The Real Science Behind Pregnenolone and Cortisol Management (2025 Update)

Pregnenolone and cortisol have an interesting connection in our body's stress response system. Pregnenolone boosts memory and helps us learn better, but too much stress can trigger a cascade of hormones that throws this balance off.

Got questions? Ask the author in the comments section at the bottom of this page.

Research shows our bodies tend to make cortisol first when we're stressed, even before other important hormones. This process, known as the pregnenolone steal, can affect many aspects of our health from energy to brain function. The science now tells us this hormonal dance is more complex than we used to think. It depends on specific enzyme levels and cell signals rather than just draining from one shared hormone pool.

Let's look at the science behind these important hormones and see how they shape your daily well-being. You'll learn about proven ways to keep your hormones balanced. This piece offers clear, science-backed explanations whether you're struggling with stress symptoms or just want to understand your body's hormone system better.

How pregnenolone and cortisol work together

The link between pregnenolone and cortisol reveals a complex story of how our bodies make these hormones. These steroid hormones come from the same source but play different roles in keeping us healthy and managing stress.

The hormone pathway from cholesterol to cortisol

The experience of how cholesterol becomes cortisol shows one of the most amazing biochemical processes in human physiology. Every steroid hormone starts with cholesterol, a molecule we find in our cell membranes that comes from both our diet and what our body makes.

The first significant step happens when cholesterol moves from the outer mitochondrial membrane to the inner mitochondrial membrane. This transport process is a vital step in steroidogenesis, and we need the Steroidogenic Acute Regulatory (StAR) protein to help it happen ^[1]. The whole hormone production system would stop without this protein.

The real magic begins once cholesterol reaches the inner mitochondrial membrane. The enzyme cytochrome P450scc (also known as CYP11A1) drives three sequential monooxygenase reactions: two hydroxylation steps at carbons 20 and 22, and then splits the C20-C22 bond ^[2]. This complex process turns cholesterol into pregnenolone, which starts the real steroid hormone production.

Pregnenolone then goes through several enzyme changes on its way to becoming cortisol. The adrenal zona fasciculata (a layer of the adrenal cortex) uses CYP17A1 to turn pregnenolone into 17-hydroxypregnenolone ^[2]. The enzyme 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3βHSD) can also turn pregnenolone into progesterone, which then becomes 17-hydroxyprogesterone ^[2].

The process continues as CYP21A2 (21-hydroxylase) transforms 17-hydroxyprogesterone into 11-deoxycortisol ^[2]. CYP11B1 finally turns 11-deoxycortisol into cortisol, completing this remarkable biochemical process ^[2].

Where pregnenolone fits in the process

Pregnenolone holds a key spot in the steroidogenic pathway, which is why people call it the "mother hormone" of steroidogenesis. As the original product from cholesterol, pregnenolone acts as the key building block for all other steroid hormones ^[3].

Pregnenolone does more than just sit there as an ingredient. Scientists used to think it was just a passive precursor with no biological role beyond being raw material for other hormones. Research from the 1930s showed it had anti-inflammatory and anti-fatigue properties ^[3]. We now know pregnenolone has its own biological effects, including helping our immune system and protecting our nerves ^[3].

Pregnenolone stands at a key metabolic intersection, feeding three major steroidogenic pathways ^[4]:

1. The pathway leading to cortisol (through 17-hydroxypregnenolone, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, and 11-deoxycortisol)
2. The pathway to aldosterone and corticosterone
3. The pathway to sex hormones (testosterone, estrogen) through dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)

This branching creates a dynamic balance among different hormone systems. The cortisol pathway might take priority during long-term stress, which could affect how much pregnenolone is available for other pathways—something practitioners often call the "pregnenolone steal" ^[5].

Modern research shows that steroidogenesis doesn't use just one pool of pregnenolone, in stark comparison to earlier simple models. Special endocrine cells make pregnenolone based on specific signals and needs ^[5]. When stress triggers adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) release, adrenal cells make pregnenolone from cholesterol specifically to produce cortisol ^[5].

The body makes pregnenolone in more places than just the adrenal glands. Production happens in the gonads, brain, and both central and peripheral nervous systems ^[6]. This spread-out production system lets different tissues make hormones based on their specific needs.

