Underlying Causes Of Hormonal Imbalances
Hormone imbalances often develop during hormonally active times in a womans life: pregnancy and after childbirth and during perimenopause and menopause. When hormone levels rapidly shift during these life transitions, there is a simply a greater chance for something to go haywire.
Hormonal imbalances can also be the result of an underlying health condition like PCOS , endometriosis, adrenal fatigue or hypothyroidism . At any point in your life, however, the bodys ability to maintain hormonal balance can be swayed by the foods you eat, the amount of sleep you get, exposure to toxins, and how much stress you have in your life.
How Can I Fix My Hormonal Imbalance
Conventional medicine relies on a frustrating band-aid approach to treating womens hormonal symptoms the use of prescription synthetic hormones that carry serious health risks is still the norm.
Natural health, however, has a very different understanding of the best solutions for hormonal imbalances in women. It starts with finding the root cause of the imbalance then supporting healthy hormone production with effective diet and lifestyle changes and supplementing with vitamins, minerals, herbs and other nutritional compounds that help restore hormonal balance.
What Vitamins Can Help To Balance Hormones
Whilst many hormonal imbalances should be discussed with a doctor, vitamins can play an effective role in supporting and balancing the healthy hormone production in your body. However, it is important to consult your GP if you have lots of symptoms or a condition that needs further support to ensure that any supplements you take are suited to you and are not interfering with any medication that you may be taking.
If you do suffer from physical or mental issues caused by hormonal imbalance, you may want to consider taking the following vitamins to help support a more healthy and balanced system:
Vitamin D and thyroid dysfunction
Vitamin D can help play a part in regulating insulin and the thyroid hormone. Research shows that a deficiency of vitamin D is associated with a high risk of thyroid antibodies, which are found in individuals suffering with autoimmune thyroid disorders. A vitamin D supplement can help with the regulation of insulin flow and balance blood sugar, allowing the body’s natural hormone cycles to function more effectively.
Vitamin B6 and PMS
Vitamin B6 can help alleviate some of the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome , such as mood changes and irritability. Studies have proven that taking around 100 milligrams of B6 daily can be an effective way to ward off PMS symptoms associated with mood and emotion – it helps in synthesising some of the neurotransmitters that affect these feelings.
Vitamin E and menopause
Vitamin Niacin and stress
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Exercise For Hormonal Balance
The best types of exercise for hormonal support are those that energize the body and work muscles at a more moderate level. Exercising at too high an intensity can trigger excess cortisol production, worsening adrenal hormone imbalances. Moderate hormone-balancing exercises to try include:
Walking
As simple as it gets, going for a brisk 20-30 minute walk on most days of the week is a cardio workout that relieves stress, gently works your muscles and lifts your aerobic output. You can walk indoors on a treadmill, but try to get outside. Sunshines added Vitamin D boost helps your body maintain hormonal balance.
Yoga
Practicing yoga helps to calm your mind and reduce cortisol. Its also a great whole body exercise for core muscle toning and balance. Struggling with hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms? These yoga for menopause symptom relief poses.
Swimming and water aerobics
If your knees and other joints tend to hurt during exercise, try swimming and water aerobics. The buoyancy of water takes pressure off your joints, giving you the ability to exercise without pain. Plus, the added resistance of water gives your workout more muscle-strengthening power.
Do Vitamins Help With Weight Gain Caused By Hormone Imbalance
A lot of people have discovered that vitamins have helped them with their weight problems, but many others have found that the weight gained was simply too difficult to get rid of. There have been several supplements that have been shown to be able to help those who suffer from hormone imbalances, including those who are overweight. Researchers have found that men who take a combination of B3, B6, and B12 supplements can be less likely to become obese than those who dont take the supplements.
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Herbal And Alternative Medicine:
I love using herbal formulations with my patients in order to provide safe and effective relief for their symptoms. Herbals are a gentle way to treat for many symptoms such as hot flashes, painful periods, unpredictable periods, hormonal acne, fertility, sleep, and more! Here are some common herbal supplements to balance hormones and combat these unwanted issues
Unfortunately, there are so many wonderful herbal supplements to balance hormones that I cannot possibly mention them all. It is also important to know that there is more to herbs that simply checking what health issues they are indicated for. They also have synergistic properties, which means that some herbs work better together! A naturopathic doctor can come up with a herbal formula that is dosed safely and appropriately for your individualized health history and concerns. There are also pre-made supplements on the market which are formulated for hormone balance. My trustworthy brands in this category include Vitanica and Femenessence.
Reduced Symptoms Of Menopause
A decline in estrogen levels characterizes menopause. This can lead to various symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness.
Hormone balance supplements can help reduce these symptoms by providing the body with its nutrients. They can also help regulate hormone levels and restore balance to your system.
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Can Turmeric Help Balance Hormones
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and liver-protective properties that can be beneficial if youre struggling with hormonal imbalance. In addition, some research indicates that turmeric can help improve insulin resistance. This can be particularly helpful for PCOS, weight loss, acne and other hormonal imbalance symptoms that are linked to insulin resistance.
You can learn more about turmeric and get my simple turmeric milk recipe in this article on using turmeric for hormonal imbalance.
