Hormones: The Science Behind Balancing Them and the Debate on Their Effectiveness

Hormones play a vital role in our overall health and well-being, and balancing them has become a popular trend among influencers and some doctors. They recommend special supplements, diets, exercises, and prescriptions to regulate cortisol, boost testosterone, and address estrogen levels. However, the effectiveness of these suggestions remains a topic of debate. In this episode of Science Vs, we explore this topic with endocrinologists Dr. Deena Adimoolam and Prof. Anne Cappola, as well as urologist Prof. Mohit Khera.

The episode covers various issues related to hormone balancing, from the role of cortisol and the use of supplements to concerns about a “testosterone crisis” and whether boosting testosterone is a good idea. The conversation also delves into the question of whether estrogen should be viewed as the enemy when it comes to hormone health.

Produced by Rose Rimler, with contributions from Wendy Zukerman, Michelle Dang, and Meryl Horn, the episode is edited by Blythe Terrell and features fact checking by Erica Akiko Howard. The mix and sound design are by Bobby Lord, with music by Bobby Lord, Bumi Hidaka, and Peter Leonard. Research help comes from Timmy Broderick