1. Why Changes Occur

2.  The first hormone that is released is called the gonadotropin-releasing hormone, or GnRH for short. This hormone essentially acts as a trigger for other hormones, and communicates differently to each gender.

3.  The “WHY” in the “WHEN” isn’t fully understood. In other words, why some boys start earlier than others can’t be answered, but the average range is 9 to 14 years of age. The “WHAT” is much easier; GnRH forces the pituitary gland to release luteinizing hormone (LH for short) and follicle- stimulating hormone (FSH for short). The most important function for these two hormones is to stimulate the testes to start releasing TESTOSTERONE.

4.  The average onset for females is earlier than in males. Girls will hit puberty between 8 and 13 years of age. The “WHAT” is again fairly easy; LH FSH communicate to the ovaries that they should produce estrogen, which then initiates the menstrual cycle. The “WHY” is much better understood …..

5.  The body will recognize if a girl is ready to bring a fetus to term, and is based upon a girls % body fat. With obesity on the rise, girls have shown an earlier and earlier onset to puberty.  GIRLS BODY FAT  <12% is DANGEROUS  12-15% is the Danger Zone  15-30% is healthy  30-35% is overweight  Greater than 35% is obese.

6.  Amenorrhea is the condition where females “shut down” their menstrual cycle because their body fat is too low. Your system doesn’t want you to try to raise a fetus without the amount of nutrients required for proper development. When this happens the body starts to lose bone density (osteoporosis). This evolutionary reaction is nature’s way to “thin the herd” because you are no longer able to reproduce. Obviously, having a healthy body weight is very important in terms of your lifetime wellness!!!!

7.  < 5% is DANGEROUS because you need protection for your internal organs and insulation during times of cold.  5-20% is normal.  20-25% is overweight.  25% is obese.

8.  Both males and females have testosterone, but men have 7-8 times more.  Ovaries produce both testosterone and estrogen.  For men the testicles produce testosterone while estrogen is mainly produced in the liver and the adrenal glands.  BOTH HORMONES ARE FOUND IN MALES AND FEMALES!!