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Can Hormone Imbalance Cause Weight Gain?

Can Hormone Imbalance Cause Weight Gain?

Are you finding the scale tipping in the wrong direction and suspect your hormones are playing a part? You’re certainly not alone in this journey. Hormonal imbalances can sneakily contribute to weight gain, dragging along fatigue, mood swings, and more. But don’t worry – there’s a treasure trove of natural strategies waiting to help you regain control. In this article, we’ll dive into the intriguing world of hormonal weight gain. We’ll explore the root causes, decode the signs and symptoms, and arm you with actionable steps to reclaim your well-being.

Here is How Hormone Imbalance Causes Weight Gain

 

Imagine hormonal weight gain as a complex puzzle, where each hormone plays a distinct role in the bigger picture. For men, the narrative unfolds with heightened stress or cortisol levels acting like a switch, pushing the body into survival mode. This survival response triggers the creation of fat cells, essentially stockpiling food for future use.

On the other side of the spectrum, women, particularly during the menopausal journey, might observe the scales tipping due to fluctuating estrogen levels. Estrogen, a vital player in the intricate dance of metabolism and body weight regulation, tends to lead the weight gain charge, often manifesting as extra pounds around the hips and thighs. It’s like each hormone has its own role in this weighty drama, creating a multifaceted story of hormonal weight gain.

What are the Potential Causes of Hormonal Weight Gain?

The path to hormonal weight gain is marked by a series of causes, each intricately connected to hormonal shifts:

  1. Thyroid hormone deficiency
  2. Dominance of estrogen
  3. Imbalance of androgens
  4. Resistance to insulin
  5. Metabolic syndrome
  6. The enigma of PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
  7. Depletion of growth hormones
  8. Cortisol’s overture
  9. Leptin’s resistance
  10. The tale of excess prolactin
  11. When the pituitary falters

Recognizing the Telltale Signs

 

The journey of hormonal weight gain comes with a host of signs and symptoms – some of which might sound familiar:

  1. Thyroid enlargement
  2. Lingering fatigue
  3. Muscles losing their vigor
  4. A moon-like visage
  5. Unwanted central obesity (hello, belly fat!)
  6. Purple stretch marks
  7. Unwanted acne
  8. Hair where it’s not wanted
  9. Irregular menstrual cycles or impotence
  10. Headaches making an appearance
  11. Vision taking an unexpected turn
  12. Even unusual breast milk production

Understanding the Vulnerability Factors

 

In the intricate dance of hormonal imbalances and weight gain, certain factors can amplify your vulnerability to this challenging phenomenon. Recognizing these factors is a crucial step in addressing the root causes of hormonal weight gain and taking proactive measures to regain control. Here are the key vulnerability factors that shed light on how hormone imbalance causes weight gain:

Your Genetic Blueprint

Your genetic makeup can play a significant role in determining your susceptibility to hormonal imbalances and subsequent weight gain. Genetic predispositions may influence hormone production, metabolism, and how your body responds to external factors. While genetics provide a baseline, lifestyle choices can still modulate their effects. Understanding your genetic tendencies can empower you to make informed decisions about your diet, exercise routine, and overall wellness strategy.

A Sedentary Lifestyle

Leading a sedentary lifestyle can create a favorable environment for hormonal imbalances to take root and foster weight gain. Physical inactivity can disrupt hormone production, alter insulin sensitivity, and contribute to metabolic dysregulation. Regular exercise, on the other hand, supports hormonal balance by enhancing insulin sensitivity, reducing inflammation, and promoting healthy metabolism. Incorporating movement into your daily routine can significantly mitigate the risk of hormonal weight gain.

The March of Time (Aging):

As the years roll on, hormonal fluctuations are an inherent part of the aging process. Hormone production and regulation naturally change over time, with certain hormones declining or becoming imbalanced as you age. For instance, menopausal women experience a decline in estrogen levels, which can contribute to weight gain. By understanding the shifts that come with aging, you can adapt your lifestyle and healthcare choices to promote hormonal equilibrium and manage weight effectively.

