When our hormones are in balance, our bodies can function at an optimal level. There are numerous factors that can throw your hormones out of whack, affecting how you feel overall. Chronic hormonal imbalances can lead to things such as, weight gain, sleep issues, depression, and infertility to name a few. Luckily, you can balance your hormones by adding certain foods to your diet along with the right type of lifestyle routine that works for you.
The right amount of nutrients help to give your body what it needs in order to balance your hormones. These 5 foods contain unrefined carbs, fiber, protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants.
1. Avocados - stress causes your body to produce a ton of hormones, which triggers inflammation, sugar cravings, and insulin spikes. The cortisol that is released when something stressful happens causes your body to go into fight-or-flight mode, disrupting the body's thyroid production. Avocados not only contain healthy fats that help to lower cholesterol, but they also include fiber, which helps to reduce spikes in blood sugar. Avocados also help to balance estrogen in women.
2. Broccoli - probably one of my favorite veggies of all time. Veggies that are cruciferous, like broccoli, help to balance estrogen. The phytochemicals in broccoli help to metabolize estrogen efficiently, while the fiber helps to reduce the amount of estrogen that is circulating in your blood. This helps to reduce symptoms of excess estrogen and the issues that come along with it. Do note that you may feel some bloating due to the fiber, but it will also help to keep you full for longer and promote healthier bathroom habits.
3. Pomegranates - I love to add these to my yogurt in the morning as they are incredibly refreshing. Pomegranates contain fat-burning, anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce negative effects of excess hormones. They also help to enhance fertility, balance the menstrual cycle, and reduce symptoms of PMS.
4. Coconut Oil - helps to improve thyroid function by lending a hand to cholesterol in order to convert it into progesterone. Coconut oil also contains many anti-bacterial properties that help to reverse the damaging effects that toxins have on the body. We are exposed to toxins every single day that contain hormone-mimicking chemicals, preventing our bodies to produce real hormones.
5. Quinoa - this is one of my favorite gluten free grains out there. It is loaded with B vitamins, which help with PMS symptoms. Quinoa is a complex carbohydrate that has a low glycemic index, which helps to keep your blood sugar stable. Because quinoa releases sugars slowly into your body, it helps to keep cortisol levels in check.