Progesterone and Sleep… Are You Getting Enough?

In this blog post, we'll delve into the intricate connection between low progesterone, insulin, adrenaline, and sleep disturbances.

Hormones play a crucial role in maintaining our overall health and well-being. Among these, progesterone is often overlooked, yet its impact on various bodily functions is significant. Low progesterone levels can lead to a cascade of health issues, one of which is the overproduction of insulin, resulting in hypoglycemia. This, in turn, triggers an outpouring of adrenaline to restore blood sugar levels, affecting sleep quality.

Understanding Progesterone and Its Role

Progesterone is a hormone primarily associated with the female reproductive system. It plays a vital role in regulating the menstrual cycle, supporting pregnancy, and maintaining overall hormonal balance. However, its influence extends far beyond reproduction. Progesterone also affects metabolism, mood, and sleep patterns.

Low Progesterone Levels and Hypoglycemia

When progesterone levels are low, especially in relation to estrogen, it can disrupt the body's ability to manage blood sugar levels effectively. This imbalance can lead to insulin resistance or even insulin overproduction, causing hypoglycemia or low blood sugar.

Here's how it happens:

1. Estrogen and Progesterone Balance: Estrogen and progesterone levels naturally fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle. Progesterone is dominant during the second half of the cycle. When there's an imbalance with estrogen, such as low progesterone, it can lead to insulin resistance.

2. Insulin Resistance: Low progesterone levels can make cells less responsive to insulin. This means that even with sufficient insulin in the bloodstream, it may not effectively transport glucose into cells, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels, and difficult losing weight, especially during menopause.

3. Insulin Overproduction: To counteract elevated blood sugar levels, the body may respond by producing more insulin. This overproduction can lead to a sudden drop in blood sugar levels, causing hypoglycemia, resulting in sweet cravings to help raise blood sugar levels.

The Adrenaline Connection

Hypoglycemia triggers the release of adrenaline, also known as the "fight or flight" hormone. Adrenaline's primary role is to mobilise energy reserves, raising blood sugar levels in response to perceived threats. When hypoglycemia occurs due to low progesterone, the body interprets it as an emergency and releases adrenaline accordingly.

The consequences of this adrenaline surge include:

1. Increased Heart Rate: Adrenaline stimulates the heart, causing it to beat faster, leading to palpitations and a sense of restlessness.

2. Anxiety and Stress: The sudden release of adrenaline can induce feelings of anxiety and stress, making it difficult to relax and fall asleep.

3. Sleep Disruptions: High levels of adrenaline interfere with the body's ability to enter a state of restorative sleep. This can lead to frequent awakenings, nightmares, or difficulty falling asleep.

Addressing Low Progesterone and Its Effects

If you suspect low progesterone levels are contributing to hypoglycemia, adrenaline surges, and sleep disturbances, it's crucial to get a blood test for a proper diagnosis and health plan. Personalised options may include:

1. Natural, Bioidentical Hormones: Oestrogen and progesterone are the two dominant reproductive hormones in women. At menopause their levels start to drop, but commonly progesterone levels fall much faster, creating a hormone imbalance known as oestrogen dominance.

2. Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting a healthy diet and regular exercise routine can help improve insulin sensitivity.

3. Stress Management: Practicing relaxation techniques, such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises, can reduce adrenaline levels and promote better sleep.

4. Blood Sugar Monitoring: Keeping a close eye on blood sugar levels and making dietary adjustments can help prevent hypoglycemic episodes. The Paleo and Ketogenic diet are great options due to their low carb, low sugar content.

Conclusion

Low progesterone levels can have far-reaching effects on your health, including the overproduction of insulin, hypoglycemia, adrenaline surges, and sleep disturbances.

Book a discovery call for personalised guidance and lifestyle options tailored to your specific needs.

Recognising the connection between these factors is the first step toward finding effective solutions and improving your overall well-being.