Are you in a bad mood, tired or have an incredible craving for chocolate? The reason for this could be hormones.
If these get out of balance, we notice it immediately – whether through mood swings, fatigue or skin problems.
The good news: You can have a big influence on your hormonal balance through your diet.
These foods are good for your hormones
For optimal hormone control, you should not only avoid some foods, but also eat the right ones.
Plant-based foods in particular are good when it comes to balancing hormones.
1. Cruciferous vegetables
These include Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, bok choy and kale.
Cruciferous vegetables are real hormone cleansers. They contain a specific compound called indole-3-carbinol. It helps the body eliminate excess estrogen.
Indole-3-carbinal is a secondary plant substance that also has an antioxidant effect. To increase the absorption of this substance, broccoli etc. should be lightly steamed with a little water before consumption.
2. Berries
Fruit with a low fructose content helps regulate blood sugar and therefore hormones. These include, for example, raspberries, blueberries or blackberries.
They are full of antioxidants, protect cells from damage and keep our tissue healthy.
3. Flaxseed
Flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and fiber. They also contain so-called lignans, which have a regulating effect on estrogen levels.
4. Green leafy vegetables
Iron deficiency has a negative impact on hormones. Young women in particular are often affected by this. That’s why the motto is: Eat more green leafy vegetables. Spinach, chard or kale are excellent sources of iron.
One cup of steamed chard alone contains four milligrams of iron and provides you with vitamin C, which supports the absorption of iron.
5. Walnuts
We now know that walnuts are good for your brain and concentration. But they also do something for your hormonal well-being. In addition to omega-3 fatty acids, they also contain a high proportion of polyphenols.
Polyphenols play an important role in fighting free radicals and protecting the cardiovascular system.
The unsaturated fatty acids it contains also support brain function and are natural mood enhancers.
6. Turmeric
Turmeric has been considered a medicinal plant for thousands of years and is an important part of an Ayurvedic diet. And not without reason: the spice supports the liver, which is responsible for the synthesis and activation of certain hormones.
It’s lucky that turmeric can be used in so many different ways: whether in curry, porridge or as a turmeric latte – your hormones will thank you.
7. Mandelmus
The fatty acids contained in almond butter activate the satiety hormone leptin and also stimulate the production of the sex hormone estradiol.