The human body is made up of very many hormones that are produced by the endocrine glands. Some of the hormones that are produced include cortisol, insulin, serotonin, testosterone, dopamine, and estrogen, to mention a few. These hormones affect every aspect of our lives – emotional, physical, and mental. As such, if there is an imbalance in hormonal production, then our bodies tend to react. While many people often look for a good hormone doctor for treatment, eating the right foods can also help with balancing your hormones.
1. Leafy greens
Leafy greens such as kales, spinach, turnips, mustard greens, dandelion greens, etc. help a great deal when it comes to balancing your body hormones. They are loaded with a lot of antioxidants, which helps to fight inflammation and lower cortisol (stress-causing hormone) levels. Additionally, due to their high iron content, they help in increasing the body’s energy levels thereby reducing wear and tear.
2. Turmeric
Turmeric belongs to the ginger family, and its active ingredient is curcumin. One of the most important benefits of curcumin is its ability to fight inflammation. It does this by blocking enzymes such as NF-Kb. Turmeric is also an antioxidant, meaning that it can deal with any skin damage and other underlying skin conditions. It also helps in the activation of bile in the gall bladder hence aiding food digestion.
3. Avocado
Avocados are known to be a source of good fats and also contain beta-sitosterol, which helps in lowering the cholesterol levels and decrease the stress hormone. Also, they contain plant sterols that affect the production of progesterone and estrogen.
4. Pumpkin, sunflower, coconut, sesame seeds
These seeds contain high levels of healthy fats (medium-chain triglycerides) and magnesium. The magnesium they contain helps to balance the cortisol levels while MCT helps in the body’s metabolism and weight loss by regulating appetite.
5. Green tea
Green tea is mainly associated with weight loss, and rightfully so. Drinking a glass or two of green tea has been shown to increase insulin sensitivity and lower insulin levels in the body, thus helping people who are struggling with obesity and diabetes.
6. Fatty fish
Salmon, herring, lake trout, sardines, and mackerel are good examples of fatty fish. Eating these fatty fish helps reduce the risk of getting cardiovascular diseases by keeping your heart healthy. Also, they contain high levels of omega 3 fatty acids, which help in increasing insulin sensitivity, decreasing insulin levels in insulin-resistant people, and reducing epinephrine and cortisol levels.
7. Pomegranate
According to research, pomegranate contains antioxidants that prevent excess production of estrogen in the body and the potential to prevent some types of breast cancer.
8. Nuts
Nuts such as almonds and walnuts are rich in omega 3 fatty acids, which are good for the cardiovascular system and brain health. They can also help lower cholesterol and insulin levels in the body.
