Ever heard of it? Ever since I removed my IUD about 4 years ago I have been suffering from PMS right before my menstruation. Since one year I am using the seeds and the changes have been remarkable!
According to the phase of your cycle you are In, you add seeds to your diet, which support & helps to balance your hormones.
For this we simply look at 2 main phases, the follicular phase and the luteal phase.
Follicular phase starts at the day of your menstruation where oestrogen levels start to rise again. The rise of oestrogen increases luteinising Hormone (LH). Decreasing oestrogen releases follicle stimulating hormone (FSH).
Here we aim at balancing oestrogen levels. Cycling with seeds that contain phytoestrogens will do just that. Phytoestrogens are a plant-based source of oestrogen that adapt to the body’s oestrogen levels.
The second phase is the luteal phase, which starts after ovulation approximately 14 days. The luteal phase is brought on by the sudden drop in oestrogen, FSH and LH, which occurs just after ovulation. This is when progesterone levels should begin to rise steadily. Too high oestrogen can lead to PMS. In this phase, we want to focus on omega 6s, which convert into gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) in the body, supporting progesterone levels and reducing inflammation in the body related to PMS.
During Follicular Phase:
Flax Seeds: High in lignans to block excess estrogen production + High in omega 3s
Pumpkin Seeds : Rich in zinc, which prepares the body for progesterone secretion in the next phase + High in omega 3s
During Luteal Phase:
Sesame Seeds: High in lignans to modulate estrogen and progesterone levels + High in omega 6 (which converts into GLA in the body)
Sunflower Seeds: High in selenium, which supports liver function to prevent clogging from excess hormones, resulting in proper hormone excretion + High in omega 6 (which converts into GLA in the body)
So why not add a tablespoon of each to your morning breakfast/ smoothie bowl or salads for lunch to experience this yourself
Photo Credits go to: www.helloglow.co