Hormones play a central role in virtually all of the body's functions. These little chemical messengers regulate everything from growth, energy and reproduction to mood, sleep and stress. But what are hormones and what do they actually mean for our health?
At Valida Health, we work every day to help patients who experience hormonal imbalances – especially in connection with menopause, testosterone deficiency or weight loss. In this article, you will get a comprehensive overview of the most important hormones in the body and their functions.
What are hormones?
Hormones are chemical messengers produced in the body's endocrine glands (e.g., the thyroid, adrenal glands, and ovaries/testicles). They are secreted into the bloodstream and transported to organs and tissues, where they influence specific processes.
They function as the body's "internal communication system" and are essential for the body to adapt to both internal and external influences.
What hormones are there? – The most important groups
There are more than 50 different hormones in the body, but some play a more central role than others. Here we review the most important hormones and their functions.
1. Sex hormones
Sex hormones regulate development, reproduction, sexual desire and secondary sex characteristics (e.g. body hair, voice and muscle mass).
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Estrogen
Produced primarily in the ovaries. Regulates the menstrual cycle, bone health and affects skin, mood and metabolism. Declining estrogen is the cause of many of the symptoms of menopause. -
Progesterone
An important hormone in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. Creates balance in relation to estrogen and has a calming effect on the nervous system. -
Testosterone
Produced primarily in the testicles in men (and in smaller amounts in the ovaries in women). Responsible for muscle building, energy, sex drive and mood. Deficiency can cause fatigue, decreased libido and weight gain.
2. Thyroid hormones
The thyroid gland in the neck produces hormones that control the body's metabolism.
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T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine)
These hormones regulate energy metabolism, weight, heat production and heart rate. Too little (hypothyroidism) can cause fatigue and weight gain, while too much (hyperthyroidism) can cause restlessness, weight loss and palpitations. -
TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone)
Produced in the pituitary gland and controls the activity of the thyroid gland.
3. Stress hormones
When we experience pressure, the adrenal glands are activated and release hormones to help us deal with the situation.
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Cortisol
The body's primary stress hormone. Helps regulate energy, blood sugar, and immune function. However, chronically elevated cortisol can lead to fatigue, weight gain, and sleep problems. -
Adrenaline and noradrenaline
Released during acute stress. Increases heart rate, blood pressure and energy mobilization – the body's "fight or flight" response.
4. Insulin and blood sugar regulation
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Insulin
Produced in the pancreas and helps cells absorb glucose from the blood. A key player in diabetes and weight control. -
Glucagon
Unlike insulin, it increases blood sugar by releasing glucose from the body's stores.
5. Growth and development hormones
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Growth hormone (GH)
Produced in the pituitary gland. Controls growth in children and adolescents as well as muscle building and fat distribution in adults. -
IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1)
A hormone that works together with growth hormone and is important for tissue building.
6. Sleep and circadian hormones
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Melatonin
Produced in the brain (closely linked to light/darkness). Regulates sleep rhythm and is important for a good night's sleep.
7. Other important hormones
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Leptin
Produced in adipose tissue and signals the brain that you are full. Imbalances in leptin can lead to overeating. -
Ghrelin
Called the “hunger hormone.” Produced in the stomach and stimulates appetite. -
Prolactin
Responsible for milk production after birth, but also has an impact on immune function and metabolism.
How do hormonal imbalances affect the body?
When hormonal balance is disrupted, it can have a major impact on both physical and mental health. Some typical signs of hormonal imbalances are:
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Unexplained weight gain or weight loss
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Fatigue and low energy
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Sleep problems
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Decreased sex drive
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Mood swings and stress sensitivity
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Irregular periods or menopause symptoms
At Valida Health, we often see that many diffuse symptoms turn out to be related to hormones – and that a targeted test can provide clarity.
How are hormone levels tested?
A hormone status can be mapped through blood tests and a discussion about symptoms. Typically, hormones such as:
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Estrogen, progesterone and testosterone
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TSH, T3 and T4 (thyroid)
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Cortisol and DHEA (stress hormones)
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Insulin and blood sugar
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Vitamin and mineral status (which can affect hormone production)
At Valida Health, we make an individual assessment and adapt the test package to your symptoms and needs.
Treatment of hormonal imbalances
Treatment depends on the cause and may include:
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Hormone therapy – e.g. testosterone therapy for men or HRT for women during menopause
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Lifestyle changes – diet, exercise, sleep and stress management have a major impact on hormone balance
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Medical treatment – e.g. for metabolic disease or diabetes
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Supplements – certain vitamins and minerals (e.g. vitamin D, iodine and magnesium) support hormone production
Conclusion: What hormones are there?
Hormones are the body's control system and determine everything from energy and weight to mood and fertility. The most important groups are:
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Sex hormones (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone)
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Metabolic hormones (T3, T4, TSH)
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Stress hormones (cortisol, adrenaline)
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Insulin and glucagon (blood sugar regulation)
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Growth hormones (GH, IGF-1)
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Sleep and appetite hormones (melatonin, leptin, ghrelin)
Understanding your hormones is the first step to addressing symptoms and imbalances – and here, targeted testing and professional advice can make a big difference.
Ready to gain insight into your hormonal balance?
At Valida Health, we offer hormone tests, counseling and treatment - always with a focus on safety, professionalism and a holistic approach.
👉 Read more about our hormone course here
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