Pregnenolone's relationship with cortisol affects overall hormone balance. Research suggests that pregnenolone might help stop too much cortisol production, which could help manage stress and support healthy testosterone levels ^[2]. Since cortisol affects metabolism, balanced pregnenolone levels might also influence weight management and immune function.

Signs your pregnenolone or cortisol may be low

Your body sends clear warning signs when pregnenolone and cortisol levels fall below optimal ranges. These hormones play a vital role in your overall well-being. Early detection of hormone imbalances can prevent serious health problems later.

Fatigue, brain fog, and weight gain

Low pregnenolone often leads to persistent fatigue that rest won't fix. This exhaustion feels bone-deep. People describe it as if they've "run a marathon when they haven't" ^[7]. You might feel completely drained despite getting enough sleep.

Brain fog is another clear sign of pregnenolone insufficiency. This cognitive cloudiness shows up as poor memory retention, focus problems, and a shorter attention span ^[8]. Pregnenolone helps control memory and concentration ^[8]. Low levels make it hard to remember events or stay focused on tasks. Research shows that common symptoms include "decreased brain retention and memory accompanied by insufficient attention and concentration" ^[9].

Cortisol imbalances often lead to weight changes, especially unexplained weight gain. Both high and low cortisol can affect your weight differently. High cortisol levels boost appetite and make your body store more fat ^[7]. Yet unintentional weight loss and decreased appetite often result from adrenal insufficiency (low cortisol) ^[7]. This opposite relationship shows these hormones' delicate balance.

Your body might also show these physical symptoms with low pregnenolone or cortisol:

• Dry skin ^[10]
• Joint and muscle pain ^[10]
• Low blood pressure (especially noticeable when standing up) ^[7]
• Salt cravings (more specific to aldosterone deficiency, which often accompanies cortisol issues) ^[7]

Mood changes and sleep issues

Pregnenolone and cortisol imbalances substantially affect your emotional health. Low hormone levels often trigger mood disorders, including irritability, depression, and anxiety ^[7].

Sleep problems reveal hormone dysfunction clearly. Cortisol regulates your sleep-wake cycle. Disrupted cortisol patterns can destroy your rest. Studies show an overactive hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis—the system controlling cortisol release—can cause:

• Fragmented sleep
• Insomnia
• Shortened overall sleep time ^[7]

These sleep issues create a downward spiral. Bad sleep increases cortisol production and disrupts HPA axis function ^[7]. This makes hormone imbalances worse. Research on Addison's disease patients (who have cortisol deficiency) found they had "interrupted sleep characterized by worse sleep efficiency and a greater amount of time spent awake compared to healthy controls" ^[11].

Studies show pregnenolone supplements can "stimulate deep sleep" and help people with sleep problems or insomnia ^[10]. This link between pregnenolone and sleep quality shows how these hormone systems work together.

Natural age-related hormone decline matches symptom timing. Pregnenolone production starts dropping between the ages of 20 and 30 [8]. This explains why many people notice subtle changes in energy, mood, and cognitive function during this time.

Your body might be telling you about an underlying pregnenolone or cortisol imbalance if you experience several symptoms together, especially ongoing fatigue, thinking problems, unexpected weight changes, and poor sleep. These signs deserve medical attention.

What causes low pregnenolone and cortisol?

Several factors can throw off the delicate balance of pregnenolone and cortisol in your body. Let's take a closer look at why it happens, so we can address hormone imbalances properly.

Chronic stress and HPA axis dysfunction

Your body's stress response works through a complex network called the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This system coordinates hormonal responses that help you handle stressors. Short-term stress activates survival mechanisms, but long-term stress can completely change how this system works.

Long-term stress activation of the HPA axis demonstrates itself in multiple ways: basal hypersecretion, sensitized stress responses, or even adrenal exhaustion ^[1]. This sustained activation can get pricey for your body and leads to HPA axis dysfunction.

The dysregulation happens this way:

1. Your amygdala sends persistent stress signals to the hypothalamus that activate both the sympathetic nervous system and the HPA axis
2. The adrenal cortex has to produce cortisol continuously
3. This constant production disrupts normal feedback mechanisms
4. The system loses its ability to regulate cortisol production properly

Alternative medicine often suggests a "pregnenolone steal" where cortisol production depletes pregnenolone for other hormones. The science shows this is exceptionally oversimplified ^[12]. Without doubt, stress affects hormone production through complex regulatory mechanisms rather than simple pregnenolone diversion.