Tumors or Surgeries Affecting the Hypothalamus or Pituitary

The hypothalamus and pituitary gland play pivotal roles in hormonal regulation, acting as the control centers for various hormones. Tumors or surgeries that affect these glands can disrupt the delicate balance of hormonal signals, leading to imbalances that trigger weight gain. These disruptions can impact thyroid hormones, adrenal function, and other critical hormonal pathways.

 

Crafting Your Pathway to Balance and Beyond

 

Eager to conquer hormonal weight gain and embark on a transformative journey towards a healthier you? These strategies are your trusted allies, each holding the potential to guide you toward equilibrium and renewed vitality:

Elevate Your Lifestyle and Fine-Tune Your Diet

Your lifestyle choices and dietary habits can significantly impact your hormonal balance and weight. Prioritize whole foods, lean proteins, and ample fiber to support stable blood sugar levels. Incorporate colorful vegetables, antioxidant-rich fruits, and whole grains to nourish your body with essential nutrients.

Opt for lean sources of protein, such as poultry, fish, beans, and lentils, to fuel your metabolism and maintain muscle mass. Cultivate mindful eating habits and stay hydrated to support overall well-being.

Harness the Potency of Adaptogenic Herbs

Adaptogens are nature’s stress-fighting superheroes. These herbs have the remarkable ability to adapt to your body’s needs, helping to balance hormones and mitigate the effects of stress. Popular adaptogens like ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil can support your body’s response to stress, regulate cortisol levels, and promote emotional resilience. Incorporate adaptogens into your daily routine through teas, tinctures, or supplements.

Embrace the World of Targeted Supplements

In addition to a balanced diet, targeted supplements can provide an extra boost to your hormonal health. Omega-3 fatty acids, for instance, have anti-inflammatory properties that support hormone production and balance. Vitamins and minerals like vitamin D, magnesium, and zinc play pivotal roles in hormonal regulation. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine which supplements align with your specific needs and goals.

Wave Goodbye to Stimulants

Stimulants like caffeine and excessive sugar can wreak havoc on your hormonal balance. These substances can disrupt sleep patterns, elevate cortisol levels, and lead to energy crashes. Consider reducing your caffeine intake and opting for alternatives like herbal teas or decaffeinated options. Limit refined sugars and processed foods, as they can contribute to inflammation and disrupt hormonal harmony.

Embrace Self-Care Practices with Open Arms

Nurturing your well-being through self-care practices is paramount to hormonal balance. Engage in activities that bring you joy, relaxation, and inner peace. Prioritize regular exercise, as physical activity can enhance mood, alleviate stress, and support hormonal health. Explore mindfulness techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga to reduce stress and promote emotional equilibrium. Ensure you’re getting adequate and restful sleep, as proper sleep is essential for hormonal regulation.

Discover 7 Natural Ways to Help with Hormone Imbalance

By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine, you’ll arm yourself with a comprehensive toolkit to overcome hormonal weight gain, a condition where hormone imbalance causes weight gain, and rejuvenate your overall health. Keep in mind that each positive decision you make contributes to fostering a harmonious balance within your body, setting the stage for embracing a vibrant and empowered version of yourself. With dedication and thoughtful choices, you’ll pave the way toward achieving optimal well-being and wholeheartedly embrace the transformative journey that lies ahead.

Ready to take the first step towards reclaiming your well-being and conquering hormonal weight gain? Unlock the door to a healthier you by scheduling your FREE 20-minute discovery call now.

