Because of some recent big-time celebrity endorsements, bioidentical hormones and their use in hormone replacement therapy have been getting a lot of press and even a little bit of controversy. We’ve narrowed down the facts you need to have at hand before you start figuring out what this is all about. Read through these and keep yourself informed!

#5: The Difference in Bioidentical Hormone Therapy Has to do With the Makeup of the Hormones.

Here’s the key fact to keep in mind — bioidentical hormones are chemically equal — yes, ‘identical’ — to those that are produced by the human body. This isn’t the same for other hormones, which don’t always match up.

#4: Some Bioidentical Hormones Aren’t FDA-Approved.

The FDA doesn’t have a system in place to approve compounded hormones when they’re made by a special type of pharmacy. The reason this system doesn’t exist is simple — the hormones are ‘customized’ to each person, so the FDA would have to sit down and approve literally hundreds of thousands of hormone replacement therapy solutions every year.

#3: Accreditation Agencies are Crucial.

As a result of #4, it’s essential to make sure the compounding pharmacy you’re dealing with has been fully vetted, either by your doctor, or by a relevant approval board — take a look at the PCAB (Pharmaceutical Compounding Accreditation Board) for a good barometer, and make sure whoever you go with employs a lot of quality assurance.

#2: Oprah Took Acai Berries, Too.

Part of the reason for the explosion in interest recently is due to Oprah Winfrey — she revealed on her show that she was feeling “off” due to menopause, and started a bioidentical hormone therapy program. According to her, it made a world of difference. As a result, there are a lot of people online looking to exploit this newfound interest — make sure you’re dealing with a reputable, trustworthy expert.

#1: Don’t Spend All Your Energy Concentrating On This One Aspect.

There’s simply no substitute for proper nutrition, exercise, and lowered stress — in other words, an over-all approach to health. Especially if you’re dealing with menopause, remember that hormone replacement therapy (bioidentical or not) is never going to solve all your problems. Stay realistic and you’ll have a much better chance of success.

Thinking of starting a bioidentical hormone therapy? Analyze your symptoms and test your hormones only with the help of a professional bioidentical hormones doctor.