Long-term HPA axis dysfunction raises your risk for serious health conditions. These include immune system disorders, mental health conditions, metabolic diseases, and cardiovascular problems ^[4]. This disruption can also lead to memory loss and neurodegenerative conditions ^[4].

Aging, inflammation, and metabolic issues

Pregnenolone levels drop substantially as we age—more than 60% overall ^[13]. Men experience a steeper decline (78%) compared to women (45%) ^[14]. This natural reduction affects overall well-being, cognition, and energy levels ^[13].

Inflammation disrupts hormones through several mechanisms:

• Chronic inflammation changes hormone production by altering signaling pathways
• Inflammatory processes disrupt HPA axis function and cortisol regulation
• Cellular senescence with inflammation creates more hormone imbalance
• Mitochondrial dysfunction from inflammation reduces energy needed for hormone synthesis

Inflammation and hormone imbalance create a vicious cycle. Inflammation disrupts hormone balance, while hormone imbalances make inflammation worse ^[15]. Chronic inflammation accelerates the aging process, which further drains hormone levels ^[16].

Metabolic disorders make hormone regulation even harder. Low pregnenolone links to pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes ^[3], and poor cognitive function in obesity-related metabolic disorders ^[3]. Type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance increase with age, which disrupts hormone pathways ^[5].

Organ-specific inflammation adds another layer of complexity. Long-term, low-grade inflammation in tissues breaks down normal repair mechanisms and accelerates immune system aging ^[16]. Scientists have found lower pregnenolone levels in neuroinflammatory diseases, showing its role in protecting the nervous system ^[2].

Low pregnenolone and cortisol usually stem from multiple connected factors. Chronic stress might trigger HPA axis dysfunction first. The resulting inflammation, metabolic changes, and aging processes weave a complex web of hormone disruption. Fixing these issues requires addressing all contributing factors together.

Can pregnenolone supplements help manage cortisol?

People often think about pregnenolone supplements to manage their cortisol levels. Learning about the science behind this approach is vital before you add any supplement to your health routine.

What the research says about supplementation

Studies of pregnenolone supplements reveal several benefits for managing cortisol and maintaining hormone health. Healthcare providers have used pregnenolone as an anti-inflammatory agent and steroid to promote well-being for decades ^[2]. This use comes from its anti-inflammatory and anti-fatigue properties first documented in the 1930s ^[2].

Lab studies showed that pregnenolone can reduce inflammation by a lot in both macrophages and microglial cells ^[2]. This anti-inflammatory action works through a specific mechanism where pregnenolone helps break down TIRAP, a protein that plays a role in inflammatory pathways ^[2]. Pregnenolone does more than just create other hormones—it helps regulate immune function.

Research suggests that pregnenolone may inhibit excessive cortisol production ^[17]. This blocking effect might explain why people use pregnenolone supplements to reduce stress. High cortisol levels lead to more belly fat, so lowering cortisol might help with weight management ^[17].

Clinical trials produced promising results. A randomized trial with schizophrenic patients showed that pregnenolone supplementation increased serum levels from approximately 80 ng/dL to 246 ng/dL and improved functional capacity significantly ^[3]. A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with military veterans found that pregnenolone supplements reduced chronic back pain and pain intensity scores effectively ^[3].

Keep in mind that the idea of "pregnenolone steal" (stress directing pregnenolone mainly toward cortisol production) might be too simple ^[12]. Recent research shows that pregnenolone and cortisol interact through complex regulatory processes beyond simple precursor depletion ^[6].

Risks and benefits to consider

You should weigh the benefits against possible risks before starting any supplement routine.

Potential Benefits:

• Anti-inflammatory effects that may help manage stress responses ^[2]
• Neuroprotective properties that support brain health ^[2]
• Possible improvements in cognitive function, learning, and memory ^[2]
• Reduction in depression symptoms ^[3]
• Potential pain management effects ^[3]
• May help regulate cortisol production ^[17]

Possible Risks and Considerations:

• Safety data exists mainly for short-term use up to 12 weeks ^[18]
• Common side effects include acne, agitation, diarrhea, drowsiness, excitement, hair loss, skin rashes, sweating, and tremor ^[18]
• Long-term safety remains largely unknown ^[18]
• Pregnenolone turns into estrogen in the body, which could be problematic for hormone-sensitive conditions ^[18]
• Its effects on natural body responses can be unpredictable as a bioidentical hormone ^[19]
• Supplement quality varies because of limited regulation ^[19]
• May increase ovarian cancer risk in postmenopausal women ^[19]
• Not suitable if you have hormone-sensitive conditions like breast cancer, prostate cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids ^[19]

Doctors need to carefully determine dosage. Clinical settings typically use 50-250 mg doses by mouth twice daily for up to 12 weeks ^[18]. You should get professional guidance rather than choosing doses yourself.

