Women's hormonal balance is crucial for overall health and well-being. Hormones are responsible for regulating many bodily functions, including metabolism, mood, and reproductive health. An imbalance in hormones can lead to a variety of health problems, such as irregular periods, infertility, mood disorders, and chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.
10 Key Takeaways
Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3s have been shown to reduce inflammation and support hormonal balance. They can be found in fish oil supplements or in vegan sources like flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.
Vitamin D: Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to hormonal imbalances, so it's important to get enough through either sunlight exposure or supplements.
Magnesium: Magnesium is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including hormone production. Supplementing with magnesium can help support hormonal balance.
Vitamin B6: Vitamin B6 is important for hormone metabolism and has been shown to reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Zinc: Zinc is involved in the production of several hormones, including estrogen and progesterone. Supplementing with zinc can help support hormonal balance.
Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that has been shown to help reduce stress and improve hormone balance.
Black cohosh: Black cohosh is a herb that has been traditionally used to support women's hormonal health, particularly during menopause.
Dong quai: Dong quai is another herb that has been traditionally used to support women's hormonal health, particularly during menopause.
Evening primrose oil: Evening primrose oil contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which has been shown to help reduce PMS symptoms.
Probiotics: Probiotics can help support a healthy gut microbiome, which can in turn support hormonal balance.
Precautions
Taking supplements might affect women's hormones because some supplements contain ingredients that can interact with estrogen, progesterone, or other hormones in the body. Additionally, some supplements may affect the production or metabolism of hormones, leading to imbalances that can impact women's menstrual cycles, fertility, or overall health.
References
1. https://www.womenshealthnetwork.com/hormonal-imbalance/best-supplements-and-vitamins-to-balance-hormones/
2. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Women's Health. Hormones. https://www.womenshealth.gov/healthy-living/health-topics/hormones
3. Mayo Clinic. Women's Health. Hormonal Imbalance. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hormonal-imbalance/symptoms-causes/syc-20351928
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