Restoring Balance: The Case for Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy as We Age

As we age, many of the body’s systems begin to slow down—none more quietly or significantly than our hormone production. Hormones regulate everything from energy levels and mood to sleep, metabolism, and libido. When they fall out of balance, we feel it in a dozen subtle ways: brain fog, fatigue, weight gain, irritability, insomnia, and a general sense that something’s “off.” That’s where Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) comes in.

BHRT offers a natural way to replenish declining hormones using compounds that are structurally identical to those our bodies produce. Unlike synthetic hormone therapies, which can carry unwanted side effects, bioidentical hormones are designed to fit seamlessly into the body’s existing systems. They can be tailored precisely to your needs, helping restore not just hormonal balance but overall vitality.

Hormonal imbalances can have widespread effects on both women’s and men’s health. In women, menopause and perimenopause can bring hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, weight gain, and loss of libido, among other disruptive symptoms. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and even PMS can also be linked to hormone irregularities. For men, declining testosterone—often referred to as andropause—can lead to fatigue, muscle loss, depression, low libido, and even cognitive issues. Left untreated, these imbalances may contribute to more serious concerns like osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome.

Dr. Anju Mathur, a Los Angeles-based physician who specializes in functional medicine, approaches hormone replacement therapy as part of a broader strategy for lifelong wellness.

“Functional medicine is not about treating disease; it’s about creating health,” she explains. “We look at the body as an interconnected system and seek to restore balance and optimal function. By addressing root causes rather than just symptoms, we can often resolve chronic health issues that have persisted for years.”

Her practice at Angel Longevity Medical Center emphasizes a two-phase process: an initial six-month period of hormone testing, diagnosis, and tailored treatment, followed by a maintenance phase with regular monitoring and adjustments. This ensures patients receive exactly what they need, no more and no less, in a system designed for long-term stability.

Patients who undergo BHRT often report improved mood, better sleep, increased energy, and greater clarity of thought. More than that, they feel like themselves again—something that’s hard to quantify but easy to recognize when it returns.

As science continues to explore how hormones impact aging, BHRT stands out as a promising tool not just for managing symptoms, but for helping people live better, longer.