Hormones and Metabolism for Health
Grade 7-12 Health Education Understanding Your Body's Chemical Messengers Building a Strong, Healthy Body
Learning Goals - 'I Can' Statements
I can describe metabolism and explain how it affects energy use I can identify common causes of hormonal imbalances I can explain what candida overgrowth is and its health impacts I can understand how liver and colon affect metabolism I can recognize ways to support healthy metabolism through nutrition
What Do You Already Know?
Think about these questions: What do you think metabolism is? How do hormones affect your body? What makes some people have more energy than others?
What is Metabolism?
Metabolism = how your body turns food into energy Like a car engine converting gas into power Involves breaking down nutrients from food Creates energy for growth, movement, and thinking Everyone's metabolism works at different speeds
What are Hormones?
Chemical messengers that control body functions Made by glands throughout your body Travel through blood to reach target organs Control growth, mood, energy, and more Work like text messages between body parts
Causes of Hormonal Imbalance
{"left":"Chronic stress and lack of sleep\nChemical additives in processed foods\nChlorine and fluoride in water\nHarmful chemicals in cosmetics and cleaning products","right":"Candida overgrowth in the gut\nPoor diet with too much sugar\nLack of exercise and movement\nEnvironmental toxins and pollution"}
Understanding Candida Overgrowth
Candida is a type of yeast naturally in your body Usually kept in balance by good bacteria Can overgrow when balance is disrupted Causes: too much sugar, antibiotics, stress Symptoms: fatigue, digestive problems, mood changes
The Liver and Colon Connection
Liver filters toxins from your blood Makes important hormones and proteins Processes nutrients from food Colon removes waste from your body When sluggish, toxins build up and affect metabolism
Your Action Plan for Hormonal Health
Eat whole foods: fruits, vegetables, lean proteins Drink plenty of clean water Get 8-9 hours of sleep each night Exercise regularly and manage stress Limit processed foods and added sugars Choose natural personal care products when possible