What we eat not only affects our waistline, but also our hormones. We can’t expect our endocrine system to work optimally if we’re eating foods high in sugar, trans fats and processed foods. Sugary foods and trans fats disrupt our hormones, and they can no longer keep our body on an even keel, blocking youthful energy and the health we so desire. When we eat diets high in sugar, we produce excess insulin and cortisol. High levels of insulin and cortisol disrupt other hormones such as estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. If one hormone is out of balance, it will have an affect on all of the others. And remember – we all have these hormones, men and women, just in different proportions.
We can help our bodies by supporting these body systems with proper nutrition and supplementation with vitamins, herbs and minerals:
Thymus – essential to overall health, fights yeast & other pathogens. It is especially needed the PMS week for women as it is at this time that the immune system is weakest. Herbal support for the thymus: Rose hips, Echinacea and Reishi mushrooms.
Pituitary gland – regulates general hormone production for growth, tissue repair and the reproductive cycle of the body, by telling other members of the endocrine system to work harder or slow down. This is done with hormones it produces as well the ones it governs. Proper protein and trace minerals are vital to the function of the pituitary.
Pancreas – part of the digestive and endocrine system. Eating foods high in sugar forces the pancreas to work harder producing insulin. Digestive enzymes help support the pancreas.
Thyroid Gland – Heat processed or solvent extracted oils (vegetable & polyunsaturated oils) are among the worst offenders when it comes to disrupting thyroid function. The most common commercial source of these oils? Soybean. Thyroid hormones regulate every cell in the body, so it is important to read labels and know what oils you are consuming. Sea vegetables like kelp, Irish moss and dulse are all nourishing to the thyroid.
Adrenal glands – located just above the kidney. The most common reason for adrenal fatigue is stress and overuse of stimulants such as caffeine, sugar and refined foods. Healthy adrenal glands are especially important for menopausal women.
Vitamin C, E, B complex, magnesium and calcium help to nourish weak adrenal glands.
Liver – While not part of the endocrine system, the liver stores the nutrients needed to feed the endocrine system, as well as helping to detoxify extra or unhealthy hormones. A diet high in fiber, low in sugar and unhealthy fats allows for easy bonding of toxins in the intestinal tract allowing more filtering of estrogen. Vitamin B and the minerals iron and magnesium are important to liver health. Herbs: Alfalfa, burdock, yellow dock, milk thistle, and Siberian ginseng.
Overall hints for regulating hormones (and all of this info pertains to both men & women):
Exercise- moderate weight training and cardio are vital to keeping bone density and hormone balance. Exercise also helps with stress reduction.
A diet high in omega 3 fatty acids and adequate levels of protein.
Using enzymes to ensure absorption of proteins is very important.
Want to learn more? Laura is a Certified Holistic Nutritionist and Personal Trainer who practices out of Our Place Studio. You can reach her at: 985.875.1182 or visit: www.opcovington.com for more info.
Next week, please join us at Share the Health, July 23, 12-12:45 for The World of Living Foods & Beverages, presented by Susan Tarasova & Nanette Schoenwe. All proceeds benefit The Covington Boys and Girls Club. Suggested donation: $10
All Share the Health talks take place at Our Place Studio, located at 338 N. Vermont St. (corner of Vermont & Gibson). You can contact Liz for more information: 985.778.3448 and read more about Share the Health at:
www.opcovington.com
