Hormone Markers

Drives the thyroid gland. Elevated TSH indicates an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism): fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance. Low TSH indicates overactivity: palpitations, weight loss, anxiety.

The main thyroid hormone. Together with TSH gives the complete picture of thyroid function. Normal TSH with low fT4 indicates secondary hypothyroidism.

Stress hormone made in the adrenal glands. Chronically elevated cortisol suppresses testosterone, promotes abdominal fat and disrupts sleep. Low cortisol may indicate adrenal exhaustion.

Primary male sex hormone, also present in women. Low values in men cause fatigue, loss of muscle mass, reduced libido and depression.

The biologically active fraction of testosterone — not bound to SHBG or albumin. More accurate predictor of symptoms than total testosterone.

The main binding protein for sex hormones. High SHBG reduces availability of free testosterone. Influenced by obesity, insulin resistance and thyroid function.

Precursor of sex hormones produced in the adrenal glands. Declines strongly with age (from 30). Important longevity marker — low values are associated with accelerated ageing and reduced resilience.

Indicator of growth hormone activity. Low values are associated with accelerated ageing, reduced recovery and reduced muscle mass. IGF-1 declines with age.

Primary female sex hormone. Also relevant in men — too high with obesity or testosterone therapy causes gynecomastia. In women, essential for bone density, mood and cardiovascular health.

Elevated prolactin suppresses testosterone and causes libido, fertility and erectile complaints. Important for detecting pituitary abnormalities (microprolactinoma).

Measure of ovarian reserve in women. Important for women wanting to become pregnant or considering egg freezing. Declines from age 30.