Pregnenolone supplements affect people differently based on their hormone levels, age, and overall health. Shift workers have lower levels of pregnenolone and testosterone compared to daytime workers ^[8]. These workers might react differently to supplements than others with different hormone profiles.

The body's complex steroid hormone pathways mean pregnenolone supplements don't always work predictably. Your body's feedback systems may counteract supplements through regulatory processes that go beyond simple precursor availability ^[6].

You should talk to a healthcare provider who understands hormone balance before taking pregnenolone or any hormone-related supplement. This ensures proper testing, dosing, and monitoring for your specific health needs.

Lifestyle strategies to support hormone balance

Natural lifestyle changes are a great way to get powerful tools that balance pregnenolone and cortisol. Your daily habits can fix hormone imbalance right at its source.

Sleep, nutrition, and stress management

Sleep is the life-blood of hormonal balance. Your body regulates several key hormones during sleep—cortisol levels decline during slow-wave sleep, while growth hormone rises about every two hours ^[9]. Just one night of poor sleep can throw off insulin levels and make cortisol spike ^[20].

Here's how you can sleep better and balance your hormones:

• Get 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night ^[20]
• Keep your bedtime and wake times the same ^[21]
• Start a relaxing bedtime routine ^[20]
• Stay away from blue light before bed ^[22]
• Make your bedroom cool and well-ventilated ^[20]

Your food choices directly shape hormone production. Research shows that an anti-inflammatory diet helps your body process pregnenolone and manage cortisol properly. The best foods to eat are:

Fresh, unprocessed foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats from avocados, nuts, seeds, olive oil, and oily fish ^[23]. Whole grains and legumes give you essential fiber for gut health. Colorful fruits and vegetables provide antioxidants that curb oxidative stress ^[23].

Regular, balanced meals keep your blood sugar steady—this matters a lot for stress hormone control. Your body releases cortisol and adrenaline when blood sugar drops because it thinks there's danger ^[22]. This stress response can wear out your adrenal glands and boost cortisol production.

Long-term stress throws off the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis that controls cortisol. You can lower stress and anxiety with just five minutes of mindfulness, deep breathing, or relaxation ^[22]. Studies show that simple activities like listening to music might help reduce stress ^[24].

Exercise and circadian rhythm alignment

Exercise helps regulate hormones amazingly well, but timing and intensity really matter. Exercise works as a "non-photic zeitgeber"—it can set your internal rhythms without light cues ^[25].

Workout timing affects your hormone production and circadian rhythms. Morning workouts usually make you fall asleep earlier and sleep better ^[25]. Evening exercise might delay sleep for "early birds" but can help "night owls" sleep earlier ^[25].

People with pregnenolone or cortisol issues should watch their exercise intensity. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) raises cortisol as part of the stress response ^[22]. While HIIT can help in small doses, too much without rest can lower reproductive hormones and hurt thyroid function ^[22]. Gentle movement like walking, yoga, or qigong works better if you have adrenal problems or chronic stress.

Your workout timing changes the testosterone/cortisol ratio—showing how well your body builds versus breaks down tissue ^[26]. Regular exercise also syncs your sleep-wake cycle with your body clock ^[25], which might boost melatonin and balance cortisol.

Working out at the same time each day helps as much as keeping regular sleep hours. Regular training times keep your biological clock in sync ^[11]. This routine helps your hormones work properly throughout the day.

These lifestyle changes create a base for hormone balance that supplements can't match—they fix the basic rhythms controlling pregnenolone and cortisol production.

When to seek medical advice for hormone issues

The right timing for professional medical help can make a huge difference in treating hormone issues. Your body might signal problems with pregnenolone and cortisol levels through ongoing symptoms like constant tiredness, brain fog, or mood swings that need proper medical evaluation.

