Seed Cycling 101: Unlocking the Benefits for Women's Hormonal Health
If you're struggling with irregular periods, bad cramps, bloating, and acne, give seed cycling a try!
Seed cycling is an ancient practice, but has recently gained attention as a natural method to support women's hormonal health. In fact, it's one of the top trending wellness practices in women's health at the moment.
What is it? By incorporating specific seeds into their diet during different phases of their menstrual cycle, many women have reported improvements in symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances.
This article delves into what seed cycling is, how it works, and the benefits it can offer.
This article was largely based on the discussion between best-selling author, world-renowned women's health expert, and podcast host: Dr. Mindy Pelz exploring seed cycling intimately with Yasmin and Kaya: Co-founders of Beeya Wellness (food for hormonal health) in her Resetter Podcast.
What is Seed Cycling?
Seed cycling involves consuming different seeds during the two main phases of the menstrual cycle: the follicular phase (from the first day of menstruation to ovulation) and the luteal phase (from ovulation to the start of the next period). The practice aims to balance estrogen and progesterone levels, the primary hormones involved in the menstrual cycle.
The Seeds and Their Phases
Follicular Phase (Days 1-14)
Flaxseeds: Rich in lignans, flaxseeds help regulate estrogen levels. They also contain omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation.
Pumpkin Seeds: High in zinc, pumpkin seeds support healthy progesterone production, which begins to rise as the body prepares for ovulation.
Luteal Phase (Days 15-28)
Sesame Seeds: Like flaxseeds, sesame seeds contain lignans that help balance estrogen and progesterone levels. They also provide calcium and magnesium, which are beneficial for PMS symptoms.
Sunflower Seeds: These seeds are high in vitamin E and selenium, both of which support hormone production and help detoxify excess estrogen.
How Seed Cycling Works
The concept of seed cycling is based on the idea that the nutrients and compounds in specific seeds can support the hormonal fluctuations that occur during the menstrual cycle. Here's a closer look at the science behind it:
Estrogen Balance: During the follicular phase, estrogen levels rise to prepare the body for ovulation. Flaxseeds and pumpkin seeds provide lignans and zinc, which can help the body modulate estrogen levels and promote a healthy ovulatory cycle.
Progesterone Support: In the luteal phase, progesterone levels rise to prepare the uterus for potential pregnancy. Sesame seeds and sunflower seeds contain nutrients that support the body's natural production of progesterone, aiding in maintaining a balanced hormonal state.
Benefits of Seed Cycling
Hormonal Balance: Seed cycling can help regulate menstrual cycles and alleviate symptoms of hormonal imbalances, such as irregular periods, PMS, and menopause symptoms.
Reduced PMS Symptoms: The nutrients in these seeds, such as magnesium and vitamin E, have been shown to reduce cramps, mood swings, and breast tenderness associated with PMS.
Enhanced Fertility: By promoting hormonal balance, seed cycling can support reproductive health and enhance fertility for those trying to conceive.
Improved Digestion: Seeds are rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut, further supporting hormonal health.
Better Skin Health: Hormonal imbalances can often lead to skin issues like acne. The anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseeds and the detoxifying effects of selenium in sunflower seeds can improve skin health.
How to Incorporate Seed Cycling into Your Diet
Incorporating seed cycling into your daily routine is simple. Add a tablespoon each of the recommended seeds into smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, salads, or take them by the spoonful.
It's important to use raw, organic seeds and grind them before consumption to ensure your body can absorb the nutrients effectively, say Yasmin and Kaya: Beeya Wellness.
Bottom Line
While scientific research on seed cycling is still limited, anecdotal evidence suggests that many women experience significant benefits from this natural approach to hormonal health. As with any dietary change, it's best to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medication.
Seed cycling offers a holistic, food-based strategy to support hormonal balance. Whether you're looking to ease PMS symptoms, regulate your cycle, or just plain want to feel better, this simple practice could be a valuable addition to your health routine.
