The Naturopaths Approach To Balancing Female Hormones
The endocrine system consists of glands that produce hormones. Hormones are chemical messengers that send instructions to the various organ systems in order to regulate vital bodily functions. A high stress lifestyle combined with poor eating habits can wreak havoc on a womens delicately balanced hormonal function. Even healthy women with a good diet can end up with hormones unbalanced.
Symptoms of hormonal imbalance may include PMS, uterine fibroids, osteoporosis, reduced sex drive, allergies,weight gain, changes in the skin, fatigue, water retention, hair loss, facial hair growth and sometimes anxiety and depression.
A naturopath takes time to review a patients medical history in detail and tailor a herbal mix and provide dietary and lifestyle advice specific to the patient. Below are some suggested tips and a selection of herbs for treating hormonal imbalances.
Follow A High Fiber Diet
Fiber is essential to a healthy diet.
Studies have found that it increases insulin sensitivity and stimulates the production of hormones that make you feel full (
Researchers believe that this diet increases your intake of protective plant compounds such as polyphenols and lignans .
Summary
Replacing a diet high in red meat and processed and refined foods with a Mediterranean-style diet rich in whole grains, legumes, and fish may help you manage your estrogen levels.
What Supplements Help Balance Hormones
There are many other supplements like vitex or Dong Quai that help balance hormones. If you are interested in a post on this or more information, shoot me an email and Ill work on it. Supplements are great when used properly!
I hope this post was helpful and helped you recognize the benefits of drinking herbal teas for hormone support. Hormones are complicated, and learning different natural methods in balancing them can be quite helpful. Ive found it provides you with a long-term fix, instead of a short-term fix. Teas can be a great way in supporting your health with a simple drink.
Next week I will be addressing the alternatives to hormonal birth control, the Fertility Awareness method in particular.
Feel free to or a if you have any questions. Also, I recently joined TikTok and Im obsessed with making videos. So if youre on the platform, feel free to check it out.
xx Linds
P.S. If youre interested in learning more about hormone health and nutrition, check out a few of my other articles on hormone health here:
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Supplement To Fill Nutritional Voids
While a healthy diet is key for all aspects of health, its sometimes necessary to supplement in order to fill nutritional voids that can be leading to a hormone imbalance.
Here are the top supplements to focus on in order to balance hormones:
Evening Primrose Oil
Evening primrose oil contains omega-6 fatty acids, such as GLA, that support overall hormonal function. Supplementing with evening primrose oil can help relieve premenstrual and PCOS symptoms. It also helps to create a healthy environment for conception.
Vitamin D
What is the best vitamins to take for hormonal imbalance? Vitamin D is definitely one of them, since it almost acts like a hormone inside the body and has important implications for keeping inflammation levels low.
This is why people who live in dark areas often suffer from seasonal depression and other health problems unless they supplement with vitamin D. Sunshine is really the best way to optimize vitamin D levels because your bare skin actually makes vitamin D on its own when exposed to even small amounts of direct sunlight.
Most people should supplement with around 2,0005,000 international units daily of vitamin D3 if they live in dark areas, during the winter and on days when theyre not in the sun.
Bone Broth
Probiotics
Probiotics are healthy bacteria that can actually improve your production and regulation of key hormones like insulin, ghrelin and leptin. They can also aid in repairing your gut lining, which in turn can balance your hormones.
Swap Carbs For Healthy Fats
Foods that balance hormones include a variety of fat-containing foods that provide short-, medium- and long-chain fatty acids. Your body needs various types of fats to create hormones, including saturated fat and cholesterol.
Not only are these essential fats fundamental building blocks for hormone production, but they keep inflammation levels low, boost your metabolism and promote weight loss.
Healthy fats have the opposite effect of refined carbohydrates, which lead to inflammation and can mess with the balance of your hormones.
My four favorite sources of anti-inflammatory, healthy fats include coconut oil, avocados, grass-fed butter and wild-caught salmon.
- Coconut oil uses are plentiful. For example, coconut oil has natural antibacterial and fat-burning effects.
- Avocado benefits include improving heart health, lowering inflammation, controlling your appetite, and contributing to your daily intake of fiber and nutrients, such as potassium.
- Salmon nutrition is also impressive. Its one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to lower inflammation and help with cognitive functions. Omega-3 fatty acids are a large component of brain-cell membranes and are important for cell-to-cell communication in the brain. Research shows that omega-3 fatty acids help protect against hippocampal neuronal loss and reduce pro-inflammatory responses.
Read Also: How Can I Find Out If My Hormones Are Imbalanced
Recommended Reading: How To Fix Low Testosterone And Elevated Estrogen Levels
Use Natural Supplements For Hormone Imbalance
You can take many natural supplements to improve your hormones health vitamin C, vitamin B6, magnesium, zinc, etc. as well as the herbs we have mentioned earlier. Although these supplements are quite beneficial, generally, you shouldnt overdo them. Instead, try to get as many vitamins and vital nutrients through food.