9 Delicious Liver Cleansing Smoothie Recipes For Hormone Balance

9 Delicious Liver Cleansing Smoothie Recipes For Hormone Balance

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Ever felt like your hormones are staging a not-so-secret rebellion? From mood swings to energy dips, they can really throw us off track. Blame it on stress, lack of Zzz’s, or a not-so-happy meal plan – our hormones can get a bit wild. But guess what? We’ve got a juicy secret for you: food can be your hormone hero! Yep, you heard that right. And here’s a smooth move for you – check out those easy-to-make liver cleansing smoothie recipes! These sips of goodness are like a one-way ticket to happy hormones. So, if you’re ready to give your body the TLC it deserves, join the smoothie squad and let’s blend our way to balance!

Liver Cleansing Benefits

 

Imagine your liver as the superhero of your body – it battles toxins, keeps hormones in check, and even helps with digestion. But sometimes, this hero needs a little backup. When toxins pile up, our liver can feel like it’s wading through a swamp, making it hard to do its job right. And that’s when the trouble starts – hormones go haywire, and we’re left feeling less than stellar.

But fear not, because there’s a tasty solution: liver-cleansing smoothies! These sips are like a spa day for your liver, helping it detox and get back to its A-game. Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, these smoothies are a delicious way to show your liver some love and bring those hormones back into balance.

So, if you’re ready to give your liver the royal treatment and rock those hormone vibes, keep reading, we’ve got the ultimate liver cleansing smoothie recipes!

    Ingredients for Liver Cleansing Smoothie

    Let’s take a peek at some superstar ingredients that make these smoothies the ultimate health boosters:

    Ginger – The Spicy Superhero

    Imagine ginger as the spicy superhero swooping in to save the day! With its centuries-old reputation for healing, ginger brings the heat with its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant powers. But that’s not all – it’s also a digestion champ, keeping things running smoothly in your gut. And remember, a happy gut means happy hormones! 

    Turmeric – The Golden Goddess

    Say hello to turmeric, the golden goddess of spices! This vibrant root adds a burst of color and a heap of benefits to your smoothies. Its curcumin content brings the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant party to a whole new level. Plus, it’s a hormone harmony master, helping to wave that pesky imbalance goodbye. ✨

    Spinach – The Green Goodness

    Let’s talk about spinach – the leafy green rockstar that’s here to steal the spotlight! Packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory goodness, spinach is like a hug for your liver. But it’s not stopping there – its magnesium magic helps keep hormones in check, ensuring they dance to the right rhythm.

    Kale – The Hormone Helper

    Kale, oh kale – the hormone helper that’s always in style! This leafy green superhero brings antioxidants and anti-inflammatory action to your glass, giving your liver some serious love. And guess what? It’s got a little something called phytoestrogens, which are like the peacekeepers of your hormone world. 

    Beets – The Radiant Root

    Now let’s meet beets – the radiant root that’s all about that liver TLC! Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, beets are here to give your liver a boost and your taste buds a treat. Thanks to its betalain buddies, your liver gets a protective shield and a round of applause for its hard work. 

    Carrots – The Skin-Saver

    Last but not least, we’ve got carrots – the skin-saver that brings a burst of color and nutrition to the party! Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory vibes? Check! Beta-carotene for glowing skin and hormonal harmony? Double check! With carrots on the scene, your liver and hormones are in for a treat. 

    So, there you have it – the incredible cast of characters that make liver-cleansing smoothies the ultimate hormone-loving, liver-nourishing sips. Get ready to blend, sip, and let the good vibes flow! 

     

    Liver Cleansing Smoothie Recipes

     

    Here are some simple and delicious liver-cleansing smoothie recipes that you can try at home:

     

    1. Ginger Turmeric Smoothie

     

    ginger-turmeric-smoothie

    Ingredients:

    1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
    1 tsp turmeric powder
    1 banana
    1 cup spinach
    1 cup almond milk
    1 tbsp honey (optional)

    Instructions:

    Place the grated ginger and turmeric in a high-quality blender.
    Add the banana, spinach, almond milk, and honey (if using).
    Blend until smooth.

