The sex hormone-binding globulin in your body provides excellent assistance in maintaining its balance in terms of hormones. The liver is the major organ for producing this protein, which combines specifically with certain hormones such as testosterone, dihydrotestosterone or DHT, and estradiol, which control the number of such molecules available for transfer to different tissues of the body. However, when SHBG is elevated, in particular, this leads to health problems and hormonal imbalances. Knowing why your sex hormone binding globulin high and how that impacts your life is important to help deal with the problem.
SHBG plays an important role in regulating the body’s hormonal balance because it determines how much of “free” hormones is available to the body from the bloodstream. The free hormones affect vital processes like sexual development and reproductive health as well as overall health and well-being. High levels of SHBG would disrupt these essential processes, and there could be such symptoms as general fatigue, lowered libido, and, in extreme cases, infertility. Though both sexes can suffer from high SHBG levels, the causes and effects might be different.
In this blog, we’ll delve deeper into what SHBG is, why high levels occur, and the potential health implications. Additionally, we’ll explore how SHBG levels are tested, interpreted, and managed. If you’re concerned about hormonal imbalances or suspect your sex hormone binding globulin high, this comprehensive guide will provide clarity and actionable insights to take charge of your health.
What Is Sex Hormone Binding Globulin High?
SHBG is one specific protein that binds to three crucial hormones:
- Testosterone: The primary male sex hormone but also present in females in relatively smaller amounts.
- Dihydrotestosterone (DHT): A very potent derivative of testosterone.
- Estradiol: A form of estrogen, the main female sex hormone.
It limits exposure of the hormones to tissue. It therefore controls the quantity of hormone there as “active” and hence effective. The serum concentration of SHBG is influenced by factors such as sex, age, weight, genetic and general metabolic factors.
Why Is Sex Hormone Binding Globulin High?
The causes for high SHBG can be multifold. However, the leading causes include the following factors.
Hyperthyroidism – Hyperactivity of the thyroid gland generates SHBG levels and disrupts hormonal activity.
Pituitary Gland Disorders: The pituitary gland controls most processes involving hormones in the body. If that gland is malfunctioning, then it may lead to sex hormone binding globulin high levels.
Addison’s Disease: Sex hormone binding globulin high levels occur when the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones.
Medications – Hormonal pills used in birth control, hormone replacement therapy, and others with estrogen will make sex hormone binding globulin high.
Liver Disease: Since sex hormone binding globulin is produced in the liver, problems related to this organ can directly impact its levels in the blood.
How Is SHBG Tested?
The sex hormone binding globulin test is a blood test that evaluates the level of SHBG in your system. It can be done as part of your testosterone level check-up for better information on your hormone levels.
When Is the Test Ordered?
Doctors typically order this test if they suspect hormonal imbalances. In men, sex hormone binding globulin high levels can be an indicator of low free testosterone, while in women, sex hormone binding globulin high levels could be associated with excess testosterone, which is often associated with conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Factors Influencing Test Results
Some lifestyle factors and medical conditions can influence sex hormone binding globulin test results:
- Medications or supplements
- Opioid or recreational drug use
- Eating disorders or extreme dieting
What Are Normal SHBG Levels?
SHBG levels can be very high depending on the age, sex, and medical condition. Typically, children will have higher SHBG levels as they grow. In adults, the physician bases the decision if your levels are normal on many factors such as symptoms and history.
Health Implications of Sex Hormone Binding Globulin High Levels
It also causes an imbalance in free and bound hormones when there is sex hormone binding globulin high, and it may cause several health conditions. Here are the disorders caused by a high SHBG level:
Androgen Deficiency: It is caused by a high level of SHBG, and its effect will lower the level of free testosterone in men, which will cause the symptoms of weight loss, decreased muscle mass, and also low libido.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): In females, high levels of SHBG may indicate a hidden hormonal disorder such as PCOS, affecting fertility and menstruation.
Infertility: Irregular SHBG levels may lead to problems in sex hormones and cause reproductive issues.
Thyroid Conditions: An overactive thyroid may also lead to elevated SHBG, which further throws your hormones into disarray.
Adrenal Insufficiency: High SHBG may be associated with dysfunction of the adrenal glands, interfering with your body’s response to stress and energy.
Controlling Sex Hormone Binding Globulin High Levels
If you get diagnosed with the condition and it’s due to high SHBG levels, then find what is causing your SHBG. Here are things you can control and, based on these controls, possibly lower abnormal SHBG level:
Lifestyle Changes
- A diet that is loaded with whole, protein-rich and healthy fat-eating food maintains hormonal balance.
- Specific hormonal imbalances can be treated by hormone therapies or medications prescribed by your doctor.
- Normalization of SHBG levels can also be achieved by treating the underlying conditions such as thyroid disorders or adrenal insufficiency.
Testing and Monitoring
Regular testing through comprehensive panels such as The IV Lounge’s Women’s Hormone Panel or Men’s Hormone Panel can help track your SHBG levels and identify imbalances early.
Take Charge of Your Hormonal Health with The IV Lounge
Sex hormone binding globulin is one of the major regulators of hormonal balance in your body. The excessive level of SHBG disrupts the availability of required hormones and brings along with it various symptoms that negatively affect your overall health and wellness. Proper testing, lifestyle modifications, and medical interventions can restore the hormonal balance in your body and help in getting to the bottom of sex hormone binding globulin high levels.
Your health is your greatest asset, and understanding your body’s unique needs is the first step toward optimal well-being. If you’re experiencing symptoms of hormonal imbalance or suspect your sex hormone binding globulin high levels, The IV Lounge can help. Our Women’s Hormone Panel and Men’s Hormone Panel are designed to provide detailed insights into your hormonal health, including SHBG levels. Such broad tests will keep you on the right path of treatment, which will then let you live life at your fullest.
