Increases fertility in women and men

Did you know that certain foods significantly impact hormone levels, especially those responsible for endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and infertility?

Research suggests that saturated fats, processed meat (particularly red meat) and sugar lead to fertility problems in women and men. On the other hand, a healthy hormone balancing diet can improve egg viability and semen quality.

One Spanish study found that women who adopted a Mediterranean diet were 44% less likely to seek fertility treatment than those who followed a Western diet.

Linked to lower obesity levels and higher metabolism

Of course, incorporating a wealth of nourishing foods to balance hormones combats obesity and related conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease and hypertension.

Plus, filling up on fresh ingredients regulates thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) – two metabolism-promoting chemicals secreted by the thyroid gland.

Combats mood disorders

The adrenal gland is a pivotal part of the endocrine system, managing the body’s response to stress and illness – not to mention blood pressure, 1. immune function and metabolism. A hormone balancing diet has some crossover with the Adrenal Fatigue Diet (AND), with both swapping inflammatory foods for vitamin, mineral and fibre-rich alternatives.

When the adrenal gland isn’t working correctly, there’s a higher risk of mood disorders. Thankfully, one of the solutions is as straightforward as consuming more whole foods, as supported by a growing body of research on dietary habits and depression.

1. Fatty fish

Fatty fish contains powerful hormone-regulating properties in the form of omega-3 – the building block of our cell membranes and the starting point for hormone production.

Omega-3 creates the hormones that control blood clotting, contraction and relaxation of artery walls, and inflammation. Vegetarian sources include walnuts, flax seeds and flaxseed oil.

2. Cruciferous vegetables

One of the easiest ways to keep your hormones in check is by eating cruciferous vegetables, including cauliflower, broccoli and cabbage.

Alongside being loaded with health-promoting antioxidants, these superfoods may boast anticancer compounds called glucosinolates. Upon digestion, glucosinolates break down into isothiocyanates – molecules that may reduce the activation of carcinogens (cancer-causing agents, substances or organisms).

3. Colourful fruits

Colourful fruits are integral to a hormone balancing diet because they contain vitamin C, which helps the body to regulate progesterone levels.

This sex hormone controls the menstrual cycle by thickening the uterine lining in preparation for pregnancy. Low progesterone levels can lead to irregular periods, decreased sex drive, fibroids and unexplained weight gain.

4. High-fibre carbohydrates

While everyone loves to talk about protein as the miracle food group, fibre deserves to take centre stage. Not only is it associated with better digestion, but it reduces the risks of cardiovascular disease, colon cancer, breast cancer, and so much more.

Ideally, you should get most of your fibre from leafy vegetables and whole grains, including brown rice, oats, and quinoa.

5. Healthy fats

You might think a low-fat diet would be better for you, but it does more harm than good. Hormone balancing foods don’t eradicate fats entirely – they replace trans fatty acids, oxidised fats and hydrogenated fats with monounsaturated and polyunsaturated alternatives.

Surprisingly, we need fat to produce cholesterol (yes, you read that right). Although this waxy substance gets a bad rep, it helps the body form cell membranes, several sex hormones – such as testosterone, estrogen and progesterone – and vitamin D.

Want to increase your good fats? Use olive, canola and sunflower oils when cooking, and swap sugar-laden chocolate spreads for organic nut butters.