    Packed with potent ingredients like fresh ginger and turmeric, known for their anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties, this smoothie is a powerhouse of nutrients. The combination of ginger’s zing and turmeric’s warmth creates a dynamic flavor profile that complements the earthy notes of spinach. The banana adds a touch of natural sweetness, while almond milk lends a creamy texture.

     

    2. Kale Carrot Smoothie

     

    carrot-kale-smoothie

    Ingredients:

    1 cup kale
    1 cup carrots
    1 banana
    1 cup almond milk
    1 tsp honey (optional)

    Instructions:

    Place the kale and carrots in a blender.
    Add the banana, almond milk, and honey (if using).
    Blend until smooth.

    With the power-packed combo of kale and carrots, you’re treating your body to a dynamic duo of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory goodness. Think of it as a delicious potion that brings together the best of greens and roots, all in one delightful sip. And just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, the banana swoops in with its natural sweetness and creamy touch.

     

    3. Spinach Beet Smoothie

     

    spinach-beet-smoothie

    Ingredients:

    1 cup spinach
    1 beet, peeled and diced
    1 banana
    1 cup almond milk
    1 tsp honey (optional)

    Instructions:

    Place the spinach and diced beet in a blender.
    Add the banana, almond milk, and honey (if using).
    Blend until smooth.

    By teaming up spinach and beets, you’re treating your body to a vibrant infusion of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory magic, and a treasure trove of vitamins and minerals. And let’s not forget the banana – the ultimate sweet and creamy addition that ties it all together.

     

    4. Berry Lemon Smoothie

     

    berry-lemon-smoothie

    Ingredients:

    1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
    1 lemon, peeled and seeded
    1 banana
    1 cup almond milk
    1 tsp honey (optional)

    Instructions:

    Place the mixed berries, lemon, and banana in a blender.
    Add the almond milk and honey (if using).
    Blend until smooth.

    This bad boy isn’t just a yummy treat – it’s a one-way ticket to antioxidant city, thanks to those mixed berries. And guess who’s joining the party? Lemon, armed with a mega-dose of vitamin C to help your liver shine and keep stress at bay. Oh, and let’s not forget the banana, the smooth talker adding that perfect touch of sweetness and creaminess.

     

    5. Ginger Lemon Turmeric Smoothie

     

    ginger-lemon-turmeric-smoothie

    Ingredients:

    1 lemon, peeled and seeded
    1 inch piece of ginger, peeled
    1 tsp turmeric
    1 banana
    1 cup almond milk
    1 tsp honey (optional)

    Instructions:

    Place the lemon, ginger, turmeric, and banana in a blender.
    Add the almond milk and honey (if using).
    Blend until smooth.

    Prepare to sip on a rejuvenating elixir that’s all about giving your liver some serious love! This invigorating smoothie packs a dynamic trio – ginger, lemon, and turmeric – bursting with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory goodness. These mighty ingredients team up to provide a powerhouse of support for your liver’s function.

     

    6. Green Smoothie

     

    green-smoothie-recipe

    Ingredients:

    1 cup kale
    1 cup spinach
    1 cucumber
    1 banana
    1 cup almond milk
    1 tsp honey (optional)

    Instructions:

    Place the kale, spinach, and cucumber in a blender.
    Add the banana, almond milk, and honey (if using).
    Blend until smooth.

    This smoothie is a delicious and easy way to incorporate more greens into your diet. The combination of kale, spinach, and cucumber provides a good dose of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, while the banana adds natural sweetness and creaminess to the smoothie. The cucumber also provides hydration and helps to reduce inflammation in the body.

     

    7. Beet Carrot Apple Smoothie

     

    beet-carrot-apple-smoothie

     Ingredients:

    1 medium beet, peeled and chopped
    2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
    1 medium apple, cored and chopped
    1 banana
    1 cup almond milk
    1 tsp honey (optional)

    Instructions:

    Place the beet, carrots, and apple in a blender.
    Add the banana, almond milk, and honey (if using).
    Blend until smooth.

