From the first period to post-menopause, hormonal health plays a vital role in a woman’s physical and emotional wellbeing, however many women still face a range of frustrating symptoms – in fact around 1 in 4 women suffer moderate to severe PMS (pre-menstrual syndrome) such as irritability, fatigue, irregular periods, along with other symptoms during menopause including hot flashes, brain fog and fatigue. So, what could be causing these symptoms? One often overlooked factor is endocrine disruptors in our natural environment.  Let’s take a look at where these hidden hormone saboteurs can be found, how they can affect us and what natural solutions can help to restore our hormonal balance.

What are endocrine disruptors?

Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that interfere with our bodies’ endocrine system, which is responsible for hormone production, reproductive function and our mental health. Our endocrine system is extremely sensitive, and small amounts of these disruptors can mimic, block or alter hormone levels, leading to imbalances that affect our menstrual cycle, functionality and mood. These chemicals are everywhere in our lives, from plastics to pesticides to cosmetics and even our drinking water!

What are some natural remedies for hormonal balance?

Although these disruptors may seem unavoidable, balance is possible. If we nurture our bodies by making smarter food and supplement choices, we can support our bodies natural detox pathways to begin a new journey of hormonal harmony. Here are some easy lifestyle changes that you can implement into your everyday life:

• Replace the plastic

Instead of exposing our bodies to these harmful microplastics, try to use reuseable containers such as glass or stainless steel. We are proud to stock supplements which are sold in recyclable materials as well as lunch boxes and water bottles which are Food Safe LFGB-certified silicone, BPA, PVC and phthalates free.

• Drink plenty of water

Drinking filtered water can help support the body’s natural liver detoxification process, which breaks down and eliminates toxins. A sluggish liver = hormonal chaos!

• Balanced blood sugar

Blood sugar spikes will increase our cortisol levels, which is our stress-response hormone and this leads to disruption of oestrogen and ovulation. Try to replace the refined carbs and sugars in your diet with complex carbohydrates and aim to include protein in every meal.

• Increase antioxidant intake

Antioxidants help to neutralise free radicals in the body, protecting cells from oxidative stress, which is vital to hormonal regulation.

Nutritional tips for reducing exposure to endocrine disruptors

• Boost fibre intake

Fibre aids natural detoxification by binding to toxins and used up hormones so the body can excrete them.

• Eat cruciferous vegetables

Dark green vegetables such as broccoli or kale assist your liver in the breakdown and elimination of toxins.

• Choose healthy fats

Healthy fats such as omega-3 support hormone function and you should try to avoid trans fats and saturated fats where possible – these can worsen inflammation.

• Add detoxifying foods

Some foods have natural anti-inflammatory properties that aid with detox pathways such as garlic, beets and turmeric.

Small changes = big detox results. Support your hormones daily through clean food and conscious choices!