Testing options and what they reveal

Hormone testing gives an explanation of your endocrine health. Blood tests are the most common way to check pregnenolone and cortisol levels, and they measure levels directly at the time of sampling ^[7]. These tests work well to evaluate thyroid hormones and sex hormones, as well as stress hormones ^[7].

Saliva tests are a gentler option that shows unbound, bioavailable hormone levels throughout the day ^[7]. This method works great for measuring cortisol and checking adrenal function, and it shows how hormone patterns change during the day ^[7].

Urine testing helps learn about hormone metabolites by measuring both hormone levels and their breakdown products ^[7]. This method lets doctors check sex and adrenal hormones over time ^[7].

Test timing matters a lot. Women should get hormone tests during specific parts of their menstrual cycle ^[27]. The best time to test cortisol is early morning between 6:00-9:00 AM when levels are highest ^[28].

These signs suggest you might need hormone testing:

• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Ongoing fatigue and mood changes
• Sleep problems
• Unexpected weight changes
• Hair loss or skin problems ^[27]

Working with a hormone-literate provider

Finding the right doctor is vital to fix pregnenolone and cortisol imbalances. Endocrinologists focus on hormone-related issues, while gynecologists, functional medicine doctors, or naturopaths might also help ^[29].

Good preparation makes your doctor's visit more productive. Write down your symptoms, health history, medicines, and questions before you go ^[10]. This helps your doctor get a full picture of what's happening.

Look for doctors who do detailed testing beyond basic thyroid checks. A good evaluation should look at several markers, including pregnenolone, cortisol, thyroid hormones, sex hormones, vitamin D, and insulin levels ^[30].

The Menopause Society's provider search tool ^[31] and special directories can help you find qualified hormone doctors. The right doctor will work with you as a team, listen to your concerns, and create individual-specific treatment plans ^[10].

Conclusion

The complex relationship between pregnenolone and cortisol gives us better control over our hormonal health. Research shows these hormones affect our stress response and cognitive function, though their interaction is more complex than scientists initially believed.

You can prevent hormone imbalances from getting worse by watching for signs like ongoing fatigue, mood swings, and sleep problems. Age naturally affects hormone levels, but lifestyle changes are effective ways to keep them balanced. A combination of regular exercise, good sleep, and proper nutrition helps optimize how these hormones work.

Serious hormone issues need professional medical guidance. Hormone tests give detailed information about your unique patterns and help create specific treatment plans. Health Natura pregnenolone supplements might help support hormone balance naturally when taken under a doctor's supervision.

Your hormone health needs a detailed strategy. When pregnenolone and cortisol levels stay balanced, your physical and mental performance improves. This makes hormone management worth the effort for your long-term health.

FAQs

Q1. What is the relationship between pregnenolone and cortisol? Pregnenolone is a precursor to cortisol and other steroid hormones. During stress, the body may prioritize cortisol production, potentially affecting the availability of pregnenolone for other hormonal pathways. However, this relationship is more complex than a simple "pregnenolone steal" and involves various regulatory mechanisms.

Q2. What are some signs of low pregnenolone or cortisol levels? Common signs include persistent fatigue, brain fog, unexplained weight changes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. Low pregnenolone may affect memory and concentration, while cortisol imbalances can impact energy levels and stress response.

Q3. Can pregnenolone supplements help manage cortisol levels? Some research suggests pregnenolone supplements may help inhibit excessive cortisol production and provide anti-inflammatory benefits. However, the effects can vary between individuals, and it's important to consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.

Q4. What lifestyle changes can support hormone balance? Key strategies include maintaining consistent sleep patterns, following an anti-inflammatory diet, managing stress through relaxation techniques, and engaging in regular, appropriately timed exercise. These habits can help regulate the body's natural hormone production and circadian rhythms.

Q5. When should someone seek medical advice for hormone issues? If you experience persistent symptoms like chronic fatigue, unexplained weight changes, mood swings, or sleep disturbances, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider. A hormone-literate practitioner can conduct comprehensive testing and develop a personalized treatment plan to address any imbalances.

Got questions? Ask the author in the comments section at the bottom of this page.

Dr. Peter Kassner, NMD - Biography

Dr. Peter Kassner, NMD, is the founding CEO of Health Natura, bringing 29 years of painstaking dedication to the field of naturopathic medicine. His journey in natural healing began in 1993 at the age of 17, when he embarked on his first apprenticeship before even completing high school...