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Tips To Balance Hormones Naturally
In addition to taking supplements that promote hormonal balance, theres a number of other lifestyle changes you can do to balance hormones naturally. Some of these include:
- Incorporate a hormone balanced diet that contains foods which are rich in nutrition, proteins, fiber, and other healthy fats. If youre suffering from a specific hormone imbalance, e.g. low estrogen, you can start eating foods that boost estrogen production.
- Drink green tea, , as it contains antioxidants and metabolism-boosting ingredients that are associated with several health benefits.
- Exercise regularly to boost your serotonin, estrogen, and testosterone levels and increase your memory, mood, sex drive, and general health.
- Cut down on sugar and refined fats, as studies suggest they are linked to insulin resistance. This way you can avoid obesity, diabetes, and other types of diseases.
- Use essential oils that can positively affect your hormone balance. Some hormone balance essential oils include clary sage, Ylang Ylang, thyme, and rosemary.
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Other Natural Ways To Help Balance Your Hormones
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is key to promoting hormone balance. Making sure you have a nutrient-dense diet filled with fruits, veggies, healthy fats, fiber, carbs, and protein is important. In addition to a balanced healthy diet, drinking adequate water is essential. Water helps with better nutrient absorption too.
Stress can contribute to hormone imbalances, so learning how to manage stress is key. Some ways you can promote relaxation include meditation, yoga, or taking up a hobby. You can also support your health by exercising regularly and making sure you get adequate sleep.
Why Use Hormone Balance
Throughout every menstrual cycle, females experience a variety of hormonal changes that can impact emotional and physical health.
For women with PMS, falling levels of estrogen during the second half of their cycle can cause a drop in the happy hormone serotonin. This, along with changes in progesterone levels can bring on a variety of symptoms including mood swings, depression, bloating and more. For women with PCOS or polycystic ovary syndrome, raised levels of testosterone can cause greater hormonal imbalances throughout each month.
Nutrition and diet can also play a part in these hormonal changes and this is where supplements can help. Recent studies have indicated that zinc supplementation has a positive effect on PCOS symptoms, including insulin resistance and lipid balance. In addition, research on vitamin B6 deficiency suggests that this nutrient can improve mood and general emotional health during episodes of PMS. 7
Meeting your recommended daily intake of vitamins and minerals is essential to healthy hormone production. Myvitamins Hormone Balance is a simple, vegetarian-friendly way to support your wellbeing from within every single day.
Shop yours here:
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What Are The Symptoms Of Hormonal Imbalance
Its important to realize that many different factors contribute to hormonal imbalances, including stress levels, age, lifestyle habits and genetics.
If youre experiencing any of the following symptoms under your arms weight gain around the hips, thighs or breasts then chances are that your hormones are out of balance:
-Weight gain.
-Allergies.
How To Identify The Imbalance: Hormonal vs Estrogen Dominance
The first step to identifying the hormonal imbalance youre experiencing is to identify whether its estrogen dominance. For example, if youve gotten your period every month for years and one day notice that its stopped, you may have estrogen dominance.
Other symptoms of estrogen dominance can include:
-Frequent headaches.
-Acne on the chin and jawline.
-Sleep problems.
-Brain fog, poor concentration and forgetfulness.
-Endometriosis, uterine fibroids or ovarian cysts.
If you think you have estrogen dominance, the next step is to see your doctor for blood tests. These will measure your levels of progesterone and estrogen. If your progesterone levels are low then this could be why youve experienced symptoms of estrogen dominance.
Top 5 Supplements For Hormone Balance
One of the simplest ways to regulate your hormones from the comfort of your own home is through supplementation. Adding natural supplements to your daily routine can positively impact your hormones and help restore balance in those who suffer from hormone deficiencies. At Pellecome LLC in Randolph, NJ, we have specially formulated some different hormone-balancing supplements, including the top 5 supplements for hormone balance.
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What Vitamins Help Fight Hormonal Acne
- DIM is an anti-inflammatory nutrient found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower
- Vitamin D if you have a deficiency
- Oralzinc supplements can also support overall skin health
According to Renteln, any natural treatment or supplement is most effective in a one-two punch with dermatologist-approved medication. This might include:
- Topical or oral retinoids
- Antiandrogen therapy, such as spironolactone
How Can Nutrient Deficiency Impact Hormone Balance
Deficiencies in certain nutrients can significantly impact hormone levels and disrupt the delicate balance of the endocrine system. For example, deficiencies in vitamin D, magnesium, and zinc have all been linked to lower testosterone levels.
On the other hand, an overabundance of certain minerals, such as manganese and copper can lead to higher estrogen levels. This is why it’s so important to make sure you’re getting all the essential nutrients your body needs for optimal hormone balance.
Also, keep in mind that nutrient deficiencies can also impact other aspects of your health, so it’s important to address them as soon as possible.
If you suspect you may be deficient in any nutrients, it’s essential to speak with a doctor or nutritionist to check your levels and find out which supplements would be best for you. Also, natural supplements are always better than synthetic ones.
