What are hormonal imbalances?

Now, if you’re, lucky enough to have a menstrual cycle, you’re well aware of hormonal imbalances. At its heart, your entire cycle is governed by the ebb and flow, ups and downs, and balance and imbalance of some of your hormones.

“For instance, PMS is largely down to the low levels of Progesterone just before your period. When it’s at a higher level, say, after Ovulation, you likely don’t see those symptoms.
There are though, those times when imbalances aren’t part of a natural cycle.”

And by that, we mean things like PCOS, Endometriosis, and Thyroid dysfunction, all of which come under the umbrella of imbalance. Those long-lasting issues can cause a host of debilitating symptoms, and most require official diagnosis and treatment.

What’s the connection?

Food, as we’re often heard to say, is magic. At least, some of it is. Everything you put in your body can affect you, whether that’s giving you an energy boost, or making you feel lethargic, you definitely are what you eat.

But, some foods can have specific effects on your hormones, and others can have specific effects on hormone conditions. And that’s why we’re so into the idea of eating to support your own personal hormone balance. And if you’re living with any of the following imbalances, eating well can be key to symptom reduction and recovery.

How does food affect my hormonal imbalance?

Depending on what’s going on, food can contribute to worsening symptoms, but it can also improve them, your mood, and your overall health. Here’s how:

Food and Hormones: PCOS

As you may know, PCOS is the most common hormonal disorder in women. Research conducted by the UN shows that it affects approximately 8-13% of women between puberty and menopause, but many more cases — the UN estimates up to 70% – go unreported or undiagnosed.

• Sugar
  As much as we all love a little sweetener, sugar is the number one food to avoid when you’re living with PCOS. It can lead to weight gain and insulin resistance, which in turn can end up as diabetes. And we don’t just mean sugar in its purest form either. Dextrose, Sucrose, and high Fructose corn syrup, all highly processed forms of sugar, are just as bad, so make sure you’re checking the labels on any pre-packaged and processed foods you purchase.
• Protein & fiber
  As much as we all love a little sweetener, sugar is the number one food to avoid when Now, where PCOS and food are concerned, protein and fiber are your best friends. Both are essential for everyone’s overall health, but if you’re also living with PCOS, they’re crucial for helping to keep your insulin levels in a great place, and can even help with weight control.

Food and Hormones: Endometriosis

As you may know, Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition that is affected by hormones. But it’s also much more than that. Tissue that’s very similar to the lining of your uterus somehow grows outside of said uterus. At this point, it can attach itself to anything, including your intestines, kidneys, and lungs, among other things. And as you can imagine, it can be deeply uncomfortable and even debilitating for those living with it.

• Fats
  This is some of the really good food and hormone stuff. Omega-3 fatty acids, like those found in oily fish including salmon, mackerel, and sardines, are beneficial to your health, and not just for your hormones. They’ve also been shown to reduce the risk of Endometriosis, as well as being excellent for your heart health. And the best news is that frozen fish is just as effective as fresh, which is a budgetary bonus as far as we’re.
• Maintaining Good Gut Health
  This is some of the really good food and hormone stuff. Omega-3 fatty acids, like those found in oily fish including salmon, mackerel, and sardines, are beneficial to your health, and not just for your hormones. They’ve also been shown to reduce the risk of Endometriosis, as well as being excellent for your heart health. And the best news is that frozen fish is just as effective as fresh, which is a budgetary bonus as far as we’re.
• Dairy
  Now, where food and hormones are concerned, this one is a little tricky. Dairy contains Vitamin D, which is great for helping support your body if you’re living with Endometriosis. But A1 casein dairy, including cow’s milk, may worsen symptoms in some. It all comes down to your individual reactions, so if your symptoms are increasing, it might be worth cutting out dairy for a few days to see if that’s the culprit.

As you may know, Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition that is affected by hormones. But it’s also much more than that. Tissue that’s very similar to the lining of your uterus somehow grows outside of said uterus. At this point, it can attach itself to anything, including your intestines, kidneys, and lungs, among other things. And as you can imagine, it can be deeply uncomfortable and even debilitating for those living with it.