Hormonal imbalance is a common problem for everyone who's getting along in years, whether they're male or female. Although hormone replacement for women has been widely accepted as part of routine health care, the needs of men have not gotten the same attention. However, research shows that there are many reasons why progesterone cream for men is a good idea.

Progesterone is a steroid hormone produced by various parts of the body. Research shows that a large amount is produced by the ovaries, but it's also a product of the adrenal glands, of nerve tissue, and of fat cells. It's involved in many bodily processes, especially in the production of sex hormones and corticosteroids, which are released into the bloodstream when inflammation is detected. The corticosteroids are pain killers and infection fighters in the body.

As people age, the levels of hormones of all types in the bloodstream decline. This is why people take melatonin for sleeping problems, estrogen for hot flashes, and plant extracts like soy isolates, Black Cohosh, Pumpkin seed oils, and supplemental growth hormones and testosterone. The daily stress of modern life, a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, and toxins in the environment and the food supply contribute to the decline.

Men get most of their progesterone from the adrenal glands. These tiny glands regulate all sorts of processes, including energy production, mental alertness, memory, and reaction to crisis situations. They also influence the immune system.

When the diet is not sufficient in all vital nutrients (which is true for almost everyone) and the stress is unrelenting, these master glands become overwhelmed. This 'adrenal exhaustion' is a serious condition which affects quality of life and can even lead to hospitalization. Many of us suffer from a less severe case of this hormonal imbalance. Symptoms include failure to sleep deeply or through the night, lack of energy and mental endurance, hair loss, irritability, and lowered immunity to acute and chronic disorders.

Sex drive also suffers, which is not surprising when energy is low. Most men will be interested in greater physical endurance, less hair loss, greater sex drive, easier weight control, and better mental acuity. Memory loss and lack of muscle tone are also symptomatic.

Blood tests can pinpoint low hormone levels, but many people simply assess their own health and decide to try a bio-identical cream, lotion, or pill. Plants have phytoestrogens (estrogen-like substances) and progesterone-like elements that can give the body what it needs to feel better, fend off disease, and generally slow down the aging process. One plant that holds great promise for men is Saw Palmetto.

Creams and lotions are made to deliver bio-identical hormones, which can also be found in tablet sand capsules. Some topical products have a pump which delivers a daily dose; this makes it easy to get the proper amount. 10 milligrams a day is a usual dose. It's important to buy from a reputable company with quality control and clinical research to back up any claims.