Struggling with Hormone Imbalance
Living with hormone imbalance is challenging to say the least, not only does it have the power to make our relationships with those we love more difficult but it can also leave us feeling overwhelmed.If you struggle with the symptoms of female hormone imbalance such as frequent headaches, hormonal acne, irregular periods, depression, PMS, hair loss or have even been clinically diagnosed with a form of hormonal dysfunction then you may find some of the information on this page helpful.
Most of the information found on 'Life Beyond Hormone Imbalance' is guided towards natural therapies covering several different health alternatives to modern medicine such as Bowen, acupuncture, kinesiology(applied and energetic), reiki, iridology, herbal supplementation and Traditional Eastern medicine.
It is my belief that in conjunction with a healthy and balanced lifestyle natural therapies are essential to re-balancing the body and bringing it back to a state of better health.
Firstly I would like to say that I personally have never been formally diagnosed with a hormone imbalance by a doctor but in my experience this only means they weren't able to locate the cause of all my symptoms with the use of modern medicine and current diagnostic techniques.
Only 2 years ago did I come to the conclusion that 'modern medicine' just wasn't for me as it failed to give me the results I was looking for.
Since then my direction has moved towards natural therapies as an alternative and I have been very pleased with the results.
HOWEVER, in saying that, if you are currently seeking treatment for any condition under the guidance of a health care professional (doctor) consult him/her, a trained Naturopath or traditional Chinese doctor before you decide to make any drastic changes to your current health care regimen as these changes can often cause more upset to the body and need to be transitioned carefully under the close monitoring of a professional.
Also bear in mind that any health and medical treatment should not be a one size fits all approach but tailored specifically to your health care requirements.
Last but not least... DON'T be afraid to get a second opinion if you are not happy with your current treatment, fortunately there are plenty of amazing alternatives to suit the individual.
'What Can I Do to Improve My Symptoms'?
Firstly, try to remember that everybody is different and what works for one person may not necessarily work for you and vice-versa.Even most holistic treatments need to be monitored so seek specialist advice from a Naturopath or trained professional before trying new treatments.
I had the unfortunate situation of learning this through experience when I tried maca root, which is remarkable in balancing the endocrine system, unfortunately my body has too much Yang in the form of 'heat' in the body so taking warming herbs such as maca caused added inflammation and aggravation of my symptoms.
If you suffer from hormonal acne (around the chin or jaw line) then I suggest going to a traditional Chinese doctor who practises eastern medicine.
Secondly, a good liver detox will also help the body to eliminate accumulated toxins that store in the liver from alcohol, processed foods, chemicals in the environment, 'bad' fats, non-complex carbohydrates (processed carbs) and products containing refined sugar.
In my experience Sandra Cabot's 'Liver Cleansing Diet' is fantastic and has really worked for numerous people.
Not only does her book contain an 8 week step-by-step detox but it also contains recipes and information that will completely change your perception of food altogether.
Sandra also offers access to personal support and is always willing to respond to emails regarding questions about the program or specific health issues.
Following are a list of things to take into consideration when living with hormone imbalance;
MAINTAIN A HEALTHY DIET
The first thing to remember about dietary intake when suffering from hormone imbalance is to AVOID consuming too much refined sugar and processed carbs.Insulin production has been proven to affect hormonal bio-chemistry thus exacerbating symptoms.
AVOID foods that contain refined sugars (even raw sugar is a no-no), avoid caffeine, and definitely avoid ALCOHOL.
These days there are numerous other healthy alternatives to refined sugar such as coconut sugar and organic honey which are both available in most organic supermarkets or health food stores.
Personally I even avoid soy because it is highly processed and takes so long for the body to digest with very minimal nutritional benefits.
Nut milks and butters are always a better alternative to dairy or soy.
Eating a diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables will inevitably have a positive impact on your overall health; also, try to incorporate fresh vegetable juices into your daily routine and always drink plenty of water, usually in small amounts frequently throughout the day.
Don't starve yourself
Excessive and rapid weight loss has been linked to hormone problems.The female body needs a healthy amount of body fat to produce oestrogen so don't yo yo diet and maintain a healthy BMI (body mass index).
Maintaining a balanced diet is the key to good health and EFA's are essential to the bodies' neural pathways and organs.
Books;
Encyclopedia of Medicinal Foods, Joseph.M.Kadans
Sandra Cabot's 'Liver Cleansing Diet'
Inner Cleansing, Carlson Wade
STRESS LESS
Stress is known to cause numerous health problems including that of the bodies' natural balance of hormones.When we get stressed, the body produces cortisol in the adrenal glands; too much cortisol throws out the balance of the other hormone producing glands like the thyroid, pituitary and hypothalamus (the ovaries are also affected by excess secretion of cortisol).
It is easier said than done to simply 'stop stressing' particularly with the enormous pressure on women to perform in the professional sphere at the same time as the domestic.
Women are working anywhere up to double what they used to 20 years ago and with the economic conditions the way they are, women are forced back to work a lot sooner after child bearing.
All these factors contribute to high levels of stress in women.
Take Time Out for YOU
The best way to combat stress is to take time out at least once or even twice a week if possible.Things like Yoga and Bowen have been noted to dramatically reduce stress levels in women and men leaving more room for the body to recuperate after long periods of stress with no relief.
EXERCISE REGULARLY
Exercise is probably the single most important factor to over all health!Not only does regular exercise maintain good cardiovascular health, but studies have shown that it also plays an important role in reducing depression and stress.
Additional benefits of regular exercise include;
- lowered risk of developing heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure
- reduces feelings of anxiety and depression
- promotes positive self image and feelings of well being
- releases endorphins the 'feel good' chemicals in the brain
- helps control weight
- increases fitness
GET PLENTY OF SLEEP
Make sure to get adequate rest; try to get at least 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep a night.Having a better night sleep will help to maintain healthy levels of dopamine and serotonin which can help to alleviate the symptoms associated with endocrine disorders and imbalances.
Herbal Remedies
Important: Before taking any herbal supplements seek professional advice.Supplements taken in the wrong circumstance and in the inappropriate dosage can have the opposite effect and prolong the healing process.
Good Luck xx