Herbs That Promote Hormonal Balance
Black cohosh is native to Eastern North America. Its from the same family as the buttercup, and is sometimes called bugbane or rattleweed. Black cohosh has been used for generations by women worldwide to help with hormonal balance.
While the mechanisms arent clear, one thought is that black cohosh binds to opioid receptors in the brain to affect tissues in the body. It may also act similar to estrogen when taken in large doses. Some research has found that black cohosh relieves symptoms of menopause more effectively than placebo or no treatment does, though more research is necessary.
Its important to note, as well, that there can be adverse effects so talking with a professional before taking black cohosh is important.
Chastetree , also called chasteberry is often used in conjunction with black cohosh or other herbs to treat menopausal symptoms. The berries have diterpenoid compounds which can have potential effects on the neurotransmitter dopamine.
Research has also shown that chasteberry may lower levels of the hormone prolactin. High levels of prolactin have been associated with PMS. Other studies have shown that the properties of chasteberry could mimic the action of progesterone, helping relieve menopausal symptoms and treat infertility problems.
Other research has shown that nigella sativa extract acts similar to the natural estrogen produced by your body.
Also Check: What Doctor Can Check Hormone Levels
Symptoms Of Hormonal Imbalance
Today, were dealing with hormone imbalances like never before, but women are often quick to dismiss the signs, attributing them to stress, age, or just coincidence. However, if youre experiencing any of the following, theres a good chance your symptoms are due to a hormone imbalance.
- Painful periods
Symptoms of hormonal imbalance can be broad, and difficult to pin down, even in your doctors office. Often, synthetic hormones like those found in birth control are prescribed as the only solution to treating symptoms of hormonal imbalances. Instead, we can look at other ways to balance hormones naturally.
For a gentle way to support hormone balance, learn more about Hormone Helper.
When Hormones Are Out Of Balance
Hormones can affect nearly all aspects of our health and wellbeing. But we may notice an imbalance most when our sex hormones are out of kilter.
In women, this is most evident at times of change during the reproductive years puberty, around menstruation, during and after pregnancy, and throughout perimenopause .
You may experience:
- lack of or excess exercise
- a poor diet or reliance on stimulants and depressants like caffeine, sugar and alcohol
You can see from this list how easy it is for your hormones to tip out of balance. If youre stressed, for example, you may sleep badly and rely on alcohol. Or if you have a poor diet and dont exercise you can become overweight.
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Helps Maintain A Healthy Hormone Balance*
Helps maintain healthy female hormone balance and well-being*
Balanced hormones are key to physical and emotional wellness during the menstrual cycle and menopausal transition.*
A blend of Vitex, Black Cohosh, St. Johns Wort, and Oats
Our Oats are extracted fresh immediately after harvest to preserve full spectrum compounds for optimal potency.*
Traditionally used for relief of occasional hot flashes*
This formula is suitable for all ages but can be especially supportive during the shifts that occur approaching menopause.*
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Vitex Or Chaste Tree Berry For Estrogen Dominance
Vitex, also known as chaste tree berry, is a small deciduous tree that is native to the Mediterranean. The berries of the tree have been used for centuries in herbal medicine to help balance hormones and regulate the menstrual cycle. Vitex is perhaps one of the most common herbs to balance hormones. It contains compounds that support the effects of progesterone in the body, which can help alleviate symptoms of PMS, menopause, and PCOS.
Vitex is especially helpful if you have symptoms of estrogen dominance like painful periods, tender breasts, or mood swings just before your period. Vitex is also thought to improve fertility by helping to support a healthy balance between reproductive hormones, estrogen and progesterone. It may also help reduce testosterone levels in women with PCOS .
Related:Signs You Have Estrogen Dominance + What to Do About It
Read Also: What Hormones Contribute To Weight Gain
Get The Best Natural Treatment For Hormone Imbalance At Makari Wellness
Mike Woodworth, acupuncturist and Chinese herbalist from Makari Wellness, understands the importance of hormone health, as its one of the predispositions for a happy and healthy family. With more than 15 years of experience in the field of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Mike offers efficient and high-quality natural treatment for hormone imbalance symptoms. He focuses on promoting your optimal health, strengthening your immune system, and bringing joy to your everyday life. You need more reasons to visit him? Call us at 871-8889, and well be ready to give you more information about the best acupuncture for hormone imbalance San Diego citizens have ever experienced.
- Primary ovarian insufficiency
- Ovarian cancer.
Its essential to identify the specific factor that provokes hormone imbalance in order to get adequate treatment and make sure your organism functions the way it should.
Natural Treatment For Hormone Imbalance: A Healthy Diet And Nutrients
A healthy diet and certain lifestyle modifications can have a considerable impact on your health and hormones. Unhealthy food is one of the most common reasons why people face hormone disbalances, high blood pressure, obesity, or even develop diabetes type 2. Even a small diet and lifestyle changes can bring significant improvements and make you feel much better. Here are the six vital tips for helping you balance hormones naturally with the adequate diet:
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What Tea Is Good For Hormonal Balance
Some of the best teas for balancing hormones include hibiscus, stinging nettle, chamomile and mint teas . These teas have various benefits that include supporting the liver, lowering androgens and regulating estrogen levels.
