Sex Hormone Binding Globulin or SHBG and Anti-aging

Life Extension's May 2011 issue is filled with valuable information regarding sex hormone balance and how this relates to anti-aging. The article makes known the correlation between sex hormones and a number of common diseases associated with the aging process as these relate to a substance called SHBG, otherwise known as sex hormone binding globulin. What is sex hormone binding globulin and what is it's purpose?

What is SHBG?

Sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) is a protein substance that binds to, and transports estrogen and testosterone to the cell receptors for these hormones. As such, it is referred to as the master hormone. For the most part it is manufactured by the liver, but it also is produced by other organs like the brain, uterus, and testes. It as also used by the body to help the cells communicate with each other. The proper delivery by SHBG of estrogen and testosterone to the cells is crucial to sex hormone levels and function.

Aging Plays a Role

The modern diseases that go along with the aging process like, heart disease, diabetes, metabolic syndrome and obesity, all play a role in the interruption of adequate delivery of this protein and the vital sex hormones it transports to the cells. As a result, the steadily decreasing sex hormones, estrogen and testosterone do not get sufficiently delivered to the cells which results in low hormone levels. To avoid these diseases that can lead to SHBG disruption, try modifying diet and lifestyle habits for more of an anti-aging process.

Low SHBG and Sleep Apnea

The article goes on to state that sleep apnea has been found to be associated with low sex hormone binding globulin, in turn causing a disturbances in the endocrine system. Doing testing to reveal the status of SHBG, may serve as an important biomarker for those experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea and help to evaluate whether or not they're in need of a sleep study.

Lack of Testing

Evidence SHBG's relationship to a variety of common diseases in our culture has been mounting over time, yet doctors rarely test for it. It is the master regulator for proper sex hormone delivery however, it is sorely overlooked by the medical community. Athough, you can request the testing for this hormone regulator from your doctor. Some doctors may be reluctant to perform this test however, if you're genuinely concerned about your SHBG levels as they may relate to your overall health issues, you may want to be a bit more assertive in your request.

The body is interrelated and is a whole. This hormone regulator is another example of that, so if this substance is out of sync, other catalytic processes that are dependent on SHBG will follow. If you have health concerns and would like to find out more about SHBG and how it may relate to your health, talk to your doctor. Click here for more information on sex hormone binding globulin and it's function.