After obtaining both Masters and Doctoral degrees in Naturopathic Medicine, Dr. Kassner established his first pain clinic, Clinical Therapeutics, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama in 1996. This eventually evolved into Health Natura, LLC in 2005, reflecting his expanded mission to make Integrative Medicine accessible to those seeking alternatives to conventional treatments.

Throughout his 19-year clinical career, Dr. Kassner developed Unparalleled Expertise in immunology, cancer treatment protocols, acute and chronic infectious disease management, neuro-immunology, endocrine-immunology, thyroid iodine therapy, and Lyme disease interventions. His extensive training includes certifications in clinical massage, cranial sacral therapy, energy medicine, homeopathy, herbology, Chinese herbology, acupuncture, reflexology, EAV energy diagnostics, IV chelation, chemistry, and supplement compounding.

In 2006, dissatisfied with the state of commercial supplements, Dr. Kassner established Health Natura's first laboratory, specializing in Custom Compounding of preservative-free, excipient-free formulations with minimal ingredients. This commitment to purity and efficacy led him to retire from clinical practice in 2012 to focus entirely on Health Natura's supplement program.

Dr. Kassner's approach to naturopathic medicine has been profoundly shaped by his extensive travels throughout Western countries and Asia, where he studied diverse healing traditions. This global perspective informs his unique philosophy: delivering High-Quality, Personalized Wellness Solutions rather than mass-produced alternatives with compromised ingredients...

Today, Dr. Kassner continues to revolutionize the supplement industry through careful formulation and ethical sourcing, making Health Natura a trusted resource for those seeking superior natural health products.

 

* These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). This product is not intended to treat, cure or prevent any disease. Statements of potential therapeutic value are the opinion of Dr. Kassner, ND, and are based on his personal and clinical experience. They should not be construed to endorse, condone or promote the use of any product as a medical treatment for any condition. Consult a medical professional before engaging in any self-care or nutritional supplement regimen to ensure safe and appropriate use. 

Dr. Kassner has been active in the field of alternative medicine since 1991.

References

[1] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4867107/
[2] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6433066/
[3] - https://www.optimaldx.com/research-blog/hormone-biomarkers-pregnenolone
[4] - https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal-hpa-axis
[5] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8020896/
[6] - https://www.zrtlab.com/blog/archive/reassessing-pregnenolone-steal/
[7] - https://www.rupahealth.com/post/hormone-testing-101-how-to-test-and-interpret-your-results
[8] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9964973/
[9] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4377487/
[10] - https://drruscio.com/hormone-doctor/
[11] - https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2024/03/29/1241424775/exercise-timing-circadian-rhythm-morning-evening
[12] - https://drfionand.com/pregnenolone-steal-closer-look-popular-concept/
[13] - https://healthmatters.io/understand-blood-test-results/pregnenolone
[14] - https://www.rupahealth.com/biomarkers/pregnenolone
[15] - https://www.nesaz.com/the-impact-of-chronic-inflammation-on-hormone-imbalance/
[16] - https://www.nature.com/articles/s41392-023-01502-8
[17] - https://www.mariongluckclinic.com/blog/benefits-of-pregnenolone.html
[18] - https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-98/pregnenolone
[19] - https://www.verywellmind.com/the-lowdown-on-pregnenolone-89502
[20] - https://www.healthline.com/health/sleep/how-sleep-can-affect-your-hormone-levels
[21] - https://rhealthc.com/stress/how-stress-impacts-hormonal-balance-and-your-overall-health/
[22] - https://www.ccfmed.com/blog/10-simple-ways-to-reduce-stress-for-better-hormones
[23] - https://www.mariongluckclinic.com/blog/stress-and-hormone-imbalance-how-to-prevent-stress-from-impacting-your-hormones.html
[24] - https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324031
[25] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10598774/
[26] - https://biomedres.us/fulltexts/BJSTR.MS.ID.005640.php
[27] - https://otcoclinic.com/blog/hormone-tests-how-to-read-results/
[28] - https://www.medcentral.com/pain/chronic/hormone-testing-replacement-pain-patients-made-simple
[29] - https://familymedicineaustin.com/when-to-see-a-doctor-for-hormonal-imbalance/
[30] - https://www.bodylogicmd.com/find-a-bioidentical-hormone-doctor/
[31] - https://portal.menopause.org/