Foods that regulate hormones are plenty, but you have to know them to start consuming them. Find out about the top 5 natural hormonal regulators!
Many women need hormonal regulators, as they suffer from imbalances related to the hormonal system. This is generally reflected in the regularity and symptoms of menstrual cycles.
The most advisable thing when this happens is to go to the doctor to establish the cause and the most appropriate treatment as the case may be. However, there are some foods that you can include in your diet to help regulate this disorder and provide nutrients to the body. We show you 5 of them below.
What are the symptoms of a hormonal imbalance?
Hormonal activity is very important for the body, since they are responsible for regulating metabolic functions and reproduction. Therefore, an imbalance in its functioning can lead to different health problems, ranging from sleep disorders to digestive problems.
The term hormonal imbalance means that you have too much or too little of a certain hormone. The symptoms and signs of this condition depend on the hormone or gland that is not working the right way. According to a Hormone Health publication, these are the most common:
- Humor changes
- Heavy, painful or irregular periods
- Loss of libido
- Insomnia
- Gaining weight without any apparent cause
- Skin problems
- Fertility problems
- Headaches
- Vaginal dryness
5 foods that regulate hormones
As we mentioned, hormones play a very important role in mental, physical and emotional health. However, our fast-paced lifestyle has made hormonal imbalance more and more common. Fortunately, some foods that regulate hormones can help counteract this problem. We tell you what they are.
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Fig
This delicious fruit is said to help regulate hormonal processes and menstrual cycles. Therefore, you better consume it regularly during menopause. On the other hand, its fiber content makes it one of the most desired foods for people with constipation problems.
You can eat figs fresh, in smoothies or in combination with yogurt. We can also eat them dry. In this way, they are easier to carry to take them mid-morning or mid-afternoon. However, people who suffer from obesity should not eat more than 2 a day, preferably in the morning.
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Maca
Maca is one of the best hormonal regulators since it contains proteins, essential amino acids, carbohydrates, fibers and minerals, such as iron, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium and zinc. Among other properties, this tuber is a hormonal regulator at all levels (pituitary and hypothalamus).
In relation to this, a pilot study published in the International Journal of Biomedical Science indicates that its consumption can be a useful option to balance hormone levels and alleviate perimenopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, depression, palpitations and heart problems.
How to take it?
We can get it in tablets or powder. Recommendations are to start small and increase, because it is very energizing. The maintenance dose is 3 grams a day (about a teaspoon of mocha), but you can take up to 9 grams daily and mix it with juice.
Although some of its benefits can be noticed quickly, if we want it to have more profound effects as an endocrine regulator, it is recommended to take it for at least three months and, later, assess the results together with a specialist. It has long-lasting effects, even after you stop taking it, so remember this.
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Brewer’s yeast
Brewer’s yeast has zinc, a mineral that acts as a natural hormonal regulator, and also favors the synthesis of several hormones: thyroid, progesterone, and testosterone. It is especially useful for people with acne. In fact, a Mayo Clinic publication lists it as one of the natural treatments for this condition.
How to take it?
You can mix it with juice or yogurt, consume it in powder or in tablets, if you do not like its slightly bitter taste. You will improve the absorption of its nutrients if you take it with meals.
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Basil
A review of the literature published in Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine suggests that basil would be an effective treatment for chronic lifestyle-related illnesses such as diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and psychological stress. The latter has direct effects on the thyroid, ovaries and pancreas, among other organs.
How to take it?
Its best known way of consuming it is as an infusion. In addition, you can add it to all kinds of preparations to enhance the flavor of foods.
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Sage
This aromatic plant is one of the best known in the category of hormonal regulators due to its estrogen content. It is also popular for its aphrodisiac properties. It is recommended in cases of excessive menstruation and during menopause. Additionally, it is said to have mood-boosting properties when affected by hormonal issues.
How to take it?
You can consume it as an infusion and as a food, so you can use its fresh leaves to flavor meals and, even, fry them in the form of chips. Also, you can extract its juice and mix it with that of some fruits or vegetables.
As you can see, consuming these foods could help you regulate certain problems that appear as a result of hormonal imbalance. However, for optimal results, combine them with a healthy lifestyle. Finally, do not forget to consult your doctor if the discomfort persists.
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