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“Seed cycling during pregnancy”
Introduction Seed cycling is a practice that involves consuming a combination of specific seeds at different times of the menstrual cycle to support hormone balance. It has gained popularity as a natural remedy for hormonal imbalances, menstrual irregularities, and infertility. However, the benefits of seed cycling are not limited to women who are trying to conceive. In fact, seed cycling can also be beneficial for pregnant women.
Uses of seed cycling
During pregnancy, hormonal fluctuations occur as the body adjusts to support the developing foetus. This can lead to various symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, and mood swings. Seed cycling can help support hormone balance during pregnancy and alleviate these symptoms.
Seed cycling involves consuming specific seeds during the two phases of the menstrual cycle, •the follicular phase
• and the luteal phase.
During the follicular phase, which begins on the first day of menstruation and lasts for about 14 days, women are advised to consume a mixture of flax seeds and pumpkin seeds. Flax seeds are rich in lignans, which have been shown to support oestrogen balance, while pumpkin seeds are a good source of zinc, which is essential for progesterone synthesis.
During the luteal phase, which begins after ovulation and lasts for about 14 days until the start of the next menstrual cycle, women are advised to consume a mixture of sesame seeds and sunflower seeds. Sesame seeds are rich in lignans and phytosterols, which have been shown to support progesterone balance, while sunflower seeds are a good source of vitamin E, which is essential for hormonal health.
During pregnancy, the menstrual cycle is suspended, and the hormonal fluctuations are regulated by the placenta. However, the principles of seed cycling still apply as the body still requires a balance of oestrogen and progesterone to support the developing foetus.
When to consume and why?
During the first trimester of pregnancy, women are advised to continue consuming the seed mixture for the follicular phase, which includes flax seeds and pumpkin seeds. This is because the developing foetus requires a high level of oestrogen to support its growth and development. Flax seeds, which are rich in lignans, can help support oestrogen balance during this phase.
During the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, women are advised to switch to the seed mixture for the luteal phase, which includes sesame seeds and sunflower seeds. This is because the developing foetus requires a high level of progesterone to support its growth and development. Sesame seeds, which are rich in lignans and phytosterols, can help support progesterone balance during this phase.
It is important to note that seed cycling should not replace medical advice or treatment. Women who are pregnant should always consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new dietary or health regimen, including seed cycling.
Seed cycling can be a beneficial practice for pregnant women to support hormone balance and alleviate pregnancy-related symptoms. By consuming a combination of specific seeds at different times of the pregnancy, women can support the healthy growth and development of the foetus while maintaining their own hormonal health.