Hormonal imbalances may be to blame for a range of unwanted symptoms from fatigue or weight gain to itchy skin or low mood. Hormones are chemicals produced by glands in the endocrine system and released into the bloodstream. An imbalance occurs when there is too much or too little of a hormone.
Your hormones are important for regulating many different processes in the body including appetite and metabolism, sleep cycles, reproductive cycles and sexual function, body temperature and mood. No surprise then that even the slightest hormone imbalance may have a noticeable effect on your overall health and wellbeing.
Some signs your hormones may be out of whack include –
- Low mood
- Heavy or painful periods
- Low libido
- Insomnia or low quality sleep
- Unexplained weight gain
- Skin problems
- Fertility problems
- Headaches
- Vaginal dryness
There are other factors that may cause you to experience some of the above symptoms as well, so it doesn’t necessarily mean it IS your hormones. But if problems persist, it’s best to see your doctor/naturopath/health care professional for some further testing.
Natural Supplements To Support Hormones
FEM 21
I used to work in a health store and this stuff FLEW off the shelves! Mix the powder into a juice or smoothie 1-2 times per day to help balance hormones, enhance liver detoxification, improve gut health, alkalise the body, support your adrenals and thyroid, as well as mood and energy.
Evening Primrose Oil
- Helps reduce the symptoms of premenstrual tension syndrome
- Supports healthy hormonal balance in females
- Maintains skin firmness and structural integrity
- Rich in omega-6 gamma-linoleic acid (GLA)
Omega 3’s / Eating Healthy Fats
People are often afraid of fats as it’s the most calorie dense nutrient. But it does wonders for our hormones, skin and brain health + more.
Enjoy occasional fatty fish if you aren’t vegan, take a DHA supplement if you do not eat fish, sprinkle seeds into your cooking, enjoy nut and seed butters, avocado, dark chocolate and eggs if you aren’t vegan.
When our hormones are supported and our body is operating at it’s peak, it’s easier to manage our weight anyway. So don’t skimp on fats to ‘stay in shape!’
Nigella Sativa (black seed / black cumin seed)
Nigella Sativa has estrogenic effects, which gradually increases the blood levels estrogen vaginal epithelial cells. A randomised clinical trial found that treatment with Nigella Sativa significantly improved clinical parameters of Hashimoto thyroiditis compared to the placebo group. It may also help kill cancer cells, support liver and kidney function, improve asthma, enhance male fertility and fight bacteria/viruses/fungi/yeasts.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha has been shown to help induce ovulation and correct irregular menstrual cycles, and even menstrual pain. This is because ashwagandha enhances the endocrine system which helps regulate the thyroid and adrenal glands. These glands are responsible for maintaining the balance of the reproductive hormones.
It has been shown to improve sleep quality and reduce the frequency of insomnia in women, as well as reduce the severity of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms such as cramps, bloating, and mood swings.
Anna’s Wild Yam Cream
Eases the symptoms of menstrual discomforts, menopause, endometriosis and many other feminine health issues by balancing the adrenal cortex steroids naturally.
Massage well into chest, neck, breasts, abdomen, inner arms & thighs, these are the areas of the body where the cream is particularly well absorbed.
Chasteberries
Chaste tree berries may help stimulate progesterone. This is a female hormone that rises 2 weeks before menstruation. It’s an anti-inflammatory that helps calm down hormones and lessen PMS-related mood changes.
Chasteberry is also extensively used as a digestive, anti-fungal, and anti-anxiety medicine and treats various anxiety and bipolar disorders.
Minimise Endocrine Disruptors
This isn’t a supplement, but a lifestyle change. Endocrine disruptors are found in many everyday products, including some cosmetics, food and beverage packaging, toys, carpet, and pesticides. Some chemicals that act as flame retardants may also be endocrine disruptors. Contact with these chemicals may occur through air, diet, skin, and water. They cannot be completely avoided or removed, however you can make informed choices to reduce exposure and risk of any potential health effects.
Some endocrine disruptors include –
- Bisphenol A (BPA) is used to make polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. It is used in manufacturing, food packaging, toys, and other applications. BPA resins may be found in the lining of some canned foods and beverages.
- Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of chemicals used widely in industrial applications, such as firefighting foam, nonstick pans, paper, and textile coatings.
- Phthalates are a large group of compounds used as liquid plasticizers. They are found in hundreds of products including some food packaging, cosmetics, fragrances, children’s toys, and medical device tubing. Cosmetics that may contain phthalates include nail polish, hair spray, aftershave lotion, cleanser, and shampoo.
- Triclosan is an ingredient that was previously added to some antimicrobial and personal care products, like liquid body wash and soaps.
It’s probably impossible to avoid it completely in today’s world. But just pick and choose your products so you can at least minimise your exposure.
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