Superfoods can be a valuable addition to anyone's diet and offer a plethora of nutrients that support overall health, including hormone balance for men and women. Women who suffer from polyps, cysts, or PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) really need to watch what they are eating as a diet high in refined sugars, dairy, wheat, meat and alcohol, will for sure contribute to worsening of symptoms. The reason for ditching the meat and the dairy is because it can be pumped with hormones and unwanted toxins which can elevate oestrogen, which can help to cause further disruptions in the hormonal balance.
Chemical toxins can be a massive contribution factor, so here are some things to be mindful of -
1. Wash all your fruits and veg thoroughly to remove pesticides and unwanted chemicals.
2.Be careful not to use toxic home cleaning products, instead switch to natural brands.
3.Ditch the junk food, fizzy drinks and high sugar snacks as they will disturb balanced sugar levels.
4.Moderate alcohol as this causes the liver to overwork, and if the hormones are unbalanced already you are only going to add more strain to the very organ that helps your body to cleanse.
5.Be mindful of the hours that you sleep. Go to bed before 11.00pm and wake up before 7.00am. This will help melatonin production so you feel happier during waking hours.
Make sure you do the following to help balance your hormones -
1.Eat a high fibre diet - these foods help remove toxins from the body which helps your hormones to remain more balanced. Foods such as Broccoli, cabbage, bok choy, celery, spinach, kale are all rich in healing minerals. Leafy Greens: Dark leafy greens are nutritional powerhouses, providing a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These greens are particularly rich in magnesium, a mineral that plays a crucial role in hormone regulation, stress management, and menstrual health.
2.Have Flaxseeds in your daily diet - Rich in lignans, fibre, and omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseeds are renowned for their hormone-balancing properties. Lignans, in particular, have been shown to modulate oestrogen levels in the body, potentially reducing the risk of hormone-related conditions such as breast cancer and menopausal symptoms.
3.Include Chia Seeds: Similar to flaxseeds, chia seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids and fibre, promoting hormone balance and supporting cardiovascular health. Additionally, chia seeds contain phytoestrogens, plant compounds that mimic the effects of oestrogen in the body, potentially alleviating symptoms of hormone fluctuations.
4.3. Eat an Avocado a day - Creamy and delicious, avocados are not only a culinary delight but also a boon for hormone balance. Packed with healthy fats, fibre, and potassium, avocados support adrenal health and help regulate cortisol levels, the primary stress hormone. Additionally, avocados contain vitamin E, an antioxidant that may alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Incorporating these superfoods into your diet, along with a diverse array of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, can help promote hormone balance and support overall well-being. As always, it's essential to listen to your body, prioritise nutrient-dense foods, and consult with a healthcare professional for personalised dietary recommendations.