Female Hormonal Imbalance
The female body produces many hormones, of which the most important ones are estrogen, testosterone and progesterone. These hormones are produced by the ovaries in the female body. Any kind of imbalance in the production of these hormones can have an impact not only on the emotional condition of a woman but also the general health. A certain level of hormonal imbalances is normal and every woman suffers hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy and menopause. But when these changes are drastic, it can lead to many problems such as depression, anxiety, and irritability. Other problems caused by hormonal imbalance include exhaustion, difficulty in sleeping, problems related to menstruation, endometriosis, breast disease and polycystic ovarian syndrome. Hormonal imbalances can also lead to problems in conceiving and carrying the baby to full term, leading to miscarriages or other pregnancy related problems. Hormonal imbalances have also been linked to problems such as ovarian cancer and breast cancer. It is thus important to diagnose and treat hormonal imbalances at the right time to prevent serious problems.
Apart from medication and oral consumption of hormone pills, a holistic lifestyle is important to correct a hormonal imbalance. A healthy body with a strong immune system is naturally equipped better to deal with hormonal changes. The key to a healthy lifestyle starts with a healthy and balanced diet. Drastic diets should be avoided since they interfere with the body’s normal functioning and lead to hormonal imbalances. In addition to this, consumption of dairy products and meats should also be restricted because these products store chemicals in the body which eventually wreck havoc with the hormones. Instead, the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids should be increased. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, sunflower seeds and fish. Omega 6 is also is also beneficial since it is a multi-nutrient that helps to regularize hormone production. Phytoestrogens, in particular flavones, bind with the existing estrogen, replacing the estrogen which has been damaged by chemicals, thus correcting the hormonal imbalances. Soy foods are rich sources of these flavones. Thus, tofu, a rich source of isoflavones, which help to reduce the risk of cancers related to hormonal imbalance, should be consumed regularly Apart from a healthy diet, a regular routine of proper exercise and rest is also important to keep hormonal balances in check. Lack of a proper routine and a stressful lifestyle can wreck havoc with the hormonal balance.
