Do you regularly feel sluggish, irritable or just not quite yourself for no apparent reason? Then it could well be that your hormones are out of balance. As women, we know exactly what that feels like. One week you’re full of energy, your skin is glowing and you can take on the whole world. And the next week everything seems to be against you: you are more irritable, have pimples and feel tired all the time.
Fortunately, there are ways to balance your hormones. In this blog, we give you 5 practical tips to support your hormonal balance and read how silicone menstrual products make a difference!
What do hormones do to your body?
Your hormones control countless processes: from your sleep cycle and energy levels to your mood, metabolism, growth and reproduction. When your hormones are in balance, your body works well together. When your hormones are out of balance, a variety of symptoms can arise such as fatigue, mood swings, sleep problems, blemished skin, weight gain and menstrual problems. In the long run, a hormonal imbalance can even lead to serious health problems such as PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome), thyroid disorders or reduced fertility.
Different hormones each play their own role in this process:
- Among other things, estrogen regulates the menstrual cycle, supports your bone health and affects your mood and libido.
- Progesterone provides a stable mood, a good night’s sleep and prepares your body for a possible pregnancy.
- Cortisol, also called the stress hormone, helps you cope with tension, but when elevated for long periods of time it can undermine your energy and cause weight gain.
- Insulin regulates your blood sugar levels. Disturbances in this can lead to energy dips, weight gain and eventually insulin resistance.
- Melatonin affects your sleep-wake rhythm and helps your body recover at night.
5 practical tips to balance your hormones
- Eat nutritious and natural
Hormones and nutrition are closely linked. It is not for nothing that it is often said, “You are what you eat.” Processed foods, sugars and artificial additives can significantly disrupt your hormone balance. Therefore, choose natural, unprocessed foods as much as possible. Think vegetables, fruits, healthy fats and proteins. Omega-3 fatty acids, for example in salmon, walnuts and flaxseed, support healthy hormone production. Sugar, alcohol and caffeine can actually negatively affect your hormonal balance. Small adjustments in your daily diet can quickly make a big difference to your hormone balance. A handy starting point? Take a look at the Nutrition Center’s Disk of Five. - Choose hormone-friendly menstrual products
Many traditional tampons and pads contain chemicals such as bleaches and synthetic fragrances. These substances can upset your hormonal balance. The Beppy Hollow Tampon and the Beppy menstrual cup on the other hand, are free of harmful substances such as BPA and parabens. Thus, they support a natural and healthy menstruation, without putting unnecessary strain on your body. Both products are soft, flexible and offer reliable protection, without artificial additives. By choosing hormone-friendly menstrual products, you keep your hormones in balance and protect your body from unwanted influences. - Reduce stress
Stress is one of the biggest enemies of healthy hormone balance. When you are under stress for long periods of time, your body produces more cortisol, the stress hormone. This can significantly disrupt the balance of other important hormones, such as estrogen and insulin. Daily relaxation is therefore very important. Meditation, yoga, breathing exercises or just a walk in nature can do wonders to keep your hormones balanced. In addition, consciously schedule time for yourself and don’t be afraid to set limits! - Exercise regularly, but in moderation
Exercise helps balance your hormones, but exercising too much or too intensely can actually be counterproductive. Moderate forms of exercise such as strength training, walking or cycling support your hormone balance in a positive way. Intense endurance sports or overtraining can increase the stress hormone cortisol, which in turn has a detrimental effect on other hormones. Listen carefully to your body and alternate heavier workouts with restorative activities such as yoga or pilates. - Get a good night’s sleep
During sleep, your body recovers intensively and produces important hormones, such as growth hormone and melatonin. A lack of sleep can cause a chain reaction, throwing your hormones out of balance. This can lead to symptoms such as weight gain, mood swings and decreased immunity. A regular sleep rhythm, a quiet bedroom and limiting screen use at least an hour before bedtime can make a big difference. By investing in good sleep, you give your body a chance to balance your hormones. And let’s face it: who doesn’t love a good night’s sleep?
Ready to balance your hormones?
Do you also want to experience what it’s like to feel fit, happy and balanced? Start today with small changes that have a big impact. Take a look in Beppy’s shop and choose products that support your body, not burden it. Still have questions? Then feel free to contact us!