Hormone imbalances are becoming more and more common. Hormones in our food supply, toxic chemicals in our environment, stress, poor nutrition, lack of rest and being out of synch with nature all contribute to the possibility of becoming out of balance. Even though it may sometimes seem as though the cards are stacked against you there are some foods you can eat to help your body find balance. Some great whole foods to be included in your diet each week for balancing hormones are:
Foods To Heal Hormone Imbalances
Chia seed and flax seed: Chia and flax seed contain omega 3 and 6, and phytoestrogens. These nutrients are super important for reducing inflammation which can lead to hormonal balances over time. They are also important for proper hormone production in general. Linolenic acid which is a constituent of omega 3 fatty acids converts to GLA, which is essential for healthy progesterone production.
Wheatgrass: Wheatgrass is excellent for helping balance out hormones. It will work to help cleanse the liver which is where all of your hormones are filtered. If your liver is working inefficiently this will have a negative effect on your hormone levels by keeping them in your system for too long or by improperly processing them. The high magnesium and chlorophyll content of wheatgrass works to build enzymes that restore sex hormones. If you’ve got a gluten allergy, be very careful where you purchase your wheatgrass and be sure to ask the supplier if they can ensure their wheatgrass is gluten-free. (Most of the time it is, it’s safer to double-check.)
Sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, pine nuts and pistachios: These nuts and seeds are all great sources of linolenic acid and healthy fats which are essential for balancing hormones. These are good to have in moderate amounts.
Foods rich in Vitamin B6: Foods such as nutritional yeast, spinach, avocado and bananas are all high in vitamin B6. A deficiency in vitamin B6 has been shown to result in progesterone imbalance in women and may affect sperm and egg production in men and women respectively.
Goji berries and Maca root powder: Both goji berries and maca rood have been used by herbalists and other holistic healers to help harmonize, rejuvenate and nourish the endocrine system for a healthy libido, balanced mood and sexual vitality. Goji berries have been used by Ancient Chinese Medicine doctors for centuries as a tonic for hormonal imbalance and for improving sexual function. Maca root has been studied for its positive effects on hormone levels for both men and women. You can read more about maca here.
Plant-based protein powder: Protein supports the liver’s detoxification process so it can flush out excess hormones from the body and keep hormone levels at their optimum. It is good to have some pure source of raw protein at most meals for hormonal balance. Some good sources of whole food plant-based protein are hemp seeds, chia seeds, quinoa and avocado. We like Manitoba Harvest, Vega and Sun Warrior protein powders.
Chelsea Goodrich