    This delightful smoothie combines the vibrant powers of beets, carrots, and apples to create a delicious concoction that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also supports your liver’s well-being. The beets bring in a colorful array of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory goodness, working their magic to promote healthy liver function. And speaking of radiant skin and sharp peepers, the carrots roll in with their beta-carotene prowess, which transforms into vitamin A to give you that extra glow. But hold on, the show isn’t over yet – the apples step in with their natural sweetness and zesty flair, while the banana adds that irresistible creaminess we all adore.

     

    8. Avocado Spinach Lemon Smoothie

     

    spinach-avocado-lemon-smoothie

     Ingredients:

    1 medium avocado, pitted and peeled
    1 cup spinach
    1 lemon, peeled and seeded
    1 banana
    1 cup almond milk
    1 tsp honey (optional)

    Instructions:

    Place the avocado, spinach, and lemon in a blender.
    Add the banana, almond milk, and honey (if using).
    Blend until smooth.

    This creamy concoction isn’t just your ordinary smoothie – it’s a luscious treat that caters to your liver’s cravings while helping to balance those hormones. Dive into the goodness of creamy avocado, offering up its healthy fats and a burst of antioxidants. Then, let the vibrant spinach shower you with a plethora of essential vitamins and minerals. But that’s not all – brace yourself for the zesty twist of lemon, delivering a punch of vitamin C that your liver will adore.

     

    8. Cucumber Mint Lime Smoothie

     

    cucumber-mint-lime-smoothie

    Ingredients:

    1 medium cucumber, peeled and chopped
    1 handful of mint leaves
    1 lime, peeled and seeded
    1 banana
    1 cup almond milk
    1 tsp honey (optional)

    Instructions:

    Place the cucumber, mint, and lime in a blender.
    Add the banana, almond milk, and honey (if using).
    Blend until smooth.

    This revitalizing smoothie not only delights your senses but also contributes to a balanced liver and hormone health. The cucumber provides hydration and antioxidants, while the mint brings a refreshing burst of flavor. Lime offers a zesty kick and a dose of vitamin C to support your liver’s well-being. The banana and almond milk create a velvety consistency that’s both satisfying and wholesome. So, sip away and enjoy the journey towards a harmonious body and taste experience.

     

    Tips for Making Liver-Cleansing Smoothies

     

    1. Use organic ingredients whenever possible to avoid exposure to harmful pesticides and chemicals.
    2. Use fresh ingredients for maximum nutritional benefit.
    3. Use a high-speed blender to ensure a smooth consistency.
    4. Use a variety of ingredients to ensure a wide range of nutrients and flavors.
    5. Use unsweetened almond milk or other non-dairy milk alternatives to avoid added sugars.
    6. Add honey or other natural sweeteners sparingly, as they can contribute to hormonal imbalances if consumed in excess.

    Are you ready to infuse your health routine with a dash of culinary ingenuity? Embark on a delectable journey with these delicious liver-cleansing smoothie recipes to enhance your well-being, all while championing your liver’s health, taming oxidative stress, and harmonizing your hormones. Featuring a potent medley of ingredients like ginger, turmeric, spinach, kale, beets, and carrots, you’ll lavish your body with the nourishment it craves. Let these revitalizing recipes serve as your gateway to a life of equilibrium and vibrancy. Embrace the blending magic and relish the radiant rewards that these liver-loving elixirs offer!

    7 Natural Ways To Help With Hormone Imbalance

    7 Natural Ways To Help With Hormone Imbalance

    Most women struggle with hormone imbalance, whether they are aware of it or not. Thyroid issues, moodiness, hot flashes, lack of libido, and painful periods are only a few ways hormonal imbalances can manifest in your life. Unfortunately, it is difficult to pinpoint the root cause of your troubles, as there is not one thing to blame for your complaints. Stress, diet, poor lifestyle choices, and environmental factors can all play a role.

     

    Signs Of Hormone Imbalance

     

    If you regularly suffer from two or more of these symptoms, the chances are that your hormones are out of balance.