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The Following Are The Most Important Vitamins And Minerals For Hormone Balance B Vitamins
Vitamins B6, B12, and folate are essential in the detoxifications processes in the body.
The body accumulates alot of byproducts during metabolism that needs to be cleared otherwise toxins start making one sick. Vitamins B6, folate, and B12 support the methylation pathway that helps the liver to clear excess estrogen from the liver.
When excess estrogen accumulates it can lead to estrogen dominance leading to all the bad symptoms such as mood swings, hot flashes, and even cancer.
Additionally, vitamin B6 also helps to regulate and restore the balance between progesterone and estrogen, reducing estrogen dominance.
Vitamin B 6studies have found also helps to regulate blood sugar and insulin sensitivity.
And in the study, participants who were women suffering from gestational diabetes experienced a reduction in their blood sugar.
Vitamin B6 and the other B vitamins are also crucial for neurotransmitter production and regulation to support your mood and reduce depressive or anxious moods.
If you suffer from hormonal imbalance and experience PMS, I recommendNatures Way PMS with Vitamin B6 and Other B-Vitamins.
With B6 however, be careful not to take more than 100mg a day as overdosing can cause unpleasant side effects.
Sometimes deficiency in vitamin B 12 is caused by a low thyroid hormone level that can affect the production and synthesis of B12.
And B12 and vitamin one are important in neurologic function and hormonal health.
Superfood Powder For Natural Hormone Support
Top Choice:Green Juice Powder from Organifi.
How to use: take as instructed on package.
This powder contains some of the most nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods that are available on the market.
And unlike many green powders, this one is actually tasty! So tasty that you can drink it in a glass of plain water and not have to hold your nose.
Now, lets look at the major ingredients in this green powder so that you know exactly why its on this list.
Aside from the above ingredients, this powder also has lemon, mint, monk fruit and coconut water which help to give it a pleasant taste .
Ready to incorporate this powder into your daily routine? Then get yours here from Amazon.
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Cbd Oil For Hormone Imbalance
CBD is a type of cannabinoid, a plant chemical found in hemp that is earning a lot of buzz for its calming ability. CBD was first identified and extracted in 1940, but it wasnt until decades later that researchers discovered the bodys endocannabinoid system , a series of signaling receptors that help regulate mood, immune-system responses, sleep, pain and more. CBD and other cannabinoids interact with ECS receptors, influencing messages sent to the nervous system, organs and cells.
When it comes to hormones, CBD may have the ability to provide relief for women who suffer from stress-related hormone imbalances. As one small-scale study found, CBD helps to re-regulate the stress-activating hormone cortisol.
Vitamin D Deficiency Treatment For Women In Arizona
The best and most available of obtaining vitamin D for your body is through sun exposure. But time and again we are told to avoid the sun due to cancer concerns. And while certain supplements and few vitamin-D fortified foods exist, they are often not enough to give you the amount of vitamin D your body needs every day.
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For Stress Hormone Balance
- Has been shown to help lower cortisol in stressful situations Gottfried, S. . The Hormone Cure. New York: Scribner, p. 103.
- Essential to support adrenal function Talbott, S. . The Cortisol Connection. Alameda, CA: Hunter House, p. 155.
- Deficiency has been shown to correlate with elevated levels of serum cortisol Talbott, S. . The Cortisol Connection. Alameda, CA: Hunter House, p. 183.
The Contraceptive Pill And The Suppression Of Progesterone
As touched upon earlier, most contraceptive pills purposely disrupt the natural menstruation cycle by producing progestin and suppressing the production of progesterone and Luteinising Hormone , as well as producing synthetic progesterone). Eating foods that are naturally rich in certain nutrients and taking supplements can help boost your progesterone levels and balance the hormonal disturbances caused by taking the contraceptive pill.
Vitamins and nutrients that are associated with boosting progesterone levels include:
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Work On Your Stress Levels
In women, sex hormones, like progesterone, testosterone, and estrogen, are made in the adrenal glands. These hormones often become depleted during periods of chronic stress, in order for the body to increase cortisol levels .
Additionally, stress affects our hormones further upstream by disrupting the pituitary gland or master gland of the endocrine system. The pituitary gland controls the creation and release of many hormones, and a dysregulation of this system can offset normal hormone production [57
Over time, chronic stress can create symptoms of a hormonal imbalance and potentially lead to an endocrine disorder. Common stressors include:
- Work, relationship, and personal life issues
- Blood sugar fluctuations
- Chronic inflammation
Fortunately, there are several things you can do to reduce your stress levels. Cognitive behavioral therapy and coping-skills training can both reduce stress and symptoms of hormonal disorders . Meditation, yoga, deep-breathing exercises, and other forms of mindfulness are all effective at reducing overall stress levels.
Eating a balanced diet to control blood sugar levels, healing the gut, and lessening your inflammatory burden on the body are all ways in which you can reduce your overall stress load.
Are There Natural Ways To Balance Hormones
According to Renteln, stress reduction and an overall healthy lifestyle that includes adequate sleep, regular exercise, and proper nutrition, can potentially help balance hormones. A combination of healthy lifestyle modifications, an effective skincare regimen, and medical intervention is ideal to properly manage hormones.
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