Hormones play a vital role in our overall health and well-being, your period & menstrual cycle are your 5th vital sign. If something is off with your menstrual cycle, it is a sign that something is off with your overall health, the same way your blood pressure and temperature tell us the state of your overall health. The good news is there are some simple and effective ways to support and nourish your hormones. Here are five things you can do to improve your hormone health

TIP #1: GET MORE SLEEP

Women need more sleep than men, and way too often, sleep is one of the first things we sacrifice when our lives get busy. Sleep is essential for hormone regulation, and poor sleep can lead to hormonal imbalances. Aim for 8-10 hours of sleep per night. You can create a relaxing bedtime routine to help you fall asleep like restricting screen time at least an hour before bed, wear blue light blocking glasses after sunset, and diffuse relaxing essential oils on your nightstand. 

Tip #2: Eat a nutrient-dense, animal-based diet

Our body makes our hormones from cholesterol & saturated fat. They are essential nutrients for healthy hormone balance. Prioritize red meat in your diet, then add in things like fruit & root vegetables for whole-food carbohydrate sources and your hormone health will begin to change. 

Tip #3: Proper supplementation with whole foods-based supplements

While whole foods should be the foundation of your diet, sometimes it can be difficult to get all the nutrients your body needs from food alone. Supplementing with whole foods-based supplements, like beef liver capsules, can help fill in any nutrient gaps and support healthy hormone function.

Tip #4: Avoid endocrine-disrupting chemicals

Many household and personal care products contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals that can interfere with hormone production and function. Swapping to non-toxic options doesn’t have to be overwhelming, go one product at a time and simply replace them as you run out. 

Tip #5: Manage stress in a meaningful way

Stress is one of those things that we are all aware of, yet don’t realize just how much it can affect our health. If you are having extreme period symptoms (cramps, PMS, irregular cycles, etc.) it is worth taking a good look at the stressors in your life and finding ways to eliminate or mitigate them. Stress mitigation can include activities like journaling, spending time in nature, or finding a creative outlet like painting or drawing. Stress elimination can look like quitting a soul sucking job or leaving a toxic relationship. Yes, those steps can feel big and scary, and your hormone health is worth it!

By incorporating these simple changes into your daily routine, you can take control of your hormone health and improve your overall well-being. For a deeper dive on these topics, find Dr. Brittney on Instagram @dr.brittneymcgetrick