Hormones are chemicals that our body produces that regulate important functions such as sending messages and signals to various organs and tissues. Hormonal balance is, therefore, extremely important to achieve and maintain good health and immunity from illness.
Both oestrogen and progesterone are the main hormones for women, as each of them helps regulate the menstrual cycle, and if there is too much, or too little, of these hormones in our body, an imbalance can occur. This imbalance usually results in a disruption in menstruation, such as Premenstrual Syndrome, otherwise known as PMS or PMT; other symptoms may include acne, facial hair, urinary tract infections, and depression.
Disruption to the delicate hormonal balance of a woman’s body can be attributed to a number of factors including stress, nutrition, over-exercising, or a lack of ovulation. The latter will prevent the monthly release of an ovum which causes infertility. Hormonal imbalances most commonly occur during puberty, and the menopause, as well as in conditions, such as Premenstrual Syndrome, Polycystic Ovaries, and Endometriosis.
There are several ways in which women can help maintain healthy hormonal levels. The first is to eat as healthy a balanced diet as possible, rich in fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, poultry, pulses, wholegrains, nuts, and seeds, and try to eliminate, salt, red meat, processed foods, dairy products, caffeine, and alcohol. Regular exercise is also a must, since it helps to keep hormones stable, and helps with nutrient absorption.
Another way is to supplement your diet and the following have been found helpful for conditions of hormonal imbalance, though it is always preferable to consult a nutritionist for an individual assessment of your needs:
Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg – rich in GLA, this Omega 6 essential fatty acid can help to produce prostaglandin E1, a hormone-like substance that is often reduced before a period, and in so doing causes PMS symptoms.
Vitamin B6 100mg – taking Vitamin B6 may also help prostaglandin production, and should be taken a week prior to, and during a period.
Agnus Castus 500mg – a useful herb for PMS-related conditions, and the menopause and particularly useful for both absent or long menstrual cycles. Agnus Castus helps to increase progesterone levels, and reduce prolactin levels, thereby helping to maintain regular periods. It can also help with the hormonal imbalances experienced when going through the menopause.
L- Glutamine 500mg – an amino acid that can help to reduce food-cravings, a symptom often apparent during menstruation.
Vitamin E 1000IU – taking a high-strength Vitamin E supplement also proves very beneficial for those with vaginal dryness and itching, especially for menopausal women.
Red Clover and Soya Isoflavones – both 60mg – these are naturally-occurring isoflavones that have mild estrogenic effects, which help those women suffering hot flushes, and other menopausal symptoms.
There are also many stress-reducing alternative therapies such as Aromatherapy, Reiki, Acupuncture, Yoga, and Tai Chi that can help to promote hormonal harmony.
For further information or enquiries, Julie Lamble can be contacted at Lifeplan Products Limited on 01455 556281, email@example.com or visit the company website www.lifeplan.co.uk.