What are hormones?
Hormones are messengers produced by the glands in the endocrine system. They help relay information that tells our organs and tissues how to function. Each hormone is assigned a core purpose, and they all work together to create balance within our body. Hormones are responsible for regulating all bodily functions, including sleep, digestion, menstruation, and moods. Even the slightest fluctuation in that balance can be noticeable and cause significant side effects as a result. Since hormones play a significant role in our functioning, maintaining balanced hormone levels will help you feel your best.
The Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalance in Women
Women are particularly susceptible to hormone imbalances. A hormonal imbalance can make you feel off and unlike yourself. If you suffer from these symptoms, there is a chance you could be suffering from a hormone imbalance. However, only lab testing can confirm if you do.
- Acne around the chin and jawline area
- Anxiety
- Changes to skin and hair
- Insomnia
- Weight gain
- Elevated PMS symptoms
- Fatigue
- Low sex drive
9 Ways to Treat Hormonal Imbalances Naturally
Dealing with the symptoms of a hormonal imbalance can be difficult; however, you may be able to heal your hormones through some simple lifestyle changes. Following these tips will help you start treating the root cause of the imbalance versus just dealing with the symptoms.
- Get enough sleep: Sleep is essential in that it helps repair and restore the body through the night. If you're not getting enough sleep, or the quality of your sleep is poor, your body doesn't have the chance to heal itself, and hormones can become unbalanced.
- Manage your stress: Heightened stress levels cause an overproduction of adrenaline and cortisol. An excess of these hormones can make you feel anxious, irritable and make it more challenging to get good quality rest.
- Exercise: Activities such as walking, strength training, or yoga release beneficial hormones that help control appetite and sleep.
- Consume green tea: Green tea is a powerful antioxidant, and when consumed daily, it can aid with weight loss and regulating testosterone levels.
- Mind your macros: Eat a healthy and balanced diet rich in protein, healthy fats, and fibre. These foods activate the release of hormones that help you feel full for longer.
- Include Omega-3 fatty acids in your diet: Chia seeds, nuts, and fatty fish are high in omega-3s. Consume these often to reduce the production of stress hormones.
Omega-3
- Use herbs and supplements: Ayurvedic medicine emphasises the use of herbs to help regulate hormonal balance, including Ashwagandha root, Ginseng, Rhodiola, Dong Quai, Motherwort, and Kelp. Evening Primrose Oil and supplements containing Vitamin B6 and Magnesium are also beneficial.
Evening Primrose Oil
- Avoid processed sugars and refined carbs: Overconsuming sugars increases insulin levels and can lead to insulin resistance, causing the pancreas to create more insulin than you need. High insulin levels can wreak havoc on your health and lead to diseases such as diabetes and obesity.
- Avoid tobacco products: Consuming tobacco may alter the production of hormones produced in the thyroid and pituitary gland.
To conclude
Left untreated, hormonal imbalances can lead to obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, infertility and more. By living a lifestyle that supports and benefits internal wellness, you may be able to treat and manage hormonal imbalances without the need for medications.
