Cardiovascular Endocrinology: Main Hormones in Coronary Heart Health

Coronary heart disease is not driven solely by lipids and blood pressure. Several endocrine axes significantly influence plaque progression, endothelial function, myocardial injury, and long-term outcomes.

Here are the principal hormones with documented cardiovascular impact:

Thyroid Hormones (Triiodothyronine and Thyroxine)

Thyroid hormones regulate coronary vasodilation, lipid metabolism, myocardial contractility, and tissue repair.

Higher free triiodothyronine levels, even within the normal range, support heart health by reducing coronary atherosclerosis and lowering heart disease risk, while also aiding recovery after myocardial injury.

Careful correction of hypothyroidism may improve coronary flow, reduce calcification, and support myocardial recovery.

Testosterone (in Men)

Testosterone acts on myocardial fibers and coronary smooth muscle cells.

Maintaining healthy testosterone levels supports heart health, as higher levels are linked to less severe coronary artery disease and lower risk of myocardial infarction.

Longitudinal studies suggest that physiological normalization may improve ischemic parameters and reduce cardiovascular events.

Hormonal balance remains critical, particularly avoidance of estradiol excess.

Growth Hormone and Insulin-like Growth Factor 1

Adequate growth hormone and IGF-1 levels in adults play a key role in supporting cardiovascular health.

They improve endothelial function, promote angiogenesis, reduce oxidative stress, and help prevent coronary calcifications.

In adults with growth hormone deficiency, replacement therapy has been shown to significantly lower the risk of myocardial infarction and improve overall heart outcomes.