    • Irregular periods
    • PMS symptoms (mood swings, bloating, headaches)
    • Fibroids
    • Fibrocystic and tender breasts
    • Endometriosis
    • Thyroid issues
    • Hot flashes
    • Night sweats
    • Low energy
    • Low libido
    • Weight gain
    • Hair loss
    • Water retention

    Check out this video to help you understand how hormones work and the most common symptoms of hormone imbalance.

     

    But don’t think you are helpless and at the mercy of your out-of-balance hormones. Instead, feel empowered knowing you can do a lot to help improve your hormone health.

    Here are 7 natural ways to help with hormone imbalance:

     

    1. Eat More Fruits And Vegetables

     

    When women suspect that their hormones may be out of balance, rarely do they think of their diet as a factor that may have contributed to their problems. But diet and nutrition profoundly impact your overall health, from immune to hormone health.

    A simple change you can make is eating more fruits and vegetables. Increasing the consumption of foods containing phytochemicals, antioxidants, and other beneficial plant compounds has been shown to support healthy hormone levels. They also provide fiber, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other nutrients that promote good health.

    Tip: Regardless of how many fruits and veggies you currently consume, there is always room for improvement. For the next 7 days, commit to eating an apple a day and gradually add more colorful fruits and vegetables to your current diet.

     

    seed-cycling

    2. Try Seed Cycling

     

    Seed cycling is praised for helping regulate your cycle and support hormone balance. But what exactly is seed cycling?

    Seed cycling means incorporating four different seeds into your diet to support the hormonal needs of the different phases of your menstrual cycle.

    From day 1 to day 14 of your cycle, eat 1 tbsp of freshly ground flax seeds and 1 tbsp pumpkin seeds daily. Both flax and pumpkin seeds contain natural estrogen-promoting substances that can help prepare the uterine lining for implantation and bring estrogen levels into balance.

    From day 15 to day 28 (or until menses), eat 1 tbsp of freshly ground raw sunflower seed and 1 tbsp sesame seed daily. Both sunflower seeds and sesame seeds are high in vitamin E and zinc. These nutrients are essential for optimum progesterone production.

    The beauty of this strategy lies in its simplicity and that as you do it, you will be more in tune with your menstrual cycle. As a result, you will pay more attention to how you feel throughout the month and understand better how your natural hormonal fluctuations influence your mood and energy levels.

     

    3. Drink More Water

     

    Many women don’t understand how hydration affects their bodies’ ability to keep their hormones in balance. Drinking fresh, clean water helps keep your body hydrated, which supports the adequate functioning of your endocrine system, a network of glands and organs responsible for regulating a range of bodily functions through the release of hormones.

    For instance, your thyroid and adrenal glands are part of your endocrine system. The thyroid produces hormones that regulate metabolism, growth, development, and energy production, while the adrenal glands produce hormones that control functions such as blood pressure, heart rate, and stress response.

    Remember, poor hydration can adversely affect your body’s ability to detoxify and remove toxins, leading to hormonal imbalance. So be sure to drink at least eight glasses of water a day.

    4. Exercise Regularly

     

    Not just what we eat affects our hormone levels; exercise also plays an important role. Hormone-related health problems, such as sleep issues, mood swings, stress, and weight gain, may be successfully addressed by increasing your physical activity.

    While it’s easy to put exercise on the backburner and find plenty of perfectly valid excuses why you don’t have time to go for a walk or to the gym, physical activity deserves to be part of a hormone-loving lifestyle. Exercise enhances your overall wellbeing and boosts hormone levels, such as dopamine, serotonin, estrogen, and testosterone.

    Increased dopamine levels in the brain help decrease stress and enhance your mood. So when you feel down, why not go for a walk or a nice jog? If you have trouble sleeping, exercise can help by encouraging serotonin production, which promotes a good night’s sleep. In addition, boosting serotonin levels can positively affect your mood, appetite, digestion, and even sexual function. Regular exercise can also help boost testosterone, slowing the natural aging process.

