When it comes to changes in our hormones or issues related to these changes such as stress or PMS, we often don’t think to turn to food as a remedy. However, certain foods can help balance out your hormones, and including these foods in your diet can help level out your body and improve your overall health without having to take any medication. Although everyone’s body reacts differently, incorporating these health foods can help to at least ensure a healthy diet, which can keep your body functioning optimally.
If you want you want to keep your hormones in balance the natural way, try incorporating these 10 foods into your diet.
1. Drink Green Tea
Green tea is one of the healthiest beverages around. In addition to metabolism-boosting caffeine, it contains an antioxidant known as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which has been credited with several health benefits. Research suggests that consuming green tea may increase insulin sensitivity and lower insulin levels in both healthy people and those with insulin-resistant conditions like obesity and diabetes. Since green tea has other health benefits and most studies suggest that it may provide some improvement in insulin response, you may want to consider drinking one to three cups per day.
2. Eat Fatty Fish Often
Fatty fish is by far the best source of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, which have impressive anti-inflammatory properties.Research suggests they may also have beneficial
effects on hormonal health, including reducing levels of the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline. For optimal health, include two or more servings per week of fatty fish like salmon, sardines, herring and mackerel.
3. Stay Away From Sugary Beverages
Sugar in any form is unhealthy. However, liquid sugars appear to be the worst by far. Studies suggest large amounts of sugar-sweetened beverages may contribute to insulin
resistance, especially in overweight and obese adults and children. Additionally,
research has shown that drinking sugary beverages leads to excessive calorie
intake because it doesn’t trigger the same fullness signals that eating solid
foods does. Avoiding sugar-sweetened beverages may be one of the best things
you can do to improve your hormone balance.
4. Avocado
Avocados are a delicious addition to any meal, but they can do a lot more for your health than you think. On top of being a great go-to brunch treat, avocados can help manage stress hormones, and evenimpact the hormones that control your menstrual cycle. Avocados are loaded with beta-sitosterol, which can effect blood cholesterol levels and help balance the stress hormone cortisol. The plant sterols present in avocados also have an effect on estrogen and progesterone, the two hormones responsible for regulating ovulation and menstrual cycles.
5. Flaxseed
You may have heard of this new superfood, but did you know that flaxseed can have all sorts of benefits for your hormones?
Flaxseed is a significant source of phytoestrogens, and it specifically contains a type of phytoestrogen called lignans. Lignans have both an estrogenic and antiestrogenic effect, and they have been suggested to have protective benefits against certain types of cancer.
Flax seed is also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants. try eating it in your oatmeal, or even throw it in your smoothy.
6. Broccoli
There’s a reason you were always told to eat your broccoli. On top of its multitude of health benefits, broccoli can also work to balance your hormones. This cruciferous vegetable can help maintain estrogen balance, and since it is so high in calcium, it can also help with
premenstrual syndrome, according to LIVESTRONG. Broccoli contains phytoestogenic compounds which may promote beneficial estrogen metabolism,
helping to rid environmental, or ‘bad’ estrogens from the body.
7. Healing Spices & Herbs
- Cinnamon
- Turmeric
- Cayenne
- Cumin
- Garlic
If your body has the nutrients it needs to be in hormonal balance, it will be. You’ll experience glowing skin, stable moods, fertility, and consistent energy. Our bodies have
an incredible ability to heal and be in balance, when given the nutrients they need to flourish.
8. Egg yolks
They’re rich in countless vitamins and minerals including: A, D, E, B2, B6, B9, iron, calcium, phosphorous, potassium and choline which all contribute to a healthy reproductive system, hormonal balance, and healthy skin. The choline and iodine in egg yolks are also crucial for making healthy thyroid hormones.
9. Leafy Greens
Nutrient-rich foods such as leafy greens are ideal for balancing hormones. Because they’re filled with so many antioxidants, leafy greens help prevent inflammation and lower levels of stress, which can help improve cortisol levels, according to SFGate.com. They can also help with estrogen balance. Certain veggies like collard greens, spinach, kale, beet greens, dandelion greens, and swiss chard are also a good source of iron. Since iron deficiency can be an issue that leads to fatigue, brain fog, and headaches, it’s always good to incorporate your leafy greens into your daily meals!
10. Supplements
Once your body has the vital nutrients these foods provide, your hormones will naturally become more balanced and result in glowing skin, stable moods, and more consistent energy. Lifestyle changes and proper nutrition are some of the best ways to do that, and natural supplements have been shown to be part of the solution too. With Women’s Secret, it can reduces menopausal symptoms, balances hormones, Strengthens women’s reproductive organs and also Aids and prevents feminine health issues.
