Dr. Mercola January 02 2008 1,179 views
Although several studies have examined the link between cognitive decline and hormone replacement therapy, none has looked at the effect of endogenous estrogen on cognitive function. Differences in endogenous estrogen levels do not appear to be associated with cognitive performance or decline in older postmenopausal women. This new data is in conflict with previous reports that estrogen preserves brain function.
J Am Geriatr Soc 1998;46:816-821,918-920.
Dr. Mercola's Comment:
Another nail in the coffin for postmenopausal estrogen therapy. Last year, NEJM published a study that suggested that estrogen helps prevent Alzheimers disease in women. This information provided another false justification for traditional medicine to prescribe it. If you have not purchased Dr. Lee's book, What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About the Menopause, I would strongly recommend doing so. It is a must reference for all who are interested in natural medicine.
As I read through the various articles on hormones on this site I find it very difficult to tell whether or not the view is for or against BIO-Identical estrogen - I think you are saying it is OK for a few but the average woman would find it very hard to decide if she should take even bio-identical estrogen from the way the articles are written. I was tested and had low estrogen and only slightly low progesterone. I was having migraines every week and used progesterone cream alone and it had no benefit for the migraines. When I added compounded bio-identical biest sublingual along with a compuonded progesterone cream the migraines have stopped and other symptoms improved also. I honestly, after reading numerous books, do not believe that in proper balance there is anything harmful about bio-identical estrogen for women who are low. I know when my levels dropped that's when I started noticing some fine lines on the face too - and I was already eating a very good diet, taking supplements and exercising. Who wants to watch their body start looking like an old lady any sooner then necessary? And many good doctors have seen many benefits in their patients from BALANCED application of bio-identical hormones - bones, heart, brain, skin, sexual health and emotional well-being.
I agree. I was left with that question when I finished reading that article. I am on estriol cream (vaginal) and progesterone (Dr. Lee's). It is wonderful. However, I am still experiencing mental fuzziness and am thinking of having my hormones balanced by a naturopathic doctor.($$$) but any other suggestions? I would love to think I didn't have to visit the Dr. for blood or saliva tests every 3-6 months for this testing. Also, I must be low on testosterone because my libido is very low.... Thanks! Carrotmuffine