    Do you suffer from hormone imbalance?

    Take this 2-minute survey to find out!

    5. Reduce Stress Levels

     

    According to a 2020 survey, 49 percent of American adults report increased stress taking an emotional and physical toll on their bodies. Feeling tension in the body and experiencing mood swings are two common ways stress can manifest. Although your body is designed to handle small amounts of stress, chronic stress can wreak havoc on your health, leading to hormone imbalance.

    Your stress hormones – adrenaline and cortisol – are only meant to be released by the body occasionally. Yet, if you experience chronic, sustained stress, your body is forced to release stress hormones continuously. This can lead to weight gain, thyroid problems, fatigue, insomnia, depression, anxiety, irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, and more.

    Learning to deal with stress by staying calm in stressful situations is a great way to manage stress better. While you cannot eliminate stress, you can train yourself to respond to it in a way that is less destructive to your hormone health.

    Tips: Practice yoga, meditation, or breathwork daily to help calm your body. Schedule time for self-care, so it becomes a health-promoting habit over time. 

     

    6. Fix Your sleep

     

    The recommended daily amount of sleep is about 8 hours. Getting a sufficient amount and quality of sleep is critical for optimum hormone regulation. If you are a light sleeper, wake up multiple times throughout the night, or have trouble falling asleep, your low-quality sleep likely disrupts your hormone balance.

    Too much sleep isn’t always a good thing either. Sleeping more than 9 hours a night can disrupt your sleep cycle, reduce metabolism, and cause daytime fatigue. Take sleep seriously and take action to improve your sleep hygiene.

    Tips: Keep your cell phone, laptop, and other electronics out of the bedroom. Train your body to know when it’s time to sleep by going to bed and waking up at regular times.

     

    7. Ditch Toxic Skincare Products

     

    Unfortunately, it is not a cliche that we live in a highly toxic world. Our food, water, air, and even personal care products expose us to hundreds of harmful chemicals. Yet, shockingly enough, cosmetics and other personal care products are subject to little government oversight, allowing manufacturers to use toxic chemicals in their formulations, many of which have been linked to severe health problems, including cancer.

    According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), some of the most common chemicals used in cosmetics are:

    • Formaldehyde (a known carcinogen)
    • Paraformaldehyde
    • Methylene glycol
    • Quaternium 15 (releases formaldehyde)
    • Mercury (damages the kidneys and nervous system)
    • Dibutyl and diethylhexyl phthalates (disrupts hormones and damage the reproductive system)
    • Isobutyl and isopropyl parabens (disrupts hormones and harm the reproductive system)
    • The long-chain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances known as PFAS (linked to breast cancer)
    • M- and o-phenylenediamine, used in hair dyes, (irritates and sensitizes the skin, damage DNA, and can cause cancer)

    Research shows that the harmful effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are much more extensive than initially recognized. Clinical studies have linked EDCs to certain types of cancer, including breast cancer, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. Similarly alarming studies have also linked EDCs exhibiting estrogenic effects to increased uterine and breast cancer risk.

    The bottom line is, no matter how clean your diet is, how well you manage your stress, or how much you exercise, if your environment is filled with toxic chemicals and your skincare products are laden with endocrine-disrupting chemicals, you can still struggle with signs of hormone imbalance.

    Tips: Purchase natural and organic skincare products with clean formulations containing no toxic chemicals. Read labels carefully and avoid products with EDCs. Alternatively, you can make your own moisturizer, toothpaste, shampoo, or body butter with all-natural ingredients. A quick online search for DIY skincare recipes will get you thousands of non-toxic and skin-loving ideas.

    Are you committed to improving your hormone health but not sure where to start? Explore ways for us to work together.  

    Sources used for this article include:

    APA.org

    EWG.org

    NIH.gov

    Link.Springer.com

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