Many of us are familiar with the term “hormones,” but do you know what hormones are exactly? Everyone is affected by hormonal changes, but most women are more likely to be affected as they age. Are you wondering whether or not you have a hormonal imbalance? Here are some tips and information about hormonal imbalance and how you can prevent it.
What are hormones?
Hormones are chemical messengers that are mainly produced by glands and function by basically telling your body what to do. They regulate your physiology and your behavior. The hormones you are probably more familiar with include insulin, leptin, and sex hormones like oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone.
Additionally, hormones affect fat storage and muscle growth. Although hormones are significantly small, they have a huge impact on our bodies and moods.
How do I know if I have a hormonal imbalance?
There are several signs that indicate hormonal imbalance. If you are experiencing one or some of the following symptoms, it may be possible that you have a hormonal imbalance.
Gaining Weight
Although there are many factors that affect weight gain or loss, hormone imbalances can make it difficult to lose weight. Try eliminating processed foods and sugars from your diet if you are struggling with losing weight.
Feelings of Exhaustion
Do you have feelings of exhaustion regularly? Even if you are getting enough sleep and have a regular exercising routine, your fatigue can be due to hormonal imbalance. Put down the cup of coffee or your energy drink and drink more water instead. Take control of your diet by eliminating wheat and most grains in order to stabilize your blood sugar.
Mood Swings
Are you not feeling like yourself lately? If you are experiencing mood swings and feelings of anxiety, irritability and even depression, it can be due to a hormonal imbalance. There are several factors that affect your moods, such as not enough exercise and too much stress. However, a hormonal imbalance can lead to a chain reaction in your body and have a negative effect on your mood. Take action by listening to yourself and what you need, whether that means you need to simply relaxing or taking a small walk.
Sweating
Hot flashes and night sweats are never fun. Sweating can be a sign that you have a hormonal imbalance, and for several women this means hot flashes and uncomfortable night sweats. Pay attention to what you are eating and drinking. Also, be aware of your emotions because they can trigger an increase in internal temperature.
Cravings
Hormonal imbalances are a likely cause for cravings and overeating. If you experience regular cravings, switch up your diet. Consume less sugar, alcohol, dairy and wheat in order to satisfy your cravings and help you control what you eat.
Bloating
Frequent bloating, slow digestion, and gas are common signs of hormonal imbalances. Try eating slowly and make sure to thoroughly chew your food. Maintain a healthy diet with fruits and vegetables.
Loss of Muscle Mass
With an increase in belly fat and a loss of muscle mass, you may be experiencing symptoms of hormonal imbalances. Certain hormones are under produced while others are overproduced when the endocrine system is put under stress. Your body begins to store more fat for future use and there is a decrease in muscle mass.
How can I balance my hormones?
Luckily, there are simple ways to take control and balance your hormones. Creating balance in your hormones is a great step to create balance in your life.
Eat Healthy Fats
Consuming healthy fats like coconut oil and avocados are not only beneficial to your health but can also help balance your hormones. Because hormone production relies on various types of essential fats, you need to supply your body with these healthy fats in order to take control of your hormones.
Exercise
Exercising is an important part in keeping your hormones in check. Any kind of exercise is great for your overall health and helps you feel more energized and at peace. High intensity interval training, also known as HIIT, is one of the best options for exercise if you are trying to balance your hormones.
Drink Less Caffeine and Alcohol
Replace caffeine and alcohol with more healthy beverages, such as green tea or water. Large amounts of alcohol can negatively affect your liver, which is an important part of the body because it helps with hormonal balance. Caffeine can stay in your system for six hours when consumed in large amounts.
Do you have a hormonal imbalance?
Hormonal imbalance can have a huge impact on your body and attitude. If you have a hormonal imbalance, try and take care of it and soon you may see a positive result.
