Ladies, our bodies are always changing. At this point, you're probably aware of how your body is affected by your monthly visit from “Aunt Flo,” but did you know that your hormones are constantly adjusting from week to week (and even day to day)?
Your body goes through a full 28+ day process to keep you regulated. This not only applies to your menstruation and fertility but also to your body’s entire function. These perpetual hormonal shifts can affect your mood and way of thinking.
Do you ever feel that something’s off with your natural cycle? If you’re over 20 years old and find yourself suffering from any of the following symptoms, you may be dealing with a hormone imbalance:
Acne
Weight fluctuations
Hair loss
Thyroid issues (i.e., hypothyroidism)
Severe mood swings
Spurts of energy at the wrong times (i.e., right before bed)
The bad news is that these, among many other symptoms, are interrelated. The good news is that you have the ability to help remedy them. There are certain healthy foods for PMS that will make your time of the month more comfortable. Eating more of the following foods can help correct a hormone imbalance and get your body in "flow."
Water (and watermelon)
Drink water — a lot of it — especially during your menstrual cycle. If your body hasn’t already told you, I will. Your body is working really hard to shed your uterine lining. With this increased effort comes dehydration, and hydration during this time is key. If you're a person who finds it difficult to drink water straight, try decaffeinated teas (i.e., chamomile), infused waters, and watermelon.
Wild rice
Bowel movements can get weird this time of the month. Diarrhea is common and fibrous foods like buckwheat and wild rice can be incredibly helpful to regulate. Fiber and water go hand in hand. Even more of a reason to drink plenty of H2O!
Beets
Beets are a good source of folate and betaine. During menstruation, women benefit greatly from eating these root vegetables because they help replenish iron lost in the blood.
Leafy dark greens
Green vegetables are high in calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which help prevent cramps. The minerals found in leafy dark greens like kale, seaweed, and broccoli rabe can also help with mood swings. Furthermore, dark green vegetables also contain high amounts of vitamin K, which is needed to coagulate blood and prevent excess bleeding.
Blueberries
Blueberries are one of the best foods for PMS. High in antioxidants, manganese, and vitamin C, this superfood can give you the energy you need to beat menstrual fatigue. Just like leafy greens, they are also high in vitamin K which helps with bleeding.
Still Curious About How to Correct a Hormonal Imbalance?
In addition to experimenting with these foods, you can also engage in regular exercise, lower your sugar intake and use stress reduction techniques. All of these things will help keep your hormones in check.
If you want to learn more about how the foods you ingest can support your health all cycle long, click here to connect with a member of our team. Today's the day to swipe right on your health!
