HOW TO BALANCE HORMONES FOR IRREGULAR PERIODS
Are your imbalanced hormones causing irregular periods? Hormone imbalances can indeed be associated with many problems, such as unwanted hair growth, fertility issues, weight gain, difficulty sleeping and unfortunately, irregular periods. Before we begin, remember you should talk to your doctor about these things!
When it comes to abnormal menstrual cycles, it can be challenging to pinpoint, as hormones are a tricky subject and can impact everyone differently Although we might be the envy of our friends when it comes to irregular periods, not knowing when Aunt Flow knocks on your door every month and feeling like you're not in control of your body can be incredibly frustrating. So, how can we balance hormones for irregular periods? Read on to find out more.
First Off…
What Are Irregular Periods?
When your period occurs more often or less than before OR if your period's heaviness and duration have changed for repeated months, it can be considered irregular.
Do not be thrown off by what is typical for the rest of your girl pals; everybody really is different, which means every cycle will be different. Remember that there are so many factors contributing to our menstrual cycle; hormones, stress levels, intense sports training, as well as external factors. So, what if your period is suddenly much heavier than it has been before? Or, they suddenly stop? At this point, definitely go and have a chat with your Doctor to try and determine the underlying cause.
How to Balance Hormones for Irregular Periods
If you suspect or the indications are you have an imbalance in your hormones - there are many things you can do to help put them right. Balancing your hormones can be a long process, and it's not a straight journey to get there. There is not just one answer to balancing your hormones; that's why we highly recommend talking to your doctor.
Sometimes, an imbalance can be due to bad habits (oops!). This could be drinking alcohol and smoking or perhaps eating a high-sugar and refined-carbohydrate diet. Perhaps you're not exercising enough or are chronically stressed?
Changing Your Diet
Remove the bad stuff! As hard as it may be, we know that sugar, caffeine, alcohol can trigger hormonal imbalances. For example, if you eat sugar, you'll produce more insulin, oestrogen, and more testosterone. As tempting as the snacks in the cupboard are, try to replace them with all the goodness. Aim to eat an unprocessed, organic, mostly plant-based diet and lay low on the refined goods. Taking simple steps like choosing to buy organic food and drinking lots of water can hugely impact your hormone balance.
Reduce Stress
In times like these, stress isn't unheard of. Unfortunately, chronic stress can trigger or exacerbate hormonal imbalances and lead to irregular periods. The key here becomes finding something that works for you to reduce stress. That might include practising mindfulness, yoga, or going to therapy.
Have A Good Night's Sleep
Lack of sleep can negatively impact PMS, menopause, and other conditions. Getting eight hours of quality, uninterrupted sleep every night is one of the best things that can help balance your hormone levels and may help with your irregular periods.
Take Your Vitamins
Fish oil and additional vitamin D and B vitamins help balance oestrogen. Take these in addition to a quality multivitamin with sufficient calcium and magnesium. Probiotics, antioxidants and phytonutrients can also help balance your hormones for irregular periods.
Visiting a Doctor
Visiting your GP or gynaecologist is hugely important as there could be many reasons for what's causing a hormonal imbalance and your irregular periods. They will be able to talk through your symptoms and figure out the best option for you and your time of the month.
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