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3 Hormones, 3 Big Benefits – and Why They Matter More Than Ever After 50

By Shirley Piccarreto February 07, 2026 Health and Fitness

Let’s clear something up right away:

Yes – we’re aging.

But that doesn’t mean we’re meant to feel tired, foggy, achy, heavy, or disconnected from who we used to be.

For years, women have been told that hormones are dangerous. That the hot flashes, weight gain, mood swings, painful joints, or foggy thinking were just part of the deal.

But the truth is, balanced hormones = a vibrant second half of life.

And the science is catching up to what many of us have already known.

Hormones Matter – A Lot

After 50, most women experience sharp drops in progesterone, estrogen, and DHEA – three critical hormones that regulate nearly everything in the body.

When those levels shift, so does everything else:

  • Hair starts falling out or thinning;
  • Fat pads the belly even with diet and exercise;
  • Skin dulls and lines deepen;
  • Joints hurt;
  • Sleep becomes elusive;
  • Energy dips;
  • Desire vanishes – not just sexually, but for life;
  • Emotions feel heavy, unpredictable;
  • Bones weaken, memory slows, the spark fades…

And worse?

Most women don’t even know this is why.

Let’s Break Down These 3 Key Hormones

Progesterone – The Peacekeeper

I’ve taken bio-identical progesterone for nearly 20 years. It’s the one thing I never go without.

Why? Because when my levels drop, I feel it immediately:

  • Hair thins
  • Sleep becomes restless
  • I feel weepy (and I’m not a weepy woman!)
  • My skin loses glow
  • I feel dull and heavy in my body and mind

This hormone does so much more than support fertility.

It helps regulate mood, ease anxiety, protect the brain and bones, and restore restful sleep.

When my relationship needs romancing, progesterone is part of that magic, too.

Estradiol – The Strength Builder

I ignored my low estrogen numbers for years. My provider at the time was near retirement and didn’t follow up – and I didn’t know enough to ask questions. The result?

  • Severe hip degeneration
  • Two major surgeries
  • Pain that slowed me down deeply

But not for long.

This past September – just months after my last surgery – I walked over 70 miles through coastal Italy. I’m back to yoga, back to strength, and better than before.

Estrogen doesn’t just help with hot flashes. It protects bones, joints, memory, skin, and cardiovascular health.

Without it, aging accelerates. With it, we stay powerful.

DHEA – The Spark Re-igniter

DHEA is a quiet powerhouse. It boosts energy, metabolism, mood, and libido. It keeps the inner fire strong.

I’ve used DHEA for 12+ years. But a few months ago, I forgot to reorder it. Within weeks?

  • My waist got a bit thicker.
  • My skin changed – cheeks flattened, lines showed up overnight.
  • And jowls I didn’t have before! Yikes!

When I figured out what had happened I couldn’t re-order fast enough. Now it’s back in my routine – and so is my glow and my younger jawline.

So, What Do You Do with All of This?

Here’s the truth: Hormone imbalance is wildly common – and wildly misunderstood.

Most women are confused. They’re told they’re fine. Or given prescriptions that don’t feel right. Or told to suffer through it.

But that’s not the only option.

There are simple, safe, and effective ways to support your body and reclaim your vibrancy – without guesswork or synthetic solutions.

I’ve done this work for over 30 years – and I’m telling you now:

You don’t have to settle for feeling “just okay.”

You can feel incredible again.

Ready to Learn More?

Download my free guide: “10 Tell-Tale Signs Your Hormones Are Out of Balance.” Inside, I’ll show you what to look for, what your body’s really trying to tell you, and how to start getting back in rhythm.

Because you don’t need to suffer.

You just need support that sees you.

(And if you have questions, I’m always just an email away.)

Let’s Have a Conversation:

When did you learn that many of your aging issues were due to hormone imbalance? Are you currently doing anything to re-balance your hormones? What has worked for you – and what hasn’t?

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Audi

A while after my hysterectomy (early- mid 40’s) I went on bioidentical hormones. Around 50 I started with 10 mg of DHEA after a few years went up to 25, 35 & now I’m doing 50 mg. The information I’ve read is that it’s not a good idea to used DHEA for years….well, I am because it sure does make a difference. & I’ve read that it’s not a good idea to take more that 50 mg daily. I’m questioning that now! I’m 65 & I’m seriously considering adding another 10mg. I understand a possible risk of higher DHEA contributing to cancer developing. For the difference DHEA makes in my life, I’m still considering adding the additional 10 mg.

Shirley Anne Piccarreto

I hear you! I missed an auto-ship order of my DHEA and saw the difference in my face within a few weeks! Yikes! SO many benefits!

Annie

Hi my GP offered estradiol it remains in the bathroom cupboard . !
I have a few concerns about using it . I try to look after myself with ‘alternative natural products .
However I do have low level osteoporosis & insomnia is becoming more difficult to manage .
Advice would be welcome
💐

Shirley Anne Piccarreto

HI Annie! I hear you! We have been taught that “hormones are scary”, but that’s just not the case. I ignored my low estrogen and ended up needing two hip surgeries and had two fractures at the same time! Yikes! I’m fully recovered now and take estrogen, progesterone and testosterone…I do offer a one-hour hormone session that may be a good fit for you…my site is http://www.drshirleysbodyscan.com Maybe it’s a fit…worth checking! :)

Margie

I agree with everything you say. I’ve been on hormone replacement for years but you also need to add in testosterone!! That is just as important as progesterone and estradial.

Shirley Anne Piccarreto

Good for you! Yes, women really need testosterone-it’s so important for our hearts, too!

The Author

Dr. Shirley Piccarreto is a Doctor of Naturopathy with 30+ years of experience helping women identify root causes of imbalance naturally. Founder of Dr. Shirley’s Body Scan Center, she uses remote bioenergetic testing with hair, skin, nail, and urine samples to create personalized wellness programs supporting energy, hormones, digestion, and vibrant health at any age.

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