies this philosophy. With several years of experience as a Licensed Practical Nurse and a specialized focus in OBGYN care, Jess brings a wealth of knowledge and empathy to her role as Patient Care Coordinator at Red Leaf Wellness. Her passion for holistic nutrition and women’s health has guided her work, from optimizing fertility to managing menopause. Jessica believes in blending traditional and complementary approaches to health, ensuring every patient receives personalized care that nurtures both body and mind.
Originally from England, Jess made Canada her home seven years ago. In addition to her professional pursuits, she is a devoted mother to her baby boy, Jackson, and a loving pet parent to her dog, Luna. Balancing her career and personal life has taught Jessica the importance of holistic well-being—a perspective she brings to her patient care coordination at Red Leaf Wellness.
When she’s not assisting patients, Jess enjoys exploring the latest research on holistic health and spending time outdoors with her family. Her dedication to supporting patients through their health journeys makes her a valuable part of the Red Leaf Wellness team.
Education
- Diploma in Practical Nursing
Sprott Shaw College, Kelowna
Graduated: May 2021
Licensing & Certifications
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
- Basic Life Support (BLS)
- Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS)
- Food Safety Certification
Jess Roberts 🇬🇧
Patient Care Coordinator
“Effective patient care is built on trust, communication, and a...
