Hormonal Imbalance

By far the greatest disruption to hormonal balance is stress.  PMS, dysmenorrhoea, irregular cycles, menopausal hot flashes, infertility and oestrogen dependant pathologies are often caused by the negative affect of stress and its impact on cortisol production which blocks the production of hormone synthesis;

• Decreases progesterone production & testosterone balance
• Induces insulin resistance which negatively impacts hormonal balance
• Increases prolactin levels and progesterone balance
• Creates emotional imbalance, insomnia and adrenal fatigue

Optimal thyroid function is also essential for hormonal balance.  Many women suffer from suboptimal thyroid conditions due to poor assessment and treatment of thyroid symptoms.  Nutritional support is essential to maintain active thyroid function.  B vitamins, tyrosine, iodine, iron, zinc, selenium and optimal liver function are essential for the conversion of FT4 to active FT3 at a cellular level within the body.  Signs of low thyroid function include; low basal body temperature, dry skin, infertility, weight gain, fatigue, recurrent miscarriage and menstrual irregularities.

Much of our hormonal balance depends on the ability of our body to correctly metabolise our steroidal hormones, especially oestrogen.  This requires optimal gut, liver and bowel health.  Dysbiosis, IBS or sluggish liver clearance can contribute to oestrogen recycling and hormonal imbalance.     

Food and fitness help regulate hormonal balance.

Environmental toxins, poor diet and lack of regular physical activity can contribute to a deficiency or excess of hormone production.  Addressing these factors is an integral part of restoring balance. 

• Increase good sources of omega 3 and monounsaturated fats in the diet with raw nuts and seeds, oily cold water fish and cold pressed oils.
• Drink at least 1-2 litres of filtered water daily
• Make exercise a regular part of your life
• Avoid table salt, long-chain saturated fats and hydrogenated vegetable oils (trans fats)
• Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake
• Avoid soft drinks, refined sugar and processed foods
• Stop smoking