The female body is home to over 50 hormones. These hormones are responsible for regulating metabolism, blood sugar, mood, sexual and reproductive health, and so much more, which is why balancing hormones naturally is key to a healthier lifestyle.
Yet, most of us don’t think about the importance of nourishing these vital hormones until our bodies signal us that these hormones may be “out of whack.” Cue the mood swings, weight gain, hot flashes, sleep disturbances, lack of energy, anxiety, decrease in sex drive … Should I go on?
Why balance hormones naturally?
Finding natural ways to balance hormones can help minimize those aforementioned symptoms as well as help stave off hormone-related diseases such as osteoporosis, diabetes, heart and endocrine diseases, to name a few. One of the easiest ways to balance hormones naturally is by adding simple ingredients known to help regulate hormones to your favorite recipes.
Cruciferous vegetables, whole fruits, healthy fats, natural pre- and probiotic foods can all work towards creating hormonal homeostasis within your body. It can be as easy as adding some broccoli, kale or cauliflower to your favorite stir fry or salmon and some avocado to your daily salad. Also avoiding sugar, artificial sweeteners, fried foods, and alcohol can aid in maintaining a healthy balance of hormones.
Simply adding an extra ingredient or two to a morning smoothie can balance hormones naturally leading to long-term health benefits in the process.
Try adding these 3 ingredients to your next smoothie to help balance hormones naturally.
- Maca boasts a number of hormone balancing benefits. It has been shown to reduce painful menstrual cramps, limit hot flashes, increase libido and improve mood in women.
- Cinnamon has a number of anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a major cause for hormonal imbalance and unresolved inflammation can lead to chronic health problems. Cinnamon has also been found to lower blood sugar levels and supports gut health. Finding ways to add small amounts of cinnamon to your diet can help decrease inflammation and lead to better hormonal health.
- Flax seeds contain lignans that helps balance oestrogens, one of the main female sex hormones. It is also high in fiber and Omega 3s. Adding 2 Tablespoons of flaxseeds daily to meals and/or snacks is recommended for maintaining better hormonal balance.
Need help incorporating these into your smoothie? I’ve created a hormone-balancing smoothie that captures all the goodness that is fall, but also incorporates a few key ingredients from above.
Hormone Balancing Pumpkin Smoothie
½ cup pumpkin puree
1 Tbsp peanut butter
1 cup almond milk
2 scoops Vital Protein
1 date
1 tsp maca
⅛ tsp ground nutmeg
½ frozen banana
⅛ tsp cinnamon
Dash of Himalayan salt
Combine all ingredients in a blender. Add a few ice cubes. Blend all ingredients together. Enjoy.
Like this recipe? Try my 3-Day Hormone Smoothie Reset Plan for FREE.