For a complete list of teas, be sure to check out this list of the top 10 teas for balancing womens hormones.
Treatment For Hormone Imbalances
Treatments for hormone imbalances are similar for men and women. The most common Western medicine treatment for hormone imbalances is medication. With hormone replacement therapy, you can take medications that contain either male or female hormones to balance out the symptoms of hormone imbalances.
For women, these medications contain synthetic estrogen or other hormones. For men, hormone replacement therapy medications contain synthetic testosterone.
While these medications replicate the functions of sex hormones in the body, they dont treat the root of hormone imbalances. Once you stop taking the medication, your hormones will fall back out of balance and your symptoms will likely return.
For those who want a drug-free way to balance their hormones, Chinese medicine can help.
Recommended Reading: How To Fix Hormonal Imbalances
Shatavari For Pcos And Fertility
Shatavari has been used traditionally as a nourishing adaptogen and a fertility tonic. Native to India and the Himalayas, the roots of this plant are a staple in Ayurvedic medicine.
A review of studies published in 2018 suggests that this plant may improve conditions such as hormonal imbalances and polycystic ovary syndrome . It can also help support the bodys response to stress hormones.
Shatavari has also been used as an aphrodisiac, and as an aid for youthfulness, energy, and mental alertness. Its one of a few Ayurvedic herbs that may also help improve energy levels and stamina in women.
A fertility tonic that makes you feel great and boosts energy? Yes please!
Try these:7 Tonics for Glowing Skin, Energy, and More
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Reduced sexual desire, a lack of energy, hormonal imbalance… all concerns that can cause a great deal of stress for women. Of course, environmental toxins and hormone disrupting chemicals only make the situation worse. Fortunately, women of any age can take nutritional steps to naturally balance hormone levels. Here are, in no particular order, the 10 best herbs for female hormone balance.
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Herbal Treatment For Hormone Imbalance: The Best Herbs To Balance Hormones
Thankfully, both acupuncture and Chinese herbs for hormone balance can help reverse these and other patterns and bring the body back to its naturally healthy state. Herbs like dong quai are well known for balancing female hormones, while herbs like goji berry and wild yam help support the body in making and processing hormones.
Here are some of the most commonly used Chinese herbs for hormone balance:
Balancing Hormones With Adaptogenic Herbs
Abnormal hormone levels can be serious, so I always recommend working with a qualified holistic or integrative provider who can first test your hormone levels, and make informed recommendations. In the meantime, you can use herbs and other remedies to support hormone balance naturally.
Herbs are a simple and easy way to get the vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients your body needs to balance hormones and regulate the menstrual cycle. They can also help alleviate symptoms of PMS, menopause, and PCOS. herbs are also thought to improve fertility by helping to regulate hormone levels.
Resources
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Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy :
For my women who have more severe symptoms supplements to balance hormones may not be enough and in this case Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy can be a great option. With proper labs, follow-up, and customized dosing, this can be a safe step up in a patients therapy from more natural treatments. Remember, its all about safety first, so using the lowest level of therapy to provide adequate symptom relief is ideal!
There is no one herb, nutritional plan, product, or therapy that is good for everything hormones related. It is vital to determine what type of hormone imbalance you have and why. Finding the root cause to your health issues can bring you back to long-lasting optimal health herbals, nutrition, and medications can help you there. A qualified health care professional can offer testing, interpretation, diagnosis, and treatment for your unique needs and goals!
Stay Lifted Throughout The Winter Season
Make tea time a boost for your hormones and neurotransmitters.
While most herbal or green teas you choose are likely to be a nourishing treat, look for the following herbs that are especially effective for hormone and neurotransmitter support. Enjoyed as yummy teas, they will keep you warm, hydrated, and balanced all winter long.
Whats the best thing about the holidays? Certainly not shopping, traveling, or annoying holiday articles! Being with friends and family of course. Sharing tea is a time-honored, cross-cultural ritual that you can introduce into your holidays. Pouring anothers tea is considered a blessing to both parties. Offering these herbal tea options is a healthy gift you can give while spending time together, and a gift for your hormones at the same time!
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Signs Of Hormonal Imbalance
In considering whether one has a hormonal imbalance, there are several symptoms to look for that might point to an imbalance. These include:
1) An unexplained or sudden weight gain or loss2) Changes in sleep patterns3) Thinning or excessive hair growth4) Hot flashes and/or night sweats5) Vaginal dryness, bleeding outside of menses, and heavy, irregular, or painful periods.
Contrasting these symptoms to what are naturally occurring hormonal changes due to life cycles, like puberty, pregnancy, breastfeeding, perimenopause, menopause, and andropause is important in teasing out potential endocrine malfunctioning. Understanding what is normal is the first step in determining what might be seen outside the normal range.