The most likely time that a woman's hormones will become imbalanced is during menopause. During this phase of a woman's life, the ovaries, where estrogen is produced, are preparing for the transition between the body being reproductive and non-reproductive; when the production of this hormone is disrupted, it causes an imbalance. The effects that come with this imbalance are usually uncomfortable and distressing and will often disrupt a normal lifestyle. Fortunately, the symptoms can be reduced or prevented if you balance the hormone levels.
Each woman's symptoms and hormone levels will vary during menopause; so, it is important you first recognize whether your levels of estrogen are lower or higher than normal. This can usually be determined by the symptoms that you are suffering from. Only after this assessment can you make dietary changes that will rebalance your hormones again. Food plays an important part in hormone levels, so eating the right things is very important.
What Symptoms Are Caused by High or Low Estrogen Levels?
This shouldn't be taken too literally, because other hormones in the body could alter this pattern. Below is a list of symptoms that are typically, and most frequently, associated with either high or low estrogen levels.
Symptoms caused by high estrogen levels:
- Mood swings
- Anxiety
- Loss of libido
- Insomnia
- Weight gain
- Breast tenderness
- Irregular periods
- Bloating
- Insomnia
- Hypoglycemia
Symptoms caused by low estrogen levels:
- Hot flashes
- Fatigue
- Vaginal dryness
- Memory lapses
- Night sweats
- Dry skin
- Joint pain
- Difficulty concentrating
- Osteoporosis
What Foods Help to Either Increase or Decrease Your Estrogen Levels?
Foods to increase estrogen levels in the body. A low-fat, high fiber diet is essential. Foods that are high in fiber are beans, dried fruits, nuts, flaxseeds, wholegrain foods, and vegetables. Eat fruits that are high in vitamin C like kiwi, oranges, peaches, lemons, tomatoes, bananas, etc. A good source of vegetables would be leafy greens or try eating more artichokes, asparagus, and peas. Foods that contain high levels of baron are also key. These include honey, olives, and lentils.
Foods to decrease estrogen levels in the body. Go organic! Foods that are high in fiber are also suggested for decreasing estrogen levels. Primarily, it is about eating a good, well balanced diet to rebalance levels. However, if you do need to lower estrogen levels then try to eat organic foods more regularly, especially organic dairy products, because the artificial ingredients in non-organic milk and cheese will negatively interfere with your hormones and exert estrogen like activity.
If you are experiencing an imbalance of hormones then it is advised that you reduce your intake of alcohol and coffee, as well as avoiding fast foods.
Recommendation
It is also always advised that you visit your doctor and discuss the best treatments for you before using any hormone treatment, but having a healthy and well balanced diet will certainly help in the long run. To find out more about estrogen imbalance follow the link below.
